Article: Net zero is THE new business imperative, September 24, 2020 by Thomas Murray

This year has ushered in more devastation, loss and heartbreak than anyone could have ever imagined. As a nation, we’re facing unprecedented public health, social justice and economic challenges.

Even in this bleak current moment, when hope may seem sparse and many eyes are narrowly focused on November 3, we can’t lose sight of another urgent and looming crisis, one that poses severe threats to our communities and economy: climate change.

Climate change doesn’t pause for pandemics or economic downturns, as evidenced by the wildfires raging on the West Coast, and hurricanes battering the Southeast. These impacts are pounding our economy so frequently and severely that the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s most recent report, which involved experts from the financial services, energy and agricultural sectors, warns that climate change could destabilize the U.S. financial system.

Fortunately, a growing number of companies and investors recognize the risks posed by climate change and the need for bold and immediate action. Across the economy, companies are embracing the goal of net zero emissions by 2050, which is what the science says is needed to limit the worst impacts of climate change.

In fact, the number of net zero pledges has doubled in less than a year, including more than 1,500 companies with a combined revenue of more than $11.4 trillion, per a new analysis by NewClimate Institute and Data-Driven Enviro Lab.

To view the full article, see: https://business.edf.org/insights/net-zero-emissions/