Stefania Chica-Jacome
Climate & Sustainability Consultant, Scope 3 & Sustainable Procurement Expert & Carbon Trainer, UK
Stefania Chica-Jacome is a climate and sustainability consultant with deep expertise in Scope 3 emissions and sustainable procurement. She has supported clients across the built environment, facilities management, rail, entertainment, and education sectors, helping them shape tailored sustainability strategies aligned with their business goals. Stefania has worked across the UK and Latin America, bringing a global perspective to her advisory work.
With a strong focus on supply chain engagement, she specializes in upskilling suppliers to drive measurable carbon reductions and embed sustainability across the value chain. She holds a Master’s degree in Sustainability and Environmental Economics from the University of St. Andrews and is a certified carbon trainer at the award-winning Supply Chain Sustainability School in the UK. Stefania also supports the Climate Action Group, leading collaborative initiatives that help organizations accelerate their climate ambitions. She advises on carbon foot printing, science-based targets, sustainable procurement, and embedding net-zero goals into core business strategies, always with a focus on practical, impactful action.
1. How are global companies embedding net-zero goals into their core business strategies not just CSR initiatives?
The companies making real progress on net zero don’t’ treat it it as a CSR initiative, they embed it at the heart of their business strategy. For example, net-zero targets now influence decision making across finance, operations, procurement, and product development.
We’re seeing emissions data integrated into key performance metrics, and executive accountability built into governance structures. Procurement teams are playing a central role, working across the supply chain to reduce Scope 3 emissions and drive innovation. Climate goals are also influencing long-term risk assessments and strengthening business resilience.
In short, net zero is no longer just a reporting obligation or a PR goal. It’s becoming a core part of how businesses make decisions. Companies are starting to treat climate action the same way they treat financial risk or profit, and they are recognising that it is a critical driver of their long-term success. That shift is what turns net-zero goals into real business change.
2. What lessons can we learn from countries or corporations that are ahead in their carbon reduction journeys?
One key lesson from corporations ahead in their carbon journey is the importance of strong executive commitment. In these leading organisations, carbon is treated as a strategic issue, not just an environmental one. This means climate performance is regularly reviewed at the highest levels, often supported by dedicates roles or teams that keep the board informed and engaged.
Another common trait is that carbon reduction is not siloed; it's embedded across departments, especially in procurement. These organisations use contracts as powerful levers to drive emissions reductions throughout their supply chains, sending a clear message to suppliers that sustainability is non-negotiable.
Lastly, they don’t shy away from tackling Scope 3 emissions. Even though these are often the hardest to measure and influence, leading companies take proactive steps to understand and reduce them because they know real progress means addressing the full footprint, not just what’s easiest to control.
3. What role does government policy and public-private collaboration play in driving carbon reduction in the region?
Government policy is key to cutting carbon emissions in the Middle East. In the UAE, for instance, having clear government direction is essential to drive real progress. The new climate law is an important step because it sets a national plan for reaching net zero and shows both public and private sectors what’s expected of them. It gives the kind of certainty that encourages long-term investment in climate solutions.
Equally important is public-private collaboration. Businesses in the region are aligning their climate strategies with national targets, and leveraging government led programs to access funding and expert guidance. Without strong policies and coordinated collaboration, it will be difficult to drive the kind of systemic change needed in the Middle East.
Ultimately, the region’s journey to net zero will depend on a true partnership: governments providing clear direction and support, and the private sector ready to innovate and lead. Together, this collaboration can unlock the full potential for a low carbon future across the Middle East.