Fortescue has been recognised as a global leader in decarbonisation, earning top marks in a new report by Climate Integrity and the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney.
The Real Zero report highlights Fortescue, IKEA and Lendlease for pioneering climate strategies that eliminate fossil fuels without relying on carbon offsets – setting a benchmark for what credible climate leadership looks like.
Fortescue Metals CEO Dino Otranto said the recognition validates the company’s work in proving that heavy industry can transition away from fossil fuels now, not decades into the future.
“Fortescue, Lendlease and IKEA are showing that business can turn the tap off on fossil fuels as fast – or even faster – than the science says is necessary,” Otranto said.
“There are new and better ways of operating, through lower-cost, more efficient technologies. Fortescue is seizing these opportunities rather than foisting the problem on the next generation.”
The report comes amid growing global concern about climate change, with last year marking the first time the 1.5˚C global temperature threshold was breached. It positions Fortescue as a leader in the shift from “net zero” targets to “real zero” action – meaning no fossil fuel use and no offsets.
Climate Integrity director Claire Snyder said the ambition shown by Fortescue and its peers is reshaping expectations for corporate climate responsibility. “Our report shows that not only is Real Zero possible – it’s already happening, and it’s good for business,” she said.
Fortescue is rapidly scaling up renewable energy and battery storage in the Pilbara, including a 190MW solar farm under construction at Cloudbreak. The company is also working with IKEA and Lendlease on cross-sector partnerships to accelerate decarbonisation across industries.
Climate Integrity is a not-for-profit research and advocacy group championing science, transparency, accountability and justice in the transition to zero emissions.
