A Carbon-Free Footprint Is No Longer Optional for Large Corporations

With net zero targets by 2030 in place, regulators are demanding companies take action, but so are customers and investors. This has caused the corporate sustainability world to recognize the importance of decarbonization with even greater urgency and look for the right approach to help tackle their challenges.

In an article for The Wall Street Journal, Britt Harter, partner and sustainability solutions lead at Guidehouse, explains that customers and investors are now pushing for change much faster than regulators because they see great value at stake.

“Decarbonization is not just about being selfless or philanthropic anymore,” Harter said. “It’s going to determine which companies will be thriving in 20 or 30 years. Companies that want to ensure their future need to be thinking about decarbonization now. They can’t put it off any further.”

A recent white paper published by Guidehouse explores effective strategies companies can implement to ensure their decarbonization efforts are not only impactful and agile, but also economical. In the article, Harter outlines three common challenges large companies face in the pursuit of net zero—leveraging decarbonization data, reducing emissions through the supply chain, and obtaining financing—and offers examples of ways corporations are managing them.

“Decarbonization is not so complex or ephemeral that companies should be afraid to start,” Harter said. “Particularly after the footprint is clear, it’s a matter of choosing which approach is right for your company.”