How to Choose a Credible Net Zero Consultant
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
The sustainability space is booming — but so is confusion. From glossy “green” brands to big four rebrands, it’s getting harder to separate substance from spin.
So how do you choose a climate consultant who’s actually credible — and right for your organisation? Here’s a simple, no-nonsense guide to cut through the noise.
1. Look for expertise in strategy and delivery
A good net zero consultant won’t just hand you a carbon footprint and disappear. They’ll help you make sense of what to do next — and how to do it.
Ask:
Can they align climate strategy with operational delivery?
Do they understand capital cycles, estates, supply chains, or your sector?
Have they implemented real projects — or just written reports?
2. Ask what standards and frameworks they work with
Credible consultants will be familiar with the big ones:
GHG Protocol for carbon baselining
TCFD / ISSB / IFRS S2 for governance and reporting
PAS 2060 or SBTi for net zero targets
TNFD if you’re exploring nature risk
If they can’t explain how their work aligns with these, be wary.
3. Check how they handle Scope 3 (without overpromising)
Beware anyone who claims Scope 3 is “easy” or gives you instant carbon values for everything you buy. A credible consultant will:
Be honest about data limitations
Use hybrid or spend-based methods transparently
Prioritise practical action over theoretical precision
4. Make sure they tailor to your context
Net zero plans should look different for a listed building charity vs. a regional manufacturer vs. a rural estate.
A one-size-fits-all plan with generic graphics isn’t enough. You want a consultant who asks about your governance, your assets, your constraints — and adapts accordingly.
5. Look for independence and transparency
Are they incentivised to recommend particular products or technologies? Do they offer offsetting schemes or installations on the side? That’s not necessarily a problem — but it should be disclosed.
Credible consultants will:
Declare conflicts of interest
Offer transparent pricing
Help you make informed decisions — not sell to you
Bonus: Ask to see something they’ve written
A proposal, a thought piece, a past report — anything that shows how they think. This will tell you more than any credentials list.
At Resilient Horizons, we’re proudly independent, quietly expert, and deeply committed to climate credibility. If you’re looking for a partner who’ll cut through the fluff and deliver what matters — we’d love to talk.
get in touch to see if we’re the right fit.