As a sector we can make an enormous difference in reducing emissions

By Alan Stenson, CEO of Neutral Carbon Zone

The FM industry has a crucial role to play in reducing our global carbon footprint and achieving a net zero future. The built environment accounts for approximately 39 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, and by feeding straight into that, FMs play a leading role in reducing energy usage, increasing energy efficiency and transitioning to a low-carbon future. FMs can genuinely and quite literally change the world.

Net zero refers to achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere, effectively reducing a carbon footprint to zero. So how can we achieve this?

Energy efficient practices are often the first steps on the route to net zero. Measures such as upgrading building systems, reducing waste, and optimising energy use can significantly reduce emissions. Investing in building automation systems can help manage energy use, reduce waste and ensure the building is operating at peak. In other words, working smarter with the space we have.

FM companies can also drive the transition to clean, renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power. In addition, combined heat and power (CHP) systems, can be an effective way of reducing energy use and emissions.

While reducing emissions is absolutely essential, it may not be possible to achieve net zero just through energy efficiency and renewable energy. The infrastructure may not yet be in place, or the specific requirements of the company in question may not be appropriately satisfied by efficiency measures alone. In this case, carbon offsetting can be used to compensate for any currently unavoidable emissions by investing in approved and verifiable carbon offset projects that can definitively and permanently balance emissions.

Encouraging the use of low-carbon transportation options, such as electric/hybrid vehicles and public transport can significantly reduce emissions. FM companies can also implement initiatives such as bike-sharing programmes, car-share schemes, local employment policies and active commuting to encourage sustainable transportation practices.

Encouraging employees to adopt sustainable practices and behaviours both at work and at home is critical to achieving net zero. FMs can provide resources and education to help employees understand the impact of their actions and how they can reduce emissions, and therefore empower them to take action.

FMs can reduce supply chain emissions by sourcing materials and products that have a low carbon footprint. This includes selecting suppliers who share a commitment to sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of their supply chain. Suppliers who can support their customers with a detailed breakdown of what their scope 3 emissions are, based on the products and/or services they provide, how they are managing it and where they are in the process of reducing that impact are providing a critical service and valuable insight into the kind of data that is impossible to capture without that support. A collaborative approach that goes beyond a standard supplier/client relationship and makes it more of a partnership.

Reporting and Transparency. Regularly measuring, tracking, and reporting carbon emissions and progress towards net zero is critical to the success of any sustainability initiative. FMs need to be going into the detail of their emissions. It’s the specifics that are now being asked for. It’s no longer acceptable to simply tick the box to say you have an environmental policy. Clients, quite rightly want to know what the specific impact of a product or a service is. Sustainability is now so high on the agenda with many organisations incorporating environmental cost into their decision making processes throughout the entire business. It’s no longer a nice to have, it’s a must have.

Achieving net zero is a complex and multi-faceted challenge that requires a comprehensive approach and a strong commitment. From upgrading building systems to investing in renewable energy, sensor technology and carbon offsetting, there are a variety of strategies that FM companies can employ to reduce emissions and achieve a net zero future for themselves and for all of the companies that rely on them. The benefits of reducing emissions and contributing to a more sustainable future are significant, and FM has a vital role to play in leading the way.

While the journey towards net zero will be challenging, it’s important to remember that every step towards sustainability is a step in the right direction. It can be done… if we take action now.

Visit www.neutralcarbonzone.com for more information.