It is well-established science that human influence has warmed the earth’s climate more than 1.2°C since pre-industrial times—and global emissions continue to rise today.
Governments and business have responded with commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change. But even if all long-term and net-zero targets are met, we still are on a trajectory to reach 2.1°C of warming by the end of the century. 2023 was the hottest year on record, global GHG emissions hit an all-time high in 2022, and 1.5°C is slipping out of reach.
The resulting changes to the ocean, melting ice sheets, and rising global sea levels are irreversible, and every fraction of a degree escalates climate risks. Billions of people around the world are potentially vulnerable to impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity, threatening livelihoods, health, and access to food and water.
Sustained, transformational climate action from businesses, governments, and stakeholders is a critical part of the global response, including:
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with 1.5°C
- Implementing a robust climate transition plan that drives business model transformation to achieve a just, equitable net-zero future
- Advancing nature-positive solutions that contribute to climate mitigation and adaptation
- Addressing climate injustice and co-creating resilient solutions with affected communities
Climate action has also become a mainstream business. Stakeholder pressure is mounting for businesses to act now, and mandatory climate disclosure is a reality in many countries.
3.6B
3.6 billion people around the world live in areas that are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
4149
As of December 2023, the Science-Based Targets initiative validated targets following a 1.5°C trajectory for 4149 companies, an increase of more than 2000 companies since the end of 2022.
13%
With global warming now on course to breach 1.5°C, at least five Earth system tipping points are likely to be triggered—including the collapse of major ice sheets and widespread mortality of warm-water coral reefs.
How We Can Help
Adding Value to Your Business and Society
To fulfill the Paris Agreement’s vision of a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions economy by 2050, we work with companies to deliver 1.5°C-aligned climate goals, transform their value chains, manage climate risks, and advance climate justice. We tailor our work to the specific needs of each company and industry. We’ll help your business align with the 1.5°C ambition and take credible action through a variety of offerings, including:
Near-term decarbonization roadmap
Climate transition plans
Climate justice and a just transition
Scope 3 implementation
Carbon credit procurement with integrity
Climate risk and scenario analysis
Business beyond growth
Case Studies
Conducting a Climate Risk Assessment through Scenario Analysis
BSR worked with Mercer International Inc., a global producer of market pulp and solid wood products, to conduct a climate scenario analysis.
Sustainability Insights
Blog
Climate Scenario Analysis: It’s about More than CSRD Compliance
Introducing BSR’s updated climate scenarios, which provide a comprehensive analysis of three plausible climate futures and their cascading impacts on business.
Tools and Resources
Climate Change Resources
BSR Members Only
Collaboration
Collective Solutions for Meaningful Impact
Our collaborative initiatives enable companies to transform their businesses while creating shared solutions to global challenges and make a meaningful systemic impact.
We Mean Business Coalition
Alliances and Partnerships
Our Experts
Depth of Experience and Knowledge
Our Climate Change team consists of global experts across multiple industries, bringing a depth of experience in developing sustainable business strategies and solutions.
Let’s talk about how BSR can help you to transform your business and achieve your sustainability goals.