ESG & Sustainability

What is a Net Zero company: examples, strategies, and advise

Ester Maicas

Ester Maicas

07 Mar 2024

Table of contents

    Do you know what Net Zero is? If you have a company and have been preparing to face the impact of global warming for some time, this concept will surely sound familiar to you. After the Paris Climate Agreement of 2015, many European companies set firm emission reduction targets. However, over the past two years, we have seen a definitive acceleration to curb the consequences and achieve carbon neutrality.

    In this article from #LexingtonMagazine, we will tell you what Net Zero is, how flexible office companies are involved in this commitment, and what the main strategies are to join this initiative. Here we go!

    What is Net Zero?

    Net Zero is the point at which human-caused greenhouse gas emissions are balanced or offset by the absorption of greenhouse gases, typically through measures such as reforestation, the use of carbon capture technologies, and emissions reduction.

    Context and evolution of the term Net Zero

    In recent years, the term Net Zero has gained prominence as awareness of climate change has increased and countries, companies, and organizations have sought ways to reduce their environmental impact. Let's look at its evolution from the beginning:

    What does it mean to be a Net Zero company?

    Being a Net Zero company involves committing to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions through the implementation of strategies such as energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, emission offsetting, and the adoption of circular economy practices.

    The real feasibility of becoming a Net Zero company

    The real feasibility of becoming a Net Zero company depends on several factors, but primarily on your genuine commitment to the cause. Additionally, it will heavily rely on available financial resources, technological infrastructure, government regulation, and the availability of sustainable solutions in the market.

    The role of offices in achieving Net Zero goals

    Indeed, office buildings play a crucial role in fulfilling a company's Net Zero objectives, as they are places where a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions are generated through energy consumption, employee transportation, waste management, and other activities.

    If you're not quite sure what sustainable offices entail, let's look at an example. The case of the United Therapeutics office building in Maryland may seem challenging, but it's not impossible. It's the largest Net Zero building in the world and boasts of producing more energy than it consumes. Wondering how? This is achieved through the implementation of energy efficiency measures in offices, the adoption of remote work practices, the promotion of public transportation, and the fostering of a culture of sustainability among employees.

    Photography: Ewin Cole.

    👉🏼 Get some inspiration with this list of Net Zero buildings.

    Practical strategies for companies looking to join Net Zero

    To achieve the set goals, consider the following:

    Embrace the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)

    One option is to adopt the SBTi standard, which helps organizations set their greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and validate these objectives.

    Net Zero Strategy for CISL Companies

    The University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) drives global leadership to promote a sustainable economy. Its strategy is based on four key points:

    • Alignment with business purpose
    • Establishment of evidence-based objectives
    • Integration of neutrality practices in operations and value chain
    • Promotion of this approach within its areas of operation.

    You might be interested

    You might be interested

    Exceptional People

    Responsabilidad social corporativa: hacer de tu compañía un negocio sostenible según los criterios ESG

    Ester Maicas

    Ester Maicas

    24 Nov 2022

    You might be interested

    You might be interested

    ESG & Sustainability

    Cómo reducir los residuos en tu empresa y contribuir al cuidado del medio ambiente

    Ana Salazar

    Ana Salazar

    17 May 2023

    You might be interested

    You might be interested

    ESG & Sustainability

    Oficinas y sostenibilidad: trucos para una decoración sostenible con estilo

    Marta Gómez

    Marta Gómez

    13 Dec 2023

    Lexington, a sustainable flexible spaces company

    At Lexington, we not only aim to provide exceptional flexible workspaces but also understand that sustainability is the cornerstone for creating environments and experiences that meet current demands. Our goal is clear: we want to be a Net Zero company, and we achieve this gradually by ensuring that our buildings have sustainable certifications, reusing materials, promoting responsible resource consumption, implementing recycling programs, fostering the hybrid work model, and facilitating public transportation through our prime locations.

    🌱 Learn more about Lexington's sustainable initiative for flexible spaces, #WeMakeItECO.

    What are you waiting for to contact us and rent your flexible workspace or hire your virtual office? Join a conscious community and contribute to the creation of a greener and more sustainable future. ⬇️

    The author

    Ester Maicas
    Ester Maicas

    COO and Digital Manager in Lexington. In other words, a manager of managers! Our team player Ester, a trained mathematician with the most exceptional analytical mind, knows every detail about our workspaces, our internal processes and our team. She excels herself every day! Ester is the Chief Officer of so many Operations that her name is on everyone’s lips!

    Post publicado en:
    ESG & Sustainability
    Share it

    Get up to date with flex

    Subscribe to our newsletter to make sure you don't miss anything. On trend content you’ll be interested in.