The Neutrality Myth of corporate climate pledges

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Earlier this year Bemari acted as a host organisation for the University of Edinburgh’s placement-based dissertation programme. It was a great pleasure to host a work placement for Aishwarya Katakam (MSc Global Environment, Politics and Society).  

We are now beyond excited to publish key findings of Aishwarya’s dissertation titled ‘Corporate Climate Pledges - The Neutrality Myth’ . Aishwarya analysed corporate decarbonisation pledges and strategies using data from Climate Action 100+ for the Consumer Goods and Transport sectors. The findings are disheartening but perhaps not unexpected: research shows that companies are announcing targets but failing to set actionable climate strategies. At the moment, corporate pledges within these sectors are mainly announced for reputational gains. A lack of reliable data and accountability make assessing progress very challenging. For any businesses currently engaging in or contemplating jumping into climate action, Aishwarya prepared a list of recommendations based on her research findings: 10 DO’S and 5 DON’TS.

The bottom line is clear. Climate action results in increased sales, reputational gains and increasing firm value. Climate Inaction, on the other hand, leads to missing out on near term financial gains and leaves the company vulnerable to long term political and financial challenges.

You can find the recommendations below, along with a summary of research context and its key findings.

Infographic Summary by Bemari

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"Corporate Climate Pledges - Findings Summary by Bemari"

We would like to thank Aishwarya for her time, efforts and brilliant work ethic. It was a pleasure for all of us to work with you!

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