TEAM Energy has unveiled the findings of its “Carbon Countdown: Progress Towards Net Zero” survey, offering insights from over 100 UK organisations spanning various sectors, sizes, and industries.

The results highlight a growing wave of net zero commitments, a strong sense of purpose, and a cultural shift towards sustainability—despite persistent financial and structural hurdles.

Key outcomes:

• 49% of organisations have formally committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions. Of these, 34% are targeting 2030, while 26% are aligned with the UK Government’s 2050 goal.
• Corporate social responsibility and brand reputation are the top motivators, cited by 56% and 53% of respondents respectively—underscoring the rising influence of ethics and public perception in sustainability strategies.
• Staff engagement is on the rise, particularly among younger employees, with many organisations reporting improved efficiency and enthusiasm around carbon reduction efforts.
• Financial support and training are seen as the most valuable enablers, with 73% seeking funding and 64% prioritising education to accelerate their net zero progress.

Leadership and net zero

While there’s still room to grow, leadership is increasingly central to the net zero agenda. Nearly three-quarters of organisations report moderate to strong leadership involvement, signalling that many executive teams are actively championing sustainability. This top-down engagement is helping to build momentum and embed climate action as a shared organisational priority.

Customer voices

As part of the survey respondents shared their optimism and commitment to sustainability:

“We have good intentions to do whatever we can to reduce our carbon footprint.”

“Carbon emissions mapping has brought greater efficiency in all departments and functions. We have also noticed a higher level of staff engagement, particularly among the younger generations.”

“Net zero is made even more attractive by seeing our competitors reducing and posting all net zero emissions on their social media and websites.”
“We have just started looking at this but want to make our company more energy efficient and reduce our usage.”

A diverse path to decarbonisation

Across all sectors, energy efficiency improvements lead the way, adopted by 79% of organisations. Close behind are waste and recycling initiatives at 76%, followed by renewable energy adoption (59%) and behaviour change programmes (52%). Other strategies include fleet electrification, sustainable supply chain practices, and carbon offsetting, reflecting a broad, practical approach to decarbonisation.

Sector highlights

• Government bodies are setting the pace, with 45% targeting net zero by 2030 and 70% already implementing measures like fleet electrification and energy efficiency upgrades.
• Charities and trusts demonstrate strong intent, with 60% aiming for net zero between 2030 and 2040, driven by values-led leadership and a deep-rooted commitment to community impact.
• The education sector is showing ambition, with 40% setting a 2030 target. However, many institutions face unique challenges, including heritage buildings and limited staff resources.

TEAM Energy’s Carbon Countdown survey paints a promising picture of the UK’s journey toward net zero, one defined by rising ambition and a deepening culture of climate responsibility. While obstacles remain, particularly around funding, infrastructure, and resource constraints, organisations are responding with resilience, innovation, and a clear desire to lead by example.

With strong leadership, engaged teams, and a diverse mix of strategies already in motion, the path to a low-carbon future is not only possible, it’s actively being built. TEAM Energy is proud to support this momentum and remains committed to championing the insights, innovation, and action driving meaningful change across the UK.