From Data to Community: My Journey As A Net Zero Tracker

Bolivia-based lawyer and UNICEF employee, Luis Xavier Avalos Bozo began volunteering with NZT in 2023. He reflects on how the experience has strengthened his understanding of climate accountability, and the growing role of emerging economies in the net zero transition.

How did you come to volunteer with Net Zero Tracker?

"I came across Net Zero Tracker through LinkedIn and was immediately interested in the project. At the time, I was already focusing on environmental issues through my legal studies and professional work, having a Master’s degree in business, economic and regulatory law.

I’d been engaged in climate-related topics for several years, and I wanted to better understand how global climate commitments translate into real-world action. NZT offered a practical, data-driven way to do that. It felt like a logical step to volunteer.”

What was the volunteering experience like?

“It’s been a very positive and flexible experience. The project is structured to give you clear timelines and expectations, but also the freedom to manage your workload depending on your schedule.

The work requires careful verification and attention to detail. You are checking disclosures, validating sources, and ensuring information is accurate and up-to-date. But, the team is very supportive and open. There’s always guidance available, which makes it easier to learn and build confidence over time.

One of the most rewarding aspects of working with the Tracker has been connecting with volunteers across Latin America and around the world. I even had the chance to meet fellow volunteers in person at COP30 in Brazil.”

What patterns have you observed in net zero reporting?

“Greenwashing is a key issue. Some companies claim to meet certain standards, but when you look closely, the information is either not publicly available or very difficult to verify. In some cases, the data is outdated or incomplete.

At the same time, there are encouraging signs of progress. The Tracker and similar initiatives are driving greater transparency, prompting companies to keep their disclosures current—not just for credibility, but to stay competitive. As commitments become more visible, firms are more likely to meet standards, show tangible progress, and build resilience in an increasingly volatile world.” 

How has the experience influenced your career?

“Volunteering has helped me develop valuable practical skills in data handling and verification, which have helped my career. Shortly after starting with NZT, I secured roles with the European Union, where I captured election data in Bolivia. While not directly related to climate accountability, experience in managing structured data was essential.

Volunteering has also strengthened my work on UNICEF’s U-Report platform, which invites youth to share their perspectives on critical issues, from health to climate change. In this role, my NZT experience has helped me to explain climate accountability clearly to colleagues.”

What would you say to someone considering volunteering?

“My advice is simple: don’t overthink it – just start. You don’t need to be an expert in climate accountability or data. The platform is accessible, the team is supportive, and you learn as you go. It’s a great opportunity to build skills, and connect with people who share the same commitment to climate action.”

Interested in volunteering with the Net Zero Tracker? Sign up here.