Destination Net Zero: Setting and delivering ambitious, credible targets

Dr Chris Jones, knowledge exchange fellow for Tyndall Manchester at the University, is one of six UK academics to have co-authored a briefing that sets out the science behind net zero targets, and the considerations that policymakers and industry leaders should take when adopting and implementing targets. The aim of the briefing is to raise ambition for tangible outcomes at the UN COP26 Climate Change Conference, to be held in Glasgow in November 2021.

The briefing shares key recommendations, including: an achievable and equitable target date; balancing emissions with removals; tackling the right emissions; planning for delivery; and grasping the opportunity at COP26.

The briefing has been developed on behalf of the COP26 Universities Network, a growing group of more than 55 UK-based universities and research centres. The Network’s mission is to ensure that the UK academic sector plays its role in delivering a successful COP26, getting all players on track to deliver a zero-carbon, resilient world.

This briefing in just one example of the work Dr Chris Jones delivers as part of Tyndall Manchester, transferring research from the group into policy, industry and community applications. Recent projects on this include:

  • Developing an online resource for any local area in the UK to produce a carbon budget.
  • Working with Manchester City Council to support their 2020 climate change policy framework.
  • Reviewing work for Electricity North West on immediate actions their business customers can take to reduce their emissions in line with local climate emergency declarations.