HM Governor's Office
in Anguilla
Business
A changing business climate
The private sector’s propensity for innovation and ability to influence large sections of society – such as consumer and supplier behaviour - are amongst the key contributions that business can make to help achieve our climate change ambitions.
The landscape of how 21st century private sector operates is changing and future business success will be contingent on understanding climate change. it makes business sense to plan strategies to take account of climate risks and to grasp low carbon opportunities.
In reducing emissions, businesses will help be the source of technological innovation and investment that will catalyse the transition of Britain to a low carbon economy. As energy users themselves, the UK private sector is responsible for about 40% of total greenhouse gas emissions, and so reductions in this sector will significantly impact our overall carbon footprint. Business can also reap financial benefits of emissions reductions improved energy efficiency.
In the run up to Copenhagen, businesses can share experiences and communicate their own plans for a low-carbon future, and help identify how private sector action can facilitate, and advocate, a global agreement. This will be crucial in building supportive conditions for a global deal.
Engaging business and Government
UK private sector organisations are amongst some of the most progressive in the world when it comes to taking action on climate change, and acting as advocates for a strong international agreement. UK groups such as the Confederation of British Industry, the Corporate Leaders Group on Climate Change, Business in the Community and the Carbon Trust are extremely active in working with Governments and their peers both in the UK and around the world to share their experiences and encourage action to tackle climate change. Along with organisations such as the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC), the UK Business Council for Sustainable Energy (UKBCSE) and the Carbon Markets and Investor’s Association these organisations have also provided valuable input into the UK’s international policy-making efforts.
Similarly, initiatives by many household names such as those involved in the Climate Group’s ‘Together’ campaign - which brings together a selection of UK high street businesses - have helped to significant amounts of CO2.
Related links
'We must act early on low-carbon transition to take full advantage' Ed Miliband in The Times.
'Climate Change - Everyone's Business', CBI Report
Corporate Leaders Group on Climate Change
'Together' campaign, The Climate Group
Business in the Community - The Prince's May Day Network
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