The UK chartered professional membership body Energy Institute (EI) has set initial science-based targets to reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The organisation noted that its council of trustees and senior leadership team have agreed on the targets that will be in line with the Paris Agreement.
EI president Steve Holliday said: “The climate emergency demands changes in behaviour across the board – from governments, businesses and societies.
“The EI is resolved to end its own impact on the climate and is joining a growing number of organisations on an ambitious but managed journey to net zero. We do not yet have all of the answers, but I hope our members, partners and customers will be inspired to follow.
“The current pandemic has wreaked personal and economic tragedy. But it could yet lead to something positive too if we’re smart with how we emerge from it. We must not squander this opportunity to rebuild our economies in a more sustainable way that averts future shocks to our way of life.”
EI aims to reduce 26.2% GHG emission by 2025, 47.9% by 2030 and 67.9% by 2035.
It explained that the targets will cover emissions of EI’s London head office and business travel undertaken by staff.
By implementing these targets, EI estimates to reach net-zero before 2050.
EI chief executive Louise Kingham said: “These science-based targets are a road map on the way to eliminating well before 2050 the impact of our own operations on the climate.
“This won’t be easy for any organisation but the experience of Covid-19 is transforming the net-zero equation.
“Technology is enabling the EI to operate as reliably as ever, extending access to energy expertise, increasing our reach and relevance to many more than before. With all things digital and remote being the new normal, the technology has challenged us to go faster.”
With these targets, EI has joined 40 other environmental services organisations.
