Hearst Magazines UK

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The Steering Committee and working groups bring together sustainability professionals with tremendous passion for the topic and a high level of motivation. The Ad Net Zero team itself is also excellent, highly committed and professional. However, I believe the tangible impact across the wider advertising industry remains almost inexistant. As someone working for a media owner that has supported Ad Net Zero since 2021, I still have not heard Ad Net Zero or its five-point Action Plan referenced within the business, from senior leadership through to commercial teams. This suggests that the initiative is not yet reaching the industry beyond the sustainability community. Media agencies have a particularly important role to play. They were instrumental in founding Ad Net Zero and are uniquely positioned between brands and media owners, but their engagement and advocacy need to become much more visible and systematic.

Live presentations with external speakers, combined with in-person networking events, are particularly valuable. Many of us working in sustainability can feel relatively isolated within our organisations, where the role can sometimes become focused on compliance and “ticking boxes.” Meeting peers facing similar challenges in other organisations brings fresh perspectives, renewed energy and motivation.

More in-person presentations with inspiring external speakers, followed by networking opportunities. The combination of learning and sharing from others and connecting with peers would add significant value.