Being net zero means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases your business emits with the amount you remove from the atmosphere – resulting in no net contribution to global emissions.
It’s a long-term commitment, but one that starts with understanding your carbon footprint and taking measurable steps to reduce it.
Here’s what you need to know…
The basics of net zero
To achieve net zero, a business must:
- Reduce emissions as much as possible across operations, energy use, transport, and supply chains
- Offset any remaining emissions through credible carbon removal or compensation projects
The end goal is to bring your total impact on the climate down to zero.
Also read: How to start on the journey to net zero
What’s the difference between carbon neutral and net zero?
While often used interchangeably, there are key differences:
- Carbon neutral typically focuses on offsetting emissions, sometimes without requiring reductions first
- Net zero requires deep cuts in emissions before offsets are used, and often includes a broader range of greenhouse gases and scopes
In short, net zero is more ambitious and more comprehensive.
Related post: What are some quick ways to become carbon neutral?
What emissions are included?
To be truly net zero, businesses need to account for:
- Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned sources (e.g. gas boilers, company vehicles)
- Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased electricity
- Scope 3: All other indirect emissions, including supply chain, business travel, and product lifecycle
Scope 3 is often the largest and most difficult to measure – but it’s also essential to a credible net zero plan.
Why does net zero matter?
Net zero is more than a buzzword, it’s a key part of global efforts to limit climate change. For businesses, it also brings:
- Lower operational costs through efficiency
- Stronger ESG performance and investor appeal
- Improved brand reputation and customer trust
- Future-proofing against regulatory change
Explore: Why energy management is important
How do businesses reach net zero?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but the core steps are:
- Measure your emissions
- Set science-based reduction targets
- Create a clear plan and timeline
- Monitor progress regularly
- Offset only what you can’t eliminate
Using tools like EMMA AI makes it easier to monitor energy-related emissions in real time, and take action fast.
Also read: What is an AI energy management system?
Net zero starts with action
At Optimal Monitoring, we work with businesses to make net zero a reality – using real data, smart tools, and practical strategies.
Get in touch to find out how we can help you move from ambition to action.
Useful links …
How the UK hospitality sector can seriously reduce its energy bills.
How AI Is Transforming Energy Management for Commercial Buildings
Why Energy Monitoring Matters in Commercial Buildings
Which is better Carbon Neutral or Net Zero?