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 .

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 to prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. In a recent episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast, Liz Martin, the company's sustainability lead, discussed the strategies and partnerships that have enabled this remarkable reduction.
The journey towards sustainability for IOP Publishing began with a clear commitment to reducing its carbon emissions. The company set ambitious targets and worked tirelessly to achieve them. Martin emphasized the importance of collaboration, both internally and externally, in driving these changes. Engaging with suppliers and employees has been crucial in identifying areas where emissions could be reduced and implementing effective solutions.
One of the key strategies employed by IOP Publishing has been the transition to digital publishing. By moving more journals online, the company has significantly reduced the need for paper and associated waste. This shift not only benefits the environment but also enhances the accessibility and reach of scientific research. Additionally, the company has focused on optimizing its office operations, ensuring that energy use is minimized and resources are managed efficiently.
Another critical aspect of IOP Publishing's sustainability efforts has been its partnerships with other organizations. By collaborating with partner societies and research institutions, the company has been able to leverage collective expertise and resources to achieve greater environmental impact. These partnerships have also facilitated the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions, further accelerating progress towards sustainability goals.
Despite the impressive 36% reduction in carbon emissions, IOP Publishing remains committed to further improvements. Martin highlighted the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, emphasizing the need for continued effort and innovation. The company is exploring new technologies and approaches to reduce its environmental impact even further, ensuring that its commitment to sustainability is not just a one-time achievement but an ongoing priority.
IOP Publishing is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Institute of Physics, 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 you 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 emissions since 2020 is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability. By working together with suppliers, employees, and partners, the company has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, the efforts of organizations like IOP Publishing serve as a valuable example of how collective action can drive meaningful change.









