Rethinking Net-Zero for Climate Solutions Companies: Balancing Growth with Emissions Reduction

Download our collaborative Whitepaper with Oatly, the Original Oat Drink Company, examining how the Climate Solutions Framework (CSF), developed by the Exponential Roadmap Initiative (ERI) and Oxford Net-Zero, enables climate solutions companies scale their positive climate impact.

The Net-Zero Framework Paradox

Current net-zero frameworks focus on absolute emission reductions from all businesses, which creates a paradox for companies whose products directly contribute to solving climate change. Companies offering low-carbon alternatives play a vital role in global decarbonisation, and intensity-based targets can offer an effective complementary approach for these organisations.

Oatly’s Ambitious Climate Vision

The food sector represents one-third of global emissions, making it a critical area for climate innovation. Oatly provides oat-based alternatives that help address this challenge. Their strategy recognises that scaling climate solutions in food production is essential for accelerating decarbonisation, while balancing growth with environmental responsibility.

Oatly worked with EcoAct to develop an ambitious roadmap that:

• Establishes progressive emissions intensity reduction targets through 2050

• Maintains and improves significant emissions reductions compared to conventional dairy

• Enables business growth while continually reducing emissions per unit of production

• Contributes to broader societal decarbonisation by scaling lower-carbon alternatives

In this Exclusive Whitepaper, You’ll Discover

• How net-zero frameworks can evolve to better support climate solutions companies and accelerate societal decarbonisation

• The rigorous criteria established by the Climate Solutions Framework (CSF) for qualifying as a climate solutions company

• How EcoAct helped Oatly develop intensity-based targets that balance growth with emissions reduction

• Recommendations for evolving net-zero frameworks to maximise societal climate impact