Corporate Climate Action: Shaping 2024 and Beyond

NZI Sustainability Q&A Series

Discussions with change-makers, leaders and experts making
a positive impact on society and planet

Tom Hopcroft, president and CEO of the Net Zero Institute, is an ecosystem catalyst with a track record of building communities, fostering inclusive innovation and driving economic development. He is passionate about sustainability and committed to driving collaborations that accelerate  the transition to a net zero future.

What major trend do you anticipate shaping your industry in 2024? 

In 2024, I expect to see corporations playing an increasingly pivotal role in addressing climate change. As expectations for transparency and accountability rise among stakeholders like customers, employees, investors, and regulators, leaders at mid-market companies will emphasize setting clear and ambitious science-based targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while prioritizing sustainability measures as integral components of their business strategies. Adapting and thriving in this evolving landscape will be facilitated by successful leaders engaging in collaborative knowledge-sharing and benchmarking with their industry peers.

How will the sustainability and decarbonization landscape evolve over the next couple of years? 

I expect a rapid evolution in the sustainability and decarbonization landscape in the coming years. Corporations will pivot towards embedding sustainability deeply within their core business strategies instead of treating it as an ancillary concern. More companies will embrace innovative business practices, renewable energy sources, and principles of circular economy to reduce their carbon footprint. Collaboration amongst industries, governments, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will intensify, fostering the exchange of knowledge and hastening the development of sustainable technologies and business strategies.

How do you personally plan to positively impact the environment? 

I am deeply committed to confronting the pressing challenge of our time - the climate crisis. I've dedicated my skills, enthusiasm, experience, and network to creating meaningful change. Establishing the Net Zero Institute represents my endeavor to drive substantial progress in accelerating corporate decarbonization, at scale. Serving as the chair of the Winchester school committee, I'm actively involved in civic decarbonization efforts, notably the construction of our community's first all-electric net-zero building. 

In my personal life, I am making conscientious choices such as purchasing 100% green electricity, driving electric vehicles, upgrading windows and appliances, and speaking out on the importance, and the ROI, of considering decarbonization in every decision we make.

Anything else you’d like to add.

The urgency to address climate change becomes more pressing with each year and the growing return on investment means it is no longer an economic tradeoff. Each of us, whether in our professional or personal capacity , has the power to contribute positively towards mitigating this crisis. Collaboration, innovation, and a collective commitment to sustainable practices are necessary in safeguarding our planet for future generations. It is not a question of if, but when. 

What will you do next?