Why we must use data to help us understand our steps to net zero

For Claire Parkinson, numbers don’t just tell a story - they help shape a cleaner future. As an energy manager at the Carbon Trust, her career has been driven by a passion for guiding people and organisations to understand, measure and reduce their environmental footprint.

In episode 31 of our podcast, The Decarbonisation Dialogue, Claire discusses the vital role maths and data play in tackling climate change, and why clear measurement is at the heart of credible climate action.

The Carbon Trust works with businesses, governments and financial institutions across the globe to accelerate the transition to net zero. Its team of more than 400 environmental sustainability experts, from engineers to policy specialists, supports organisations in planning, funding and delivering decarbonisation.

Claire brings a wealth of experience from industry, business and government. A Certified Energy Manager, she previously worked with the Welsh Government Energy Service, helping to drive Wales’ Net Zero Carbon agenda. Today, she supports carbon footprint projects and decarbonisation strategies across both public and private sectors.

Her route into the field is rooted in a love of data. In our podcast she says: “I have a love of numbers, a love of being able to measure and quantify what's going on.

“That drew me to the energy side, tracking electricity, gas, utilities and understanding the impact.”

Working within the Carbon Trust’s Cities and Regions team, Claire collaborates with public sector bodies including local authorities, health boards, universities and national government.

Much of her work remains closely aligned with the Welsh Government Energy Service, which offers free support to the public sector and community organisations.

“We’re really looking to develop the renewable side of projects, especially with the community sector,” she says. “We look at building energy efficiency, low-carbon heat, low-emissions fleets and energy planning.”

A key part of her role is capturing best practice across Wales. “If we can inspire confidence and prove that somebody like you has already done it, that goes a long way in gaining commitment, especially for cautious organisations with big responsibilities.”

One of the most recognisable aspects of the Carbon Trust’s work is its footprint label - seen on products from food packaging to electronics.

“There are two types of labels,” Claire says. “They allow brands to certify either their product or their organisation. A product carbon footprint label verifies that a brand is measuring and reducing its emissions.”

This covers everything from energy used in production to transportation and raw material impacts. The result is a verified footprint that consumers can use to make informed choices.

“It’s a clear label. Even if people don’t look up the detail, seeing it raises awareness that carbon footprint matters. And for businesses, it highlights where to target reductions.”

Claire’s message is clear: start with measurement.

“You need to work out your carbon footprint, not just gas and electricity, but upstream and downstream emissions too,” she says. “What comes into your business? What happens to your products when they leave? How are they disposed of or recycled?”

Once the baseline is clear, organisations can set targets, often aligned with the science-based targets initiative, and develop a strategy with buy-in across all departments - from senior leadership to finance teams.

“The value we bring is the ‘how’. We help organisations plan country by country, operation by operation, and implement those plans, from tenders and specifications to engaging suppliers.”

There is progress to celebrate. UK electricity emissions have halved in the past decade through increased offshore wind and the decline of coal. But individuals still have a crucial role to play through the everyday choices they make.

Claire takes pride in contributing to visible change, particularly in Wales. Recent projects include rooftop solar installations on public buildings and supporting heat pump rollouts in domestic properties.

Her work has even sparked recognition at home. “Whenever my sons see a solar panel, they ask if I installed it. They’ve made that link themselves!”

She also finds hope in the small signs of a shifting society. “When I see more electric vehicles on the road, it shows me others are taking steps too.”

Looking ahead, the 2030 public sector target is a major personal milestone.

“I want to see that through,” she says. “There is so much potential when government and local authorities are committed. It’s a great place to be.”

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