Zero carbon, a massive business opportunity

The conference covered policy, the challenges of low carbon for the construction industries, as well as carbon management for multi-site businesses. Juniper however clearly set the tone: “There was a period when we doubted that the science might not be true,” he said, “but now we’ve broken through.” Climate change he said: “is a major problem… and if we don’t do something about it quickly it could be disastrous.” Thankfully, he said: “we are entering a new phase now where action on global warming with the sense of urgency required will begin.” “Cleaner, and fewer cars, use of biofuels, more recycling, more effective use of heat and power, fewer and cleaner aircraft.” These are a few of the actions that Juniper is looking for. “All are possible,” he added, “and the engineering professions are at the forefront of this.” Juniper highlighted some industries that face big challenges: “5% of the total global carbon emissions come from the cement industry alone,” he said, and of metals: “can we source more recycled materials?” “There is a myth that everything that we need to do is a cost, or will be a pain,” he added, but highlighted that there are many fringe benefits in the zero carbon economy, agenda and that there is “a massive economic opportunity”. The conference was run by the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).