Networks, Data & The Future of Net Zero with Sarah Merricks

What if the biggest barrier to achieving Net Zero isn't technology, policy, or even funding?

What if it's fragmentation?

In this episode of Clear Haze Exchange, Marcus Hazelwood sits down with Sarah Merricks, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Global Network for Zero (GNFZ), to discuss why the future of decarbonization depends on building stronger networks supported by transparent, measurable data. 

Sarah draws from her experience helping expand LEED globally during her time at USGBC and now helping organizations navigate the complexities of Net Zero through GNFZ.

This conversation explores:

•  Why the Net Zero movement remains fragmented globally 
•  Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions explained 
•  Why Scope 3 remains one of the biggest challenges organizations face 
•  Why existing buildings need a different approach 
•  The power of data-backed decision making 
•  How networks accelerate progress 
•  Why implementation now matters more than pledges 
•  How different countries are approaching decarbonization 

Key Takeaway:

Data creates clarity. Networks create momentum.

As Sarah explains, organizations shouldn't ask:

"What is everyone else doing?"

They should ask:

"What does our data tell us is urgent and achievable?"

🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms.

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What is Clear Haze Exchange?

Clear Haze Exchange is an interview-led podcast focused on simplifying sustainability while uncovering the hidden systems, decisions, and long-term impacts shaping our built environment and energy future.

Hosted by Marcus Hazelwood, an energy engineer with 15+ years of experience in sustainability and energy efficiency consulting, the podcast has evolved across two seasons:

Season 1 focused on breaking down the fundamentals—making energy efficiency, building systems, and sustainability concepts more accessible and practical for a wide range of listeners.
Season 2 builds on that foundation, diving deeper into the systems-level thinking behind sustainability—exploring how decisions in design, operations, policy, and business strategy create long-term outcomes.

Each episode features thoughtful conversations with industry leaders, engineers, architects, researchers, and decision-makers who are actively shaping the future of sustainability. From building performance and infrastructure to sustainable chemistry and organizational mindset, Clear Haze Exchange connects ideas across disciplines to provide real-world insight.

This podcast is for professionals and curious minds alike, those who want to better understand not just what sustainability is, but how it actually works in practice.

If you're interested in smarter investments, better systems, and meaningful progress, you're in the right place.

Subscribe to Clear Haze Exchange on your favorite platform and join the conversation.

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