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Efficiency and climate change: breaking all the wrong records

It doesn’t take more than a cursory Google to find examples of extreme weather occurrences in 2023, not just in the Australasia region, but globally. From the wildfires in Canada, intense monsoons and heavy rains in India and the northeastern US, the world record breaking scorching summer temperatures in Europe and Asia, to the absolute devastation of Maui from fires fuelled by high winds and dry conditions, the impact has been widespread and a threat to life.


These extreme weather events are largely attributed to climate change, a consequence of continued human reliance on coal, oil, and natural gas to power our lifestyles. Climate scientists predict increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather without global energy management intervention unless there is a unified global effort to curb rising temperatures. 


The impact of global warming: a closer look 


  • Rising sea levels: the global mean sea level has risen between 21–24 centimetres since 1880 due to the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps, and the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms. Coastlines typically have high density populations, 8 out of 10 of the world’s largest cities are near the coast, rising sea levels threaten the infrastructure necessary to support them: roads, bridges, water supplies, energy supplies, sewage treatment plants and waste water management- the list is endless.


  • Extreme weather events: the altered temperature dynamics influence atmospheric circulation. Areas of high-pressure trap hot air causing temperatures to soar over large areas creating heat domes, resulting in extended droughts, heatwaves, and wildfires. For every 1C rise in average temperature, the atmosphere holds around 7% more moisture causing changes to precipitation patterns. The likelihood and intensity of these events pose significant challenges to ecosystems, communities, and global stability.


  • Disruption of ecosystems: we are reliant on natural ecosystem structures and their functions – the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat. Various biological processes are influenced by temperatures, from the timings of leaves opening, the development of fruit through to insects hatching and fish spawning. The relationship between the natural world and our survival relies on the delicate balance of ecosystems.


  • Social and economic disparities: vulnerable and impoverished communities bear a disproportionate burden of the impacts of climate change. The limited financial resources restrict their capacity to prepare for or respond to the economic, social, and health consequences from climate change. As a result, people may be forced to migrate leading to the emergence of climate refugees and potential geopolitical challenges. 


a woman is holding a sign in front of a solar panel .

Is 1.5C the magic number?

In 2015, 195 countries signed the Paris Agreement, committing to limit the increase of the global average temperature to "well below 2C above pre-industrial levels" and aiming for a stricter limit of 1.5C. The latter was considered an achievable benchmark for even the small island states and the least developed countries to deliver within the timeframe, but also to act as a defence line to prevent further deterioration and the severe irreversible climate effects associated with a 2C plus increase.


Setting a 1.5C target like this has been advantageous: it’s simple and clear to understand, and most importantly measurable. But viewed independently without considering the scientific evidence and the real-world impact behind the target, such a small figure could be construed as insignificant. However, it’s crucial to recognise this narrow target is anything but trivial. 

So, is 1.5C the magic number? While global efforts aim to keep temperatures below the 1.5C limit over the long term, variations in regional and seasonal conditions mean that extreme weather events are increasingly occurring, even without reaching the threshold – the reality is 1.5C isn’t likely enough, but it is attainable.


Beyond a number

As of 2022, the average global temperature has risen by around 1.15C above preindustrial levels. Forecasts from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) indicate a 66 percent probability of surpassing the critical 1.5C threshold within the next four years. This escalation is attributed to human-induced climate change, coupled with the influence of a warming El Niño phenomenon.


The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) considers the long-term goal of staying below the 1.5C threshold can be met if carbon dioxide emissions are halved by 2030 and the world collectively works together to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.



a windmill and a cloud of co2 are on a wooden scale .

Action now to benefit the future

At an individual level, you have the opportunity to make positive choices today to address your personal emission contributions to reduce the impact (such as transportation and energy consumption). However, it is the business and industry leaders who have the power to make the biggest changes. Compelling people to make changes often requires a shift in mindset and a realisation of how process optimisation benefits the climate, but also the profitability of the business – and this is where DETA excels. Energy consultants in NZ/Australia play a crucial role in advising businesses and corporations on energy audit and management, energy efficiency services, and sustainable practices.


Innovations in various fields, including energy, are essential to achieving this 1.5C goal. Our energy consultants in NZ/Australia, sustainability consultants, and ESG consultants are valuable resources for businesses and individuals looking to adopt sustainable and streamlined business practices. They provide expertise in areas such as energy efficiency, carbon management, wastewater management, sustainability consulting, and industrial project management.


Additionally, DETA sustainability consultants in NZ/Australia and ESG consultants develop strategies for decarbonisation and managing carbon footprints. By focusing on identifying and implementing practical and realistic improvements, we help businesses make positive long-term impacts to organisational performance, efficiency and the environment for the lowest cost.


A sustainable and lucrative future starts with embracing responsible business practices. Whether you are at the start of your carbon emission journey or would like us to review your current strategy and its outcomes through our energy audit services, get in touch. DETA can help you reshape your business for a bright future.



We have teams currently delivering projects across Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific, click here for your regions contact details. 

Proactive Solutions for New Zealand’s Gas Challenges

by Anne-Maree Ward • 13 December 2024
Energy Efficiency and Conservation: Navigating New Zealand's Gas Challenges New Zealand’s energy market is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Rising gas prices, a steady decline in local gas production, and the country’s ambitious decarbonisation targets are creating significant pressure for businesses to adapt. The era of cheap, reliable gas is fading, and for industries that rely on it, the time to act is now. Businesses need to move beyond merely coping with the changes and start embracing practical, forward-thinking solutions that drive efficiency, reduce costs, and align with New Zealand’s sustainability objectives. While the pressure to reduce fossil fuel dependency grows, there’s an opportunity for businesses to innovate. By adopting energy-efficient technologies and lower carbon alternatives, companies can gain a competitive edge while managing the immediate impacts of the gas crisis and preparing for a future with more sustainable energy sources. The evolving gas landscape: what’s driving the change? New Zealand’s gas sector is in a state of flux, with local production dwindling and no imported natural gas available. On top of this, the government’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is placing additional pressure on businesses to reduce their carbon footprint. For many businesses, continuing to rely on gas is no longer a sustainable long-term strategy. Now is the time to take a step back and consider alternative energy solutions that provide greater stability and long-term value. The path forward involves shifting away from traditional fossil fuels, investing in energy-efficient technologies, and exploring lower carbon energy alternatives. Energy efficiency: the key to resilience While facing such uncertainty in the energy market, energy efficiency is more than just a cost-saving measure—it’s key to building resilience. By reducing energy consumption, businesses can mitigate the financial impact of rising gas prices, all while contributing to New Zealand’s decarbonisation goals. Achieving energy efficiency means not only cutting down on costs but it also positions businesses as leaders in sustainability, supports the uptake of a continuous improvement mindset across the business, and reduces environmental impact. But considering energy efficiency alone isn’t enough. The real challenge lies in the broader energy supply-demand balance across New Zealand. As businesses look to transition away from gas, the energy must still come from somewhere and the market has to react. This is a massive challenge for NZ Inc but many businesses are looking at ways to be innovative and creative with their energy usage and procurement utilising tools like storage, flexible operation and long term contracts to not only create maximise value for their organisations but also to support New Zealand's energy transition.

Measuring up: the importance of energy audits in business

12 December 2024
Historically, auditing has been seen as an undesirable expense with little perceived value for businesses. With organisations failing to see the benefit of examining the finer details of their operations, and with staff assigned to prepare for the audit feeling like they've drawn the short straw, audits have never been fun. Until now. This is when energy audits enter the room to great fanfare. The shift towards sustainability , driven by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, is reshaping how businesses approach energy consumption, waste management, and carbon footprint, and crucially, their relationship with audits. Energy audits are the one type of audit that delivers positivity; they are one of the most effective tools to help businesses reduce their environmental impact while boosting their bottom line through optimised processes and reducing costs. For organisations across Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific , understanding the significance of energy audits and how they lead to long-term cost savings, improved efficiency, and enhanced sustainability is fundamental to business success. Unpacking energy audits: the key to unlocking sustainability An energy audit is a comprehensive evaluation of a business's energy use and efficiency. Its primary goal is to uncover areas where energy is being wasted and identify opportunities for energy savings. This process is essential for any business aiming to improve its sustainability, reduce operating costs, and meet carbon reduction targets. Whether you are operating a small enterprise or managing a large industrial site, an energy audit provides actionable insights to reduce the environmental impact of the business and improve energy management. There are different types of energy audits, from Lite Audits offering a quick, low-risk assessment, to Detailed Energy Audits, which provide a more thorough and long-term analysis of energy use across the facilities. Both types of audits help you understand current energy consumption patterns and reveal the potential areas for energy efficiency improvements. From insight to action: why energy audits are a business game-changer Energy audits are not just about identifying problems; they are about identifying opportunities for improvement. By performing regular energy audits, businesses can benefit in the following ways: Cost savings One of the most immediate, attractive and tangible benefits of an energy audit is the potential for significant cost savings through the identification of inefficiencies that are costing the business or organisation money. For example, a company may be using outdated lighting or HVAC systems that consume excessive energy. Through equipment upgrades and optimisations , these inefficiencies can be corrected, leading to significant savings on utility bills. Energy audits are also adept at identifying unexpected bottlenecks in industrial processes and are often the first to highlight the potential for process optimisation, improving a business’s overall efficiency and profitability. 
Two construction workers are looking at a blueprint on a construction site.

From concept to completion: achieving industrial projects with sustainable agendas

12 December 2024
In today’s world, the intersection of industrial progress and sustainability has become a critical focus. As businesses and industries expand their reach, the importance of embedding sustainable practices into project management is no longer optional - it’s essential. By integrating sustainability principles from the early stages of a project through to completion, organisations can achieve not only economic gains but also valuable long-term environmental and societal benefits. The role of sustainability in industrial project management Sustainability in project management involves adopting practices that address environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations throughout the project lifecycle. This shift reflects a growing recognition that industrial success isn’t just about profitability; it’s about creating enduring value for communities and the ecosystems on which we rely. Industries across New Zealand and Australia are increasingly collaborating with sustainability consultants and ESG consultants to align their projects with global sustainability standards. These professionals guide organisations in setting and achieving ambitious goals, whether it’s reducing carbon footprints, improving resource efficiency, or enhancing social responsibility. For instance, energy consultants in NZ play a pivotal role in industrial projects by conducting energy audits and offering insights into energy-efficient designs, ultimately lowering operational costs and environmental impact. Key strategies for embedding sustainability in industrial projects Implementing sustainability isn’t just about compliance - it’s about innovation. Here’s how industrial project teams incorporate sustainability into their processes: 1. Defining clear sustainability goals Every successful project begins with a clear roadmap. Sustainability goals should align with both organisational values and broader environmental targets, such as the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Collaborating with energy efficiency consultants and process engineering consultants helps businesses define measurable objectives, such as achieving specific reductions in energy consumption or waste. For example, organisations in the manufacturing sector can work with energy management services in NZ or Australia to develop energy audit services to pinpoint inefficiencies and identify greener alternatives. 
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