Sustainable transport still has a lot of untapped potential. The transport sector is currently the biggest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. Aside from preventing further climate damage, improving sustainable transport options could also seriously improve public health.

By 2041, London Mayor Sadiq Khan aims for 80% of all Londoners’ trips to be made by foot, bike or public transport. This will be implemented by the spread of low/no-emission zones and the increase of hydrogen-powered or electric buses. Khan is also working to ensure London’s entire transport system is zero emission by 2050.

At the launch of the latest report, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres stated that world emissions will have to be cut by 45% by 2030, in order to limit global temperatures to 1.5°C.

The report says that it is inevitable that things will get worse – even if we manage to keep warming to below 1.5°C but today’s warning is what will happen if we exceed this limit. If the current emissions trajectory continues, then we will struggle to keep warming below 3°C. Which will result in ‘irreversible’ impacts.

Waste is a significant issue for businesses, as they journey towards sustainability. Rather than wasting resources unnecessarily, we must make use of natural and energy-efficient resources such as solar, wind and geothermal energy. Utilising natural resources guarantees a steady flow of energy for businesses. Fossil fuel power, on the other hand, will eventually run dry.

Intelligent energy management provides a more holistic way of reducing waste and increasing efficiency. This approach to energy optimisation typically involves smart metering, identifying inefficiencies and energy-saving solutions. At EIC, we can help you to manage your energy in the most efficient and effective way, uniquely tailored to your business.

Inefficiency also brings a number of disadvantages for businesses. Not only does it add to a business’s environmental impact through excessive energy usage, it can also have an impact on their budget. So, becoming more efficient would bring benefits for both businesses and their wider surroundings.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change negotiated with relevant industry sectors to decide upon energy efficiency targets. These targets were then included in ‘umbrella’ agreements between industry sectors (‘sector associations’) and the government. Businesses that operate sites must first apply to their sector association before they can enter into a CCA.

These high-level agreements also include a list of processes required for a business to become eligible for a CCA, such as:

• A process at a site which is considered energy intensive by the Environment Agency,

or

• A process that is controlled under the Environmental Permitting Regulations.

CCAs are applicable to a range of industries – from plastic moulding and metal packaging, to agricultural businesses such as pig and poultry farming. Eligible businesses can save up to 92% on their electricity and 83% on gas from payment of the CCL (Climate Change Levy). Meaning a CCA can make a significant difference to your energy bills and business as a whole.

It is a requirement of the CCA for a business to report on its energy use and carbon emissions. These statistics will then be measured against agreed targets over 2-year target periods, up to the end of 2022. A business can hold a CCA for each site, or choose to group them together under one. If grouped under one CCA the target is then spread across the grouped facilities.

Assessing your carbon footprint is the first step towards future-proofing your business. By measuring how much CO₂ your business produces, you can put measures in place to reduce or eradicate emissions. Making it a crucial component of any net zero plan.

Essential data to calculate your carbon footprint includes energy, gas, water, and business travel. Each emission source must be investigated and recorded over a consistent period in order to get the most accurate results.

Understanding where your business produces the most emissions brings several benefits. Reducing your emissions can help your business to save money, boost your green credentials and reduce your carbon footprint. But this can only be achieved once you’ve started to report your emissions levels. You can find out more about the benefits of assessing your carbon footprint in our new guide.

Flash floods, hurricanes and forest fires can have devastating effects on countries and communities that are insufficiently prepared. Aside from the destruction of homes and businesses, food supplies and public health can also be seriously affected. The economies of these developing countries could also continue to be negatively affected.

Adverse effects include:

• Less agricultural certainty.
• Reduced worker productivity.
• Slowed investment.
• Damage to public health.

Developing countries suffer 99% of the damage attributable to climate change, according to the United Nations Development Programme. The geography often explains why developing countries are experiencing the worst effects of climate change. With many located on the coast or near large forests, they are more susceptible to storms, floods and forest fires.

Low-income communities also face a much longer and arduous process when rebuilding in the aftermath of severe weather abnormalities or natural disasters. Sometimes these communities are even struck again as they struggle to rebuild. The end result is devastating loss, both in terms of time and resources.

While electric vehicles currently cost more to buy outright, they more than make up for this further down the line, with lower running costs. These costs can be as little as 1p a mile for off-peak electricity, as well as lower maintenance costs.

As more businesses and individuals continue to make the switch to green transport, the price of EV batteries is likely to drop. This could also lead to a drop in upfront costs further down the line as well.

New cars under £35,000 are now eligible for a government grant of £2,500. BMW and Nissan are among vehicle manufacturers that have recently reduced the prices of their electric models to less than £35,000. This is to encourage customers to invest in an EV and make it more affordable.

While hydrogen has been identified as an essential low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, the UK still has a long way to go before it can reach its potential. A significant, rapid scale-up of resources is needed in order to reach the country’s ambitious net zero targets.

Shoreham Port in West Sussex has recently signed a collaboration agreement with H2 Green to install a new major green hydrogen facility. Under the two-year agreement, H2 Green (a subsidiary of energy developer, Getech) will develop new onshore wind and solar power generation capacity. As well as an electrolysis facility.

Before the final investment in 2022, H2 Green will need to finalise the engineering designs and work (which is part of the for the planning permission requirements). The green hydrogen hub will serve the transport sector and help other businesses, including timber and steel handling as well as water treatment.

Decarbonising the UK’s railway system is set to be another big step towards its net zero goals. Shifting to a low-carbon rail network will reduce emissions and encourage biodiversity on railway land. While many of the larger advances in hydrogen fall within the government’s remit, it is nevertheless important that we all do our best to incorporate low-carbon solutions into our everyday lives.

Once you understand your consumption and have set your targets, it’s time to begin the reduction process. Each business is unique, which means each one needs specific sustainable solutions.

Switching to renewable energy sources, opting for greener transport, and becoming more conscious of the efficiency of your appliances will help you to reduce your greenhouse gases.

Becoming energy efficient is the most advantageous thing a business can do in terms of social, environmental, and economic benefits. By combining a reliance on renewables, energy efficiency and carbon offsetting, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and build a strong customer rapport.

Businesses around the world are working towards sustainable targets, whether that be their own science-based targets or adhering to government regulations. For this reason, businesses should ensure that their processes incorporate green energy and sustainable practices.

The strategy intends to accelerate the use of hydrogen within four sectors:

• Power
• Industry
• Transport
• Building

Businesses operating within these sectors may receive funding from the government. This finance will be used to develop technology and support businesses, as they make the transition to hydrogen. Aside from these sectors, hydrogen will help to reduce carbon in heating systems, heavy machinery and even cement.

Embracing new and innovative energy sources also provides businesses with a chance to get ahead of the curve. Switching to renewables could save time, reduce emissions and boost efficiency. This could also mean developing at a faster rate than competitors. Boosting your green credentials, this green innovation could also open up your business to a broader and more sustainably-aware client base.