This online carbon literacy training programme develops an understanding of carbon emissions, climate change and sustainability within a business context.
Leaders and other decision-makers learn how to measure and reduce the environmental impact of their organisation while creating opportunities for cost reductions and enhanced resource efficiencies. Improving environmental performance supports long-term growth and net zero progress.
Climate inaction is delaying net zero progress. Without bold and rapid decarbonisation of our economy, life on Earth is under threat.
Failing to find more sustainable ways of working or reducing carbon emissions is leaving communities and companies vulnerable to the worst effects of climate change. Rising global average temperatures, plummeting biodiversity and increasingly volatile and frequent extreme weather are driving cost increases, supply chain issues and economic instability.
Organisations also risk falling behind legislation or losing customers if they fail to address the environmental impacts of their operations.
Carbon Literacy explores ways to measure and reduce the environmental impact of business activities. This understanding lets you develop more sustainable operations, which unlock cost reductions, resource efficiencies and help you comply with environmental legislation and international agreements.
Firms listed on the London Stock Exchange or bidding for a government contract worth at least £5 million must submit decarbonisation action plans that outline how they will meet net-zero targets by 2050.
Additionally, larger firms must release annual reports on energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. This currently applies to around 12,000 companies although the government encourages all organisations, regardless of size, to do the same.
All organisations must also comply with environmental law. Legislation includes:
- The Environmental Protection Act 1990 – This act makes all organisations legally responsible for their waste as long as it exists.
- The Environmental Act 1995 – This act established the Environment Agency and grants them powers to investigate and prosecute environmental crimes.
- Climate Change Act 2008 – This act set a legally binding target for the UK to reduce carbon emissions by 78% before 2035 and 100% by 2050.
- Environmental Act 2021 – This act established the Office for Environmental Protection to monitor environmental performance and set targets to increase recycling, reduce plastic waste, protect wildlife and improve air and water quality. As this act is enabling legislation, it will likely lead to further legal requirements.
While not legally binding, many organisations are now expecting better environmental performance and sustainability from suppliers or partners. The UK is also committed to notable international treaties, including the Paris Climate Agreement. All member countries pledged to keep global temperatures within 2°C of pre-industrial levels, which is essential to stop the most harmful effects of climate change.
Carbon Literacy training online gives you the understanding necessary to bring your organisation and operations in line with net-zero targets and strategies. It also supports compliance with environmental legislation and demonstrates a sustainability commitment to stakeholders.
