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Net Zero

Definition

Net Zero — Reducing emissions by ~90% then offsetting only the unavoidable residual.

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Key points

At a glance

  • Net zero is a stricter standard than carbon neutral: the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) requires a company to cut absolute emissions by at least 90% across all scopes by its target year before offsetting the small residual.
  • In practice this means net zero is about transformation (electrifying, redesigning supply chains, switching to renewables) — not about buying credits.

Net zero is a stricter standard than carbon neutral: the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) requires a company to cut absolute emissions by at least 90% across all scopes by its target year before offsetting the small residual.

In practice this means net zero is about transformation (electrifying, redesigning supply chains, switching to renewables) — not about buying credits. A "net zero" claim resting on heavy offsetting is not credible under the SBTi standard.

How to check this before you buy

  1. 1Look for "Net Zero" on the pack or the Amazon UK listing itself, not just in the brand's marketing.
  2. 2Ask whether the claim is backed by a named standard or independent body, or is just a description.
  3. 3Check whether the claim covers the exact product and size you're buying, not only the wider brand.
  4. 4Compare at least two alternatives on Pickly before deciding.

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