Net Zero
Give your business a greener future
Net Zero by 2050 is an ambitious and challenging target, with Oxfordshire businesses seeking to play their part in tackling climate change by taking action to reduce their emissions.
We know that more and more local businesses want to get involved and find out how they can reach this milestone. Through support schemes, workshops and mentoring we can explore your sustainability goals and the opportunities available to you.
What our support covers
1:1 Support
Get expert insight from our advisors and the wider OxLEP Business team.
Oxfordshire Energy Strategy
Our ambitious framework to enable the county to be at the forefront of energy innovation to foster clean growth.
Events and Workshops
Check out upcoming events with a sustainability and Net Zero theme.
OX to ZERO
OxLEP hosted Oxfordshire’s green champions at the inaugural OX to ZERO conference.
Enterprises for Social Good
Explore further topics around sustainability and social enterprises.
Taking positive action for the planet.
There are many ways for businesses to achieve Net Zero, and the most effective approach will vary depending on the sector and size of the organisation. However, common actions that businesses can take to reduce their emissions include improving energy efficiency, switching to low-carbon energy sources and where possible, investing in clean technologies.
Here are some common questions businesses might be asking themselves about Net Zero:
What do we mean by Net Zero?
Net Zero is a UK government policy which sets the target for all businesses to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050. The policy was first announced in October 2018, and provides a framework for organisations to reduce their emissions.
Further reading can be found on IEA’s website here.
What are the business benefits of Net Zero?
A future with where buildings, communities and cities have zero emissions is ultimately a brighter future for the environment and for businesses.
Net Zero buildings, services and products are more energy efficient thanks to using renewable energy sources, which saves money on utility costs and helps reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
There are also the emotional and societal benefits that come with this transition, where businesses can become icons of sustainability and climate change mitigation in their local community, region and beyond.
What are the challenges of achieving Net Zero?
One of the challenges businesses face in achieving Net Zero is reducing energy consumption. In order to achieve Net Zero, it’s important to reduce energy demand through efficient design and use.
Businesses can also invest in green infrastructure such as solar panels and wind turbines. Another challenge businesses face is obtaining renewable energy sources, which can be expensive. However, there are a number of subsidies and incentives available to help businesses make the switch to renewables.
Take a look at Ofgem’s website for a comprehensive guide.
Net Zero & COP26
In this video, sustainability consultant Mat Roberts unpacks what Net Zero buzzwords mean and how Oxfordshire businesses can benefit from the rapidly changing commercial landscape, find new opportunities, new investors and de-risk the daily business landscape.
