500+ companies commit to reach net zero emissions by 2030
Over 500 certified B Corporations have announced they are publicly committing to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to achieve net zero by 2030 — 20 years ahead of the 2050 targets set in the Paris Agreement — as revealed at the 2019 UN Climate Change Conference (COP25), currently being held in Madrid.
Certified B Corporations are a new kind of business that meets the highest verified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and legal accountability. There are over 3000 B Corps in the world, from more than 70 countries and 150 industries, harnessing the power of business to solve major social and environmental challenges facing the world today — including the climate crisis.
Global Certified B Corporations including Aguas Danone Spain, The Body Shop and Allbirds are now seeking to accelerate the reduction of their greenhouse gas emissions to reach a 1.5°C trajectory, leading to net zero emissions by 2030. There are 46 Australian and New Zealand B Corps involved, including Patagonia, Intrepid Travel, KeepCup, Future Super and many more.
This commitment to carbon reduction — said to be a world first — is part of what has been described as the most aggressive climate action effort by a group of businesses in the world. The commitment will see the businesses using science-based targets to reduce emissions wherever possible, and verified Gold Standard offset strategies to balance emissions that cannot be eliminated. Those involved hope to demonstrate leadership in a time of severe environmental and economic unrest and uncertainty, inspiring other businesses to follow in their footsteps.
Andrew Davies, CEO of B Corp certifier B Lab Australia & New Zealand, said, “We’re facing an urgent climate emergency... it’s not enough for businesses to watch from the sidelines anymore, waiting for government or someone else to drive change. Every business, founder and leader has an opportunity to make a significant contribution and act now.
“We’re incredibly proud of our B Corp community in Australia, New Zealand and around the world for making this world-first commitment. We’re calling on others, big and small, to join us for a better future.”
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