The news that Earth has crossed the 2°C mark in global average temperature is more than just a number: it is a powerful warning about the unstoppable progress of the climate crisis. This important event, recorded by Copernicus on November 17, 2023, indicates that November 2023 could be the hottest on record, and, in conjunction with the climate summit (COP28), makes us think again about whether we are doing enough to give the planet a break. . Because we must not forget that science warns, but it cannot act alone.
In this sense, everything points to two key factors in this battle: on the one hand, countries that have a responsibility to make ambitious commitments to reduce emissions on their territory. This summit in particular will be a turning point in this regard, as key issues such as accelerating the energy transition, reducing emissions by 2030, and financing climate action will be on the table. I personally hope that it will also be included on the agendas of world leaders, to push the policies necessary to achieve this.
Of course, the other major player is the business sector. Because without corporate cooperation on a global level –Responsible for 70% of greenhouse gas emissions– It will not be possible to achieve a low-carbon economy. But is business listening to the science and taking action on this issue?
The answer is yes, at least in Spain, but with a nuance: there is still a small number who do it. According to another Climate Yearbook 2023, a document that analyzes the participation of companies in our country in major international climate initiatives, and there are already 132 Spanish companies that have committed to emission reduction targets on a scientific basis. Of these, more than half agreed to short-term scientific targets, 89% of which corresponded to 1.5°C.
There are already 132 Spanish companies that have committed to science-based emissions reduction targets
but, Considering that there are more than 3.4 million companies in Spain, we cannot deny that there is still a lot of room for improvement.. That is, companies that should start operating. Of course, this does not mean that all organizations that do not set science-based goals are not working to achieve SDG 13. In fact, more than 2,000 organizations have already registered their emissions in the carbon footprint register of the office, the Spanish Climate Change Committee (OECC). ). 90% of them are corporate related. Of these, SMEs together account for 80%, with a total of 1,467. This reveals an increase in awareness among companies in our country, regardless of their size, and raises hope that more and more entities will join this fight.
A battle in which the standards of science must prevail, of course. because? Because it offers a clear path towards environmental sustainability: setting targets backed by science ensures that the actions taken are appropriate and effective in combating climate change. These goals provide a moral compass for business decisions, stimulating innovations that enhance efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint.
That’s why companies committed to the climate targets agreed by STBi are leading the way towards a sustainable future, and it’s essential that more join this action.
The challenge is clear: the 2°C line represents an urgent call for countries and companies to intensify their efforts and collaborate more closely in building a sustainable future. The climate crisis requires a collective response, and the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) is an opportunity to do just that Transform fears into concrete actions. Time is of the essence, but informed, bold decisions today can save the planet.
Cristina Sanchez is the Executive Director of United Nations Global Compact Spain.
