standardization
The use of the industry-invented term “net zero operation” means that no Scope 3 emissions are included. As a result, BP could theoretically officially become carbon neutral and claim net-zero operations without reducing the amount of oil and gas it sells to customers.
Chris Hocknell, Founder and CEO Eight Versa “This year, the term net-zero operations has gained traction. It’s been thrown around casually and incorrectly. This is used as a sign of approval.
“This is despite the fact that little progress has been made towards true reductions in Scope 3 emissions. As companies do this and avoid the problem, they will ultimately see more of the same. We’re not going to see the Scope 3 reductions that we’re aiming for.”If this type of corporate behavior goes unchecked, the truth is that everyone will need it. ”
“There is no denying that companies such as BP have significantly reduced their Scope 1 and 2 emissions in recent years, which should, of course, be recognized and welcomed. It’s just a drop in the ocean compared to emissions. It’s clear that emissions from the fuels they provide are the biggest problem.
He added: “We need broader and clearer standardization around the use of terms such as ‘net zero’ and ‘carbon neutral’ to avoid misleading the public, politicians and other businesses. Truly net zero companies will not make a significant contribution to society.” climate crisis.
green wash
“We cannot afford any more confusion and wasted time caused by net-zero claims that conveniently ignore the vast majority of a company’s emissions.” should be suspected. It doesn’t exist. ”
He said: “The SBTi has ‘paused’ the scrutiny of fossil fuel companies. They are becoming wary of evolving marketing tactics and increasing misuse of terminology in the fossil fuel sector. But this suspension does not serve anyone. Instead, we need clearer, more robust, more rigorous, and more meaningful enforcement terminology.”
Campaigners are calling for clearer and more enforceable definitions such as net zero, carbon neutral and offsets to help companies consider and disclose the full impact of their operations, including the actual use of their products. I hope that it will become compulsory to do so. produce and sell.
Eight Versa promotes its Natural Carbon Solutions certification, which it claims is purpose-built to address these types of challenges.
Mr Hocknell said: “It is clear that we need to bring credible credibility, fair language, credibility and objectivity to corporate net zero carbon efforts.The corporate sector is paramount in the fight against the climate crisis. He will play a key role and work together with the corporate sector to achieve goals.” True net zero will be essential, rather than relying on misleading and ineffective terminology that spreads confusion and ultimately amounts to greenwashing. ”
this author
Brendan Montague is the editor ecologist.
