Not in sustainability? Start here.
You’ve probably heard the term “net zero” thrown around, but if you’re not working in sustainability, it can feel vague or even irrelevant. This blog breaks it down clearly: what it means, why it matters, and where to start.
So, what is net zero?
Every business has an impact on the planet. From turning on lights and heating buildings to making products and moving goods around, it all adds up. These everyday activities release gases into the atmosphere that contribute to global warming. These are often called carbon emissions.
Net zero means doing everything you can to reduce those emissions and balancing out what’s left by supporting actions that help remove them from the atmosphere.
That might include things like:
- Upgrading to energy efficient systems
- Working with lower-impact suppliers
- Removing emissions through verified environmental projects, but only after making significant reductions first, and even then, this should be approached with caution.
In other words:
Net zero is about cutting down what your business puts out and ensuring that you’re not leaving a harmful footprint behind.
What does that look like in practice?
Most businesses start with:
- Identifying where emissions come from (energy, travel, suppliers)
- Making practical changes to reduce them
- Tracking progress year on year
The goal isn’t perfection overnight. It’s steady, meaningful action.
What net zero isn’t
Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions.
- It’s not only for big companies
According to FSB, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) make up 99.9% of UK companies. And increasingly, big brands are asking their suppliers to show evidence of climate action. If you’re in their supply chain, this affects you.
- It’s not too expensive
Getting to net zero doesn’t have to mean high costs. Many businesses save money through energy efficiency, streamlined operations, and reduced waste. It’s about smart investment, starting small, building momentum, and reinvesting the savings.
- Offsetting isn’t enough
Offsetting can help, but it’s not the solution on its own. Real action starts with cutting emissions at the source. Only after meaningful reductions should offsetting come into play, and even then, it needs to be done carefully and credibly. - It’s not only for “green” companies
Plenty of mainstream businesses are making serious headway. From logistics to manufacturing companies across industries are embedding sustainability into their operation and reaping the rewards.
- It’s not about being perfect
Net zero is a long-term goal. What matters most is having a clear starting point and showing measurable progress.
- “We’ve got until 2050”
It’s a common belief, but waiting until the deadline puts your business on the back foot. Reaching net zero takes time: setting targets, cutting emissions, engaging suppliers, and tracking progress. The longer you wait, the harder ( and more expensive) it gets. Start now to stay ahead.
Why should your business care?
Getting serious about emissions can help your business:
- Cut energy and operating costs
- Meet client and investor expectations
- Strengthen supplier relationships
- Attract and retain talent
- Stay ahead of regulations
- Competitive edge in the market
Is net zero even achievable?
Yes, and not just for “green” businesses.
Plenty of mainstream companies are well on the way to the government’s goal of net zero by 2050, and have reached the Net Zero Committed Certification with Planet Mark’s support, showing what’s possible across a range of industries:
- Bywaters
Installed 4,000+ solar panels, improved recycling, and cut emissions by over 50% in ten years. Read more
- Prologis UK
Achieved a 28% reduction in whole-life carbon across 88 developments — equal to powering 122,000 homes for a year. Read more
- Impress Print Services Cut their footprint by 68% in seven years, installed 381 solar panels, and transitioned much of their fleet to electric. Read more
Where do you start with net zero?
Begin by understanding your current impact, from energy use and travel to waste and your supply chain. Then, build a plan to reduce it.
Our Net Zero Certification Programme provides tailored support to measure, act, and stay accountable, whether you’re just beginning or already making progress.
Final thoughts
- Net zero isn’t just a climate goal, it’s how future-focused businesses are operating.
- You don’t need to know everything. You just need a starting point and the right support to move forward.
