It’s critical that we measure our progress
To make sure we deliver net zero on time, we must regularly measure specific progress against our interim targets.
The monitoring framework outlined as part of the COP (UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties) meetings is monitored annually by various national and international public, private, and third sector organisations.
And many activities already take place at national, international, and industrial levels.
Measuring national progress
Is the UK doing enough to ensure we deliver net zero? And how do we know if the devolved administrations are making sufficient progress?
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) advises the government on emissions targets and reports to Parliament on progress to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in each part of the UK.
Measuring international progress
Each year, the United Nations, the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), and the COP meetings focus on global energy transition activity.
This focus helps identify which countries are making progress or falling behind and highlights any areas we need to concentrate on.
Measuring industry- and company-level progress
Industries and companies must also know how they are performing against agreed net zero targets.
Businesses must meet their shareholders’ and funders’ expectations, so a considerable amount of visibility and transparency is also required at this level.
Action at a societal level
Nongovernmental organisations (NGOs), think tanks, and academic institutions all play a crucial role in delivering our desired outcomes.
Experts and activists - like Greta Thunberg and Sir David Attenborough - are vital in highlighting the issues and challenges associated with climate change.
And social media plays an integral part because of its power to influence. Critical voices, influencers, and pressure groups can force real progress by using social media platforms to raise awareness of the crisis.
Social media also lets everyone share their opinions on how best to protect our planet for future generations—because the climate emergency affects us all.
We must meet our targets and deliver net zero
As you can see, there's much focus on meeting our interim targets. We must ensure that companies, organisations, and governments are doing everything possible to progress towards net zero.
Transparency around performance is essential to ensure we deliver the outcome we all want—the sustainability of our planet and its rich and varied ecosystems.
Key points
The monitoring framework outlined as part of the COP meetings and progress in the UK are closely monitored annually by various national and international organisations.
- International level: UN and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC)
- National level: The UK Climate Change Committee (CCC)
- Industry and company level: shareholders’ and funders' expectations
- Societal level: social media through NGOs, think tanks, academic institutions, critical voices, influencers, pressure groups, and individuals.