Net-Zero News

45-Minute Masterclass: Accelerating the smart grid transition for your business

Coronavirus: Is this the beginning of the end for the 'self-sabotaging' meat sector?

The coronavirus could end up being the "straw that breaks the meat industry's back" with a new report warning that almost three-quarters of the world's largest meat, fish and dairy companies are at high risk from an array of criteria that could spark future pandemics.

Green recovery: Net-zero transition can create £90bn annual benefits for the UK

The UK's net-zero transition can be the perfect remedy to the economic and health crises caused by the coronavirus, according to a new WWF-commissioned report that suggests that net-zero could deliver more than £90bn in annual benefits to the UK while growing the job market.

Zalando unveils science-based targets, commits suppliers to set carbon goals

Online fashion retail platform Zalando has built on its commitment to carbon neutrality across its own operations by having targets to reduce operational carbon emissions by 80% and emissions from the production of private label products by 40% approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

UK proposes national Emissions Trading System to replace EU carbon market

The UK Government has published new proposals on its individual UK-wide Emissions Trading System (ETS) that would replace the EU's carbon trading variant.

In Action: How Centrica is leading the net-zero carbon transition

Energy services and solutions company Centrica recently announced a new commitment to become a “net-zero” organisation by 2050. This edie In Action case study charts the progress that the firm is now making towards its net- zero goal.

UK business giants call for national green recovery tied to net-zero

More than 200 UK businesses and investors, including Sky, Lloyds Bank and Asda, have called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to deliver a green recovery plan from the coronavirus pandemic that builds a stronger and more inclusive economy.

BT launches innovation platform and UK electric fleet alliance

BT has today (1 June) launched two new platforms to help accelerate green innovation in the UK and drive the adoption of electric vehicle (EV) fleets, both of which the tech giant believes will contribute to a green post-Covid19 recovery for the UK.

Electric flights and Barilla's recyclable packaging: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

University of Manchester targets net-zero investment portfolio

The University of Manchester has announced a new commitment to end investments into fossil fuel projects and organisations by 2022, in line to creating a net-zero investment portfolio by 2038 at the latest.

Energy Institute sets science-based targets to reach net-zero emissions

The Energy Institute (EI) has announced a new ambition to become a net-zero organisation, agreeing to science-based targets to reducing emissions by almost 68% by 2030.

BEIS approves UK's largest solar farm

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has this week approved what is set to be the UK's largest solar farm, located in Kent.

National Infrastructure Commission calls for climate resiliency planning and stress tests

The UK Government has been urged to set "clear resilience standards" that enables energy and water networks, transport, essential services and all infrastructure sectors to stress test and plan against hidden climate challenges on the horizon.

#SustyTalk: WSP UK's David Symons on net-zero pledges and a just recovery

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with environmental services firm WSP's director of sustainability David Symons discussing sector-wide pledges to net-zero emissions and how to build back better from the coronavirus pandemic.

Zalando and Sustainable Apparel Coalition issue sustainable metrics for brands and retailers

German online fashion retailer Zalando has confirmed it will be the first retailer signed up to the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) to use a new module that will make sustainability assessments mandatory for its private labels and partner brands sold on its platform.

'Use it or lose it': Pandemic recovery a decisive moment for climate action

A new report from global analyst firm McKinsey has found that recovery packages from the coronavirus pandemic will be decisive in putting the world on course to meeting the Paris Agreement, calling for low-carbon technologies and solutions to be prioritised.

UK's gas networks call for £900m investment into zero-carbon infrastructure

Britain's five gas networks companies have today outlined plans to spend more than £900m on zero-carbon energy infrastructure and hydrogen deployment across the UK, subject to Government approval on funding.

Adidas and Allbirds to develop sports shoes with 'lowest recorded' carbon footprint

Sporting giant Adidas has teamed up with shoe brand Allbirds to develop solutions that would create one of the lowest carbon footprints ever recorded for a sports shoe.

Reports: COP26 to be delayed until November 2021

Reports have emerged that the UK Government has put forward the first two weeks of November 2021 as new proposed dates for the crucial COP26 climate conference, citing concerns over the state of international travel safety due to the coronavirus.

MPs call for Just Transition Fund to spur green recovery towards net-zero

A commission of cross-party MPs has added to the calls for the UK to prioritise and deliver a green recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, claiming that £30bn should be spent on a climate-focused recovery that also establishes a £5bn national Just Transition Fund.

Copenhagen Airport spearheads green hydrogen project for transport fuel

Renewable energy company Ørsted and Copenhagen Airport are amongst the consortium of businesses aiming to develop a hydrogen and sustainable transport fuel facility in the heart of the Danish capital.

edie Explains: Carbon offsetting

What is carbon offsetting in the terms of a businesses’ carbon emissions strategy? How does the carbon offset process and its market work? And, at what point should a business turn to carbon offsetting?

edie launches new business guide on carbon offsetting

edie has today (26 May) published a new explains guide, focusing on how businesses should approach the use of carbon offsetting to assist a carbon reduction strategy.

World health groups call for green coronavirus recovery

A coalition of global healthcare organisations, backed by more than 40 million healthcare professionals, have coordinated a written plea to governments to deliver health-based and climate-focused economic recoveries from the coronavirus pandemic.

O2 targets e-waste with new Klyk partnership

O2 has agreed to a new partnership with technology refurbishment start-up Klyk to tackle the growing issue of electronic waste (e-waste) in the sector.

UK's largest solar farm expected to be approved

Development consent for what would be the UK's largest solar farm is expected to be confirmed by the Government this week, which could also see the world's largest energy storage system co-located at the site in the Kent countryside.

Government launches £40m Clean Growth Fund to assist with net-zero vision

The UK Government has unveiled a £40m Clean Growth Fund to support start-up companies in the fields of low-carbon power, waste, transport and buildings, with hopes that funding could rise to £100m by 2021.

Zero-carbon Humber cluster to rollout carbon capture and hydrogen production

Plans to create the world's first zero-carbon industrial cluster in the Humber region reached another milestone this week, as Phillips 66 and Uniper signed an agreement to deploy a carbon capture and storage (CCUS) and hydrogen production facility.

Net-Zero Week Podcast (Two-part special): Green recoveries and net-zero strategy deep dives

For Net-Zero Week, the edie podcast is split into two parts, first to discuss green recoveries with Christiana Figueres, Jonathon Porritt and Paul Polman, before embarking on a deep dive of what makes a net-zero target with engineering firm Jacobs, online retailer Zalando and episode sponsors Centrica Business Solutions.

Report: Renewables to account for three-quarters of UK's power demand by 2050

The UK could source 76% of its power demand from renewables by 2050, according to a new report from RenewableUK which claims that the nation's net-zero target will spur rapid demand for green hydrogen while attracting more than £50bn to an already world-leading offshore wind sector.

Paul Polman: Why partnerships and purpose are critical to business survival

EXCLUSIVE: Businesses that are built on longer-term, multi-stakeholder models and have a strong purpose at their core will be much better placed to recover from the coronavirus crisis, Unilever's former chief executive Paul Polman has told edie.

Achieving a green recovery: edie launches flagship Mission Possible 2020 report

edie has this week published its flagship Mission Possible 2020 report which focuses on how businesses can lead a green recovery from Covid-19, featuring contributions from the likes of John Elkington and Christiana Figueres along with senior representatives from Carlsberg, WorldGBC and the Sustainable Restaurant Association.

Available to watch on-demand: All Three days of of online Net-Zero Week events

Net-Zero Week was a themed week of editorial content and events dedicated to informing, inspiring and empowering sustainability and energy professionals on the road to a net-zero carbon future for their business, featuring three afternoons of online sessions which are available to watch on-demand.

Planning application for UK's first waste-to-jet fuel plant given green light

A planning application backed by Shell and British Airways to create the UK's first commercial-scale waste-to-jet fuel plant in North East Lincolnshire has been granted planning permission.

Vattenfall agrees to 8MW district heating scheme in Barnet

Vattenfall Heat UK will deliver an 8MW districting heating system to heat homes, schools and businesses in Barnet, with a view to removing all carbon-emitting sources from the system.

Today at 1pm: Circular Economy online event featuring Hubbub, Amcor and Canary Wharf Group

Sustainability professionals and circular economy experts from a range of organisations and businesses across the value chain are set to appear on edie's Circular Economy online event, taking place on Thursday 21 May.

Government to introduce 'carbon threshold' for Capacity Market

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has outlined reforms to the Capacity Market auction system which will enable demand-side response technologies to bid for 15-year contracts while adding a carbon emissions limit to spur an increase of low-carbon assets offered contracts.

Conde Nast to become carbon-neutral by 2030

Global fashion media company Conde Nast, which owns brands including Vogue and GQ, has committed to becoming a carbon-neutral company by 2030 while committing to educate its audience on the climate emergency.

Business Energy Barometer: April - May 2020

edie's Business Barometer for 2020 sets out the key challenges and opportunities for energy leaders and managers going into a decade of climate action.

Government taskforce sets out tools to unlock £65bn investment into green housing

The UK Government's Green Finance Institute (GFI) has found that scaling up green retrofitting of the UK's existing housing stock would require investments of up to £65bn while supporting the economic recovery, as the Green Alliance calls for policy amendments to retrofitting in the UK.

Today at 1pm: edie's Net-Zero Carbon online event

Former UK Energy Minister Lord Greg Barker, sustainability professionals from UPS and Skanska and the chief executives of green trade associations have all been confirmed to appear on edie's Net-Zero Carbon online event today (20 May).

Lockdown sees global emissions fall by 17%

New research has suggested that daily global carbon emissions recorded in April 2020 were 17% lower compared to the same month last year, largely due to the coronavirus pandemic and forced lockdowns and postponement in production.

#SustyTalk: Amcor's David Clark on strengthening the circular economy during lockdown

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with packaging firm Amcor's vice president for sustainability David Clark discussing the role of the circular economy as part of a green economic response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Business giants failing to disclose climate-related risks

Europe's largest businesses are failing to provide relevant climate-related data to investors, which could jeopardise the European Union's aims to deliver a "just" carbon-neutral transition by 2050.

Report: UK manufacturers boosting profits by focusing on energy efficiency

UK manufacturers that have taken steps to improve energy efficiency and decarbonise operations are reaping benefits, with 40% reporting increased profit margins and 30% experiencing increased competitiveness.

Business giants call for science-based green economic recovery

More than 150 business giants, including Carlsberg, H&M and Pernod Ricard, with a combined market capitalisation of more than $2.4trn, have signed a joint statement calling on all governments to align coronavirus economic responses to climate science.

Today at 1pm: Register for the Business Leadership online event

Sustainability experts from L'Oreal, Microsoft, RBS and OVO Energy have all been confirmed for edie's Climate Action Business Leadership sessions, an afternoon of back-to-back online events focused on raising corporate sustainability actions.

Jonathon Porritt: Corporate advocacy must be cornerstone of coronavirus recovery

EXCLUSIVE: Business leaders must use the Covid-19 recovery process as an opportunity to promote the benefits of deep decarbonisation, and to rebuild an economy based on strong social and environmental values, Forum for the Future’s founder-director Jonathon Porritt has told edie.

Carbon scorecards and working groups: Engineers gear up to support UK's net-zero ambition

The National Engineering Policy Centre (NEPC) has outlined the steps that the engineering sector can take to assist with the UK-wide decarbonisation to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, while WSP has led an economy-wide call for strengthened net-zero policies.

Christiana Figueres: Businesses must put net-zero at heart of green recovery

EXCLUSIVE: Governments and businesses have an "enormous opportunity" to build decarbonisation principles into the Covid-19 recovery process, the former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres has told edie.

Oxford's zero-carbon homes and L'Oreal's eco-fund: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

Switching all UK cars to electric vehicles would slash emissions by 12%, researchers claim

Switching all cars on UK roads to available electric vehicles (EVs) like the Nissan Leaf and Tesla Model 3 would cut the nation's emissions by almost 12%, new research from Nottingham Trent University (NTU) has found.

More than one million citizens back calls for EU green investments to spur Covid-19 recovery

More than 100 environmental NGOs and one million European citizens have joined the calls for the European Union (EU) to stimulate the economy through massive green investment efforts.

edie launches free Decentralised Energy Toolkit for businesses

edie has today (13 May) launched a new toolkit, in association with UK Power Network Services, to outline and showcase how businesses large and small can explore distributed energy solutions to assist with decarbonisation strategies and give them more control over energy usage.

Mission Possible: edie launches new sustainable business report for the retail sector

edie has published a new Mission Possible report today (12 May) outlining the key drives, challenges and opportunities facing sustainable businesses in the UK retail sector.

Mitie signs up to RE100 following EP100 and EV100 commitments

Mitie has become the first facilities management firm to sign up to all three of the Climate Group's initiatives, after committing to source 100% renewables as part of the RE100 platform and having already signed up to the EV100 and EP100 initiatives.

Severn Trent rolls out 350 electric vehicle charging point at UK facilities

The UK's second-biggest water company, Severn Trent, is installing more than 350 electric vehicle (EV) charge points across its sites, as part of its commitment to covert 100% of its transport fleet to electric by 2030.

Oil and gas giants overstating net-zero ambitions, study finds

Recent announcements from European oil and gas majors such as Total, Shell and BP to commit to net-zero aren't actually aligned to the required, science-based cuts to emissions to reach net-zero or the 1.5C target of the Paris Agreement, new research has found.

Centrica and Lotus partner up on electric vehicle energy storage

Centrica, the parent company of British Gas, has announced a new strategic partnership with auto manufacturer Lotus to give electric vehicle (EV) owners more viability to store electricity and reduce household emissions.

In numbers: The public's understanding of net-zero and green policies

A government survey of more than 1,800 UK citizens has found that the public is largely unaware of net-zero movement and what that means for the UK, despite more than three-quarters of citizens being concerned about climate change.

Law firm Slaughter and May's carbon goals approved by SBTi

Legal giant Slaughter and May has confirmed that a goal to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030 has been approved by the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) as aligned to the 1.5C ambition of the Paris Agreement.

Wooden turbines and Schneider Electric's net-zero homes: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

Business leaders call for recovery packages to be tied to net-zero corporate targets

The chief executives from 40 global organisations including BP, Heathrow Airport, Shell and HSBC, have called on governments to focus economic recovery packages in ways that enable sectors and businesses to transition to low-carbon and resilient models of operation.

MPs to probe role of hydrogen in net-zero transition

The Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) is to seek advice on the role of low-carbon hydrogen production and utilisation in accordance with the UK's wider efforts to spur economic growth and reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

edie launches updated net-zero business guide to account for Covid-19 and green policy delays

Organisations looking to understand the various issues surrounding the hot topic of net-zero and how the trend could be impacted by the coronavirus and delays to critical green legislation now have access to a crucial new edie Explains guide, which breaks down everything you need-to-know on the topic.

edie Explains: Net-zero carbon business

What is 'net-zero' in the context of business emissions? Which organisations are most suited to adopting net-zero carbon strategies? And, what is the impact of the coronavirus on the net-zero movement?

#SustyTalk: Bournemouth University's Neil Smith on sustainable behaviour change during lockdown

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with Bournemouth University's sustainability manager Neil Smith discussing how he has adapted a university-wide sustainable behaviour change scheme to account for home working and how the organisation is explaining its net-zero target.

Financiers join EU 'green recovery alliance'

More than 50 CEOs from the banking and insurance sector - including household names such as BNP Paribas, AXA, Allianz, and Santander - have joined the "green recovery alliance" in the European Parliament.

CCC: Change tax systems to build green economic recovery post-coronavirus

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has advised Prime Minister Boris Johnson, COP26 President Alok Sharma and national first ministers across the UK, calling for climate action to be placed at the heart of an economic rebuild following the coronavirus pandemic.

Total commits to net-zero emissions by 2050 following investor pressure

Global energy company Total is the latest in the sector to commit to net-zero emissions, setting a target for 2050 or sooner after extensive engagement with a climate action investor coalition.

Scottish Water switches on latest solar array at Dunfermline wastewater facility

A wastewater treatment facility in Dunfermline is the latest Scottish Water facility to be fitted with onsite solar technology, as the water company progresses towards its net-zero carbon target for 2040.

Green stimulus can repair global economy and climate, study says

Green economy recovery packages for the coronavirus crisis will repair the global economy and put the world on track to tackle climate breakdown, but time is running out to implement the changes needed, new analysis has shown.

World GBC's 'Paris proof' buildings and Abu Dhabi's low-cost solar: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

Five steps to building a resilient carbon strategy in a post-pandemic world

During edie's recent online masterclass, sustainability and energy specialists from Centrica and its Business Solutions arm discussed steps to building corporate carbon strategies while exploring how attitudes towards decarbonisation will change as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Engagement, Net-Zero & Mission Possible: edie gears up for bumper month of online content and events

With the UK lockdown continuing into May, edie is keeping up the positive sustainability and climate action with a host of exclusive interviews and reports, two themed weeks of free online events, and the launch of the flagship Mission Possible 2020 report.

Oxford University to divest from fossil fuels and align to net-zero strategies

Oxford University has announced that is divesting its remaining investments away from fossil fuel companies and how its fund management service can engage with organisations that showcase net-zero business plans.

#SustyTalk: Jacobs's Zoe Haseman on net-zero strategies during the coronavirus lockdown

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with sustainability engineering firm Jacobs's vice president for global sustainability Zoe Haseman, discussing the rollout of a new net-zero climate action plan and how the lockdown won't slow down corporate decarbonisation planning.

McKinsey: Reaching 1.5C a ‘daunting’ and unparalleled transition for all sectors

The global transition to limiting global temperature increases to 1.5C by 2050 has been labelled as a "daunting task", that would require unprecedented levels of decarbonisation for key sectors, with the world currently on course to exceed its carbon budget by 2031.

NGOs call on investors to respond to coronavirus pandemic through net-zero transition packages

A collection of NGOs have written to some of the world's largest insurers, calling on them to address economic responses to the coronavirus outbreak in ways that are aligned with the urgent need to combat the climate crisis and steer the global economy towards a net-zero future.

Messages of hope: How world leaders are rallying for a green Covid-19 recovery

The two-day Petersberg Climate Dialogue finished yesterday evening, with ministerial leaders from the UK, Germany, the EU and the UN all delivering rallying cries for nations to focus on climate mitigation as part of any efforts to stimulate the economic downturned caused by the coronavirus outbreak.

Government planning to replace RHI with Clean Heat Grant

The UK Government has outlined its intentions to replace the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) with a new Clean Heat Grant that will aim to help households and businesses decarbonise through technology and push the nation towards its net-zero target for 2050.

Allbirds running shoe made from renewable materials to feature 'carbon count' label

B Corp Allbirds has debuted a new running shoe made from renewable and natural materials and is the first product from the company to feature a physical "carbon count" label, detailing the lifecycle emissions of the product to consumers.

Yorkshire Tea achieves carbon-neutral certification for operations and products

Yorkshire Tea has announced that all its products are carbon neutral from field to shelf, following a five-year programme to reduce emissions across its supply chain and operations.

UK sets new record for coal-free generation

The UK has this morning broken its existing record for coal-free power generation, surpassing 18 consecutive days and counting.

EU's climate strategy can spur 'just' and resilient labour market

On the eve of the release of the EU's recovery strategy, a group of business leaders have called for the bloc's climate-neutral target to be coupled with a "just transition" that could deliver job growth against future climate, demographic and technological megatrends.

Petersberg Climate Dialogue: Alok Sharma rallies for global net-zero transition policies

The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and COP26 President, Alok Sharma, spoke at the 11th Petersberg Climate Dialogue to call on nations to "set clear targets and policies" that are aligned to a rapid net-zero transition and will stimulate green economic growth.

The Net-Zero Business Podcast: How will the coronavirus impact Buro Happold's 2021 goal?

In response to the accelerated pace at which corporates are examining and setting net-zero targets to help alleviate the climate crisis, edie has launched a new spin-off of the Sustainable Business Covered podcast. Up next, an exclusive interview with engineering firm Buro Happold.

Jacobs and CMS UK unveil net-zero targets

Engineering firm Jacobs has unveiled a new climate action plan that commits the company to reach net-zero emissions across operations and business travel by the end of the year, while UK law firm CMS has set a net-zero target for 2025, backed by science-based targets.

Oxford City Council adds electric vehicles to fleet as part of net-zero journey

Oxford City Council has had its first batch of electric vehicles (EVs) issued as both the council and the city gear up to deliver an "energy superhub" as part of a net-zero emissions trajectory.

Evian achieves carbon neutral certification globally

Danone-owned bottled water brand Evian has confirmed it has achieved carbon neutral certification across all the countries where the brand operates, following efforts to improve the efficiency of facilities and logistics and reducing lifecycle emissions of its bottles.

Royal Dutch Shell commits to net-zero emissions by 2050

One of the world's largest emitters, Royal Dutch Shell, is set to announce plans to become a net-zero emissions business by 2050 at the latest at its Responsible Investment Annual Briefing today (16 April).

Almost half of UK's carbon emissions not accounted for under net-zero target, report warns

The UK's net-zero target is failing to account for emissions from overseas manufacturing of products imported into the country, a figure which a new report from WWF claims accounts for 46% of the UK's annual carbon footprint.

Mitie to double energy productivity through EP100 initiative

British facilities management (FM) firm Mitie has built on its net-zero emissions target set for 2025 by joining the Climate Group's EP100 initiative to double its energy productivity.

Prioritise Small-scale technology to deliver affordable net-zero transition, researchers claim

A new study has warned of focusing on "politically seductive" large-scale solutions such as nuclear and carbon capture and storage (CCS), noting that more granular solutions like energy storage, solar and heat pumps can be mass deployed at an affordable cost to enable a quicker net-zero transition.

UK Government urged to launch 'office for carbon removal' in crackdown on offsetting greenwash

The UK Government should open a national 'office for carbon removal' in order to verify that carbon offsets purchased by businesses in the drive for compliance with its net-zero target have a tangible climate impact.

Equinor leaves US oil and gas industry body due to 'lack of position' on climate policy

Norwegian oil and gas giant Equinor has announced that it is leaving a US oil and gas industry association due to a "misalignment" with the company's new climate commitments and is set to influence other associations to deliver strong climate targets.

Barclays sets 2050 net-zero climate policy, covering operations and investments

British banking giant Barclays has pledged to become a net-zero business by 2050, under new a new climate policy which covers both direct operations and finance allocated externally.

The Net-Zero Business Podcast: A deeper dive into Mitie's 2025 net-zero strategy

In response to the accelerated pace at which corporates are examining and setting net-zero targets to help alleviate the climate crisis, edie has launched a new spin-off of the Sustainable Business Covered podcast. First up on the Net-Zero Business podcast is an exclusive interview with facilities management giant Mitie.

British American Tobacco targets carbon neutrality by 2030

British American Tobacco (BAT) has announced a new ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 and eliminating unnecessary single-use plastics by 2025, having slashed emissions by almost 50% since 2000.

Nine top tips for developing and delivering a net-zero strategy

While the coronavirus outbreak is undeniably top-of-mind at present, mid-to-long-term planning for decarbonisation remains crucial in light of the global climate crisis - and, on a national basis, the UK Government's 2050 net-zero target. Here, edie rounds up nine top tips for organisations looking to develop and deliver net-zero strategies during this crucial decade.

EU exploring cost-benefit of 55% emissions cut by 2030

In the middle of the Covid 19 outbreak, the European Commission published last week what would have otherwise been a high-profile initiative: the launch of a cost-benefit analysis of increasing the EU's climate ambition for 2030 in view of reaching net-zero emissions by mid-century.

Upskilling roadmap set up to decarbonise North West industrial cluster

An energy and hydrogen cluster set to be developed in the North West has pledged to create a roadmap to combat existing skills gaps for the low-carbon transition, as part of wider government plans to fully decarbonise industrial clusters in the UK.

Samsonite, Neste, make fresh carbon-neutral commitments

Luggage giant Samsonite has pledged to become a carbon-neutral company by 2025, in the same week that innovative fuel producer Neste unveiled a plan to achieve carbon-neutral production by 2035.

Net-zero cities: Leeds's mission to be carbon neutral by 2030

edie's new mini-series exploring how local authorities are collaborating with businesses to actuate community-centred sustainability schemes on the road to net-zero emissions continues, this time exploring how Leeds plans to become a net-zero city by 2030.

Does the Budget put the UK on course for net-zero emissions?

Chancellor Rishi Sunak's first Budget was brimming with green funding for natural climate solutions and carbon capture and storage (CCS), but key spending reviews and strategies on the horizon will clarify whether these will act as the launchpad for a net-zero carbon economy.

edie's Net-Zero Live 2020 suspended to 10-11 November 2020

edie's publisher Faversham House has announced that Net-Zero Live 2020 - originally due to take place at Birmingham's NEC on 19-20 May 2020 - has been suspended and moved to the new date of 10 -11 November 2020.

Cornwall becomes first NHS region to set 2030 net-zero target

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly's sustainability and transformation partnership (STP), which includes all key NHS provisions across the region, has set a 2030 net-zero target in what it claims is a UK first.

National Infrastructure Strategy delay could spark net-zero planning focus

Reports have emerged that the Government's long-awaited 30-year National Infrastructure Strategy (NIS) is to be delayed again, citing beliefs that the £100bn strategy could be revamped to account for the UK's net-zero emissions target.

'Formula One Fridges' delivering carbon savings for Sainsbury's

Sainsbury's has announced that its new Battersea Park Station has been fitted with its 400,000th Aerofoil technology solution that helps improve the energy usage of fridges, as it builds on its net-zero emissions target for 2040.

Manchester City Council spells out five-year action plan to halve emissions

Manchester City Council hopes to approve a new action plan that would commit to halving the council's carbon footprint by 2025, in assistance with the city's wider ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2038.

O2 targets net-zero network and operations by 2025

Telecommunications giant O2 has pledged to achieve net-zero across its entire business and mobile network by 2025 - a move it claims will make it the UK's first net-zero mobile network provider.

From climate action to chlorinated chicken: How will a US-UK trade deal impact the environment?

After International Trade Secretary Liz Truss kick-started UK-US negotiations for post-Brexit trade deals, edie explores how a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US could impact progress towards the UK's net-zero target and affect other environmental standards.

Oil and gas giants sign up to Teesside net-zero carbon capture project

BP, Eni, Equinor, Shell and Total have all signed up to spearhead the development of the Net-Zero Teesside project that aims to develop the UK's first decarbonised industrial cluster through the use of carbon capture, utilisation and storage technology (CCUS).

Heathrow court case and Mary Robinson's net-zero speech: The top 10 sustainability stories of February 2020

With spring now on the horizon, we take a look back at a February packed full of sustainability and energy news. This round-up includes all the highlights from edie's Sustainability Leaders Forum and recaps a bumper month for green policy.

Science-based pathway for net-zero emissions established for telecoms sector

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the Global e-Sustainability Initiative (GeSI) and the GSMA have forged a new partnership to develop a sector-specific decarbonisation pathway that will outline how all companies in the mobile sector can set science-based targets.

Rio Tinto sets 2050 net-zero goal - but excludes Scope 3 emissions

Anglo-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto has set a commitment to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its global operations by 2050, backed with a $1bn investment pot.

CDP: Europe's biggest corporates must double green investments to reach net-zero

Some 880 of Europe's largest businesses collectively invested €124bn (£103.8bn) in low-carbon initiatives in 2019 - but this equates to just 12% of their capital expenditure, when 25% will be needed to meet the EU's 2050 net-zero target.

The Net-Zero Business Podcast: Examining the National Trust’s 2030 net-zero strategy

In response to the accelerated pace at which corporates are examining and setting net-zero targets to help alleviate the climate crisis, edie has launched a new spin-off of the Sustainable Business Covered podcast. First up on the Net-Zero Business podcast is an exclusive interview with the National Trust.

Cemex targets net-zero concrete by 2050

Multinational cement and building materials giant Cemex has pledged to reach net-zero across its operations and products by 2050, as part of a new climate action strategy.

Facilities management giant Mitie sets 2025 net-zero carbon target

British facilities management (FM) firm Mitie has set a net-zero carbon target for 2025, which it claims is the most ambitious in the national FM sector.

Sir Robert McAlpine targets net-zero emissions by 2024

Building and civil engineering company Sir Robert McAlpine has announced a new public commitment to implement carbon reduction initiatives to reach net-zero emissions in the next five years.

Accelerating climate action: edie evolves flagship energy and sustainability event into Net-Zero Live 2020

The UK’s largest energy and sustainability event has been transformed into Net-Zero Live, a free-to-attend experience which will unite businesses, policymakers, investors, NGOs, product and solutions providers around a common purpose: to spark new ideas and actions on the path to a net-zero carbon future.

FIFA vows to deliver carbon-neutral 2022 World Cup

FIFA and the State of Qatar have jointly launched a sustainability strategy for the 2022 World Cup, headlined by a commitment to deliver carbon-neutrality across the event's operations.

Report: 49% of world's GDP covered by net-zero targets

Just under half of the world's annual GDP is now covered by nations, regions and cities that are legislating for a net-zero emissions target, a new study has revealed.

Burberry introduces carbon 'insetting' fund

Luxury fashion firm Burberry will create a "regeneration fund" to support a new portfolio of "carbon insetting projects" that aim to deliver regenerative agriculture practices across its supply chain - a move that will see its Autumn/Winter 2020 runway show at London Fashion Week become carbon-neutral.

UK universities receive £1.26m boost for low-carbon steel roadmap

Scientists at the Universities of Sheffield and Leeds have been awarded £1.26m to accelerate their work developing low-carbon solutions for the steel sector.

Delta Air Lines commits $1bn to become carbon neutral

US-based Delta Air Lines has committed $1bn over the next decade to mitigate emissions from its business to become carbon neutral, with the company pledging to minimise its reliance on the carbon offset market.

Alok Sharma: What we know about the COP26 President's views on climate change

In an unexpected announcement, Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom has been replaced by International Development Secretary Alok Sharma, who has also been named as COP26 President. Here, edie examines Sharma's track record on climate legislation to date.

Church of England commits to net-zero emissions by 2030

The Church of England will "urgently examine" what will be required to reach net-zero emissions, after a vote was passed to set the target for 2030, 15 years ahead of an initially recommended date.

BP sets 2050 net-zero carbon target

BP's new chief executive has set an ambition to shrink the oil giant's carbon footprint to net zero by 2050 and will cut the carbon intensity of the energy it sells by 50% over the same period.

Dissecting the challenge: How Sky is approaching its net-zero target

EXCLUSIVE: Sky is facing the daunting task of engaging with 11,000 companies and 24 million customers as part of its new commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. The group's head of responsible business Fiona Ball outlines how Sky is "dissecting" this target to manage the transformation.

Seven top tips for kick-starting your organisation's net-zero transition

Last year, dozens of 'climate emergency' declarations were made by governments, local authorities, political parties and businesses. But how can sustainability, CSR and energy professionals help their organisations respond to these declarations with ambitious, impactful and long-lasting actions?

Mary Robinson: Business and governments must avoid net-zero 'hypocrisy'

EXCLUSIVE: The former president of Ireland Mary Robinson has claimed that net-zero commitments made by governments and corporates must lead to a "just transition" that also combats the "hypocrisy" of ignoring fossil fuel developments further afield.

UK aviation launches net-zero commitment for 2050, but won't cap growth

Key members of the UK aviation industry, including Boeing, Virgin Atlantic and London City Airport are among a coalition that has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in the sector by 2050, to assist with the UK's overall net-zero strategy.

Ofgem sets out nine-point plan to prioritise climate crisis

Britain's energy regulator has said it will change how it governs the industry to help meet the government's climate targets, after coming under fire for failing to prioritise the climate emergency.

UK set to breach fifth carbon budget, despite setting net-zero goal

The UK is still set to miss its fifth carbon budget despite the creation of a legally-binding net-zero target for 2050 last year, new analysis has found.

Report: UK Government's net-zero plans 'over-reliant' on biomass and carbon capture

The UK Government is over-prioritising carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) and biomass in its net-zero plans and failing to account for the impact these technologies could have on land use.

EY targets carbon neutrality by end of 2020

Professional services giant EY has pledged to become a carbon-neutral business by the end of the year, through investments in decarbonising its operations and in carbon offsetting schemes.

Electricity and gas networks 'failing to show true leadership on net-zero'

The RIIO2 challenge group has lamented a lack of "true leadership" among network operators on subject of decarbonisation, stating that none of the companies that submitted business plans to Ofgem in December have been "genuinely proactive".

Mission Possible: Achieving a net-zero future for the public sector

edie's fifth guide in our series of net-zero reports across various industries looks at how the public sector are driving towards net-zero across their own operations and local communities.

Businesses team up to launch net-zero infrastructure taskforce

Industry bodies representing hundreds of firms across the engineering and environmental technologies sectors have partnered to analyse how the UK's infrastructure should be redesigned to meet net-zero by 2050.

Sainsbury's commits £1bn to become net-zero by 2040

Supermarket retailer Sainsbury's has pledged to invest £1bn over the next 20 years in order to become a net-zero business across its own operations.

National Grid: 400,000 energy jobs must be filled to hit net-zero

More than 117,000 roles will need to be filled in the energy sector by 2030, and a further 283,000 by 2050, if the UK is to meet its net-zero target.

Net-zero cities: Oxford's mission to become carbon-neutral by 2030

edie's new mini-series exploring how local authorities are collaborating with businesses to actuate community-centred sustainability schemes on the road to net-zero emissions continues, this time with a look at how Oxford and its Citizens' Climate Assembly are aiming for net-zero by 2030.

Industrial Decarbonisation Champion to steer £20m innovation centre for net-zero transition

Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer has been appointed as an "Industrial Decarbonisation Champion" to oversee the development of a £20m research and innovation centre at Edinburgh's Heriot-Watt University that will drive the delivery of the UK's net-zero emissions target.

World Economic Forum calls on business chiefs to set net-zero targets

All business leaders and companies attending the World Economic Forum in Davos this week have been asked to make public commitments to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier.

Survey: Lack of know-how hampering net-zero progress from businesses

Ever more UK businesses are targeting net-zero by, or ahead of, the Government's 2050 deadline. But half of businesses with net-zero targets are struggling to plan to deliver against them, a new survey has found.

'Neutral is not enough': Microsoft pledges to become carbon-negative by 2030

Tech giant Microsoft has today (16 January) unveiled a bold new plan to reduce its carbon impact to below net-zero by 2030, with an additional goal of removing carbon from the atmosphere that the company has emitted since it was founded in 1975.

Forster Communications targets 'climate-positivity' by 2023

Social change PR agency Forster Communications has pledged to become 'climate-positive' by 2023, reversing and mitigating more negative environmental impacts than it generates through its direct and indirect actions.

National Trust to plant 20 million trees in bid to become net-zero by 2030

The National Trust has unveiled a plan to become net-zero carbon by 2030, which features one of the UK's biggest forest expansion projects.

UK's first net-zero offices certified in Manchester and Liverpool

A portfolio of 11 office properties across Liverpool and Greater Manchester have been verified as net-zero carbon against the UK Green Building Council's (UKGBC) standard, in what the developer has described as a national first.

School strikes, science-based targets and climate emergency declarations: Recapping the sustainability stories of 2019

With just one week left until Christmas, edie recaps what has been a mammoth year for sustainability stories - from the UK's net-zero target to the growing business movement towards 1.5C.

Net-zero cities: Nottingham's mission to be carbon-neutral by 2028

edie's new mini-series exploring how local authorities are collaborating with businesses to actuate community-centred sustainability schemes on the road to net-zero emissions continues, this time with a look at how Nottingham plans to become the UK's first carbon-neutral city by 2028.

'Promises are not enough': Green economy reacts to Boris Johnson's historic election win

After the Conservative Party secured a landslide victory in the UK's general election, members of the nation's green economy are calling on Boris Johnson to turn the green ideations in his party's manifesto into action.

Beyond Paris: 500 companies target net-zero by 2030

More than 500 businesses certified as B-Corps have committed to becoming net-zero by 2030 - 20 years ahead of the IPCC's deadline for limiting the global temperature increase to 1.5C.

Almost half of global GDP covered by net-zero targets and commitments

Around 40% of the world's annual GDP now derives from nations and regions that are discussing or have set legislative net-zero emissions targets, to be achieved by 2050 at the latest.

OVO Energy and Mitsubishi forge net-zero transport partnership

OVO Energy and Mitsubishi Motors have announced a new UK partnership to help accelerate the decarbonisation of the transport sector in order to assist with the legally enshrined net-zero target for 2050.

'Set legally binding net-zero target now', investors urge EU leaders

A coalition of more than 40 investors collectively representing upwards of €6trn of assets under management has written to all EU heads of state, urging them to set legislation in line with net-zero by 2050 or sooner.

Business Energy Barometer: November-December 2019

edie's third Business Barometer for 2019 sets out the key challenges and opportunities for energy leaders and managers going into 2020 and the next decade of climate action.

The 4 big ideas for net-zero carbon strategies

Experts across energy management came together at edie’s SPARK! 2.0 event to discuss the role that strategy could play in the delivery of net-zero carbon targets.

Repsol targets net-zero by 2050

Spanish oil and gas giant Repsol has committed to becoming a net-zero emission business by 2050, across its own operations and its indirect impacts.

Election debates and net-zero campaigns: The top 10 sustainability stories of November 2019

With COP25 and Christmas now on the horizon, we take a look back at a November packed full of sustainability and energy news. This round-up includes all the highlights from edie's Net Zero November campaign and the build-up to the UK general election.

Childbase Partnership sets net-zero emissions target for 2030

UK childcare and education provider Childbase Partnership has announced a radical new commitment to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint across its nurseries and head office by 2030.

General election: How UK parties are addressing 9 key net-zero challenges

Ahead of Channel 4's leaders debate on climate change, representatives from the UK's four largest parties met in London to set out their plans for net-zero. Here, edie rounds up the key takeaways.

edie's General Election 2019 green policy manifesto matrix

edie has launched a policy manifesto matrix, outlining all the key commitments – and some notable omissions – that the Conservatives, Labour, Green Party and Liberal Democrats have issued.

Net-zero by 2025 'practically impossible' due to spiralling costs, report finds

Moving the UK's net-zero emission target forward 25 years is "practically impossible", according to new thinktank research which found that setting a net-zero target for 2025 would cost £200bn each year at a minimum - more than the NHS's annual budget.

Philip Morris: Offsetting isn't the 'credible' long-term solution to carbon-neutrality

EXCLUSIVE: As it strives to achieve carbon-neutrality across all factories by 2030, cigarette giant Phillip Morris International (PMI) will continue to "do the hard work first" and only use offsetting as the last piece of the puzzle, the firm's director of operational sustainability has said.

Five top tips for improving energy efficiency on the road to net-zero

During an interactive webinar hosted by edie on Wednesday (20 November), experts from Direct Line Group (DLG) and BiU provided expert advice on how businesses of all sizes and sectors can improve energy efficiency in line with net-zero targets. Here, edie rounds up the key takeaways.

Net-zero cities: Bristol's mission to be carbon-neutral by 2030

Launched as part of edie's Net-Zero November campaign, this new mini-series explores how local authorities are collaborating with businesses to actuate community-centred sustainability schemes on the road to net-zero emissions. We begin with a look at Bristol City Council's commitment to be carbon-neutral by 2030 - 20 years ahead of the Government's 2050 deadline.

Roadshows, pledges and innovations: edie's Net-Zero November enters final week

edie's month of net-zero content moves into its final week, meaning businesses have more time to upload new pledges and gain insight and inspiration from the themed content being published this week.

Available on demand: Energy efficiency 2.0 webinar for Net-Zero November

Shai Guness, compliance and CSR manager at Direct Line Group, spoke during an edie webinar, which will took place on Wednesday 20 November at 2pm (GMT) that outlined the role of energy efficiency in delivering net-zero.

Gucci boss calls on business leaders to deliver net-zero supply chains

Gucci chief executive Marco Bizzarri has called on business leaders to sign up to a Carbon Neutral Challenge that sees businesses deliver greenhouse gas emissions reductions across their entire value chain in order to achieve net-zero emissions.

Sustainable Business Covered podcast: The Net-Zero November business relay

Episode 75 of the Sustainable Business Covered podcast lands during edie's Net-Zero November and delivers five exclusive interviews with energy and sustainability experts from the likes of National Trust, Costa and Yorkshire Water to discuss how businesses can transition to net-zero emissions.

EasyJet to offset all flight emissions, pushes for electric aircraft vision

EasyJet has become the first airline to operate net-zero flights, after agreeing to offset all emissions from fuel starting today (19 November) and will continue to work on rolling out electric aircraft in the future.

Moonshots and loving carbon: Climate action requires step away from 'less bad' business models

Interface's regional sustainability manager Jon Khoo reflects on the success of the firm's Mission Zero sustainability strategy and why businesses need to set "moonshot goals", view the climate emergency through the lens of "climate optimism" and start "loving carbon".

Environmental consultancies team up to launch sector-wide 'Pledge to Net-Zero'

Environmental consultancies WSP and AECOM have teamed up to launch a new pledge campaign, urging companies from across the environmental services sector to set science-based targets and report annually on decarbonisation progress.

National Grid commits to net-zero emissions target for 2050

The National Grid has announced a commitment to reduce its direct greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2050, the same timeframe as the UK Government's legislative target.

European Investment Bank to end financial support for fossil fuels by 2021

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has unveiled a new energy lending policy that will stop all financing for fossil fuel projects at the end of 2021 and unlock €1trn in sustainable development over the next decade.

John Lewis & Partners: Net-zero a commercial opportunity for business

EXCLUSIVE: John Lewis & Partners' decision to set a net-zero target before the UK Government enshrined its 2050 target into law evidences the fact that sustainability and profitability now go hand-in-hand, the retailer's director of corporate responsibility has claimed.

Circular economy 'number one priority' of European Green Deal and net-zero ambitions

The circular economy, including new waste and recycling laws, will represent "half" of the EU's effort to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and will be erected as "the number one priority" of the upcoming European Green Deal, officials have said.

Greenwash or necessity: What role does carbon offsetting play in reaching net-zero?

Several NGOs offering carbon offsetting have reported a fourfold increase in investment over the past two years - but with concerns around greenwashing persisting, where should businesses be positioning offsetting in their net-zero strategies?

First steps: What must businesses focus on now to deliver a net-zero UK by 2050?

According to the Committee on Climate Change (CCC), the UK's delivery against its 2050 net-zero target will require "rapid, far-reaching and unprecedented changes in all aspects of society" - but where, exactly, should the business response start?

Formula 1 targets net-zero by 2030

Formula 1 (F1) has today (12 November) set a 2030 net-zero target that covers the on-track activity of its cars and the series' wider operations.

Just one in 10 of world's largest energy firms have net-zero targets, report finds

Just 10% of the world's largest 132 coal, electricity and oil and gas companies have set time-based commitments to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero, with just three companies also pledging to reduce indirect emissions as well.

Qantas to double flight offsets as part of net-zero 2050 commitment

Australian airline group Qantas will invest $50m in sustainable fuel over the next decade and offset growth in emissions from international and domestic flights in order to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

Birmingham Airport sets net-zero carbon target for 2033

Birmingham Airport has set a commitment to become a net-zero carbon airport by 2033, noting that it has a "big opportunity" to reduce emissions via onsite renewable generation and would also minimise the use of carbon offsets.

Landsec aiming to become net-zero business by 2030, sets 1.5C science-based target

Commercial real estate firm Landsec has launched an updated sustainability strategy for its carbon emissions, aiming to become a net-zero business by 2030 and reduce its absolute carbon emissions by 70% as part of a 1.5C science-based target.

General Election: Majority of UK public calls for net-zero target to be pushed forward

More than half of UK citizens believe the Government should push the target to reach net-zero ambitions by 2050 forward by at least 20 years, with climate policy set to be a key battleground for the upcoming general election.

The collaborative push for net-zero emissions in the built environment

For Net-Zero November, edie sits down with a mainstay sustainability leader, a disruptive new firm and the organisation coordinating an entire sector to see how the built environment can collaboratively transition to a net-zero economy.

REA's Nina Skorupska: Business holds 'untapped potential' to achieve net-zero

EXCLUSIVE: REA's chief executive Nina Skorupska has claimed at an edie event that declarations of a 'climate emergency' must be backed up by robust net-zero emissions and clean energy strategies from business, to avoid the term becoming "greenwash or rhetoric".

Available to watch on demand: edie's net-zero business webinar

edie's most recent webinar outlined how businesses can engage staff, consumers, stakeholders and suppliers to inspire a global movement towards net-zero emissions, featuring experts from the UK Green Building Council, ITV and International Airlines Group (IAG).

Google workers call on company to adopt aggressive climate plan

More than 1,000 Google workers have signed a public letter calling on their employer to commit to an aggressive "company-wide climate plan" including the cancellation of contracts with fossil fuel firms and the halting of donations to climate change deniers.

Beyond Carbon: The $500m plan to create a low-carbon US, with or without Trump

EXCLUSIVE: President Donald Trump may have officially kickstarted the process to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement, but there is a movement of cities, states and businesses that is driving the nation towards 100% clean energy, with or without support from the federal government.

Treasury's net-zero minister: Climate action will be a 'signature theme' of next government

Speaking exclusively to edie following the launch of its Net-Zero Review, HM Treasury minister Simon Clarke outlines the Government's plans to deliver on the legislation to reduce the UK's emissions to net-zero by 2050.

Government should lead by example and target net-zero pre-2050, MPs urge

MPs on the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) have urged the Government to "put its own house in order" and set internal net-zero targets far more ambitious than the national 2050 deadline.

Net-Zero November: Read up on edie's insight guides and webinars on net-zero

As edie launches Net-Zero November, the content team is resurfacing a collection of exclusive insight reports, guides and webinars on the topic across industries such as utilities, manufacturing and the built environment that are free to download for readers.

Net-Zero November: edie kicks off month of themed content and events with raft of new business pledges

The edie content team has officially kicked off Net-Zero November - a month of themed content and events to inform and empower sustainability and energy professionals on the road to a net-zero carbon, with Mission Possible pledges from Liberty Steel, Hammerson and HPE leading the way.

Facebook's former sustainability chief: Business needs to get vocal to reach net-zero

EXCLUSIVE: Facebook's former sustainability director and Google's former clean energy czar Bill Weihl has called on businesses to "go beyond their own four walls" and lobby for policies that create net-zero national economies in a "just" manner.

UK Government launches business fund to deliver net-zero industrial clusters

The UK Government has opened two innovation funds aimed at helping businesses plan and deploy technology to help reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

Thames Water switches to 100% renewable electricity in bid to meet net-zero by 2030

Thames Water has revealed that it is now using 100% renewable electricity across its operations, in a mix which is partly self-generated and partly sourced through power purchase agreements (PPAs).

Online retailer Zalando commits to net-zero emissions and plastic-free packaging

Online fashion platform Zalando has confirmed it will operate as a net-zero carbon emissions business from today (30 October), as well as committing to eliminating single-use plastics from its packaging by 2023.

REA: Ofgem failing to realise crucial role of flexibility in reaching net-zero

With the UK's energy system becoming increasingly "democratised" and businesses and individuals generating and selling, as well as buying, energy, regulator Ofgem is not taking sufficient measures to bring about a flexible energy future.

BP chief: Alternative to 'polluter pays' carbon tax can help meet net-zero

BP's chief executive Bob Dudley and group chief economist Spencer Dale believe that regional carbon prices that don't just tax the producers will enable the oil and gas giant to join the global transition to net-zero emissions, but neither were convinced of when that would happen.

Sustainability 2.0 roundtable: What's stopping businesses from investing in green innovations?

In an era of unparalleled technological advancements - and with the UK's net-zero target looming - businesses of all sizes can reap rewards from investing in scalable technologies with positive social and environmental impacts. So, what's stopping UK plc identifying and investing in green innovations?

Net-Zero November: edie to launch themed month of content and events

The edie content team is gearing up for Net-Zero November – a month of themed content and events dedicated to informing, inspiring and empowering sustainability and energy professionals on the road to a net-zero carbon future for their business.

CCC sets sixth carbon budget date, urges Treasury to ramp up net-zero plans

The Committee on Climate Change's (CCC) chairman Lord Deben has confirmed that the body will publish its recommendations for the UK's sixth carbon budget in September 2020.

Hold the front page: The Guardian targets net-zero by 2030

Guardian Media Group - the publishing house behind titles including The Guardian and The Observer - has pledged to become a net-zero business by 2030.

Government unveils new net-zero support for buildings and 'every single mode of transport'

The UK Government has published its highly-anticipated response to the Committee on Climate Change's (CCC) advice on meeting net-zero carbon by 2050, including new measures to decarbonise business buildings and transport, and to support the uptake of energy storage at scale.

'We're up for it': Sky exploring its role in net-zero future

Sky's chief executive Jeremy Darroch has claimed that the company is "figuring out" how it can help push the UK to net-zero emissions before the 2050 deadline.

Bentley achieves carbon-neutral certification at solar-powered Crewe plant

Bentley Motors' corporate headquarters and main manufacturing facility in Crewe has achieved carbon-neutral certification, with a solar-powered carport, green energy contracts and carbon offsets used to decarbonise the plant.

British Airways sets net-zero commitment, plans to offset domestic flight emissions

International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of British Airways (BA), has become the first airline group to commit to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, as BA also announces plans to offset all domestic passenger flight emissions next year.

Environment Agency targets net-zero by 2030

England's Environment Agency (EA) has committed to reaching net-zero carbon in its operations and supply chain by 2030 - two decades ahead of the UK Government's national target.

Aldersgate Group: UK must make TCFD reporting mandatory to reach net-zero

The UK will not meet its 2050 net-zero goal unless corporates and investors are legally mandated to report on their climate risks and the actions they are taking to mitigate them, the Aldersgate Group has warned.

Labour commits to 37 new wind farms in green industrial revolution election push

Jeremy Corbyn has unveiled plans to create another 70,000 jobs in offshore windfarms part-owned by the public, as his party gears up for an election manifesto focusing on a green industrial revolution.

Mary Robinson: Businesses must make 'deep commitments' to climate justice

Former Irish President Mary Robinson has argued that the development of net-zero strategies centred around social justice and human rights will become the new marker of sustainable business leadership.

'We can beat the sceptics': Boris Johnson bolsters net-zero commitment in Tory conference speech

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has used his platform at the Conservative Party conference to argue that the UK is primed to lead the global transition to net-zero emissions by mid-century.

Conservatives hint at plans for earlier petrol and diesel car sale ban

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has said he would like the Government to "thoroughly explore" the feasibility of bringing its current 2040 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars forward.

Half of UK businesses 'targeting carbon neutrality by 2030'

A survey of 502 UK businesses has found that almost half are aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2030, with 8% claiming they had already reached this milestone.

Mission Possible: Achieving a net-zero carbon future for manufacturing

As the movement towards net-zero carbon takes hold across the commercial sector, this fresh insight report looks at how manufacturing companies are driving forward their own goals.

Climate strikes and UN Summits: The top 10 sustainability stories of September 2019

With Autumn now here, we take a look back at a September packed full of sustainability and energy news. This round-up includes all the highlights from the UN Climate Action Summit, net-zero announcements and climate strikes.

RWE to become carbon-neutral by 2040

German utilities giant RWE has unveiled a new strategy to transform itself into a carbon-neutral company by 2040 by funnelling billions into renewables projects, decommissioning existing coal-fired plants and backing carbon capture and storage technology.

Refashioned approach: Kering goes carbon-neutral

The luxury fashion group behind brands such as Cartier, Balenciaga and Saint Laurent has confirmed plans to offset its entire 2018 greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint, including its supply chain emissions.

Scotland Climate Bill: MSPs unanimously back 2045 net-zero target

Scottish MSPs have voted 113 to 0 to back the introduction of a new Climate Bill, committing the nation to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.

Net-zero not possible without circular economy, Ellen MacArthur Foundation finds

Focusing on decarbonising the energy sector alone will not put the world within touching distance of a net-zero carbon economy, according to a new report from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation which claims that the transition to a circular economy is also vital.

edie explores what net-zero carbon looks like for UK utilities in new sector insight report series

Following the UK's world-leading commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, edie has launched a brand-new series of insight reports which investigate how particular industries can achieve rapid decarbonisation, starting with the utilities sector.

Patagonia Action Works: 'Time up' for CSR departments in the climate activism era

EXCLUSIVE: As outdoor company Patagonia issued the next programme in its 45-year history of activism, the company's director of environmental initiatives has claimed that isolated departments overseeing sustainability have no function as more people demand action on the climate emergency.

Mission Possible: Achieving net-zero carbon in Utilities

Following the UK's world-leading commitment to reach net- zero emissions by 2050, this insight report investigates how the utilities sector can radically reduce carbon whilst enabling and empowering its customers to do the same.

Heathrow CEO: Aviation sector must set net-zero plan 'as soon as possible'

EXCLUSIVE: Heathrow Airport's chief executive John Holland-Kaye has joined the growing calls for the aviation sector to implement a net-zero strategy, claiming that "imposing punitive costs" will not deter people from flying less.

'Unprecedented': Investors responsible for $2.4trn commit to net-zero alignment

A group of finance giants, collectively responsible for investments worth $2.4trn, have committed to ensuring that their respective portfolios are carbon-neutral by 2050.

Labour commits to 2030 net-zero target as part of Green New Deal

Labour Party members have backed a pledge to reduce greenhouse emissions to net-zero by 2030 - two decades earlier that the government's current target.

CCC: Net-zero strategies for shipping and aviation 'must cap growth in demand'

If the UK is to meet its 2050 net-zero target, Ministers must develop sector-specific strategies with time-bound, numerical targets for decarbonising the international aviation and shipping (IAS).

Amazon commits to net-zero by 2040 following staff protests

E-commerce giant Amazon has pledged to reach net-zero carbon emissions across its operations by 2040, after its staff lobbied for the firm to take more bold action on climate change.

Net-zero cities can unlock $24tn opportunity, report finds

Investment into readily available technologies could reduce emissions from cities by 90% by 2050, while creating a global economic benefit worth almost $24trn (£19trn), a new report has claimed.

Plan Zero: Inside OVO Energy's bold vision to 'fight the climate crisis'

EXCLUSIVE: OVO Energy has today (19 September) published its first sustainability strategy, including plans not only to reach net-zero in its own operations 20 years ahead of the Government's deadline, but to mobilise society in collective climate activism.

World's biggest mobile operators vow climate disclosure in first step towards net-zero

BT Group and Vodafone Group are among a coalition of 50+ mobile operators to have agreed to begin publicly disclosing their climate impacts.

JLL targets 'net-zero' buildings by 2030

Property consultancy JLL has signed the World Green Building Council's (WGBC) net-zero carbon buildings commitment, committing it to bring operational carbon emissions to zero by 2030.

NFU: UK farming sector can reach net-zero by 2040, without ditching beef

The National Farmers Union (NFU) has unveiled a new vision to help the sector meet net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, ten years ahead of the Government's nationwide target.

Aluminium giant EN+ Group to develop net-zero strategy

Aluminium and hydropower giant EN+ Group has committed to develop emissions targets in line with a 1.5C trajectory within 24 months.

Amazon staff plan mass walkout over slow climate action

More than 900 Amazon employees have said they will walk out later this month in support of the School Strikes for Climate movement.

Business Energy Barometer: August - September 2019

edie's second Business Energy Barometer report maps out the key energy drivers, challenges and opportunities facing UK businesses, based on an in-depth survey of energy managers across the country in the past quarterly period.

Meeting net-zero requires 'rapidly escalating' carbon pricing, corporate leaders urge

Senior sustainability representatives at major corporates have called on national governments to implement "meaningful and rapidly-escalating" carbon pricing, in order to support businesses on the road to net-zero.

UK funding to tackle climate crisis 'must double', Government warned

Britain's biggest environmental groups have warned the government that funding to tackle the climate emergency must be more than double next year to avoid an even greater cost from catastrophic ecological breakdown in the future.

Utility giants urge stronger onshore wind policy support on road to net-zero

Scottish Power and SSE are among the big-name utility companies to have signed a letter urging the UK Government to implement greater policy support for onshore wind in light of its new net-zero target.

Audi's supply chain shake-up and Wales' coal plant closure: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

Business leaders put pressure on Boris Johnson over next net-zero steps

Members of the Aldersgate Group have today (1 August) jointly sent a green policy manifesto to new Prime Minister Boris Johnson, outlining the next steps they'd like him to take on bolstering the UK's 2050 net-zero target.

Reeves grills Leadsom on net-zero preparations

Rachel Reeves MP, chair of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee, has grilled BEIS's new Secretary Andrea Leadsom over her sector-specific plans for helping the UK to reach net-zero by 2050.

Boris Johnson insists climate change at the 'absolute core' of Government

Boris Johnson pledged to place tackling climate change at the "absolute core" of the Government's actions during his first appearance in the House of Commons as Prime Minister.

Survey: Most Brits more concerned about climate change than Brexit

More than seven in ten UK residents believe that tackling climate change is a more pressing issue for the nation than delivering Brexit, a new survey has found.

Climate leadership roundtable: Are we on the right track for a net-zero economy?

The UK Government's recent move to legislate for net-zero emissions by 2050 has been widely welcomed across the green economy - but how should businesses respond? edie recently convened a group of sustainability leaders from an array of industry sectors to discuss exactly that.

Government unveils £80m pot to decarbonise aviation and road transport

In a bid to spur the development of new low-carbon transport technologies and systems on the path to net-zero by 2050, the UK has launched a new £80m funding pot for electric car and plane projects.

Energy regulator 'out of touch over climate crisis', say businesses

The UK energy regulator is under fire for failing to prioritise the climate emergency as it draws up plans for Britain's energy system.

Manchester declares 'Climate Emergency' as Leeds bolsters net-zero preparations

Manchester City Council has become the latest local authority to formally declare a 'Climate Emergency', placing it among a coalition of more than 100 others across the UK and Ireland.

Citizens Advice: Government lacking 'credible' plan to decarbonise heat

The Government's failure to implement a "credible" framework for the decarbonisation of heat for commercial and domestic use could undermine public confidence in the net-zero transition, Citizens Advice has warned.

Ovo Energy boss kick-starts campaign for general carbon charge

Ovo Energy's chief executive and founder Stephen Fitzpatrick has launched a new campaign aimed at bolstering the UK's emissions policies on the road to net-zero.

CCC: Policy gaps leaving business unable to manage climate risks

None of the UK's largest 33 sectors have made good progress in improving the way they manage climate risk over the past 12 months, largely due to poor policy support.

Government commission necessary for 'just' transition to net-zero, trade unions argue

A coalition of trade unions have urged the UK Government to create a cross-party commission focused on ensuring that the transition to net-zero by 2050 is socially and economically "just".

Environmental Audit Committee to quiz government on net-zero targets

A fresh inquiry into the government's net-zero carbon emissions targets will be undertaken by the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC).

Ed Miliband: Social justice 'crucial' in meeting net-zero

The UK will not meet its 2050 net-zero goal unless decarbonisation policies are "explicityl and intrinsically" linked to the creation of a more socially equal society, former Labour leader Ed Miliband has argued.

London Mayor calls for Green New Deal for the UK

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged the UK Government to implement a US-style Green New Deal - a move he claims will help move climate-related policy discussions past talk and towards action.

Questions raised about £1trn adaptation cost to net zero carbon economy

Questions have been raised about the £1trn cost estimate of establishing a net-zero carbon economy by the Common's Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) committee.

It's official: UK sets net-zero target into law

The UK has made history by officially enshrining a net-zero emissions target for 2050 into UK law, after MPs unanimously supported the decision.

Report: Net-zero targets now cover one-sixth of global economy

Almost a sixth of the entire global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is now covered by net zero carbon emissions targets, according to a report.

Former National Grid boss Steve Holliday: We can't isolate oil & gas majors on path to net-zero

Former National Grid boss Steve Holliday urged greater business and policy action to involve oil and gas firms in the power sector's low-carbon transition, arguing that such businesses must be "central" to transformation.

Food and drink giants press for long-term policies on decarbonisation and circularity

A collection of more than 30 organisations across the UK's food and drink supply chain have urged Ministers to bolster policies around long-term decarbonisation, climate resilience and resource efficiency for the sector.

18 EU countries now support 2050 carbon neutrality goal

Germany, Greece, Italy and Slovakia have added their names to a growing list of EU countries supporting a carbon neutrality objective for 2050, increasing the chances that a deal will be struck at an EU summit later this week, according to documents seen by EURACTIV.

UK-wide homes retrofit project needed to hit 2050 net-zero goal

The task of cutting greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2050 presents a "vital role" for engineers, including the potential for a massive retrofitting programme across the UK's housing stock, a trade body has claimed.

Sustainable Business Covered podcast: Net-zero announcements and plastic-free communities

Episode 65 of the Sustainable Business Covered podcast sees edie's content editor Matt Mace and reporter Sarah George discuss net-zero legislation before introducing three exclusive interviews focused on resource efficiency with Canary Wharf Group, the Eden Project and the London Waste and Recycling Board (LWARB).

New business-led taskforce to help UK's private sector reach net-zero

Sky, UPS, Aston Martin and Drax are among the co-founders of a new business-led taskforce aimed at mobilising actors across the UK's private sector to decarbonise in line with the Government's new net-zero vision for 2050.

The UK Government's net-zero commitment: What happens next?

A statutory instrument to amend the Climate Change Act of 2008 to account for a net-zero target by 2050 will be laid in Parliament today (12 June), marking a first among the G7 nations. But what, exactly, happens next?

'Hugely important for business': Green economy reacts to UK's net-zero target for 2050

Green leaders have come out in force to praise Prime Minister Theresa May's decision to amend the Climate Change Act of 2008 to account for a net-zero target by 2050 - and urged Ministers to detail how they plan to reach this long-term goal as soon as possible.

Prime Minister agrees legally binding net-zero emissions target for 2050

In one of her last acts as Prime Minister, Theresa May has confirmed that Parliament will implement the recommendations of the Committee on Climate Change, creating a legally binding net-zero carbon target for 2050.

Wales accepts CCC's 95% emissions reduction target

Plans for a 95% emissions reduction for Wales, proposed by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) as part of its recommendations on creating a net-zero economy in the UK by 2050, have been accepted by the Welsh Government.

Parliament to debate bill committing UK to net-zero by 2050

A bill which would commit the UK Government to reducing national carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050 will be put to Parliament next Tuesday (11 June), the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) committee has confirmed today (7 June)

Government urged to set 2040 net-zero target for Humber

The Humber Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has unveiled a new ambition to reduce the region's carbon emissions to net-zero by 2040 - 10 years ahead of the Committee on Climate Change's (CCC) recommended 2050 deadline for the UK.

BT generates record £5.5bn through carbon-combative products and services

Telecommunications giant BT generated almost one-quarter (23.4%) of its total annual 2018 revenue through selling products and services which contribute to carbon savings at a consumer level, the business has revealed.

Carbon pricing calls and rubbish-fired plastics plants: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

UK business giants put fresh pressure on government over net-zero

BT, Coca-Cola European Partners and Sainsbury's are among a coalition of 128 UK-based businesses, industry networks and investors to have written to Ministers demanding that a net-zero target for 2050 is legislated "immediately".

Coalition of cities target net-zero carbon buildings by 2050

A coalition of eight European cities, including Dublin and Leeds, have pledged to completely decarbonise their existing building stocks by 2050.

UK public want chief execs to lead on climate action, survey finds

Almost two-thirds (60%) of the UK public believe that the chief executives of corporations should be leading the national fight against climate change, a new survey has found.

Report: Electricity generation carbon prices to treble by 2050

Carbon prices for electricity generation should more than treble by 2050 and VAT rates on domestic energy use hiked to help drive emissions off the grid, according to a new report.

Merkel sends first strong message for climate neutrality by 2050

Chancellor Angela Merkel has indicated for the first time that Germany may join a European alliance to achieve greenhouse gas neutrality by 2050. At a recent EU summit, Germany was unwilling to join a similar initiative by nine EU member states.

Scottish Power pledges to make Glasgow UK's first 'net-zero' city

Scottish Power has pledged to turn Glasgow into the UK's first zero-carbon city with a mass rollout of electric vehicle (EV) charging points.

Skanska UK pledges to become a carbon-neutral business by 2045

Construction and property development giant Skanska has committed to reduce the carbon emissions of its UK business to zero by 2045, without purchasing carbon credits for offsetting.

Heathrow 'on-track' for carbon-neutral expansion

Heathrow Airport has claimed that it is "on-track" to meet its flagship ambition of becoming a "carbon-neutral" facility by 2020 and achieving net-zero carbon status for its planned expansion, after increasing its investments in renewable power and beginning peatland restoration last year.

Juncker insists 2030 climate target is EU's top priority, not 2050 'net-zero' plan

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has said that the EU should "concentrate on immediate and urgent" climate policies for 2030 rather than a proposed 2050 target defended by eight EU countries to reach net-zero emissions.

MPs to scrutinise the UK Government's internal sustainability progress

As Ministers consider legislating for the adoption of a net-zero carbon target for 2050, a group of MPs are set to investigate the UK Government's internal sustainability targets and progress.

CCC boss: Net-zero before 2050 would be 'very risky' for UK economy

The Committee on Climate Change's (CCC) chief executive Chris Stark has defended the body's decision not to advise the Government on pathways which could create a net-zero carbon economy before 2050, arguing that doing so would be "very risky" from a social and economic perspective.

Policy gaps: What's standing between the UK and a net-zero carbon economy?

This week, the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) published its highly anticipated recommendations detailing how the UK economy could reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 at the latest. But what policies will need to be changed to ensure that we get there?

Scottish Government commits to net-zero emissions by 2045

The Scottish Government has today (2 May) announced plans to amend its Climate Change Bill and commit to a legally binding target of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 at the latest – leading the rest of the UK.

Net-zero emissions by 2050: CCC publishes long-awaited recommendations for UK Government

The UK must "set and vigorously pursue" a bold new climate change target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 'net-zero' levels by 2050 – replacing the current target of an 80% reduction against 1990 levels – according to a major new report from the Committee on Climate Change (CCC).

'Government must act now': Green economy reacts to the CCC's net-zero report

Green leaders have come out in force to praise the Committee on Climate Change's report - and requested immediate action from the government on the issues raised from its findings.

UK Parliament becomes first in the world to pass motion declaring a 'climate emergency'

In a hugely symbolic move, the House of Commons had declared a climate emergency, admitting the need for a cross-party approach that would enable the UK to set a world-leading standard on climate action.

Extinction Rebellion: Michael Gove admits need for urgent action

Planting more trees, restoring peatlands to health and using new technology to remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere should all be pursued as a matter of urgency, the environment secretary, Michael Gove, has told climate change campaigners.

Framework launched to deliver net-zero built environment

The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) has launched a new framework today (30 April) outlining how developers, designers, owners, occupiers and policymakers can define and deliver a net-zero built environment.

Net-zero emissions and a Green New Deal for the UK: Key business questions, answered

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) is providing its highly anticipated advice on setting a net-zero emissions target to the Government during a time where calls for a Green New Deal continue to grow. Here, edie explores how the UK can set a new standard for climate change policy.

Verizon targets carbon neutrality by 2035

US-based telecommunications and technology giant Verizon has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality across its Scope 1 (direct) and Scope 2 (electricity and heat) footprints by 2035.

Zero-emission EU industry 'within reach' but costly, study finds

Bringing down emissions from heavy industry to net-zero by 2050 is possible but will require costly new production processes and a 25-60% increase in near-term capital investments to reach €40-50 billion per year, according to new research published on Thursday (25 April).

Electricity North West launches zero-carbon plan

Electricity North West has announced plans to decarbonise the entire region within the next 20 years.

Amazon targets carbon-neutral shipments by 2030

Online retailer Amazon has set an ongoing target of achieving carbon neutrality for all its global shipments, starting with a 2030 ambition of making half of its shipments 'net-zero'.

Big-name businesses call on EU to set 'net-zero' emissions target for 2050

Unilever, Tesco and Heathrow Airport are among a coalition of 16 big-name corporates calling on the European Union (EU) to set a legally binding net-zero carbon emissions target for 2050, which would see the bloc achieve carbon neutrality within the next three decades.

Aldi achieves carbon neutrality for UK and Ireland operations

Supermarket chain Aldi UK and Ireland has achieved its 2019 target of becoming a 'net-zero' business, after investing in a carbon offsetting programme last year.

Nottingham unveils bid to become the UK's first carbon-neutral city

Nottingham City Council has committed to becoming a 'net-zero carbon' city by 2028, after hitting its 2020 emission reductions goals two years early.

New EU plan comes out fighting for 'climate neutrality' by 2050

The European Commission has unveiled its much-anticipated plan for a "climate-neutral Europe" on Wednesday (28 November), in an effort to show EU countries how to stick to the goals of the Paris Agreement and endorse a shared long-term strategy.

Report: Net-zero transport and heavy industry sectors 'possible by 2060'

It will be "technically and financially" possible for the global transport and heavy industry sectors to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2060, new research from the Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) has concluded.

BT pledges to become a net-zero-carbon business by 2045

As the UK Government announces plans to discuss a potential net-zero emissions strategy, technology giant BT has pledged to become a net-zero-carbon business by 2045.