Sustainable superannuation provider Future Group has unveiled RealZero Check, a free, open-source tool designed to assist investors and financial institutions set credible net zero targets and track decarbonisation progress.
Developed in collaboration with the University of Technology Sydney's Institute for Sustainable Futures, the tool leverages the One Earth Climate Model to benchmark portfolio emissions against global carbon budgets. It highlights the decarbonisation trajectory required to meet the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C climate target.
Despite widespread net zero pledges, progress toward genuine emissions reductions remains difficult to assess. RealZero Check addresses this by applying sector-specific carbon budgets, enabling users to identify areas for alignment with climate science.
"RealZero Check is about real, measurable progress toward genuine emissions reduction, setting a new global standard for responsible investing and climate accountability,” Future Group CEO Simon Sheikh said.
“With 79% of Australians desiring climate-aligned net zero commitments from their financial providers, RealZero Check will help the financial services sector develop meaningful, authentic, science-backed net zero strategies.
“Furthermore, it will empower investors to make informed investment choices by breaking down portfolio emissions in a way they can easily compare their impact against scientifically backed benchmarks.
“It is not about ticking boxes or relying on carbon offsets. We believe this is a world-first, especially in that we are making this tool free and open source – anyone can use it. This aligns with Future Group’s commitment to supporting impactful climate action in the finance industry.
“We believe capital is the key to achieving net zero targets. We don’t have the time to wait until 2050, there is only a small window of opportunity to create real change. RealZero Check will help get the industry on track.”
The initiative aligns with regulatory scrutiny on greenwashing, including directives from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), by promoting transparency in sustainability claims.
Jeremy Cooper, external chair of Future Group’s Carbon Advisory Board, highlighted the tool’s importance.
“Unlike traditional models, RealZero Check focuses on genuine emissions reduction, helping investors avoid over-reliance on offsets and meet real climate goals.
“By offering this tool for free, Future Group is not only advocating for but actively supporting a climate-responsible investment landscape,” Cooper said.
Future Group and UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures
Future Group is a collective of superannuation funds and financial services organisations committed to leveraging the power of money to drive positive change. The group invests, advocates, and campaigns with a singular goal: to create a future worth retiring into.
Future Group envisions a future where all retirement savings in Australia contribute to meaningful social and environmental impacts. With over 383,000 members and A$15 billion in assets under management across its brands, it stands among the largest superannuation groups in the country by membership.
The Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF) is an independent research institute within the University of Technology Sydney. Dedicated to advancing sustainability, ISF engages in transdisciplinary, project-based research aimed at fostering positive change and shaping a sustainable future.
For more details, visit RealZero Check.