'Carbon jargon ' poses danger to net zero targets - claim

So-called 'carbon jargon ' is in danger of hampering progress towards net zero, according to a survey from the Chamber 's preferred energy partner Inspired Energy.

Inspired surveyed energy professionals from a range of sectors.

Two thirds said they were confused by the amount of 'carbon jargon ' and almost nine in 10 (86 per cent) claimed that 'net zero ' is in danger of becoming meaningless unless there 's consistency in approach and measurement among businesses.

However, only half of respondents said they 'fully understand ' the term net zero and, when asked to define it, energy professionals mentioned a mixture of terms including carbon offsetting (42 per cent), carbon or emission elimination (36 per cent) and carbon emission reduction (17 per cent) which relate more to the means by which net zero can be achieved.

It appears that the lack of single definition around what net zero means for an organisation - and the new vocabulary that has sprung up around the topic - is muddying the waters.

Despite a lack of clarity around net zero, nine in ten organisations are working towards carbon reduction strategies, with ambitious targets most likely to be set by senior management among those polled.

However, almost two thirds of respondents were concerned that their organisation 's carbon reduction targets could be seen as 'greenwashing ' or 'jumping on the net zero bandwagon ' - an indicator that the vast array of vocab and lack of guidance threaten to undermine confidence in the market.

Dan Crowe, optimisation manager at Inspired Energy, said: “We 're finding that environmental commitments are being made, but often without a costed plan for achieving them.

“Organisations confused by the discourse around sustainability should reach out for expert support to ensure that they are contributing to global emissions reductions in a robust and meaningful way.

“Our Carbon Action Programme will guide you through the process of delivering on your commitments, supporting your net zero journey from development, right through to implementation and review. ”

In the Cutting the Carbon Jargon report, Inspired Energy have created a jargon-busting glossary to explain some of the key terms involved in net zero discussions - download a copy here.

Inspired Energy is working with businesses to support them in their net zero ambitions, working through a structured framework to set Science Based Targets, explore and implement carbon reduction strategies and technologies and put in place robust measurement and reporting tools to monitor progress.

For more information about Inspired Energy 's net zero services, email [email protected].