Last updated: 02 Nov 2023 10:00 Posted in: AIA
The Net Zero Accountancy Initiative, developed by Net Zero Now, in collaboration with industry leaders, including AIA, serves as the sector-specific roadmap to achieve Net Zero for accountancy businesses. Firms that join the initiative gain access to Net Zero Now's online platform, which offers user-friendly tools and recommendations for carbon measurement and reduction.
AIA encourage their member firms to take steps towards addressing their carbon footprint by pursuing an 'On the Road to Net Zero' certification. This initiative shows the firms unwavering commitment to combat the climate crisis by setting ambitious short-term and long-term carbon reduction goals.
Philip Turnbull, AIA Chief Executive said, "AIA is thrilled to witness the expansion of the Net Zero Accountancy Initiative and the positive impact it has had on accountancy firms. We applaud these early adopter practices for their pioneering role, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to sustainability within the accounting sector.
“We look forward to our continued partnership with Net Zero Now as we collaborate to advance our journey towards a Net Zero future."
Collaborating with Net Zero Now, these firms have conducted a comprehensive assessment of their greenhouse gas emissions, a crucial initial step in enabling meaningful emissions reduction measures. Collectively, these firms employ 2,500 individuals and were responsible for emitting 7,000 tonnes of carbon in 2022 – equivalent to driving 17 million miles in a petrol car.
All of these firms have pledged to annually report their carbon footprint and to reduce their scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030, in addition to ambitious scope 3 targets. They are already making significant progress in achieving these targets through the implementation of energy efficiency measures, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and promoting environmentally friendly commuting options for their employees.
Investing in a Net Zero commitment not only benefits the environment but also yields a positive return on investment. Businesses on the path to Net Zero report reduced costs, increased efficiency, and improved waste management, making them more attractive to both clients and potential employees. Furthermore, organisations embarking on this journey position themselves favourably to collaborate with large companies that are now obligated to report emissions throughout their value chain. This value chain encompasses accountants just as much as it does raw material suppliers or end product consumers.
David Rothera, Head of Business Development at Net Zero Now, said: “Accountants have a critical role to play as the world transitions to a more planet-positive future. Not only are they important advisers that can influence business leaders, they also have all the skills and much of the knowledge to undertake, or advise others around, carbon accounting. This is the crux of getting to grips with emissions for most organisations. Good management of greenhouse gas emissions can only come after good measurement. The Net Zero Accountancy Initiative that we’ve developed in partnership with sector leaders provides the guide rails and standards that enable all firms to accurately measure their emissions using the Net Zero Now online platform, whilst accessing tailored reduction plans to help them move towards Net Zero. I congratulate these ten firms on taking action and making this commitment and hope that others in the sector will be inspired to follow their lead.”
"AIA is thrilled to witness the expansion of the Net Zero Accountancy Initiative and the positive impact it has had on accountancy firms. We applaud these early adopter practices for their pioneering role, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to sustainability within the accounting sector."
Philip Turnbull, AIA Chief Executive