Why net zero starts with facing the data

As organisations strive to meet net zero commitments, the biggest challenge often isn’t ambition, it is action. And at the heart of that action lies one critical step: establishing a carbon emissions baseline. Here, Team Energy explains why – and how to get started.

A carbon emissions baseline provides a clear starting point for measuring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across Scope 1, 2, and 3. Without it, even the most well intentioned sustainability strategies risk drifting into irrelevance.

Baselining is essential for:

• Understanding your environmental impact.

• Setting meaningful targets.

• Planning effective reductions.

• Meeting growing regulatory and reporting expectations.

Despite its importance, many organisations postpone baselining. Common barriers include fragmented data, unclear ownership, and fear of inaccuracies. But these delays can stall progress and increase risk as compliance requirements tighten.The challenge isn’t just technical, it is organisational. Internal silos, legacy systems, and budget hesitations often slow decision making. Sustainability can remain sidelined when leadership waits for perfect data or a dedicated team.

The most effective approach is pragmatic: begin with what you have. Use estimates. Be transparent. Build from there. Practical steps include:

• Embedding emissions tracking into core responsibilities.

• Leveraging unified data platforms for clarity across all scopes.

• Creating a culture of accountability around sustainability reporting.

With regulatory expectations rising and public scrutiny growing, the cost of inaction is increasing. Baselining isn’t just a compliance requirement, it is the cornerstone of measurable, lasting change. And as we step into a new year, organisations have an opportunity to set the tone for their sustainability journey.

Recent government updates reinforce this urgency. The latest EPC reforms confirm that commercial properties must have a valid EPC before marketing, and while the carbon based Environmental Impact Rating remains the headline metric, tighter compliance and clearer links to MEES obligations are on the way. Later in 2026, expect further changes to Display Energy Certificate (DEC) cycles, EPC and DEC data use, auditing standards, and air conditioning inspection reporting. All signalling a stronger emphasis on transparency and accountability.

Starting now means:

• You will be ahead of upcoming policy refinements.

• You will avoid last minute compliance scrambles.

• You will build credibility with stakeholders and customers who increasingly demand proof of progress.

The message is clear: don’t wait for perfect data or future deadlines, use this new year as your launchpad for action. Baselining today sets the foundation for every net zero commitment tomorrow.