What is the solution?

Most scientists agree that the global warming should not exceed 2°C. To reach this goal, global emissions of greenhouse gases need to be reduced as soon as possible and they need to be halved by 2050 (compared to 1990).

Internationally, countries are negotiating a global agreement through the United Nations, and many governments all over the world are also considering rules and regulation, even taxation, that aim to reduce emissions in their own countries. But this is not enough. Urgent steps need to be taken to tackle climate change

In order to mitigate climate change, we need to reduce CO₂ emissions and other greenhouse gases. And we all have a critical role to play in this. Adjustments will be required both in the industrial production and in individual consumption.

The earlier that action is taken, the more effective it will be.

Opportunities for companies who take the lead

The climate change will affect companies in all sectors – both in terms of increased cost but also regarding new business opportunities. New business models encompassing the real costs for doing business (i.e. costs for environmental and social impact, for instance, GHG emissions of various kinds) will develop. Energy supply will diminish and raw material resources will be depleted.

As a result, companies and, in the end, consumers will experience increased costs. The safest way of reducing climate risks is to reduce the emissions. And taking early actions make good business sense.

Business as usual is no longer possible for companies wanting to take the lead. The model of business profitability in the future will have to take into account the full costs of doing business and incorporate a company’s long-term impact on the environment and on the local communities. Companies and investors who are able to take future scenarios into account when assessing risks in innovation and RnD, in order to seize new opportunities, will be the winners of the future.