New Research: Is Net Zero publicly understood?

By Jake Pryszlak

In June 2019, the UK Government set a legally binding target to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. In doing so, the UK became one of the first countries to legislate a net zero target. Progress has already been made towards the 2050 target, in fact, in 28 years, the UK has reduced its emissions by more than 40%. To reduce carbon emissions even more, the government will need support from everyone in the UK, including the general public.

A significant body of research exists in relation to the supply of carbon emissions, as well as with members of the publics to understand views on specific actions such as smart meters, electric cars etc. More recently, research has begun to look at public views around net zero as a whole.

Engaging with the public will be so important for the government in reaching its net zero target. To understand people’s understanding and perceptions of what achieving climate targets in the UK will mean for them individually, and for society as a whole, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and DEFRA commissioned SEC Newgate Research to undertake a public dialogue piece of research.

In summary, there was a relatively high level of awareness of the concept (net zero) among the public, although there was a very mixed understanding of what net zero constitutes. There was also a broad agreement that the UK’s 2050 net zero target was a positive step in addressing a time-critical issue, although there was some scepticism to the likelihood of meeting this target.

While there was hope that technology would play an important role in achieving net zero, there was an expectation that it would most likely be achieved through a combination of changes to behaviour and accompanying technological innovations. Having said that, from our research for BEIS and DEFRA, we found there was strong support for industry-led innovation to achieving net zero, such as renewable energy and manufacturing efficiencies.

Amongst 93 participants from across the UK, there was also strong support for actions people could take themselves, such as minimising waste, recycling more and increasing the energy efficiency of homes.

Our research also revealed two issues that was seen as contentious. Firstly, electric vehicles were seen as an acceptable alternative to petrol/diesel vehicles, though there was scepticism whether the necessary infrastructure will be in place. Secondly, if they would be affordable for individuals who require a car for family, work and social purposes. A key finding from our research found that “Ultimately people wanted net zero to be achieved in ways which respected individual choice and promoted wellbeing”. Whilst people indicated their interest in reducing our carbon footprint, it did raise questions whether reducing emissions would actually have the greatest impact on lower income households.

At present there is limited awareness of what is required by households to reduce emissions apart from influencers, blog posts and the occasional news story. Our report highlights not only some of the challenges motivating change towards net zero but the exciting opportunities the UK faces in the next 30 years if it is to reach its net zero target. It will be important for the government to maintain people’s attention on the issues given the scale and complexity of the task ahead.