Only 36% of UK businesses have formal net zero targets, amid weakening business confidence and commitment, latest research finds
August 2025 - Business Support
.jpg "Insights Banner")
Only 36% of UK businesses have formal net zero targets, amid weakening business confidence and commitment, latest research finds: Recent research shows that just over a third (36%) of UK businesses have set targets to reach net zero, which is far less than the number reported in 2024, when six in ten (60%) cited having such formal targets in place. While two-thirds (64%) say they are committed to achieving net zero by 2025, this is significantly lower than the previous year (83%).
Now in its fifth year, the BSI Net Zero Barometer Report from the British Standards Institute (BSI) surveyed a representative sample of 1000 senior business decision makers across the UK. It found that, across most metrics, business confidence and commitment have dropped markedly compared to last year.
The report highlights that when asked about the likelihood of their business achieving net zero by 2050, just over half (55%) of respondents expressed confidence in this goal - a significant decline from 2024, when three-quarters (76%) felt confident. Data indicates that this lack of confidence is especially common among micro businesses (under 10 employees) compared to larger organisations (52% vs. 85%), with overall SME confidence levels decreasing by 20% or more year on year.
Furthermore, the research shows that even in the short term, business commitment to reaching net zero targets is weakening. Just under half (49%) of UK businesses claim they are taking action, or are in the process of doing so, compared to more than eight out of 10 (83%) in 2024. Additionally, half (51%) of business leaders reported they are acting to achieve net zero within the next 12 months, down from nearly three-quarters (72%) last year.
On a more positive note, the research indicates that despite declining confidence and commitment, the majority (83%) of businesses would welcome extra support to aid their net zero journey, such as practical guides, case studies, networking, and training.
Sign up to our newsletter to receive free insights from your sector...
Support Us...
We hope that you have found this article useful. This section is freely available for all to use. Please help support it by liking us or following us on our social media platforms:
