Market Insight: What Actually Happens When Firms Miss Net Zero Targets
Gus Brewer
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Executive Summary
Over the past six months, numerous organizations have either rolled back or failed to meet crucial net zero targets, citing factors such as economic challenges and government inaction. Many other firms are likely to follow suit. What are the real consequences when businesses miss these commitments? This report delves into the impacts by analysing 20 firms that have recently fallen short of their targets, highlighting the key repercussions, ranging from reputational damage to potential legal ramifications. With corporate sentiment wavering on sustainability initiatives, net zero targets now stand at a pivotal crossroads: they can either drive meaningful progress towards emission reductions – or risk becoming hollow gestures. To address this, this report offers a framework for organizations to reset their net zero goals, marking a shift from mere PR-driven promises to true climate accountability.Wishing hasn’t made net zero so
Verdantix analysis of 20 firms missing their targets reveals liabilities
Firms must recalibrate from net zero idealism to decarbonization realism
Five steps to redefining net zero targets
About the Authors
Gus Brewer
Analyst
Gus is an Analyst in the Verdantix Net Zero & Climate Risk practice. Prior to joining Verdantix, Gus worked at Rio ESG, where he gained experience as a sustainability cons...
Ryan Skinner
Research Director
Ryan is a Research Director at Verdantix, where he leads a team of analysts delivering research, data and advisory services that help clients navigate the fast-evolving landsc...
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