On Thursday, 11th September, Viki Bell, CEO of the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), stepped in at short notice to join the What’s the Future for Net Zero? panel at the Trade Association Forum’s (TAF) Best Practice Exchange, held at the Museum of London. The annual conference gathers more than 180 UK trade associations, representing over 190,000 businesses.
The session, chaired by Alison Heppenstall, Co-Executive Director of Climate Action for Associations (CAFA), explored how associations can guide a practical and balanced transition to Net Zero as political, economic and global pressures continue to shift. Alison opened the discussion with a clear message that associations have a unique opportunity to lead their sectors through the transition, turning Net Zero into a source of competitive advantage, member retention and resilience. She also stressed that collaboration is key – and that waiting for government to act is not an option.
Viki used the opportunity to underline the CEA’s position on technology neutrality and the need for supportive policy frameworks. She said:
“The CEA remains technology-neutral. We do not advocate for one solution over another, as many technologies will be needed to meet the carbon agenda. We are also calling for recognition that developing these technologies is expensive, often requiring much higher research and development budgets, which should be supported. Technology-neutral outcomes are needed, not a mandated route pushing one tech area over another. The UK will also need a solid infrastructure to support these various technologies, from battery and charging to hydrogen production and storage.”
The panel, which also included Rod Addy from the Provision Trade Federation, Mary Ntamark from the International Marine Contractors Association, and Maria del Mar Rojas from the Science Based Targets Initiative, agreed that associations have a crucial role to play in ensuring that Net Zero remains both realistic and achievable for their sectors.
The CEA’s participation follows its earlier shortlisting for Best Association Transformation at the TAF Awards, reflecting its ongoing commitment to championing member interests and driving positive change across the construction equipment sector.