Only 30% of UK businesses have a Net Zero Strategy

Research by Veolia shows that less than a third of UK businesses have a strategy for reaching carbon neutrality, despite growing environmental concerns. Plus, 42% of UK businesses are feeling overwhelmed by the steps they need to take to reach this goal.

The survey by YouGov on behalf of Veolia, of over 1,000 senior business decision makers, found that less than a third (29%) of UK businesses have a strategy for reaching carbon net zero. However, more than half of larger companies (250+ employees) surveyed (52%) had a net zero strategy and 61% of these also felt their reputation would be negatively affected if they failed to commit to achieving their carbon targets.

Positively, environmental concern was the biggest driver (72%) for businesses with a net zero strategy trying to meet their carbon targets, with reputation second (60%). Despite low numbers committing to a carbon net zero strategy, 80% of those who did are very confident of achieving their goals.

Further key points:
– Investment (40%) and Government legislation (39%) were the most popular types of support businesses with a net zero strategy would like to see to reach their carbon targets. 12% said they did not need any external support.
– 56% of those businesses with a net zero strategy have set a budget for their carbon strategy
– 40% of UK businesses surveyed are currently employing third parties for carbon offsetting practices

Gavin Graveson, Senior Executive Vice President Veolia Northern Europe Zone said:
“Just over forty percent of UK businesses may feel overwhelmed by the steps they need to take to reach carbon neutrality, but every step businesses take makes a difference to our planet, protecting it for future generations. We need to see more industries commit to a robust strategy to reduce their environmental impact, whether that be through use of electric vehicles, cleaner energy supplies or reduced packaging. In the wake of COP26, we need to work together, share expertise, innovate and research new sustainable solutions so carbon net zero can become a reality, rather than a goal.”

Is creating a net zero strategy for your business one of your key 2022 resolutions?

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1022 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th – 25th October 2021. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of British business size.

Lucy Goaman