5 common Net-Zero mistakes

People are now realising that being carbon neutral is just not enough. With more and more businesses setting Net-Zero targets, we’ve started to spot a few flaws in their plans.

Reaching Net-Zero is a challenge, so make it as easy as possible and avoid the following mistakes:

1. Don’t confuse Net-Zero with carbon neutral

In order to reduce global temperature rise we need to reduce carbon emissions (Net-Zero), not offset them (carbon neutral). Continuing to emit more and more carbon and buying trees at the end of each year to cover them isn't sustainable. We need to reduce the amount of emissions entering the atmosphere in the first place.


2. Don’t overcomplicate your sustainability plans

Realising the planet is in crisis can be overwhelming, anxiety-inducing, paralysing. We all need to change our behaviour, but trying to do too much at once can lead to actually achieving nothing. Keep making small, simple changes as frequently as possible.

Your public facing carbon reduction plan can be simple: "This is where we are today, this is what we are aiming for by X date”.


3. Don’t set a Net-Zero target, then carry on business as usual

If we are to prevent irreversible catastrophic damage to the planet, we need to act now. Sustainability is one of those nightmare jobs that’s never really complete. We advise you publish your plans, set annual reduction targets and hold regular meetings to hold you accountable and ensure you stay on track.


4. Don’t confuse your audience with unnecessary terminology

Carbon Neutral, Climate Positive, Plastic Negative (the list goes on. And on). We’re faced with so many “eco” labels and claims that they all become meaningless.

We say keep it straightforward: “We have a footprint, we know we need to reduce it, that’s what we are going to do, so expect some changes.”


5. Don’t offset your way out of it

While carbon offsets do have a role to play in reaching Net-Zero, they are definitely not a get out of jail free card. Once you’ve done everything you can to reduce your carbon emissions, carbon removal projects can be used to remove the final, unavoidable emissions to get that Net-Zero balance.

If we were to add a sixth one, we’d say don’t go it alone. We can help you measure your company’s footprint and identify the most meaningful actions you can take to reduce it year on year. Get in touch with us for more information.