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The Truth About Net Zero Targets: Insights from John Lang

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Manage episode 452176104 series 2805813
Content provided by Tom Raftery. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Tom Raftery or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by John Lang, Project Lead at the Net Zero Tracker and a leading figure in the fight for transparency and accountability in climate action. Together, we explore the complexities behind net zero commitments and unpack what’s needed to transform promises into meaningful results.

John explains the work of the Net Zero Tracker, which monitors over 4,000 entities worldwide—including countries, companies, cities, and regions—on their progress (or lack thereof) towards achieving net zero. He sheds light on a troubling reality: while ambition is on the rise, integrity is still lagging behind. Shockingly, only 1 in 20 entities meet the minimum procedural requirements for credible net zero targets.

We also delve into the role of subnational governments—regions and cities—in driving climate action, particularly in the face of national inaction. John outlines how aligning local and national policies (what he calls "vertical governance") and fostering ambition loops can accelerate progress.

A key takeaway from this episode is the persistent confusion around net zero standards, which allows some entities to hide behind weak targets. John stresses the urgent need for standardisation and convergence, which could close the gaps in accountability.

Finally, we discuss practical ways individuals can make a difference, from talking about climate change to pushing for systemic change, whether through politics or their personal spheres of influence.

This conversation is a compelling reminder of the challenges we face, but also the power of collective action in moving the needle on climate goals.

Have a listen, and let’s keep this vital conversation going!

Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Podcast supporters
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:

  • Lorcan Sheehan
  • Jerry Sweeney
  • Andreas Werner
  • Stephen Carroll
  • Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.
Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

  continue reading

Chapters

1. The Truth About Net Zero Targets: Insights from John Lang (00:00:00)

2. [Ad] Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson (00:31:43)

3. (Cont.) The Truth About Net Zero Targets: Insights from John Lang (00:32:21)

221 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 452176104 series 2805813
Content provided by Tom Raftery. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Tom Raftery or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Send me a message

In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by John Lang, Project Lead at the Net Zero Tracker and a leading figure in the fight for transparency and accountability in climate action. Together, we explore the complexities behind net zero commitments and unpack what’s needed to transform promises into meaningful results.

John explains the work of the Net Zero Tracker, which monitors over 4,000 entities worldwide—including countries, companies, cities, and regions—on their progress (or lack thereof) towards achieving net zero. He sheds light on a troubling reality: while ambition is on the rise, integrity is still lagging behind. Shockingly, only 1 in 20 entities meet the minimum procedural requirements for credible net zero targets.

We also delve into the role of subnational governments—regions and cities—in driving climate action, particularly in the face of national inaction. John outlines how aligning local and national policies (what he calls "vertical governance") and fostering ambition loops can accelerate progress.

A key takeaway from this episode is the persistent confusion around net zero standards, which allows some entities to hide behind weak targets. John stresses the urgent need for standardisation and convergence, which could close the gaps in accountability.

Finally, we discuss practical ways individuals can make a difference, from talking about climate change to pushing for systemic change, whether through politics or their personal spheres of influence.

This conversation is a compelling reminder of the challenges we face, but also the power of collective action in moving the needle on climate goals.

Have a listen, and let’s keep this vital conversation going!

Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson
Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Podcast supporters
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:

  • Lorcan Sheehan
  • Jerry Sweeney
  • Andreas Werner
  • Stephen Carroll
  • Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.
Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

  continue reading

Chapters

1. The Truth About Net Zero Targets: Insights from John Lang (00:00:00)

2. [Ad] Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson (00:31:43)

3. (Cont.) The Truth About Net Zero Targets: Insights from John Lang (00:32:21)

221 episodes

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