half-century. The report points to an average of $350 billion per year invested in computers and software over the past decade as one example. Furthermore, while $10.1 trillion is a massive investment, according to the report, the savings from avoided fuel costs are even greater at $11.5 trillion over the same time period.
the dialogue centered either on the moral imperative to take action, or the regulatory burden associated with federal climate policy. Now it appears a third perspective is entering the mix—one where taking action against climate change is considered an economic opportunity that is worth seizing.
On April 22nd, U.S. advocates and our global partners are uniting to march for science—fighting the mischaracterization of science as a partisan issue and supporting evidence-based policies. Now is the time for individuals to act—knock on doors, march and make their voices heard.
Accordingly, it is possible that a lack of forward-looking climate policy in the U.S. will not stop businesses from considering the risks that climate change poses to their bottom line. In fact, a report produced by the CDP surveyed over 1,000 business and found that reduced energy consumption does not lead to reduced profitability. Rather, a number of businesses successfully decoupled profits from emissions and significantly outperformed businesses that did not change their energy output.
Perhaps because of the opportunities investing in a low-carbon economy presents, a network of 120 institutional investors with more than $15 trillion in assets have recently committed to addressing climate change and investing in low-carbon opportunities. If those assets are directed towards opportunities in the U.S., we could be on our way to hitting the agreed upon 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
And businesses? They must seize this low-carbon leadership opportunity, ensuring their own economic prosperity, and because it’s still the right thing to do.
The conversation about why businesses and investors are starting to factor climate change into the bottom line is changing. For years
“
A legitimate concern, however, is that as other nations move forward with energy and climate policy, these businesses, and all the associated jobs and increased GDP, will relocate elsewhere leaving U.S. businesses behind.
However, the stakes are too big to leave anything to chance. While businesses are expected to step up to some degree, the critical nature of climate change demands that we approach the issue from multiple angles. The President’s budget plan is currently just a proposal, with Congress ultimately deciding federal spending, however, it is imperative that we proactively work together to prevent these massive and unconscionable cuts from going into effect.
“
Now it appears a third perspective is entering the mix—one where taking action against climate change is considered an economic opportunity that is worth seizing. ymore info: www.climatetrust.org www.facethecurrent.com
123