Pathways to Net Zero: The decisive decade

A roadmap for companies to accelerate climate progress

We are in the “Decisive Decade” for climate action. The imperative to act now and halve emissions by 2030 on the pathway to net zero has never been higher. More than ever before, the private sector is on board for making the essential changes the planet urgently needs – not only to meet global targets, but to build and retain a competitive advantage, generate long-term value, and minimize risk.

This report, produced by EDF in collaboration with Deloitte, sheds light on how companies can turn their net zero pledges into real results by identifying and prioritizing the highest-impact solutions using a tailored emissions profile as the foundation.

1. Identify and map: Identify potential abatement solutions and map the abatement actions to emissions profile categories.
2. Evaluate: Using our interactive scorecard, evaluate relevant abatement solutions against select criteria.
3. Prioritize: Using the emissions profile, the solutions map, and Evaluation Scorecard, prioritize near- and long-term abatement solutions for implementation.
4. Get started: With our Net Zero Value Lever Map, begin planning and investing in the necessary quick wins and high-impact solutions.
5. Read and share: Read more in our Pathways to Net Zero series, along with case studies from leading companies.

A comprehensive climate goal

On the pathway to net zero, companies must:

1. Implement near-term science-based goals for decarbonization of your operations and value chain.
2. Accelerate investments in natural climate solutions within and beyond your value chain to maximize overall climate benefits.
3. Ensure methane is addressed in your emission reduction strategy.
4. Support and influence net zero-aligned climate policy.

But net zero pledges are only the beginning. Companies need to urgently translate commitments into action to slash emissions over the next decade. Every company – including those in hard-to-abate sectors – will need to take advantage of a range of potential opportunities to lead, invest, and advocate to meet climate goals.