James Sunderland questions the President of COP26 about how smaller businesses can be helped and persuaded towards climate neutrality when key decisions may not be in their immediate economic interest.
Glasgow Climate Pact: Business
James Sunderland (Bracknell) (Con)
2. What assessment he has made of the role of businesses in implementing the Glasgow climate pact. (900522)
The COP26 President (Alok Sharma)
COP26 was one of the first such summits where the corporate sector’s presence and commitments were significant. Over 7,000 international businesses have now signed up to the UN Race to Zero campaign, which commits them to reaching net zero by 2050 at the latest. The private sector will of course be critical to helping deliver on the commitments in the Glasgow climate pact.
James Sunderland
My constituency of Bracknell is blessed with several businesses of 10 employers or fewer. How might they be helped and persuaded towards climate neutrality when key decisions may not be in their immediate economic interest?
Alok Sharma
In fact, there are many businesses, both large and small, that are committing to cut emissions, because they have understood that it is good for their bottom line and actually gives them a competitive advantage with clients and customers. I refer my hon. Friend to the UK business climate hub, which is championed by the Government and climate groups. Over 3,000 UK small and medium-sized enterprises have already signed up. I am sure that, if small businesses in Bracknell look at the website, they will understand the positive impact of making a climate commitment.