Northumbrian Water has been approved by the United Nations to become part of its Race To Zero campaign, as it set its own ambitious target.
The move comes as the company launches its Emission Possible plan for achieving Net Zero carbon by 2027.

It has already slashed its carbon emissions from 303,000 tonnes in 2008 to just 56,000 tonnes in 2020.
Race To Zero links 120 countries, 454 cities, 23 regions, 1,397 businesses, 74 of the world’s biggest investors and 569 universities in the largest ever alliance committed to achieving net zero carbon by 2050.
Northumbrian Water is already the only water company to use 100% of its sewage sludge to create energy and has an offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement which means it  will source around 30% of its electricity demand from the Race bank offshore wind farm.

Additionally, the company has plans for new solar installations in the next 18 months, as well as the deployment of onshore wind at more sites, where suitable and sensitive to the environment and communities.

The company has also set a target for zero avoidable waste by 2025.

Heidi Mottram, Chief Executive of Northumbrian Water said: “Climate change poses the single greatest threat to our environment and reducing carbon emissions is a vital step in tackling that challenge.
"Our plan outlines how we are facing this as a business and by joining the Race To Zero, we are recognising our part on the global fight ahead.
"Nobody has all the answers, but by working together we can share knowledge, ideas and experience in a way that can deliver impactful – and vital – results."

Rt Hon Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, Minister for Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change said: “As one of the UK’s leading water companies, Northumbrian Water are leading by example by rising to the challenge of decarbonising the water sector ahead of COP26.

“This pioneering plan not only supports the water industry’s sector-wide commitment to be Net Zero by 2030, but goes even further and faster, committing to eliminate its contribution to climate change by 2027.”

UK Net Zero Business Champion, Andrew Griffith MP added: “The Race to Zero commitment from Northumbrian Water is a shining example on how it is possible to build a greener, more sustainable water system.

“At both a regional and national level, these innovative steps to reduce emissions will not only protect the environment, but also prevent threats to water supply, secure green jobs across the country, and open the door to future investment."