How Businesses Can Contribute To A Net Zero Future
Whether switching to renewable energy by installing solar panels, or focusing on product design – there is no single ‘right way’ to decarbonize. © ultramansk – stock.adobe.com
Adopting a phased approach to decarbonization helps prevent burnout and enables the achievement of ambitious goals through manageable, incremental steps.
By Mike Jones, Head of Innovation & Global General Manager – Intelligent Solutions, Mainetti
Earlier this year, the World Meteorological Organization projected that – for the first time – the global average temperature could rise to almost 2˚C above pre-industrial levels in the next five years.[1] This follows the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide reaching a record high of 422.8 parts per million in 2024 – the highest level in at least 800,000 years, as reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Global Monitoring Lab.[2]
It is therefore clear that, in order to limit global warming to 1.5˚C, as outlined by the Paris Climate Agreement, a significant reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions is required, and the path to net zero must be firmly placed at the top of political, business, and individual priorities. It is only through widespread collaboration across industries and countries that real and lasting change will be realised.
Businesses Have an Opportunity to Drive Climate Action – Together
To reduce emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050 – as outlined in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)’s Special Report – rapid, transformative action is required across the global economy.[3] As the backbone of economic activity, businesses are at the heart of the solution. By embedding sustainability and net-zero goals into their core strategies and operations, businesses can lead the transition to a low-carbon future and help secure a more sustainable and resilient world for all.
Progress is already being seen as over 9,000 companies and over 600 financial institutions have joined the Race to Zero, a pledge to take rigorous, immediate action toward achieving net zero emissions.[4]
For organizations that have yet to develop a decarbonization strategy, it’s important to understand that decarbonization is a long-term journey. Adopting a phased approach helps prevent burnout and enables the achievement of ambitious goals through manageable, incremental steps. Crucially, this process must be underpinned by accurate and consistent measurement. Without measuring progress, organizations can’t gain a clear understanding of their current position and, as a result, won’t know what needs to improve to reach their goals.
It is also important for businesses to recognize that there is no single ‘right way’ to decarbonize. While companies worldwide share the common goal of achieving net zero, the most effective path to get there will vary depending on the organization. The best decarbonization strategy is one that is integrated and tailored to a company’s unique business model – flexible enough to evolve alongside the company.
For some, this might mean switching to renewable energy by installing solar panels, while others may find greater impact by focusing on product design – making items more durable, reusable, and recyclable. By adopting principals of the circular economy, companies can reduce emissions by minimizing the need to produce, transport, and dispose of new products.
While not all businesses may have the resources to implement major changes, every company can empower their employees to take small but meaningful actions toward a net zero future. Whether it’s turning off lights and equipment when not in use or choosing public transport over driving to work, these incremental steps add up. Ultimately, the journey to net zero is a collective effort – built on the everyday choices made by everyone.
Net Zero Requires Collaboration from All Stakeholders
The reality is that while businesses have a vital role to play in the path to net zero, meaningful and lasting change requires the engagement of all stakeholders. This means that governments and world leaders must take a proactive role in funding and implementing robust national net zero strategies.
For example, Denmark has emerged as a frontrunner in decarbonization, setting ambitious climate goals ahead of many other nations. In 2022, the country announced a target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045 – five years earlier than the standard 2050 benchmark – and aimed for a 110% emissions reduction by 2050. These targets are underpinned by Denmark’s strong energy and climate governance, led by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities. A key component of this framework is the Danish Climate Act of 2020, known as the ‘Year Wheel’, which mandates annual policy planning, funding allocation, and progress reviews to ensure continued momentum toward climate neutrality. Together, these measures position the Danish government as a proactive force in driving the national net-zero strategy.
Equally important to government action is the everyday action of individuals. By prioritizing sustainability in their daily actions and purchasing decisions, individuals can enact widespread change through small steps. Through consciously choosing more sustainable products and directing their spending accordingly, consumers can influence the market and encourage companies to align their offerings with the growing demand for sustainable solutions.
Achieving a net-zero future requires collective action from all stakeholders – businesses, governments, and individuals alike. Only through coordinated efforts can we align global strategies and build a future that safeguards both the planet and its people. While the road to net zero is a long one, the best way to begin is simply to start – together.
About the Author
Mike Jones, Head of Innovation and Global General Manager of Intelligent Solutions at sustainable packaging supplier Mainetti. Visit: https://www.mainetti.com
References:
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