Global report finds fewer than half of organisations expect to meet decarbonisation targets by 2030

A global report by Siemens Smart Infrastructure has found there is limited alignment on priorities and how best to progress towards a decarbonised and resource-efficient world. Although half of people surveyed believe the infrastructure transition is accelerating in their region, a quarter of participants – senior executives from seven major industry groups – said that progress is “too slow”, while 29 per cent believe progress is “coordinated”, and 31 per cent describe it as “on target”.

Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2023: The Great Divide on The Path to Net Zero, set out to measure the current state of the infrastructure transition, including developments within the systems, services, buildings, and structures that are needed for industries, cities, and countries to function effectively. Data was collected through a global survey of 1,400 senior executives from 22 countries, as well as a series of in-depth interviews with leaders and experts.

The guiding principles behind the research outlined in the report include the necessity of the infrastructure transition to have a positive impact beyond decarbonisation. Secondly, smarter infrastructure integration is mandatory to affect change. Finally, action must be undertaken urgently and at top speed to avert disastrous global consequences.

Matthias Rebellius, managing board member of Siemens AG and CEO of Smart Infrastructure, said:

“The infrastructure transition is accelerating, putting pressure on systems worldwide – from energy, to mobility, to buildings. Evolving the world’s infrastructure is of the utmost importance to enable progress towards decarbonisation, resource efficiency, and social wellbeing. Technology and digitalisation are instrumental to achieving this transition in a smart and sustainable way.”

The report found that only 40 per cent of organisations expect to reach decarbonisation targets this year. While nearly half have targets for Scope 1 and 2 emissions (47 per cent) only 40 per cent think it is likely that they will meet their targets for the year ahead and just 44 per cent expect to meet their 2030 targets. growth prospects and confidence in decarbonisation targets.

Another key area of consideration for businesses is their buildings. Only 37 per cent of respondents rated their organisation as mature or advanced in improving the energy efficiency of facilities and buildings, and just 30 per cent said the same for electrification and/or decarbonisation of heating and cooling. There is, however, hope that businesses can leverage innovative solutions to enhance their performance and sustainability of their buildings without the need for extensive new construction, but progress needs to be quicker.

Matthias Rebellius concluded:

“Overall, the report confirms that whilst there is not always a strong alignment between citizens, business and government on the main requirements and goals of the infrastructure transition, it is critical to act now to mitigate the effects of climate change. Collaboration and digitalisation across the areas of energy, mobility and buildings will be key in paving the way forward toward a decarbonised world.”