Climbing the stairs

Further support needed for organisations in reducing their carbon footprint and achieving sustainability goals

In a poll of over 700 IoD members four in five directors say that it is important for their organisation to operate in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way. However only one in four members feel they fully understand the way in which their organisation can lower its carbon footprint and meet net zero carbon goals. Additionally a third of members feel that the costs associated with moving towards net-zero goals in their organisation are prohibitive.

Joe Fitzsimons, Senior Policy Advisor at the IoD said:

“The battle against Climate Change has quickly become one of the biggest challenges businesses face today. Sustainability is an important priority for IoD members, and as many businesses join the efforts to decrease their carbon footprint, it is vital they have access to the necessary resources and tools.

Uncertainty among businesses in overcoming both the costs and the methods required to reduce their carbon footprint proves the necessity for government led action. An attainable long-term strategy including green investment incentives, improved access to relevant expertise, and funded reskilling in environmental best practices would be welcomed by businesses committed to navigating sustainability goals.

The business community is increasingly responsible for environmental issues and as an important driving force in the efforts to achieve sustainability goals nationwide, it is imperative that the government does all it can to help alleviate the practical hurdles they encounter.”

Full Survey Results 

703 respondents, conducted between 12– 29 March 2021

How important is it for your primary organisation to operate in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way?

Total
703
Very Important
46%
Somewhat Important
37%
Not Very Important
12%
Not At All Important
6%
Don’t know
0%

How much do you understand about the way in which your organisation can lower its carbon footprint and meet net zero carbon goals?

Total
703
Fully understand
24%
Somewhat understand
52%
Don’t understand very well
14%
Don’t understand at all
4%
Not applicable
6%

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

“The costs associated with moving towards net-zero goals in my organisation are prohibitive”

Total
703
Strongly agree
7%
Agree
23%
Disagree
40%
Strongly disagree
13%
Don’t know
17%

Better directors for a better world

The IoD supports directors and business leaders across the UK and beyond to learn, network and build successful, responsible businesses.

Making better choices for a better world

Browse valuable environment and sustainability resources from the IoD.
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