Our thinking

Net zero consensus report

24 October, 2025

This week saw the release of the 2025 UK Net Zero Business Census report, a national survey of industry progress on decarbonisation. Covering over 2,000 organisations, it offers a snapshot of how British businesses are advancing (and struggling) on the journey to net zero. 

The good news is that momentum is real. 25% of UK organisations have achieved measurable carbon reductions, and nearly 60% have implemented energy efficiency measures. Larger firms lead the charge with 54% having set a net zero targe, compared to 11% of SMEs. 

Unsurprisingly though, cost and complexity top the list of challenges faced by companies. Two-thirds of businesses say high costs are holding them back, and only 7% have accessed any kind of government funding to support their transition efforts. Almost half say they don’t know where to find trusted information or lack the expertise to act, which shows that while net zero ambition is alive and well, the “how” remains uncertain for many. On top of that, 46% of SMEs mention data overload as another key challenge. Add in ongoing regulatory uncertainty (a concern for 70% of organisations!), and it’s clear that the road to 2050 is anything but straightforward. 

Still, there’s plenty to build on. New standards such as the UK Sustainability Reporting Standard (UKSRS) and the ISO Net Zero Standard promise to simplify reporting and (possibly) bring some long-overdue clarity. And there seems to be growing recognition that the next wave of progress will come from making “no-brainer” green actions, like insulation and heat pumps, cheaper and more accessible. 

As reports warn that the Earth has reached its first catastrophic climate tipping point and as global leaders gear up for COP30 in Brazil next month, the report serves a timely reminder that net zero delivery needs an urgent push from policymakers, financiers, and businesses alike. 

No matter where your organisation is on its sustainability journey, if you’re looking for help and guidance, feel free to connect with us or our partners at Net Zero Now, who are dedicated to supporting SMEs in reaching their decarbonisation goals.  

By Sirisha Venkatesh