The time for action is now 

We’re used to reading dire warnings about the impact we are having on our planet, yet scientists now insist the time for debate and deliberation is over. The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), states that we must act “now or never” and that greenhouse gas emissions must peak by 2025 if we’re to avoid the most devastating consequences of global warming. For business, this should provide a wake-up call like no other. For those who want to build resilience and exploit the opportunities offered by the “green revolution”, there is no time left to waste.

The IPCC report is far from fatalistic. It sets out the harsh realities of unchecked climate change but insists we can still mitigate the impact by making wholesale commitments to a low carbon economy. Drawing on the work of thousands of scientists, the report provides the most comprehensive review possible of the state of the state of our climate. It concludes that greenhouse gas emissions must peak by 2025 and be slashed by 43% by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. Much of that will be achieved by finally ending our reliance on fossil fuels.

Meeting that 1.5C target set out in the Paris Agreement is critical to avoid climate breakdown but we’ve failed to keep on track. A combination of deep emission cuts and carbon capture is now required to help redress the balance.

The onus is not only on governments to act faster – that responsibility is shared by individuals and businesses alike.  We have the means to change course and hit net zero 2050. The rate of growth in emissions is slowing and technological advancements are making the seemingly impossible possible. There is increasing support to make the transition. The government’s Net Zero Strategy sets out how it will secure 440,000 well-paid jobs and unlock £90 billion in investment by 2030, by helping British businesses and consumers transition to clean energy and green technology

What is required is a concerted effort and a recognition that embracing more sustainable ways of living and working benefits everyone. We know at Wylde Connections that it certainly benefits business. Those companies willing to embark on their sustainability journey become more resilient, more efficient, and more competitive. They listen to their stakeholders, and treat decarbonisation as an opportunity to cut costs, work smarter and stand out from the crowd.

The journey is different for every client but will always involve the key principles of resource management, reducing waste and embracing circularity. We support businesses at every stage through our unique blend of consultancy, online learning, and communications services. To learn more about how Wylde Connections can help transform your business, please visit: www.wyldeconnections.co.uk.