Leading eco scientists have voiced their concerns over ‘greenwashing’ practices and have indicated their willingness to leave their positions if companies fail to support them in achieving climate targets. According to a recent survey conducted by Equity Energies, a part of DCC plc, 88% of sustainability workers and managers responsible for Net Zero work are considering quitting if they perceive that organisations are not genuinely committed to environmental goals. The survey revealed that the main obstacles preventing progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions include the scaling back of emission targets, lack of prioritisation compared to other initiatives, and internal politics hindering decision-making processes.
The study titled ‘Carbon Admissions: we don’t know what we don’t know’ delves into the attitudes towards achieving Net Zero targets in various sectors such as hospitality, manufacturing, local authorities, and private healthcare. The UK government has set a target of achieving Net Zero by 2050, aiming to balance total greenhouse gas emissions with those removed from the atmosphere to combat global warming and climate change. A significant majority of organisations (94%) have expressed that Net Zero is a priority within their operations compared to other initiatives.
Despite the high levels of confidence reported by those working on Net Zero initiatives, the research indicates a gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation towards meeting the 2050 climate targets. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of expertise in fundamental processes necessary for achieving Net Zero, such as monitoring and measurement, target setting, data analysis, and implementing efficiency measures and technologies.
Ryan O’Neill, Chief Strategy Officer of Equity Energies, emphasised the importance of transparency and open dialogue in addressing these knowledge gaps. O’Neill highlighted the significance of acknowledging areas where understanding may be lacking and initiating conversations to facilitate progress towards a sustainable future. The ‘Carbon Admissions’ campaign aims to encourage honest discussions within organisations to collectively enhance knowledge and expertise related to achieving Net Zero goals.
It is evident that while there is enthusiasm and confidence in the UK towards achieving Net Zero targets, there is a critical need for ongoing learning and collaboration to bridge the existing knowledge gaps and drive meaningful progress in combating climate change.}}”>{{$summary}}