About this resource
This thought piece outlines a vision for what the net zero operating space for businesses can look like.
Casting back from an imagined future in which we have succeeded to limiting global warming to 1.5°C, it sets out a net zero operating space for business.
An space in which all products and services serve human needs and in which business operates under four conditions developed on the basis of 1.5°C pathways.
Four operating conditions for business
The assumption underlying this piece is that the planetary boundaries that are observerd in a net zero world allow only for products and services that serve human needs.
Scientific pathways that model achieving 1.5°C, eg from the International Energy Agency (IEA) can be distilled into four conditions under which business may operate to deliver products and services in a net zero world. These are:
Circular: Transitioning from a linear “take-make-use-dispose” system to a circular economy that values minimal use of virgin materials, extends the lifespan of products and ensures materials are recycled or safely returned to nature.
Optimised: Eliminating waste in all forms, from manufacturing, food, energy and beyond. This involves ending planned obsolescence, optimizing design to reduce waste and shortening supply chains to save energy.
Regenerative: Ensuring that business activities contribute to the restoration and enhancement of ecosystems and communities. This includes sustainable land management and fostering strong relationships with local farmers and communities.
Renewable: Committing to renewable energy and materials, with a target of at least 95% of energy from renewable sources. Businesses must reconfigure supply chains and innovate products to support this transformation.
Planning the transition to net zero
How to connect net zero pathways modelled by science to companies’ transition planning?
That’s what Exponential Roadmap Initiative set out to do in the thought piece, A net zero operating space for business.
In order to support companies in planning a transition towards this net zero operating space for business and taking concrete steps towards the necessary transformation, our thought piece offers key performance indicators companies may adopt to guide and measure their progress.
