The challenge to achieve net-zero is huge. The International Energy Agency states that emissions must fall by 45% relative to 2010 levels by 2030 to meet internationally agreed net-zero goals. Our success depends upon our use of cleaner energy sources, reducing emissions from appliances, retrofitting buildings, and taking responsibility for our actions – both as individuals and as businesses.

Despite the best efforts of many, the general consensus is that COP26, the UN Climate Change Conference recently held in Glasgow, did not bring the world very much closer to meeting the goal of the Paris Agreement to keep global warming at well below 2 (and preferably 1.5) degrees Celsius pre-industrial levels.

As we witness the sobering effects of global warming, there are two buzzwords that have become increasingly popular in recent years: carbon neutral and net zero. While they’re often used synonymously, there’s a big difference - one that’s especially important for businesses to understand.

For many, the global pandemic has taken precedence over environmental efforts in the past 18 months. Nevertheless, the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible around the globe and the cataclysmic consequences simply can’t be ignored. This year, the UK is hosting the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (also known as COP26).

Globally, consumers are actively seeking out more sustainable products, services and brands, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. A third of UK Brits state that they are more likely to buy from businesses that have strong environmental credentials. The increase in environmental concern is particularly notable among millennials – those now in their 20’s and early 30’s – with 54% stating that they now choose to buy from sustainable businesses.

Invisible Systems are delighted to confirm a partnership recently announced by HACT. HACT work with organisations across the social housing sector to drive value for residents and communities. They see the limitless potential for social housing providers to create lasting, transformational change, and provide forward-thinking solutions and technologies that enable them to do this.

Over 75% of all claims made by Tenants of Housing Associations are in relation to mould, damp and condensation. This amounts to significant, unnecessary costs paid out in claims every year. These statistics prove that mould is a major issue within social housing. It can, however, be prevented by monitoring the temperature and humidity within properties.

The safety and wellbeing of residents has always been the number-one priority for care homes. With that said, the outbreak of COVID-19 has brought these two needs to the forefront. The pressure is on care homes and assisted living facilities to implement even more rigorous measures within their buildings to maximise the health of their residents.

Research from the National Housing Federation (NHF) has revealed that homes in England produce more carbon emissions than all the cars on the country’s roads. Initial research indicates that the 25million homes in England produce 58.5million tonnes of CO2 each year – this is the equivalent to around a 28million petrol or diesel-fuelled cars. Currently, there are 27 million cards used in the country – emitting fewer emissions at 56 million tonnes.

The UK’s energy system has been plunged into crisis in recent weeks as the price of gas has rocketed. Several energy suppliers have gone out of business and there have been warnings of food shortages in UK supermarkets. Wholesale gas prices have soared by 250% since the beginning of the year, including a 70% rise since August, according to the Oil & Gas UK trade body.