The British Coatings Federation (BCF) has launched the 2026 edition of its Roadmap to Net Zero, unveiling a strengthened evidence base, revised emissions trajectory, and an urgent call to action for Government and industry members as the sector accelerates progress toward Net Zero by 2050.

Since publishing the first roadmap in 2023, BCF has expanded and refined its emissions dataset. Enhanced industry participation and improved historical submissions have resulted in a more accurate 2018 baseline for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, rising from approximately 100,000 tons carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) to 110,000 tCO₂e. 

With revised data applied across subsequent years, the dataset now provides a more reliable foundation for tracking future progress and modelling long-term decarbonization pathways.

The Roadmap includes a renewed, urgent set of policy recommendations to the Government to ensure the coatings industry can deliver on its Net Zero commitments.

Key asks include:

• Long-term policy stability to unlock industrial investment.
• A new Industrial Decarbonization Capital Support Mechanism to replace the closed Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF).
• Green capital allowances to incentivize low-carbon technology upgrades.
• A “Help to Grow: Net Zero” scheme to support SMEs with Scope 3 measurement and transition planning.
• Accelerated access to hydrogen, Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage, and modular nuclear technologies for industry.
• Expanded green skills and workforce training pathways to equip employees for the transition ahead.
• A proportionate, functional UK REACH system that supports sustainable materials innovation without imposing prohibitive costs.

The 2026 Roadmap also outlines a strengthened action plan for companies across the coatings, printing inks, and wallcoverings sector. BCF emphasizes that success will require commitment not only within manufacturing sites but across the full value chain: suppliers, customers, logistics partners, waste and recycling systems, and beyond.

With early delivery already exceeding expectations and a strengthened baseline underpinning future decisions, the UK coatings industry is well-positioned to continue its Net Zero journey.

The 2026 Roadmap sets out revised milestones; 62% emissions reduction by 2030, 71% by 2035, and 81% by 2040, and provides practical guidance, collaboration frameworks and clear expectations for both Government and industry.

BCF CEO Tom Bowtell commented: “Our industry has made decisive progress, but the next decade will be critical. This Roadmap shows what we have achieved, and what we must now tackle together. With the right policy support and strong collaboration across the value chain, we can deliver a competitive, resilient, and sustainable future for the UK coatings industry.”