Last November, a letter was delivered to Number 10 Downing Street, signed by over 2,000 business leaders and professionals urging the UK Government to champion decisive climate action at the COP28 summit. The united effort, led by a group called Business Declares, aims to push the UK to lead global environmental action.
The letter underlines that sustainable business is not only socially responsible but also economically advantageous. It calls for the government to provide a long-term vision, clear policies, and a roadmap for transitioning to a sustainable future.
The signatories, including influential figures like Net Zero Review leader Chris Skidmore MP, former Unilever CEO Paul Polman, and environmentalist Chris Packham, urge rapid scaling up of investments in renewables, actions to protect and restore nature, and an end to new fossil fuel developments in the UK.
Representatives from companies like Triodos Bank UK and Café Direct Ltd emphasise that businesses alone cannot tackle climate change and that strong leadership from the government is crucial. The UK government, in response, has reiterated its commitment to leading in clean energy, aiming to triple global renewable energy deployment and double energy efficiency by 2030.
Experts from the Aldersgate Group, a network focusing on a sustainable economy, also stress the need for the UK to use its influence in the international community. They’re asking for faster action in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing funding for climate-friendly initiatives. Influential voices, including former Prime Minister Theresa May and leaders from BT Group and IEMA, highlight the urgent need for clear strategies and support for green jobs and skills.
The Head of Environmental Sustainability at BT Group, Gabrielle Giner stated: “Looking ahead to COP28, we need to see leaders who are prepared to take bold action to keep the intention of limiting global warming to 1.5°C alive. Now is not the time to lose momentum. That’s why we need businesses, policymakers, NGOs and investors to work together to meet the need and urgency of the task that lies ahead. At BT Group, we stand firm in our net zero commitments and are excited for the upcoming COP to listen, learn, and share our sustainability experiences.”
As a collective, they stress the pivotal role of the UK government in setting ambitious global agendas and in ensuring that COP28 meets these high expectations.
As a leader in the construction materials sector and an advocate of sustainable practices, BS Fixings stands united with the global business community in calling for urgent, bold, and cohesive climate action. We believe that together, with a clear direction from the government, businesses can make a significant difference in protecting our environment. The time to act is now, and we're ready to play our part!
