Gordon Brown got something right this week when he announced at the Labour conference that he wants to raise CO2 targets from 60% to 80%. Significant climate change could decrease GDP by double digit percentages and this is a threat to our economy as well as a potential cost to humanity.
I also agree that British companies have a huge opportunity here to lead the way in creating a low carbon economy. However if UK businesses are not measuring their carbon emissions then they will not be able to manage them either. When the Climate Change Bill was tabled in the commons there was an amendment for all companies of significant size to report on their carbon emissions. This amendment was later diluted and emasculated. If Mr Brown wants UK businesses to step up to the challenge of becoming carbon efficient then the Government will also need to ensure that businesses measure their carbon emissions and report on them to an agreed standard. There needs to be a clear framework for reporting and auditing of this information. Surely this is a matter of urgency and should be given priority if we are to realistically achieve the new target by 2050.
What business needs is more guidance from Government if it is to really play its part in making this work. This is the only way we can actually focus our attention on developing practical strategies to reduce our country’s carbon footprint. Without the Government fulfilling this role, then getting off the starting line remains somewhat difficult. If the race is on, then come on Mr Brown, give us a fair chance of winning.
Kevin Misselbrook
Customer Services Director
Access Accounting
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