In 2019, the UK made a legally binding pledge, to reach Net Zero emissions by 2050
This means we need to rapidly take global action to cut greenhouse gas emissions. With this action, we can reduce the likelihood of global temperatures increasing by more than 1.5 – 2°C, however, if no action is taken, global temperatures could increase by 4°C or more by the end of the century.
From lifestyle changes to business decisions to new technologies, there is massive potential for all of us to cut emissions at an individual and collective level, to reach this goal.
What is Net Zero Exactly?
Net Zero means achieving a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere, and the carbon removed from it. This balance – or net zero – will happen when the amount of carbon we add to the atmosphere is no more than the amount removed.
To reach Net Zero, emissions from homes, transport, agriculture, and industry will need to be cut. This means these sectors will have to reduce the amount of carbon they put into the atmosphere. We need to be mindful that in some areas, like aviation, it will be too complex or expensive to cut emissions altogether, however, they are doing their utmost to be on the journey.
Can I make a Difference?
The answer is, absolutely. We all can, from quick wins to big changes, in lifestyle and business.
Small businesses make up over 99% of UK businesses and provide 60% of private sector jobs. This is why it’s imperative to help SMEs on their journey, as well as the larger supply chain.
This journey to Net Zero is still evolving and our Net Zero Hub will be a central resource for practical guidance, thought leadership, and useful resources for businesses engaging with the climate challenge.
Image credit: Chambers Canva Pro 2022
This jargon-buster comes courtesy of our BCL and Chamber member Indigo Swann to help you make sense of sustainability.
| Word or Phrase | Definition |
|---|---|
| EV | This is a shortened abbreviation for an Electric Vehicle. |
| PV | When related to solar panels, this means photovoltaic, the panels consist of small photovoltaic cells that are connected. |
| PPA | Power Purchase Agreement – An upfront contractual agreement allowing you to sell your excess energy back to the grid. |
| REGO | Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin – It tells you that the energy generated has come from a UK renewable source. |
| AC | Alternating Current – A type of electrical current whose direction is reversed at regular cycles. |
| Array | This is an interconnected system of PV modules that function as one single unit that produces electricity. |
| Biodegradable | This refers to an object which is capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms. |
| Base load | The average amount of electric power that a utility must supply in any period. |
| Carbon Footprint | This refers to the emissions of greenhouse gasses from either an individual or organisation. |
| Carbon Neutral | If an organisation is carbon neutral, this means it achieves net-zero emissions, meaning that the amount of carbon they produce is offset by removing carbon emissions elsewhere. |
| Inverter | Converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). |
| DC | Direct Current – A type of electricity transmission and distribution by which electricity flows in one direction through a conductor. |
| Geothermal | This is energy that comes from heat that is stored deep in the Earth. |
| Net Zero | This refers to achieving an overall balance between emissions produced and taken out of the atmosphere. |
| Sustainable | This relates to the idea of our current processes or practices meeting our needs without jeopardising future generation’s ability to meet their needs. |
| Upcycling | The process of creating something new from something that would have otherwise been thrown away. |
| Distributed Energy | Distributed Energy (DE) is a platform that connects renewable projects with funders. |
| Renewable Energy | Energy that is collected from renewable sources such as sunlight, wind, rain. |
| GHG | Green House Gas – A greenhouse gas is a gas that absorbs and emits radiant energy causing the greenhouse effect. |
| Radiant Energy | The energy of electromagnetic and gravitational radiation. |
