A recent report by the MSCI index revealed that most companies’ climate targets are insufficient to combat the climate emergency. While more companies are setting science-based targets and disclosing emissions, their inadequate goals will lead to exhausting their carbon budgets by July 2026.
Oxfam’s study further highlighted the lack of implementable strategies behind these inadequate targets. Additionally, resistance from employees at the Science Based Targets initiative underscores the challenges in achieving meaningful climate action.
Companies like Unilever, once considered climate leaders, are now facing criticism for scaling back their ambitious climate targets. While some argue that these revised goals are more realistic, others worry about the potential negative impact on climate leadership.
Disruptive climate activism, which includes various nonviolent actions to counter climate-damaging practices, is on the rise. Activists are employing tactics such as civil disobedience, employee walkouts, and whistle-blowing to hold companies accountable.
While many companies adopt a defensive stance against activism, we believe a more proactive approach is necessary. By engaging and collaborating with activists, companies can harness their potential as valuable partners in advancing climate protection.
Companies have been increasingly resorting to legal actions to suppress climate activism. Recent examples include jail sentences for “Just Stop Oil” activists and legal threats from Lufthansa and ExxonMobil. Amazon also faced backlash for threatening climate activists within its own ranks.
The challenges faced by companies, regardless of their previous reputation, highlight the urgency of addressing the climate crisis. Disruptive climate activism can be a powerful force for change, but it requires a willingness from companies to embrace a more collaborative and proactive approach.
By supporting activism and promoting its disruptive nature, companies can position themselves as leaders in the fight against climate change.
Reference- Harvard Business Review article, National Geographic, Oxfam study, MSCI index’s April report