Net Zero Strategy: Create actionable carbon reduction and climate action plans

A Net Zero Strategy is a detailed, costed plan that outlines how an organisation will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero. It includes clear targets, timelines, and investment priorities, and helps businesses navigate long-term climate action. 

Net Zero means reducing emissions to as close to zero as possible and offsetting any remaining emissions. You can achieve Carbon Neutrality without first reducing your emissions, by simply offsetting your carbon. 

A business becomes Net Zero by measuring its full carbon footprint (scopes 1, 2 and 3), setting reduction targets, implementing emissions reduction strategies, and offsetting any residual emissions. 

A sustainability strategy can and often will be wider than a focus on the environment alone.  

A carbon footprint is an essential starting point for an environmental sustainability strategy. Your footprint is essential to identify key areas for improvement and to set realistic and measurable sustainability goals. 

Offsetting involves compensating for carbon emissions by funding equivalent carbon savings elsewhere. This could be through projects such as reforestation or renewable energy.

A carbon reduction plan sets out how a business will reduce its carbon emissions over time. It is often required for compliance with frameworks like PPN 06/21 and includes baseline emissions data, reduction targets, and planned interventions.

A climate action plan is a broader strategy that includes both mitigation (reducing emissions) and adaptation (preparing for climate impacts). It supports stakeholder engagement and demonstrates leadership on sustainability.

Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned or controlled sources (e.g. fuel combustion). 

Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, heat, or steam. 

Scope 3: All other indirect emissions, such as those from supply chains, travel, and waste. 

Scope 3 emissions often make up the largest share of a company’s carbon footprint. Addressing them is essential for achieving Net Zero and demonstrating a credible commitment to sustainability.

Technically, yes but it won’t be considered a credible Net Zero target by most frameworks or stakeholders.  

Scope 3 emissions often make up the largest share of an organisation’s carbon footprint, especially in sectors with complex supply chains or high indirect impacts. 
 

To align with science-based targets and frameworks like SBTi, a Net Zero commitment must include Scope 3 emissions where they are material. Excluding them may limit your ability to demonstrate climate leadership, meet investor expectations, or comply with future regulations. 

You may not control your supply chain, but you can influence it. Scope 3 emissions often represent the largest share of an organisation’s carbon footprint, and addressing them is essential for a credible Net Zero Strategy. 

At Energise, we help you develop a supply chain engagement strategy that identifies key partners, sets expectations, and encourages collaboration. This might include: 

• Supplier surveys and data collection 

• Setting procurement standards 

• Offering training or support 

• Prioritising high-impact suppliers 

Even small steps, like asking suppliers to report their emissions or switch to renewable energy, can lead to meaningful reductions. We simplify the process and help you focus on actions that deliver the greatest impact. 

Yes. Offsetting alone is not enough. A Net Zero Strategy focuses on reducing emissions first, then offsetting only what cannot be eliminated. This aligns with science-based targets and stakeholder expectations. 

Timelines vary depending on your organisation’s size, complexity, and existing data. Most strategies take around 3 months to develop, especially if Scope 3 emissions and stakeholder engagement are involved.

Key frameworks include SECR, PPN 06/21, SBTi, CDP, and EcoVadis. A Net Zero Strategy helps you prepare for future regulatory changes.