Last Chance

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report released this week provided the scientific evidence of climate change mitigation. The message is clear: change is needed at speed and each of us has a role to play.

Introduction of policies and regulations have started to make their mark. GHG emission growth slowed from 2.1% to 1.3%. However, absolute emissions are still high and a large proportion of companies still fail to meet short-term emission reduction targets. Attaining emission reduction targets requires transformational leadership and a shift in business culture.  

But there is hope. The pandemic has proved what’s possible. 

Within weeks of national enforced lockdowns, businesses had re-located employees to home working, set up health and wellbeing schemes, developed new home working policies and re-directed communication channels. It took weeks to bring about significant change and - although challenging - we adjusted successfully.  

The reduced environmental footprint was an unintended consequence at the time but our pandemic response ultimately delivered a 5.8% drop in CO2 emissions in 2020 compared with 2019.  

It proves what's possible. We need to re-think our approach. What more can your organisation do to support Climate Action? The IPCC report points toward embracing efficient manufacturing processes and climate conscious choices.  

Whatever you decide to do, we will increasingly feel the impacts of climate change. Water shortages will significantly impact our ability to produce energy, impacting grid security and affordable energy access. Understanding how climate change will affect your business is essential for sustainability and could provide opportunities you have yet to identify.

Get ready. Disruptive change is required.