What Is Net Zero?

What do I need to understand about Net Zero?



In 2015, world leaders met in Paris for a UN climate summit called COP21, resulting in a historic global climate agreement. Nearly 200 countries pledged to reduce emissions to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Scientists say we need to reach Net Zero by mid-century to have a reasonable chance of achieving this. However, global temperatures have already risen by over 1°C, and we’re on track for a 3 - 5°C increase unless more action is taken.

The UK Government made history in 2019 as the first major economy to set a legally binding target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. But what does this ambitious goal entail, how will we reach it and what can you do to help?

What does Net Zero mean?

Net Zero (sometimes also called ‘Carbon Neutral’) means reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the level where they are balanced by the amount removed from the atmosphere, resulting in no overall negative impact on the climate. Think of it like a bath – if you fill it faster than it drains, it will overflow. But if you balance the water going in with the water draining out, the level stays the same.

You may have heard of ‘carbon negative,’ which means removing more greenhouse gases from the atmosphere than you emit, creating a positive impact on the environment. Companies like Microsoft are already working towards this.

What does net zero mean to the UK?

To achieve Net Zero by 2050, we need to transform nearly every part of society. This means being smarter and more efficient in how we generate and use energy, consume materials, transport ourselves and goods, and manage waste.

We need to remove more CO2 from the atmosphere by changing land use, like planting trees, maintaining biodiversity, restoring nature, and developing technologies to capture and store carbon.



Much of this will be driven by National policy. However, critics warn that current policies fall short and may not be sufficient to meet our 2050 target.

What does Net Zero mean for you?

Ultimately, the burden of achieving Net Zero largely rests on businesses. Driven by consumer demand, shareholder expectations, climate legislation, and the looming threats of climate change, many of the world’s largest companies have already crafted ambitious Net Zero plans. Often, these plans set targets well ahead of the 2050 deadline.

These Net Zero commitments are set to revolutionise supply chains. We are seeing a surge in large-scale buyers demanding environmental data from their suppliers. This shift underscores the growing importance of sustainability in business operations and the urgent need for suppliers to align with these green standards.

At the same time, the cost of doing business has soared due to key geopolitical events, intensifying the pressure on companies to decarbonise. By embracing sustainability, businesses can drive growth, enhance competitiveness, and better manage cash flow in the long term.

At Adalta Energy, we're here to support businesses on their journey to achieving Net Zero, regardless of whether they haven’t yet started or need advice and support on implementing their plans.



So, how can Adalta Energy support you in your journey to Net Zero?

Net Zero Discovery: Your Path to Sustainability

Achieving Net Zero emissions requires a clear, actionable strategy tailored to your business. Our comprehensive four-step approach — Measure, Manage, Reduce and Innovate — guides you every step of the way toward a sustainable future.

1. Measure: Understanding your carbon footprint is the foundation of a successful Net Zero strategy. We assess and quantify your greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across all operations, providing detailed insights into your environmental impact.

2. Manage: We work with you to develop a robust management plan. By setting achievable and stretching targets and aligning them with industry standards, we ensure your Net Zero ambitions are embedded across your business processes and operations.

3. Reduce:  At the heart of the strategy is meaningful emissions reductions. We help you implement practical steps to lower your carbon footprint while maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring progress toward your Net Zero goals.

4. Innovate:  Innovation drives change. We work with our clients to identify and implement cutting-edge solutions to help you adopt more efficient, sustainable practices. From exploring renewable energy options to investing in green technologies, we support your transition toward a low-carbon future.

Partner with us to turn your sustainability vision into a reality and take the lead in creating a greener, more sustainable future. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Please contact Kerry.Sheppard@adaltaenergy.co.uk for more details.