Current Impact VS. Future Impact
A company's current impact refers to the existing environmental footprint it creates through its operations, supply chain, and products or services. On the other hand, future impact pertains to the potential environmental effects that a company can exert based on its forward-looking strategies and commitments.
When looking at net-zero pledges, they typically refer to a company's future impact. For example, a company might commit to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, implying a future positive effect. However, this doesn't necessarily account for its current impact. A company with substantial greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions today but a net-zero pledge for the future might be deemed 'sustainable,' overshadowing companies that have lower emissions today but lack a net-zero pledge. Thus, focusing on net zero can risk overlooking the existing environmental footprint of companies.