Action urged on carbon reporting red tape

Cutting red tape around carbon reporting would reduce unnecessary costs for businesses, according to a new proposal.

Energy Systems Catapult is calling on the government to set up a dedicated carbon reporting office in a move it said would cut red tape, boost innovation and position the UK to become a global leader in carbon accounting which gives investors and innovators confidence that a product or service compete in growing low-carbon markets.

Emily Ford, Senior Energy Policy Advisor at Energy Systems Catapult, said: “Businesses are facing unnecessary costs and a confusing patchwork of reporting requirements. “

It said a carbon report office would cut through the complexity, unleash innovation and lay the foundations for a world-leading carbon accounting industry.

“High-quality, comparable emissions data is becoming essential infrastructure for the global economy. Without it, we risk slowing innovation, limiting investment and growth, and putting UK businesses at a competitive disadvantage.”