British Glass has shared an update on the UK glass industry’s route to net zero, publishing the latest progress since its 2021 release.

The updated report provides an in-depth review of the industry’s progress on its journey to achieving net zero carbon emissions.

It highlights the advancements since 2020/2021 and details the sector’s carbon reduction efforts.

The report also provides an update on the status of policy recommendations, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

First published in 2021, the glass sector net zero strategy laid out a roadmap for the UK glass industry to achieve net zero by 2050.

This latest progress report acknowledges developments in low-carbon technologies, energy availability, and decarbonisation commitments across the sector.

As glass is an essential material for a low-carbon economy, used in applications such as renewable energy systems, transport, and building insulation, the sector plays a critical role in supporting carbon reduction efforts in other industries.

The progress update reveals that many UK glass manufacturers are now in the process of implementing detailed investment plans to support their decarbonisation goals.

However, these goals depend heavily on government policies that encourage low-carbon energy solutions, recycling innovations, and funding for research and development.

Paul Pearcy, Federation Manager at British Glass, said: “Since the publication of the original strategy, UK glass manufacturers have raised their decarbonisation ambitions, particularly in relation to fuel switching and reducing process emissions, making great strides to reduce carbon emissions.

“While some progress has been made, there are still key areas where additional government support is needed such as the continued and enhanced investment needed in energy infrastructure and recycling technologies to ensure UK manufacturers can remain competitive while meeting net zero targets.”

Despite the progress made, British Glass said further action was required to reach net zero.

It said continued development of low-carbon energy technologies and policies that encourage recycling, and ensure that sites have access to competitively priced low-carbon fuels, are critical to the sector’s success.

The full report can be found here: British Glass Net Zero Strategy Update