Fear of 'unfair scrutiny' a barrier to net zero climate action, say big firms

05 February 2024 , 14:16

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A new study has revealed that large businesses see unfair criticism as a barrier to their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint (Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

A report has disclosed that leaders in large businesses see the fear of unfair criticism as a barricade to their climate efforts.

The Carbon Trust surveyed over 400 experts who reported difficulty in promoting net zero within their companies. The research also revealed that less than half of decision makers feel they have adequate structure and leadership support to make net zero a daily practice.

Additionally, it found that 26% of respondents believe firms are "greenstalling" - avoiding climate action due to fear of being criticised for mistakes. Other obstacles include dealing with scope 3 emissions produced by supply chains and sold products.

The sizable costs and complex management of carbon footprints were claimed to be challenges in effectively handling scope 3, which makes up the majority of an organisation's emissions. In reaction to this report, the Carbon Trust encouraged businesses to follow universally acknowledged best practices on achieving net zero.

The International Organisation for Standardisation's Net Zero Guidelines and the UN Integrity Matters report's 10 criteria for credible action were referenced. They also suggested being strict with suppliers who don't meet environmental standards, conducting a "climate compatibility checkpoint" for business models, and setting aside a portion of revenue for low carbon solution investments.

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Simon Retallack, head of the organisation's Net Zero Intelligence Unit, said: "It is no surprise that some businesses are nervous about how their actions to address climate change will be judged. However, that mustn't stop them."

He concluded by saying: "Net zero is all about actively reducing emissions from businesses and their supply chains, and we know the best thing businesses can do is get started on that journey today by creating a credible transition plan and implementing it."

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Lawrence Matheson