Planet Mark launches new net zero certification programme

Planet Mark has introduced a new Net Zero Certification Programme, restructuring its membership model to assist organisations in achieving net zero carbon emissions.

The new programme offers a clear and structured pathway with four levels of certification: Business, Committed, Aligned, and Achieved. These are designed to align with organisations' stages of progression towards achieving net zero status. Each certification level is paired with five tailored membership packages that aim to provide the required resources and guidance.

The initial certification level, Planet Mark Certified - Business, supports companies in measuring their Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 carbon emissions, enabling them to establish a net zero baseline. The subsequent levels, Net Zero Committed and Net Zero Aligned, challenge organisations to set clear targets and reach near-term goals, respectively. The culmination of these efforts is the Net Zero Achieved status, which recognises an organisation's accomplishment in reducing 90% of all identified carbon emissions.

Members also gain access to the Planet Mark Data Platform and the newly established Planet Mark Academy. These provide tools for collecting robust data and resources for embracing sustainable practices, respectively. The academy offers workshops and training sessions aimed at fostering knowledge and leadership in sustainability.

The programme intends to address challenges identified in the UK Net Zero Business Census, where it was noted that significant barriers such as cost and lack of access to expertise inhibit progress towards net zero. By equipping organisations with the necessary tools and guidance, Planet Mark aims to help members maximise their environmental impact while adapting to evolving industry standards.

The initiative further intends to boost organisations' sustainability credentials, offering them the ability to communicate achievements through a suite of media assets, structured content, and the use of a certification badge. These tools are expected to enhance competitiveness and offer proof of their environmental efforts.

Steve Malkin, CEO and Founder at Planet Mark, commented: "2025 to 2030 are critical years, with global average temperatures in 2024 breaking records by surpassing the warming limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius for the first time, we must act urgently to protect the future of our planet. We want every organisation to feel empowered to drive impactful change and embed sustainability into their operations. Equally important is recognition for their efforts and the ability to clearly and effectively communicate those achievements to others. Our new Net Zero Certification Programme provides our inspiring community with the structure needed to achieve net zero, engaging their supply chain and ecosystem to do the same for maximum impact in our lifetime."

Andrew Griffiths, Director of Policy & Corporate Development at Planet Mark, added: "Planet Mark's Net Zero Certification enables organisations to remain ahead of the curve by being fully aligned with best practice principles from all major global standards relating to carbon measurement, target setting, transition planning, governance and progress tracking toward net zero. Advancing through the levels from committed, to aligned, to achieved is the strongest proof that an organisation can give to be publicly recognised for playing a leading role in solving the climate crisis."

From the perspective of a Planet Mark member, David Hine, General Manager at HighWater, shared: "Becoming a Planet Mark Member was a natural step for HighWater as a growing business, and aligns with our commitment to enhancing the sustainability of our operations. This partnership reinforces our dedication to creating a greener future with valuable guidance from Planet Mark on our journey towards Net Zero Certification. We're excited to collaborate with Planet Mark and leverage their expertise to drive meaningful progress."