Our Roadmap to 2030The West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge was launched by Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, in March 2021 and now has over 100 pledged organisations including many SWM members such as National Express West Midlands and Mott MacDonald.
For the past three years, SWM has managed the Pledge on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority, providing support to organisations and helping them raise the profile of their approach to Net Zero.
What is Net Zero?
For a business to reach Net Zero, it means that firstly their emissions are reduced as much as possible, and then any remaining emissions are offset. It is recommended that 90-95% of carbon emissions are reduced before offsetting.
Why should I care about Net Zero?
Reaching a Net Zero economy is essential to reduce the impacts of climate change on society. It is critical that businesses play their part in our quest to reach Net Zero. Not only is there environmental pressure for businesses to reach Net Zero, but it is also increasingly important for business continuity. Pressure on business is building from different directions:
- B2B supply chains: one pledged business was told that if they didn’t have a carbon reduction plan by the end of 2022, they would be removed from their customer’s supply chain.
- Consumer demands: around 70% of consumers have taken action in their consumer decisions as result of their concern about the environment.
- Policy requirements: Government procurement policy for contracts valued at £5 million per annum now required a Net Zero carbon reduction plan.
On top of this, businesses are also under pressure from current and future employees to demonstrate a positive impact on the environment.
But these are tough times, so what are the benefits to my business?
- It can save costs; one pledged business implemented a ‘switch off’ policy and saved £100,000 per annum.
- You can position your business as a leader in the Net Zero Carbon economy; the Pledge provides a platform to showcase the progress your business is making towards Net Zero.
- It can help prepare your business for climate change impacts.
- It can help prepare your business for the implications of current and future legislation.
‘Every business and every employee can make a difference, big or small, the Net Zero Pledge reminds us of that. Our pledge has made us leaner, cleaner but also has reduced our costs.’
NRG Marine, based in Coventry
The West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge is currently under review. This page will be updated with more information when it becomes available.
Find out more about sustainability support on our Business Support Hub page