Quotes:
The keynote speaker, CEO of the Green Finance Institute, Dr Rhian-Mari Thomas OBE, delivered an insightful speech about an essential change in approach to net zero. This comes as UK organisations grapple with the commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 68% by 2030.
Dr Rhian-Mari Thomas OBE,“The climate finance gap is not the problem of ambition. It’s a problem of execution. For more than a decade there’s been this emphasis on setting targets, commitments, high level strategy. All that work really mattered, but it has taken us as far as it can. In my view what’s going to determine success in the next phase is not what organisations promise, but what they can actually deliver.”
Managing Director, Consulting and Energy Solutions, Alex Avila, highlighted a notable change in sustainability strategy.
Alex Avila, Managing Director, Consulting and Energy Solutions“Net zero momentum is not slowing down. It’s evolving into a disciplined, value-creating business strategy.” Alex emphasised the business case for decarbonisation. He said: “Strategy is not slowing down. It’s getting sharper, more focused and, I would say, more commercially grounded…Net zero is not slowing – it’s actually paying back.”
Director of Managed Water Services, Geoff Smith, concluded the section with his reflections on water sustainability.
Geoff Smith, Director of Managed Water ServicesWater has rapidly shifted from a background utility to a critical part of the net zero agenda…Water is the next net zero frontier. It’s moving from a cost centre to a value lever.”
Link to in-depth event report: Net Zero Navigator 2026 | Decarbonisation strategy
Link to webinar at YouTube: Mitie Breakfast Briefing – The Net Zero Pivot: From Purpose to Value.