Long-term climate strategies remain despite COVID-19, survey reveals

97% of global businesses have said their long-term climate strategies have not been impacted by COVID-19, according to a survey published by the non-profit organisation The Climate Group. 

According to the survey, which involved 100 global private-sector businesses, 80% of businesses have been able to maintain their current climate actions during the crisis, but nearly half (47%) said they still need more supportive government policies to be able to achieve their sustainability goals.

Nearly all (96%) said that climate action is just as, if not more important, to their business now compared to pre-COVID-19. However, over half (55%) expressed worry that climate action might be at risk of falling down the priority ladder if job creation and economic growth take precedence.

59% of respondents also agreed that government’ financial support should come with green strings attached, prioritising industries that cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Helen Clarkson, CEO of The Climate Group, said: ‘Business commitment to tackling climate change is now incredibly robust. Companies also see it as their responsibility to build a greener, fairer future.

‘Governments should feel confident that implementing strong climate policy and green recovery measures will be welcomed and commended by the private sector.

‘By working together, businesses and policymakers can help to ensure economies recover from the COVID-19 crisis while also halving emissions by 2030.’

In related news, The Climate Coalition and 57 charities, including WWF and Oxfam, have sent a letter to Boris Johnson urgently asking him to commit to a green economic recovery plan.

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