Science-Based Targets, Greenwashing and Brownscraping - Net Zero Strategies in the Private Sector

Explore a comprehensive lecture examining the complexities of private sector net zero strategies and science-based targets, delivered by Professor Myles Allen, Director of the Oxford Net Zero initiative and Frank Jackson Foundation Professor of the Environment. Delve into critical topics including brown scraping, the distinction between good companies and good products, and the evolution of carbon disclosure and ESG practices. Learn about the Oxford Martin Principles, challenges in aviation sustainability, and the limitations of carbon offsetting. Gain insights into why focusing on decarbonizing products and services, rather than just companies and portfolios, may be more effective in addressing global warming. Through real-world examples like Oxford's climate divestment debate and Orsted's transformation story, understand the practical challenges and opportunities in corporate climate action. The lecture, recorded at Barnard's Inn Hall in London, offers expert analysis from a distinguished climate scientist recognized with a CBE for his contributions to climate change attribution, prediction, and net zero initiatives.

Syllabus

// Introduction
// Net Zero Claims and the Concept of Brown Scraping
// The Granddaughter Challenge and CEO Motivations
// Good Companies vs. Good Products
// Oxford's Climate Divestment Debate
// The USTED Paradox and Orsted's Story
// History and Impact of Carbon Disclosure and ESG
// The Oxford Martin Principles
// Science-Based Targets: Promise and Perils
// Aviation and Sustainable Alternatives
// Offsetting and Carbon Capture Challenges
// Conclusion