Written by Adam Baker, Partnership Director at Equity Energies
A material promise
The aluminium industry is a central component of the UK manufacturing economy, and by the very nature of the material, is already a core part of the broader drive to reduce emissions and reach Net Zero. Whether cutting vehicle weight to improve fuel economy or being incorporated into intelligent building design to reduce energy consumption¹, aluminium continues to deliver on its material promise.
But application aside, there is still a need for meeting Net Zero timelines from a manufacturing and management perspective. Indeed, investing in decarbonisation measures is not just one of environmental imperative; as we will show below, it is also an effective way of unlocking value for the business and bottom line.
So how do you achieve Net Zero, considering the significant energy requirements and carbon impact of aluminium manufacturing and recycling?
No one-size-fits all
Just as there is the need to ensure a bespoke combination of processes and components that reflect anything that is being manufactured, the same bespoke approach must be applied when it comes to developing a Net Zero pathway. That means recognising that every organisation is unique – even if it produces the same output as other organisations – and will therefore need to have its own unique requirements. No two Net Zero pathways are the same.
That’s why we talk to manufacturing clients about avoiding a carbon copy approach; trying to replicate the pathway of a similar business is a big misstep in the direction of progressing Net Zero.
It’s also why we believe in equity, and taking an equitable approach, referring to the need to ensure every business has access to the right information, planning and execution to develop and deliver its own unique pathway. This, in turn, means benefitting from the value that is unlocked through energy strategy to drive Net Zero progress.
This could include financial savings, improved operational performance and overall sustainability progress. Despite energy strategy offering the ability to release this value, conversely 53% of manufacturing companies cite increased cost of energy as a major risk to growth in 2024².
If it isn’t viable, it isn’t valuable
Setting targets that are commercially viable and can be achieved with business continuity is crucial. Too often ‘solutions vendors’ push products and technologies onto clients to meet sales targets, whether they are the right fit or not. Just as bad, is organisations setting unrealistic ambitious targets with no basis in data.
Ultimately, the starting point of any Net Zero pathway must be baselining; undertaking the process of measuring where you currently are in relation to carbon impact is crucial in informing reduction targets and understanding the impact you’re making.
Across multiple sectors, many organisations have tended to rush to set carbon reduction targets without a clear view of their baseline. While not a great example of best practice, it’s never too late to measure, even if published targets and timelines need to be retrofitted into a more ambitious pathway design. Regardless, the visibility that comes through proper baselining is perhaps the most powerful part of the process.
It’s a pathway, not a project
While reaching Net Zero, and even moving beyond that is entirely possible, it is perhaps impossible to provide all the answers in one short article. This is the first in a series, throughout which we’ll look at the detail around our recommended approach to undertaking the task.
We’ll discuss:
- The importance of baselining, target setting, and using data and insights to inform your pathway to Net Zero.
- The principle of designing your Net Zero pathway.
- Executing your Net Zero pathway – the role of procurement.
- Executing your Net Zero pathway – utilising other technologies to reduce your carbon footprint.
Already you will have undoubtedly started on the journey to reducing carbon, evolving energy strategy, and ultimately achieving Net Zero. But you’ll also know that it can feel much easier said than done.
Regularly reviewing progress and adapting strategies as needed is essential. The pathway to Net Zero is dynamic, with technological advancements, regulatory changes, and market conditions constantly evolving. Staying informed and agile allows organisations to capitalise on new opportunities and mitigate emerging risks.
And don’t forget, it won’t happen overnight. But by breaking it down into manageable steps, creating a tailored approach, and fostering a culture of sustainability, those responsible within your organisation can lead everyone towards a sustainable future.
To find out more, visit www.equityenergies.com
