Gov ‘not doing enough’ to help firms meet net-zero, says RSM

Nearly half (44%) of middle market business leaders say the UK government is “not doing enough” to support companies in meeting net-zero targets by 2050, according to a survey by leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK.

However, over a third (34%) of businesses still do measure their own impact on the environment and nearly a quarter (24%) don’t have a formal environmental plan, suggesting businesses could also be doing more to strengthen their own commitments.

RSM said this view contrasts Boris Johnson’s “ambitious” climate targets following the chancellor’s budget which many say “lacked” climate measures necessary to help meet those goals: minimal investment in insulation for homes, modest spending on public transport, and a 50% reduction on taxes on domestic flights.

Kevin O’Connor, executive chairman of RSM UK, said: ‘As the world reaches this pivotal moment in the fight against climate change, more companies are now rightly looking to proactively manage climate risk.

“But it is clear that business leaders don’t feel enough progress is being made at government level to incentivise greater action. Nonetheless, it goes both ways, and when the shoe’s on the other foot, it’s notable that a large number of businesses don’t appear to be making the progress necessary to strengthen their own commitments and credentials either.