Pathways to Net Zero: Unlocking Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration in Business Ecosystems, a seminar by Professor Qile He (University of Derby)

Pathways to Net Zero: Unlocking Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration in Business Ecosystems

By Professor Qile (Horace) He from the University of Derby

Abstract

Under the Climate Change Act, the UK has committed to achieving Net Zero (NZ) by 2050, meaning a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from 1990 levels. However, progress toward these targets has been hampered by frequent delays in Net Zero initiatives across regions, driven by policy shifts and limited engagement from firms and other stakeholders. Currently, insufficient attention is given to the role and mechanisms of multi-stakeholder collaboration in advancing Net Zero. Although policy discourse emphasizes the need for collaborative approaches to address the complex challenge of decarbonizing local economies, both government and industry remain vague in articulating effective strategies for fostering such collaborations.

Drawing on a British Academy-funded project, Professor Qile (Horace) He will present the development of an action-based framework for multi-stakeholder collaboration on Net Zero. The talk will outline the research process and key findings, which explore the diverse—and often conflicting—interests within Net Zero ecosystems. It will also offer insights into practical techniques for enabling effective collaboration across stakeholder networks in the East Midlands region of the UK. In particular, the presentation will introduce a novel stakeholder mapping tool and a two-dimensional, action-based heuristic framework designed to facilitate multi-stakeholder engagement for Net Zero. The study’s findings have significant implications for supporting firms and policymakers in designing strategies and policies that enhance corporate engagement with the Net Zero agenda.

About the Speaker

Qile (Horace) He, PhD, is Professor of Strategy and Performance Management at the University of Derby, where he serves as Chair of both the Research Committee and the Research Degrees Committee within the Derby International Business School. His research focuses on interfirm alliances and partnerships, innovation strategies and organizational processes, as well as sustainable and responsible business practices. Professor He has authored more than 100 publications, including refereed journal articles, book chapters, and papers presented at leading international conferences. He is a Council Member of the British Academy of Management (BAM) and a Fellow of the BAM Peer Review College.