In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, transparency around environmental impact is no longer optional. Across industries, businesses are increasingly being asked to report their carbon footprint as part of customer demands and tender applications. According to the latest 2024 UK Net Zero Business Census, certain sectors—especially IT, logistics, and construction—are seeing a surge in requests for carbon data.
The UK Net Zero Business Census 2024, created by UK Business Climate Hub, Planet Mark, and Broadway Initiative, reveals that IT/communication leads the way, with 64% of companies receiving carbon reporting requests in the last 12 months. But it doesn’t stop there—sectors ranging from manufacturing to finance are also facing heightened scrutiny over their emissions.
Key Insights from the Census: Sectors Facing Carbon Data Requests
Recent findings from the Census shed light on which sectors are most likely to be asked for carbon emissions data:
• 64% of IT/communication companies
• 54% of transport/logistics/storage businesses
• 51% of construction firms
• 51% of manufacturers
• 50% of utilities companies
• 49% of professional/scientific sectors
• 49% of finance/insurance sectors
These statistics underscore a growing trend across industries: businesses are increasingly being required to be transparent about their carbon footprint as customers, investors, and stakeholders demand accountability.
Why the Sudden Rise in Carbon Data Requests?
Several key factors are driving this shift toward transparency:
1. Regulatory Compliance: Governments worldwide are implementing stricter climate regulations. Businesses must comply with these laws, and carbon reporting is the first step toward staying on the right side of the law.
2. Investor and Consumer Expectations: Stakeholders, from investors to consumers, are favouring businesses that take environmental responsibility seriously. Companies that can report their carbon data build trust and enhance their reputation.
3. Supply Chain Integration: Larger corporations now require carbon data from their suppliers as part of their sustainability strategies. This forces smaller businesses to measure and report their scope1, 2 and 3 emissions to maintain client relationships.
4. Competitive Advantage: Companies with robust sustainability strategies gain a market edge. Showing a commitment to carbon reduction can help attract eco-conscious clients, investors, and top talent.
At Net Zero Now, we’ve seen this shift first-hand. Our CEO, Simon Heppner, recently commented: “The growing demand for carbon data reporting is a clear sign that having a climate strategy is rapidly becoming business critical; to meet tender pre-qualification criteria, recruit and retain employees and comply with mandatory reporting requirements.”
How Can Your Business Stay Ahead?
For many businesses, especially SMEs, the idea of carbon reporting may seem overwhelming. However, with the right tools, it’s easier than you might think. Here’s a quick guide to get started:
1. Calculate Your Carbon Footprint: Begin by understanding your business’s current emissions. Identify key areas of impact, from energy consumption to supply chain operations.
2. Set Reduction Targets: Once you have a baseline, set ambitious yet realistic reduction goals. Whether it’s shifting to renewable energy or reducing transport emissions, every step counts.
3. Communicate Your Efforts: Transparency is key. Use net zero certification and detailed reports to share your carbon reduction progress with customers and stakeholders.
4. Stay Ahead of Regulations: Keeping up with government policies ensures you stay compliant and avoid potential fines. More importantly, it positions your business as a leader in sustainability.
What’s Next for Carbon Reporting?
IT, logistics, and manufacturing are among the first sectors feeling the heat, but the message from the 2024 Census is clear: no industry is exempt. As businesses are increasingly held accountable for their environmental impact, preparing your business to report and reduce carbon emissions isn’t just a trend—it’s the new normal.
This growing trend offers more than just compliance benefits. By taking action now, your business can gain a competitive advantage, build stronger relationships with clients, and contribute to the global fight against climate change.
For instance, Clearview Intelligence, an IT leader in smart mobility solutions, has experienced tangible business benefits through their sustainability efforts. Claire McFarlane, Head of Business Compliance at Clearview Intelligence, shared: “Pursuing the Net Zero Now certification has opened doors with clients, and has helped to increase our competitive advantage by winning new business and enhance our reputation being an organisation that has a passion and commitment to sustainability.”
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Net Zero Now, we are passionate about helping businesses on their net zero journey. Whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your existing sustainability efforts, we can guide you through every step—from calculating your carbon footprint to achieving certifications.
Interested in learning more? Our experts are ready to provide tailored advice to ensure your business meets carbon reporting demands and thrives in this evolving landscape.
Book a no-obligation chat with our team today and discover how we can help your business stay ahead in the green economy.
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