As the world grapples with increasing climate disasters, a sobering reality emerges from a recent study by CO2 AI and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), revealing that global companies have made minimal progress in effectively measuring and reducing their emissions. This study, crucially timed before the COP28 conference, indicates a worrying trend in corporate environmental responsibility.
Declining achievement in emission reductions
The research shows a disheartening decrease in companies meeting their emission reduction goals, with only 14% achieving their targets, a 3 percentage point drop from the previous year. Economic hurdles and capital constraints are cited as significant barriers to these efforts. This is particularly alarming as it demonstrates a regression in corporate commitments to combat climate change.
Race to net zero: A study insight
CO2 AI and BCG’s study, titled “Why Some Companies Are Ahead in the Race to Net Zero,” continues their ongoing research since 2021. It involved surveying 1,850 executives across 18 industries and 23 countries. The surveyed organizations, each with over 1,000 employees, exhibit a range of annual revenues, signifying a comprehensive overview of global corporate practices.
UAE’s leadership in climate action
Shelly Trench, Managing Director and Partner at BCG, highlights the UAE’s leadership role in climate initiatives. The UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative is a pioneering effort in the Middle East and North Africa, demonstrating a regional commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction.
Stagnant progress in comprehensive emissions measurement
Only 10% of surveyed companies report a comprehensive measurement of all emissions, showing no improvement from the previous year. This lack of progress in detailed emissions tracking is a concerning indicator of the global corporate sector’s responsiveness to climate change.
Financial and non-financial benefits of decarbonization
On a positive note, the study reveals that companies making strides in decarbonization report significant benefits, including enhanced reputation, reduced operating costs, and better regulatory compliance. Remarkably, 40% of these companies estimate an annual financial benefit of at least $100 million from their emission reduction efforts.
There is a notable improvement in the partial measurement and reporting of Scope 3 emissions, with a 19 percentage point increase since 2021. This increase indicates a growing awareness of managing indirect emissions in the corporate value chain.
Regional developments in emissions reporting
The study shows encouraging developments in specific regions. Asia Pacific respondents reported a 7 percentage point improvement in comprehensive emissions reporting. Similarly, South American and North American respondents have significantly progressed in Scopes 1 and 2 emissions reporting.
Key traits of successful emission-reducing companies
The research identifies four critical traits of companies effectively reducing emissions:
1. Collaborative initiatives with suppliers and customers in emissions reduction.
2. Emphasis on calculating emissions at the product level.
3. Utilization of digital technology and AI in emissions management.
4. Positive perception of emissions-reporting regulations as enablers of reduction.
Harnessing AI and digital technology in emissions management
A significant finding is a growing reliance on digital technology and AI in emissions management. Companies utilizing automated digital solutions are more successful in comprehensive emissions measurement. Furthermore, 30% of companies plan to expand their use of AI tools for better accuracy and efficiency in emissions management.
The GCC’s investment in AI and technology for climate sustainability is drawing global attention. The region’s strategic adoption of these technologies is setting a precedent for innovative environmental management, aligning with their unique environmental and economic contexts.
As Charlotte Degot, CEO and Founder of CO2 AI and coauthor of the report, emphasizes, there is an urgent need to scale these best practices. The study underscores the critical role of technology and collaborative efforts in bridging the gap between reduction ambitions and tangible outcomes.
