How IOP Publishing cut its carbon footprint by 36% since 2020

The company’s sustainability lead Liz Martin is our podcast guest The post How IOP Publishing cut its carbon footprint by 36% since 2020 appeared first on Physics World .

6 April 2026 at 07:09 pm

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How IOP Publishing cut its carbon footprint by 36% since 2020

IOP Publishing, a leading scholarly publisher, has achieved a significant reduction in its carbon footprint since 2020, cutting emissions by 36% compared to the baseline year. This remarkable achievement is the result of a concerted effort by the company, driven by its sustainability lead, Liz Martin. In a recent episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast, Martin discussed the strategies and partnerships that have enabled IOP Publishing to make such a substantial impact on the environment.

The journey towards sustainability for IOP Publishing began with a clear understanding of the company's carbon footprint. By identifying key areas where emissions were highest, the team was able to focus on implementing targeted initiatives. One of the primary strategies was to shift towards more digital publishing, as this significantly reduced the need for paper and associated transportation. Additionally, the company invested in energy-efficient office equipment and implemented a comprehensive recycling program.

However, achieving such a substantial reduction in carbon emissions was not without its challenges. Martin highlighted the importance of cooperation and partnerships in driving change. This included working closely with suppliers to identify opportunities for reducing emissions in the supply chain. By engaging with suppliers, IOP Publishing was able to source more sustainable materials and optimize logistics to minimize transportation-related emissions.

Employee engagement was another critical factor in IOP Publishing's sustainability journey. The company encouraged staff to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as reducing paper use and opting for digital communication. By fostering a culture of sustainability within the organization, IOP Publishing was able to create a ripple effect, with employees taking pride in contributing to the company's environmental goals.

Despite the impressive 36% reduction in carbon footprint, IOP Publishing remains committed to further improvements. Martin emphasized the need for ongoing efforts and partnerships to achieve even greater environmental benefits. This includes exploring new technologies and collaborating with other organizations to share best practices and drive systemic change.

IOP Publishing is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Institute of Physics, which serves as the professional body and learned society for physics in the UK and Ireland. The publisher produces over 100 scholarly journals, with half of these published jointly with or on behalf of partner societies and research organizations. Physics World, a popular science magazine, is also brought to life by IOP Publishing.

To gain a deeper understanding of IOP Publishing's sustainability efforts, readers can download the company's Sustainability Report 2025. This comprehensive document outlines the strategies and achievements of the publisher in reducing its carbon footprint and sets the stage for future goals.

In conclusion, IOP Publishing's 36% reduction in carbon footprint since 2020 is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and employee engagement in achieving sustainable development. By prioritizing partnerships and continuous improvement, the company has set an example for others in the publishing industry to follow. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, initiatives like these are crucial in paving the way towards a more sustainable future.

Source: Physics World

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