The case for science-based targets on climate change: Latest news, viewpoints and events from the Carbon Trust

After having discussed many of the positive attributes of science-based targets in previous parts of this series, it is worth reflecting briefly on their limitations.

Take our survey to help us to understand the motivations and barriers to energy efficiency in SMEs and startups, and enter the prize draw to win a Carbon Trust certified Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, a Kindle Oasis, a pair of Jabra move wireless headphones or a Sony Smartwatch 3 SWR50!

Convincing boards to adopt stretching environmental targets often requires the presentation of a business case and phased investment plan. Traditionally companies set their ambitions for levels of carbon reductions based on the level of change that is financially attractive – the most compelling investment plan – rather than an understanding of what reductions are necessary. Science-based targets require businesses to rethink this approach.

The EU Merci Project, part of the EU’s Horizon2020 programme, aims to support greater deployment of energy efficiency measures in industry across EU member states. We would like to invite companies to contribute to the project by filling out a short questionnaire around their experience with energy efficiency.

Research project officially launched to build the framework and platforms that will underpin the system - a mechanism for incentivising and rewarding more environmentally-friendly behaviour and purchases by individuals, families and microbusinesses