COP26 Latest News

The business guide to COP26

UN: Climate commitments must redouble to meet Paris Agreement

Nations must redouble planned climate targets if the world is to meet the minimal threshold of the Paris Agreement, according to a new UN report warning that while emissions are being reduced, the pace of progress is falling behind required rates.

MPs call on Bank of England to improve green finance approaches

MPs across all political parties have jointly written to the Bank of England, warning that it is failing to appropriately support the green economy by not pivoting away from the fossil fuel industry.

Advertising industry launches net-zero training qualification for workers

Workers in the advertising sector will soon be able to access new training qualification programmes to create a better understanding of how the sector can reduce emissions and promote sustainable products and services as part of the wider net-zero movement.

Kwarteng and Sharma keep key climate roles as part of cabinet reshuffle

COP26 President Alok Sharma and BEIS Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng have both remained in their respective positions, as part of the Prime Minister's cabinet reshuffle that saw former Environment Secretary Michael Gove step into the head of Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

'Reduction-first approach': WorldGBC updates net-zero buildings commitment

The World Green Buildings Council (WorldGBC) has today (15 September) unveiled an update to its longstanding Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment, that aims to ignite a "reduction-first" approach to decarbonisation to halve emissions from the sector by 2030 and tackle lifecycle emissions.

Businesses write to Government (again) calling for strengthened Environment Bill

Businesses such as McDonald's, Nandos and UK supermarkets have again written to the Government, urging ministers to consider amendments to the Environment Bill that would strengthen efforts to combat deforestation.

How business can help fight climate change and deliver agreements made at COP26

As part of edie's "Business guide to COP26", EY's global vice chair for sustainability Steve Varley outlines how corporates can play a key role during global climate negotiations.

Plans before pledges: How P&G has evolved its climate strategy to target a net-zero value chain by 2040

EXCLUSIVE: Procter & Gamble (P&G) has unveiled a new climate action plan to reach net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2040, with the company's vice president for global sustainability Jack Mcaneny telling edie that the "absolute priority is reducing emissions".

edie publishes updated guide on the business opportunities of COP26

edie has published an updated Explains guide detailing everything you need to know about this year's COP26 climate summit and how businesses can get involved and use the discussions to improve their approach to sustainability and the net-zero transition.

UK Government calls for 'absolute zero' emissions goal for global shipping sector

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has called on the global maritime sector to agree on an "absolute zero" emissions target by 2050, as the UK looks set to host a demonstration week for the future of shipping.

Hitachi targets carbon-neutral value chain by 2050

Hitachi, one of the Principal Partners to the COP26 conference, has revised its sustainability targets with a new plan to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire value chain by 2050.

Five ways businesses can champion climate adaptation and nature-based solutions

Climate adaptation and nature-based solutions are two of the key focus areas for COP26. Once the negotiations are complete, the private sector will have a key role in accelerating action on the ground and, in this feature, we explore how.

Recyclable wind turbines and solar-powered bus stations: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

Sustainable Business Covered podcast: A COP26 Focus Week special

With less than two months until COP26 begins, episode 107 of the Sustainable Business Covered Podcast is a special edition featuring exclusive interviews with three climate experts.

edie gears up for return to live events with COP26 Climate Action Workshops

Members of the Sustainability and Net-Zero Leaders Clubs and affiliate 30 Under 30 programme are set to attend their first live edie event experience since the coronavirus pandemic, with a COP26-themed workshop event taking place in London next month.

Now available on-demand: edie's nature-based solutions and climate adaptation online sessions

edie's Inspiration Sessions on climate adaptation and nature-based solutions, featuring experts fro, Unilever, the FAIRR Initiative, Nomad Foods, Grosvenor and more, are now available to watch on-demand.   

Is UK Plc ignoring climate resilience on the road to net-zero?

Last month's report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) provided a stark warning - that all parts of the world will be affected by physical climate impacts already 'baked in', even if we reach net-zero. So, is the UK's business community doing enough to improve climate resiliency?

How leading UK businesses are coming together to take action for climate and nature

The UK Reforestation Coalition, founded by leading UK businesses Lloyds Banking Group, OVO Energy, DFS Group and Sainsbury's, along with the UK's leading woodland conservation charity the Woodland Trust, will support the UK's target of planting 30,000 hectares of trees each year, between now and 2030.

26 voices on COP26: What we want from the climate summit (part 1)

EXCLUSIVE: In the first of a two-part special feature, edie hears from the business leaders, sustainability professionals, climate experts and green groups that are hoping to seize the sustainable business opportunity of the crucial COP26 talks in November.

26 voices on COP26: What we want from the climate summit (part 2)

EXCLUSIVE: In the second of our two-part special feature, sustainability and climate leaders from the likes of Sky, Sainsbury's and WWF tell edie what they want to see from the upcoming COP26 talks in Glasgow this November.

Businesses want tax-based incentives to reach net-zero, survey finds

Businesses would welcome a tax-based approach to incentivising their net-zero progress, according to a new report.

#SustyTalk: Meet the climate activists championing Arctic conservation and social justice

edie's #SustyTalk series of sustainability-focused video interviews continues with an exclusive panel discussion on climate justice and protecting the world's ice.

COP26 Primer reports: edie completes series with Adaptation & Resilience focus

With just two months remaining until the crucial COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, edie has completed its Primer Report series which provides businesses with everything they need to know regarding the five key themes of the talks.

COP26 Primer: Climate Adaptation & Resilience

This report explores how climate resilience and adaptation solutions are being focused on at the COP26 climate talks, with specific guidance and insights for businesses seeking to accelerate action in these areas.

Hundreds of health journals unite in call for urgent climate action

More than 220 medical, nursing and public health journals across the world have simultaneously published an editorial, calling for world leaders to take "emergency action" to limit climate change, restore biodiversity and protect health.

COP26 Action Tracker: Global biodiversity congress underway as Cumbria coal mine inquiry set to begin

With less than 50 days to go until COP26, this new series from edie provides a regular temperature check of global climate action from nations and businesses.

COP26 Focus Week: edie kicks off bumper week of content and events dedicated to climate action

With less than two months until COP26, the edie team is running a dedicated week of content including exclusive interviews, in-depth reports and insightful opinion pieces this week (6-10 September). Don't miss your chance to get involved.

UK and India agree $1.2bn package supporting renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and tech

With less than two months to go until COP26, the UK and Indian governments have agreed upon a new $1.2bn (£900,000) package of funding designed to accelerate the low-carbon transition.

Amazon launches nature-based solutions 'accelerator' to support farmers and cut emissions

Amazon has today (2 September) launched a new agroforestry and restoration programme that will utilise nature-based solutions (NbS) while improving livelihoods for local farmers in the Brazilian Amazonian region.

edie's latest COP26 Primer report focuses on nature-based solutions

As part of the brand-new Countdown to COP26 Festival of digital content and events, edie has this week launched its latest "Primer Report" which provides need-to-know insights into the key themes of this year's crucial climate talks. Up next: Nature-Based Solutions.

COP26 Primer: Nature-based solutions

edie’s COP26 Primer Reports are about seizing the green opportunity. Produced in the run-up to the official talks, this mini-series of reports are based on the five key themes of COP26: Clean Energy, Clean Transport, Climate Resilience, Nature-Based Solutions, and Climate Finance. This report examines approaches to nature-based solutions.

Go beyond net-zero and target net-negative emissions, climate scientists urge

A group of world-renowned climate scientists is arguing that ambitions for reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 will no longer be enough to avoid the worst impacts of global heating, in light of the fact that change is happening more rapidly than predicted.

#SustyTalk: Business Fights Poverty's Zahid Torres-Rahman on climate justice amid Covid-19

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with an exclusive discussion with Zahid Torres-Rahman, founder and chief executive of Business Fights Poverty.

Scottish Government draws up plan for green recovery from Covid-19

The Scottish Government has put forward a draft policy programme for aligning its economic recovery plans for Covid-19 with its long-term climate, nature and social targets, developed under an agreement with the Scottish Green Party Parliamentary Group.

Climate laggards to be banned from booking Glasgow's public venues for COP26

Glasgow City Council has passed a motion to prevent companies that "contribute towards catastrophic climate change" from its venues during COP26.

Retail, tech and manufacturing: UK Net-Zero Business Champion urges firms to bolster climate targets

Andrew Griffith MP, the UK COP26 Unit's Net-Zero Business Champion, has published open letters to retail, technology and manufacturing firms, urging them to commit to halving emissions by 2030 on the road to net-zero by 2050 at the latest.

Energy efficiency: The Cinderella of corporate net-zero ambitions?

Companies are increasingly setting net-zero goals to address climate change, but to be taken seriously they must have energy efficiency at the core, argues Toby Morgan, senior manager of built environment at the non-profit, Climate Group.

UK governments urged to 'climate-proof' fishing sector

The UK's fisheries are currently contributing to emissions more than they should under a net-zero trajectory and are acutely exposed to future climate risks due to poor support for nature restoration and adaptation, some of the UK's biggest nature charities are warning.

COP26 Action Tracker: Nations urged to respond to IPCC report as Cambo oilfield row rolls on

With less than 100 days to go until COP26, this new series from edie will provide a regular temperature check of global climate action from nations and businesses.

Glenmorangie marks 'milestone' on oyster reef restoration scheme in Scotland

A scheme funded by Glenmorangie to return native European oysters to the Dornoch Firth, in a move to boost biodiversity and improve the landscape's ability to sequester carbon, has successfully completed its latest phase.

COP26 Focus Week: edie to run dedicated week of climate action in September

The edie team will run a week of dedicated COP26 content in early September, featuring online events, exclusive interviews, in-depth reports and insightful opinion pieces, all tailored towards the crucial climate summit in Glasgow later this year.

Dozens of businesses sign up for Tech Zero taskforce, taking membership past the 100 mark

A coalition of fast-growing UK tech firms, convened to inform policymaking and garner further industry support ahead of COP26, has amassed the support of more than 100 businesses.

Boris Johnson pledges action on 'coal, cars, cash and trees' at COP26

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has come out with a new slogan for the UK's priorities for COP26, promising new domestic pledges and new plans to garner international commitments on "coal, cars cash and trees".

Net-zero: Collaboration or bust

As world leaders outline their policies to end the fossil fuel era within three decades, the heat is on to electrify cities and all aspects of our lives by turning completely to renewable energy sources.

'Sobering reading': Boris Johnson reacts to new IPCC report

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has responded to a major new report from thousands of the world's leading climate scientists, calling for all world leaders to treat the findings as a "wake-up call" in the run-up to COP26.

5 key corporate net-zero considerations based on the latest IPCC report

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has issued a report warning that irreversible and unprecedented changes to the planet are being caused by the climate crisis. Here, edie summarises how businesses should respond to the warnings in the new landmark report.

World’s largest meat company JBS joins Race to Zero initiative

The world’s largest meat company, JBS, met with COP26 President Alok Sharma to formally join the Race to Zero campaign, building on a net-zero commitment set earlier this year.

'The package currently on the table is perilously inadequate': Green economy reacts to new IPCC report

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) Working Group 1 has published a major new report outlining how the severity of the physical impacts of the climate crisis will grow without immediate and deep cuts to emissions. Here, edie rounds up the key pieces of reaction from across the UK's green economy.

IPCC report: Global temperature increase likely to pass 1.5C sooner than thought

The window in which to deliver the "deep emissions cuts" needed to prevent the worst impacts of the climate crisis is closing rapidly, thousands of scientists are warning, meaning that our best chance of delivering the Paris Agreement is to reach "at least net-zero" by 2050.

UK Government launches climate resilience research scheme after criticism from own advisors

The UK Government has launched a new £5m programme to accelerate research into how the nation can improve its resilience to climate-related risks, after official advisors warned that Ministers have failed to prepare for changing weather patterns in the coming decades.

No air-freighted food on the menu for COP26, in bid to cut emissions

The catering company for the Scottish Events Campus in Glasgow, which is set to host COP26 in November, has announced plans for a total ban on air-freighted produce in the UK.

COP26 Action Tracker: G20 members clash on coal as credibility of corporate net-zero targets questioned

With less than 100 days to go until COP26, this new series from edie will provide a regular temperature check of global climate action from nations and businesses.

Finance giants 'drawing up plans to accelerate coal plant closures in Asia'

Financial firms including Prudential, BlackRock Real Assets, HSBC and Citi have reportedly signaled their support for a new proposal from the Asian Development Bank, designed to accelerate the transition away from coal-fired electricity.

Nations and businesses 'hiding behind net-zero smokescreen', Oxfam warns

Governments and corporates are relying too much on 'unproven and unrealistic' carbon removal and offsetting schemes in order to reach net-zero targets, with a new report from Oxfam warning that a land area five times the size of India would be required to create new forests for these measures.

Almost half of world nations fail to submit updated climate plans ahead of COP26

A little over half of the world's nations have submitted updated climate action plans ahead of the crucial climate summit in Glasgow later this year, with the UK now pressing for the likes of China and India to outline decarbonisation plans.

Investors seek accountability over corporate net-zero commitments

More than 50 global investors, managing more than $14trn in assets, are calling for new corporate governance structures and standards to be introduced to improve the accountability of net-zero carbon commitments.

Carbon offsetting: New 'integrity initiative' launched to tackle greenwashing

With an increasing amount of businesses turning to carbon offsetting to deliver net-zero climate goals, a new initiative has been launched to ensure that voluntary carbon markets actually deliver the levels of mitigation and sequestration needed.

#SustyTalk: Maria Alejandra Escalante on climate justice and COP26

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with an exclusive discussion with Maria Alejandra Escalante, climate and environmental justice lead at FRIDA, the Feminist Fund.

Emma Howard Boyd confirmed as interim chair of Green Finance Institute

The Green Finance Institute (GFI) has announced that the Environment Agency's chair Emma Howard Boyd CBE has been appointed as interim chair at the institute, following the passing of Sir Roger Gifford in May.

Terra Carta Design Lab: Prince of Wales' latest climate initiative to support students

Prince Charles has partnered with former Apple chief design officer Sir Jony Ive to develop a new scheme supporting students to develop "credible and sustainable" solutions to the climate crisis.

Closing in on COP26: Building a sustainable, equitable, green recovery

As the UK moves towards a return to restriction-free life, our attention should be shifting towards addressing the other global crisis: the climate emergency. According to the UN Secretary-General 2021 is the "make or break" year to act; the post-pandemic recovery must therefore be both sustainable and equitable.

Pension schemes urged to set net-zero targets ahead of COP26

More than 80 defined benefit (DB) pension schemes have been urged to align with the Paris Agreement by aiming to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest while also ensuring a rapid exit from coal investments.

Liz Truss's advisers urge UK to reject 'green protectionism' in international trade deals

Government trade advisers led by Trade Secretary Liz Truss have called for greater free trade for low-carbon technologies amid the net-zero transition, but green groups argue that poorly regulated free trade has been a major driver of the climate emergency in the first instance.

IEA: Global emissions to reach record high by 2023, with governments breaking green recovery promises

Just 2% of the Covid-19 stimulus funding promised by nations has been spent on clean energy, meaning that global emissions are likely to hit a record high in 2023 and continue rising thereafter.

COP26 Action Tracker: China's ETS launches as UK's Cambo oilfield plans draw controversy

With less than four months to go until COP26, this new series from edie will provide a regular temperature check of global climate action from nations and businesses.

'Serious weaknesses' in UK Government's plans for engaging local councils on net-zero, report warns

Local councils are finding it hard to engage with the UK Government on issues relating to the net-zero transition, including target-setting and securing funding, the National Audit Office (NAO) has revealed.

Six UK green policy stories you need to know about

The past few days have seen the UK Government making a flurry of announcements on green policy packages and spending pots. Here, edie rounds up the major headlines in brief.

Transport Minister Rachel Maclean: UK can be a 'pacesetter' for green industrial revolution

EXCLUSIVE: Transport Minister Rachel Maclean believes that the newly released Transport Decarbonisation Plan can spur the next industrial revolution that ushers in unprecedented levels of innovation to help meet the national net-zero target.

Unilever announced as latest COP26 Principal Partner

Anglo-Dutch FMCG giant Unilever has been announced as the latest Principal Partner for COP26 - the highest level of sponsorship for the climate summit.

Taking place TODAY: edie's Clean Energy & Transport Forum

edie's new Clean Energy & Transport forum, is taking place today (15 July) with a fantastic line-up of keynote speakers including the Department for Transport's Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Rachel Maclean.

Connecting the roadmap to cleaner transport

With transport the major contributor to UK emissions, we need to clean up the way we get around if we're going to hit our national net-zero target. Could connectivity hold the key? Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, explores.

Green Jobs Taskforce urges UK Government to close funding and skills gaps

Every single role in the UK could become a "green job" in the future - but only if the Government clarifies the path to net-zero by 2050, including new measures to invest in low-carbon technologies and to build a robust skills pipeline.

At a glance: Everything you need to know about the UK’s Transport Decarbonisation Plan

The UK Government has unveiled its domestic plan designed to align the transport sector with the national net-zero target. Here, edie pulls out what this means for all modes of transport moving forward.

Lidl commits to carbon neutrality by 2022

Lidl GB has announced plans to become a carbon-neutral business by 2022 alongside wider commitments to reduce operational emissions and encouraging key suppliers to set their own climate commitments.

Insurance giants team up for net-zero alliance, but are urged to stop supporting fossil fuels

AXA, Allianz, Aviva, Generali, Munich Re, SCOR, Swiss Re and Zurich Insurance Group have launched a new 'Net-Zero Insurance Alliance', of which members will be required to deliver net-zero emissions by 2050 across their insurance and reinsurance portfolios.

edie's latest COP26 Primer report focuses on clean transport

As part of the brand-new Countdown to COP26 Festival of digital content and events, edie has this week launched its latest "Primer Report" which provides need-to-know insights into the key themes of this year's crucial climate talks. Up next: Clean Transport.

45% of UK businesses yet to set net-zero targets, survey reveals

The state of net-zero target-setting across the UK's private and public sectors is mixed, with 52% of organisations having set such a goal and 45% yet to do so, a new edie survey has revealed.

COP26 Primer: Clean Transport

edie’s COP26 Primer Reports are about seizing the green opportunity. Produced in the run-up to the official talks, this mini-series of reports are based on the five key themes of COP26: Clean Energy, Clean Transport, Climate Resilience, Nature-Based Solutions, and Climate Finance. This report examines approaches to clean transport.

UK Government 'not taking the public's views on net-zero transition into account'

The Government's plans for engaging the general public with the net-zero transition and ensuring that impacts are socially fair have been "insufficient to date", MPs are warning.

Salesforce signs on as latest Principal Partner for COP26

Business software giant Salesforce has been announced as the latest Principal Partner for COP26 - the highest level of sponsorship for the climate summit.

Race to Zero: Retailers forge new climate-focused collaboration

H&M Group, Walmart, Kingfisher and Ikea's parent company Ingka Group have launched a new initiative designed to help retailers collaborate in overcoming challenges on the transition to net-zero.

Investors call on banking giants to step up on climate and biodiversity commitments

More than 100 investors, including the likes of Aviva and M&G Investments, representing $4.2trn in assets under management have written to some of the world's biggest banks, calling on them to strengthen climate and biodiversity targets this year.

Cement industry plots path to net-zero through new global platform

Some of the world's largest cement and concrete businesses have joined a new collaborative platform aimed at transforming the sector to enable the delivery of carbon-neutral concrete by 2050.

COP26 Action Tracker: Recapping the G7 Summit and outlining a green policy wishlist

With less than five months to go until COP26, this new series from edie will provide a regular temperature check of global climate action from nations and businesses.

#SustyTalk: Ashden's Harriet Lamb on scaling international climate finance

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with an exclusive discussion with Ashden's chief executive officer, Harriet Lamb, focusing on climate solutions.

London Climate Action Week: How is the capital planning to reach net-zero?

This week marks London Climate Action Week - one of the biggest UK-based events in the run-up to COP26. To mark the occasion, edie explores how the capital is embarking on its own transition to net-zero by 2030.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak issues £15bn green gilt drive to assist net-zero ambition

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has today (1 July) outlined plans to transform the UK’s financial services industry through £15bn of green bonds that will support projects that decarbonise key parts of the UK economy while improving climate resiliency and adaptation.

#SustyTalk: Seizing the green finance opportunities of 2021

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with an exclusive panel discussion on scaling green finance in the run-up to COP26, featuring experts from Clim8, E3G and FIA EPTA. 

edie's latest COP26 Primer report focuses on climate finance

As part of the brand-new Countdown to COP26 Festival of digital content and events, edie has this week launched its latest "Primer Report" which provides need-to-know insights into the key themes of this year's crucial climate talks. Up next: Climate Finance.

Grosvenor joins Race to Zero campaign

Property developer Grosvenor Britain & Ireland has joined the Race to Zero initiative, joining thousands of other businesses striving to achieve an overarching goal of halving emissions by 2030 and reaching net-zero by 2050 at the latest.

COP26 Primer: Climate Finance

edie’s COP26 Primer Reports are about seizing the green opportunity. Produced in the run-up to the official talks, this mini-series of reports are based on the five key themes of COP26: Clean Energy, Clean Transport, Climate Resilience, Nature-Based Solutions, and Climate Finance.

Microsoft announced as latest COP26 Principal Partner

Global technology giant Microsoft has been named as the latest Principal Partner for COP26 - the highest level of sponsorship for the climate summit.

Sustainable Business Covered podcast: What role do carbon markets and pricing play in the net-zero transition?

With news around offsetting schemes and emissions trading featuring heavily in headlines in recent weeks, episode 103 of the Sustainable Business Covered Podcast explores their role in the net-zero transition.

Available to watch on-demand: edie's masterclass on TCFD implementation for business

edie's latest webinar took place this week and focused on how businesses can get to grips with the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). It is now available to watch on repeat.

World Bank increases climate finance for developing nations

The World Bank Group has issued a new spending plan through to 2025 that will ensure that an average of 35% of total spending is focused on climate adaptation and decarbonisation in developing countries.

'An alarming lack of net-zero progress': Green economy reacts to latest CCC report

Prominent groups and individuals across the UK's green economy have expressed anger and disappointment about the nation's lack of progress on decarbonisation despite its net-zero pledge, as evidenced in the Climate Change Committee's (CCC) latest report.

CCC: UK 'has no coherent plan to reduce emissions this decade', despite net-zero pledge

The UK Government has not yet backed up its long-term climate target of net-zero by 2050, often described as "world-leading" by Ministers, with realistic and ambitious delivery plans, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) is warning.

Aviva and WWF push UK to mandate climate transition plans for financial sector

British financial institutions should be mandated to outline their plans for decarbonising investments in line with the national net-zero target by the end of 2023, Aviva Investors is recommending.

How to be a net-zero winner

As part of edie's Net-Zero Carbon Playbook, Centrica Business Solution's net-zero product manager Alex Lowe explains the steps that organisations can take to thrive during the net-zero transition.

Making sustainability part of your bottom-line: Why collaboration is key

As part of edie's Net-Zero Carbon Playbook, Virgin Media O2's business director Jo Bertram outlines how collaborative efforts to reach net-zero can help businesses prosper during the low-carbon transition.

Close policy gaps now or risk missing net-zero, E.ON and CBI warn UK Ministers

Electricity provider E.ON has released a new report showing how current policy frameworks leave the UK off-track to deliver its net-zero target by 2050, the day after the Confederation of British Industries (CBI) called on Ministers to "make 2021 the boldest year of net-zero action".

G7: What was (and wasn't) agreed by world leaders to combat the climate crisis

From "green Marshall Plans" and net-zero energy sectors to a lack of clarity on green spending and transport decarbonisation, edie rounds up what was and wasn't agreed at the G7 Summit.

G7 final communique: Nations promise coal phase-out and $100bn climate finance

The final agreements from this year's G7 summit have been published, featuring commitments to phase-out coal-fired power generation and get back on track to deliver $100bn of climate finance to less wealthy nations.

Net-Zero Carbon Playbook: edie launches new business blueprint report

edie has launched a new report that acts as a business blueprint of key considerations for the UK private sector to assist with efforts to reach net-zero carbon emissions.

Green finance tools and net-zero sector coalitions: CEOs present climate initiatives to world leaders at G7

EY, HSBC and Heathrow Airport are among the 300 businesses presenting three new solutions to help the private sector play its role in tackling the climate crisis to G7 leaders on Friday (11 June).

Be bolder with climate policies, 70 CEOs and investors worth $41trn tell world leaders

An alliance of more than 70 chief executives has written to world leaders in support of "bold and courageous commitments, policies and actions" on tackling the climate crisis, on the same day that a similar call to action has been made by investors representing trillions of dollars of assets.

Net-zero and COP26: Achieving Mission Possible

Six months out from the COP26 summit, edie hosted an exclusive virtual roundtable discussion with a select group of sustainability leaders, exploring how businesses can accelerate the net-zero carbon transition in the run-up to the crucial climate talks.

Climate change at the G7 Summit: Everything you need to know

World leaders are meeting in Cornwall this week (11-13 June) as part of the G7 Summit. The climate crisis is a key theme for policymakers going into the event, but how much prominence will it have as the world's largest economies attempt to respond to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic?

Work underway to create 'UK's biggest electric bus charging station' in Glasgow

Public transport operator First Bus has begun work to retrofit its Caledonia depot in Glasgow to host 162 electric vehicle (EV) charging points, claiming the project will be the largest of its kind in the UK once complete.

Report: Climate change to deliver GDP loss double that of Covid-19 on current policy levels

Nations could experience a loss in GDP double that of the economic crash caused by the coronavirus pandemic, if leading countries do not introduce more ambitious climate pledges, according to a new report warning that the G7 could lose 8.5% of its economy each year by 2050.

G7 agree on 'historic steps' to make climate reporting mandatory

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak met with finance ministers in London this weekend, with discussions leading to a historic agreement that G7 nations will mandate climate reporting in line with the recommendations of the global Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

JP Morgan, Citi and BlackRock all confirmed for edie's Sustainable Investment Conference 2021

Financial and environmental experts from some of the world's largest investors and banks will discuss the prominent rise in environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing and what that means for business at edie's Sustainable Investment Conference next month.

Transport Minister among keynote speakers for edie's Clean Energy & Transport Forum

The Department for Transport's Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Rachel Maclean has been confirmed as one of the keynote speakers for edie's new Clean Energy & Transport Forum, which takes place Thursday 15 July.

UK urged to end new oil and gas licencing as Extinction Rebellion protestors target BP

More than 50 environmental charities and campaign groups are urging the UK Government to ban new oil and gas licencing either at the G7 Summit this month, or ahead of COP26 in November.

EU and Japan seal 'green alliance' in bid for climate neutrality

The European Union and Japan have reaffirmed their "shared ambition of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050" at the conclusion of a bilateral summit which included the signature of an EU-Japan "Green Alliance".

Prime Minister Boris Johnson urges UK SMEs to make net-zero commitments

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued a rallying call to the UK's small and medium-sized (SME) businesses to make small steps to reduce emissions and contribute to the UK's net-zero target for 2050.

Next G7 Summit in Cornwall to be certified as carbon neutral

The UK Government has confirmed that the next G7 Summit, due to take place in Cornwall next month, will comply with internationally recognised standards for carbon neutrality.

Countdown to COP26 Festival: Flagship July events to focus on crucial themes of climate talks

edie has today (26 May) officially unveiled the content programmes and initial speaker line-ups for the next two events to be delivered under the Countdown to COP26 Festival programme - covering the key COP themes of net-zero carbon energy, clean transport and climate finance.

WWF: UK banks and investors financing projects with double nation's climate impact

UK banks and asset managers collectively financed projects emitting 805 million tonnes of greenhouse gases in 2019 - around twice the UK's annual national carbon footprint.

G7 nations agree 2030s net-zero targets for power sector

The leaders of the G7 nations have agreed a joint commitment to ensure their power sectors reach net-zero in the 2030s, setting up for the economy-wide transition by 2050.

Policy direction and pricing: How do we get all UK businesses to 100% clean electricity?

Poor policy direction, a lack of public awareness and financial challenges must all be overcome for the UK's private sector to deliver on the COP26 aim on clean energy, an expert panel has agreed.

'Engage your suppliers and competitors': COP26 architect urges business collaboration ahead of crucial climate summit

The UK COP26 unit's director of partnerships and engagement, Matt Toombs, used his keynote speech at edie's flagship Countdown to COP26 event to outline exactly how businesses can properly prepare for the crucial talks.

Taking place today: Last chance to register for edie's flagship Countdown to COP26 event

The UK Cabinet Office's director of partnerships and engagement Matt Toombs has joined the likes of WBCSD director Claire O'Neill and O2's head of corporate responsibility and sustainability Tracey Herald among the headline speakers at edie's Countdown to COP26 virtual event Thursday (20 May). 

#SustyTalk: Countdown to COP26 with Natural England's Tony Juniper - Environment Bill and nature-based solutions

With COP26 less than six months away, edie has launched a new series of videos with high-level speakers, designed to inspire and empower your preparations for the conference. Up next, Natural England chair Tony Juniper.

#SustyTalk: Countdown to COP26 with Sky's Fiona Ball - communication and collaboration for climate action

With COP26 less than six months away, edie has launched a new series of videos with high-level speakers, designed to inspire and empower your preparations for the conference. Up next, Sky's group director for Bigger Picture, Fiona Ball.

edie kicks off new COP26 Primer report series with Clean Energy focus

As part of the brand-new Countdown to COP26 Festival of digital content and events, edie has this week launched a series of "Primer Reports" which provide need-to-know insights into the key themes of this year's crucial climate talks. First up: Clean Energy.

COP26 will go ahead in person, Alok Sharma confirms

COP26 President Alok Sharma has confirmed that the Government is planning to host the conference in-person rather than on Zoom, stating that face-to-face meeting is important to deliver "an inclusive summit".

#SustyTalk: Countdown to COP26 with The Climate Group's Sandra Roling

With COP26 less than six months away, edie has launched a new series of videos with high-level speakers, designed to inspire and empower your preparations for the conference. Up next, The Climate Group's head of EV100 Sandra Roling.

COP26 Primer: Clean Energy

edie’s COP26 Primer Reports are about seizing the green opportunity. Produced in the run-up to the official talks, this mini-series of reports are based on the five key themes of COP26: Clean Energy, Clean Transport, Climate Resilience, Nature-Based Solutions, and Climate Finance.

#SustyTalk​: Counting down to COP26 with O2's Tracey Herald

With COP26 less than six months away, edie has launched a new series of videos with high-level speakers, designed to inspire and empower your preparations for the conference. Up next, O2's head of corporate responsibility and sustainability Tracey Herald.

Cities need $72bn boost to protect residents from climate change, CDP reveals

An analysis of the climate mitigation and adaptation plans of 800 major cities has found that one in four does not have the budget to protect their residents from climate impacts like floods.

'Proposals fall far short': Green economy left disappointed at Queen's speech

With the UK's official reopening of Parliament this week, the Queen travelled to the House of Lords to outline Governmental priorities for the coming months. Many had expected more to be said about tackling climate change and nature loss.

#SustyTalk​: Counting down to COP26 with green finance expert Sir Roger Gifford

With COP26 less than six months away, edie has launched a new series of videos with high-level speakers, designed to inspire and empower your preparations for the conference. First up, Green Finance Institute chair Sir Roger Gifford.

edie launches Countdown to COP26 Festival of content and events ahead of crucial climate summit

edie has today (7 May) unveiled a six-month programme of digital content and events which will unite thousands of business leaders, sustainability and energy professionals, policymakers, academics and green groups in the run-up to the COP26 climate talks.

Report: Nations falling short on collective efforts to meet Paris Agreement

Nations are adopting stronger climate targets in the build-up to COP26, but new research has revealed that current policies would still lead to global warming twice what it should be if the world is to meet the aims of the Paris Agreement.

UK green groups form new business alliance to spur corporate race to net-zero

A cohort of UK corporate green groups have formally banded together to launch the UK Business Group Alliance for Net Zero (BGA), in a bid to raise climate action in the build-up to COP26 and to ensure the nation meets its net-zero target for 2050.

Report: What are the business opportunities of COP26?

edie has today (28 April) published a new Explains guide detailing everything you need to know about this year's COP26 climate summit and how businesses can get involved and use the discussions to improve their approach to sustainability and the net-zero transition.

edie Explains: The business opportunity of COP26

What is COP26? What are the summit’s aims and desired outcomes? How does the COP process work? And what is the business opportunity before, during and after the talks? This new edie Explains guide answers all of these questions and more.

UK's food and drink sector targets net-zero emissions by 2040

The Food and Drink Federation (FDF), which represents more than 300 companies, has today (27 April) unveiled an ambition on behalf of the sector to reach net-zero emissions by 2040.

Amazon and Unilever among businesses teaming with governments on $1bn deforestation pledge

A group of businesses including Amazon, Unilever, and Nestlé has joined the UK, US and Norwegian governments in setting up a new public-private initiative committing $1bn to combat the climate crisis through the conservation and preservation of tropical forests across the globe.

Mark Carney to chair 'Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net-Zero' ahead of COP26

A new initiative from the US and UK Governments, designed to unite the global financial sector on the net-zero transition, has launched, confirming Mark Carney as chair.

Natural England: Biodiversity critical to reaching net-zero

Peatlands, woodlands and coastal marine habitats are all vital in helping the UK reach net-zero emissions by 2050, but efforts need to be made to improve biodiversity conservation and restoration.

Green Alliance: Government 'complacency' risks UK's net-zero transition

Despite strong progress in decarbonising electricity generation, the UK Government is not doing enough to support the low-carbon transition in hard-to-abate sector like agriculture and transport.

Back net-zero vision with 'bold' 2030 climate goal, 300 CEOs tell Biden

Chief executives from the likes of Unilever, Microsoft and Apple are among the 310 business leaders urging the Biden administration to back up its 2050 net-zero target with a strong interim emissions goal.

RouteZero: Climate Group launches new initiative to decarbonise road transport

International non-profit the Climate Group had partnered with the UN High-Level Climate Champions to launch a new initiative aimed at getting businesses, cities and regions to completely decarbonise all forms of road transport.

G7 ponders increasing climate finance in build-up to COP26

Chancellor Rishi Sunak met with G7 finance ministers and central bank governors to discuss the role of finance in supporting the net-zero transition and implored developed nations to raise efforts to generate $100bn in annual revenue to support developing nations combat the climate crisis.

One-third of the UK's biggest businesses signed up to 'Race to Zero' ahead of COP26

Almost one in three FTSE100 companies have signed up to the UN's Race to Zero campaign, designed to accelerate the adoption of net-zero targets ahead of COP26.

Countdown to COP26: edie launches bumper virtual event ahead of climate talks

Registration is now open for a brand-new edie event which aims to help businesses seize the opportunity of the UN's COP26 climate summit later this year, with a stellar speaker line-up including senior representatives from BEIS, ClientEarth, Green Alliance, We Mean Business and the High-Level Champions for Climate Action.

Daily Climate Show: Sky to launch dedicated climate news programme

Sky is launching a daily news show dedicated to the rising necessity of tackling the climate crisis and the solutions that exist to do so.

What is the role between business and biodiversity? Access edie's new Explains guide

edie has this week published a new downloadable guide outlining all the key considerations for businesses that are looking to incorporate biodiversity into a holistic sustainability strategy.

Boris Johnson: Climate and biodiversity will be 'UK's top international priority'

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has stated that the UK Government will develop more ambitious climate and nature targets and initiatives as it completes an Integrated review of international policy.

Government orders public inquiry into Cumbria coal mine

The Government is set to intervene in the controversial plan to open a new coal mine in Cumbria, with a fresh inquiry as to whether it can be opened while keeping to national climate commitments mooted to take place.

Koala conservation and electric buses for COP26: The sustainability success stories of the week

As part of our Mission Possible campaign, edie brings you this weekly round-up of five of the best sustainability success stories of the week from across the globe.

UK Government has 'no plan' for reaching net-zero, MPs warn

Almost two years after enshrining the 2050 net-zero target in UK law, cross-party MPs have heard evidence that the Government still lacks a credible plan for delivery.

Budget 2021: Businesses and charities make last-minute calls for green funding to Rishi Sunak

With the 2021 Budget being announced on Wednesday (3 March), Chancellor Rishi Sunak is facing mounting pressure over the Green Homes Grant, National Nature Service and other green policy decisions.

'Tech Zero taskforce': UK tech firms to inform Government's net-zero approach

Fast-growing UK tech firms including Bulb, Starling Bank and Olio have formed a new taskforce that will inform the government's green policymaking and garner industry support ahead of COP26.

UN: Global climate pledges will only reduce emissions by 1% this decade

The world is falling "far short" of alignment with the Paris Agreement, despite the fact that many nations have updated their climate targets.

Sainsbury's confirmed as principal partner for COP26

Supermarket Sainsbury's has signed for the highest tier of sponsorship for COP26, ahead of the event in Glasgow this November.

Banking giants unite with Prince of Wales on financial net-zero taskforce

The Prince of Wales' Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) has announced that executives from the likes of Bank of America, BNP Paribas, NatWest and Lloyds have joined on as members of a new Financial Services Task Force aiming to create a net-zero investor sector.

#SustyTalk​: National Grid's Duncan Burt on COP26 preparations

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with an exclusive discussion with National Grid Group's director for COP26, Duncan Burt.

Kwasi Kwarteng: Recent policy decisions send mixed messages on UK climate action

BEIS Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has admitted that the UK needs a stronger and more joined-up policy framework to deliver its net-zero target and claimed that decisions such as not blocking a new coal mine in Cumbria "send mixed messages".

Sustainability Leaders Forum: Five top tips for turning climate ambition into action

With the dust settling on three days of thought-provoking conversations at edie's Sustainability Leaders Forum (SLF), edie rounds up how businesses can make 2021 a super year for climate action, which turns ambition into action for corporate sustainability.

UK's Net-Zero Business Champion: We must spark conversations outside our usual circles

The UK's Net-Zero Business Champion, Andrew Griffith MP, used his platform at edie's Sustainability Leaders Forum to urge professionals to engage with their supply chains, competitors and communities to maximise positive outcomes ahead of COP26.

Landmark review calls for nature to be included in economic decision making

A new landmark review has been launched today (2 February), outlining how businesses and policymakers can include and account for nature as part of economic decisions, with many claiming the findings could be as influential as the Stern review on climate change.

Climate Change Committee calls for rethink on Cumbrian coal mine approval

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) is the latest organisation urging the UK Government to reconsider the planning approval for a new coal mine in Cumbria, warning that it will increase emissions and create a "negative impression" of UK green policy in the build-up to COP26.

Last chance to register: COP26 business champion Andrew Griffith to deliver keynote at the Sustainability Leaders Forum

edie has today (29 January) confirmed a final addition to the Sustainability Leaders Forum speaker line-up in the form of Andrew Griffith MP, who will deliver a keynote speech about the business opportunity of COP26 on the second day of the virtual event, which runs from 2-4 February.

COP26 President launches challenge to deliver net-zero 'tipping points' in every sector

The UN High-Level Climate Champions and COP26 President Alok Sharma have today (28 January) unveiled a radical new roadmap to push the global economy towards net-zero emissions, targeting a range of near-term, sectoral tipping points to deliver decarbonisation.

Bank of England's high-carbon financing a 'moral hazard', MPs warn

The Bank of England risks creating 'moral hazard' by continuing to finance high-carbon projects and companies and providing no-strings-attached financing to carbon intensives companies, the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has warned.

Why Joe Biden's inauguration provides a timely injection for climate optimism

The 46th President of the US wasted little time in ushering in a new era of climate action that will see the world's largest economy join the net-zero movement - a welcome injection of optimism as nations approach the hard yards in alleviating the climate crisis.

Biden returns US to Paris Agreement as part of climate policy overhaul

In one of his first acts after being sworn in as the 46th President of the United States of America, Joe Biden moved to readmit the US back into the Paris Agreement, claiming that tackling the climate crisis, racial inequality and current coronavirus pandemic were the "gravest responsibilities" that countries face.

Kwasi Kwarteng admits 'tension' between UK's new coal mine and climate ambitions

BEIS Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has admitted that the Government's decision not to intervene with the planning process for a new coal mine in Cumbria is at odds with its domestic climate targets and the messages it wants to send as COP26 host.

The 2021 Sustainable Business Leadership Survey (8 minutes)

From Covid-19 to COP26, this flagship annual survey asks sustainability, CSR and energy leaders about the biggest drivers, challenges and opportunities facing green business in 2021.

UK water sector joins UN's 'Race to Zero' ahead of COP26

Water UK, the trade body representing all major companies in the sector, has been named as an official partner for the UNFCCC's Race to Zero Campaign, which was set up to inspire a holistic and ambitious approach to the global net-zero transition.

Envision Virgin Racing confirmed as COP26 partner for 'together for our planet' campaign

Motorsport team Envision Virgin Racing has been named as the latest company to be announced as a key partner for the COP26 climate summit, joining the "Together for Our Planet campaign" to encourage global climate action and raise awareness of the electric vehicle (EV) transition.

#SustyTalk: How can the built environment deliver a green recovery?

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with a special panel discussion on the green recovery for the built environment, featuring Bennetts Associates' director Peter Fisher and FORE Partnership's managing director Basil Demeroutis.

Sky confirmed as COP26 principal media partner

Sky has been named as the principal media partner for the COP26 climate summit and has published new sustainability criteria for its TV productions.

Kwasi Kwarteng steps up to BEIS Secretary post as Alok Sharma takes on full-time COP Presidency

The Government has confirmed that Alok Sharma will step down from his position as Secretary of State for the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to enable more focus on his role as COP26 President, with Kwasi Kwarteng named as his replacement.

Report: Can the built environment achieve a green recovery?

edie has today (8 January) launched a free report detailing the appetite within the built environment sector to collaborate to overcome the challenges presented by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and to "build back better" by championing the green recovery.

China 'preparing to launch its first emissions trading scheme'

The Chinese government is drawing up the first emissions trading scheme in the nation's history, after it committed to carbon neutrality by 2060.

Report: 10 million high-carbon jobs to be retrained or replaced as part of net-zero transition

Research from a new cross-party programme exploring the net-zero transition in the UK has warned that 10 million jobs will either need to be retrained or replaced if the nation is to meet its climate commitments.

21 New Year's resolutions for sustainability professionals in 2021 and beyond

At last, 2020 has drawn to a close and while the first parts of a new year might not create a respite from a global pandemic and an economic crash, it does create the ideal opportunity to look at the climate crisis with a reinvigorated approach.

A net-zero New Year? The 7 green policies UK businesses are still waiting for

December saw a flurry of green policy announcements, from the Energy White Paper to the decision to end finance to fossil fuels overseas. But several key policy gaps remain on the road to net-zero as we enter a new year - and will need to be closed ahead of COP26.

Net-zero targets, virtual climate events and green recovery debates: The sustainability stories of 2020

With less than a week until Christmas, edie recaps what has been a busy year for sustainability stories, from the growing green recovery movement to the election of Joe Biden.

Zero Carbon Forum: UK's biggest restaurants team up to plot pathway to net-zero

Nando's, Burger King, KFC and Pizza Express are among the first business members of a new hospitality industry coalition that is plotting a pathway to net-zero for the sector.

Banks pressured to divest from fossil fuels and deforesters ahead of COP26

MPs, trade bodies and the UN's Environment Programme are urging banks to unify their response to the net-zero transition ahead of COP26 next November and commit to time-bound phase-outs for fossil fuel finance.

ECIU founder Richard Black steps down as director

The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) has confirmed that its founder Richard Black is stepping down as director, after setting up the environmental non-profit in 2014.

Global decarbonisation efforts need to be five times greater to reach 1.5C pathway

Global efforts to combat the climate crisis will need to be five times greater than current levels, with new research warning that the rate that carbon emissions are decoupled from economic growth slowed in 2019.

Sustainable Business Covered podcast: In the Green Room with EN+ Group's Lord Barker

To mark episode 94 of the edie podcast, content editor Matt Mace makes a long-overdue return to the Green Room, to discuss how Covid-19, climate policy and Brexit have impacted corporate sustainability with EN+ Group's non-executive chairman and former DECC minister Lord Barker.

Telefónica, Nestlé and Ragn-Sells commit to net-zero supply chains

Technology giant Telefónica, food manufacturer Nestlé and waste management firm Ragn-Sells are the latest businesses to sign up to a collaborative movement to reduce value chain emissions in line with the 1.5C ambition of the Paris Agreement.

UK ramps up climate adaptation plans in build up to COP26

The UK has become one of the first countries to publish an official plan setting out how the nation is responding to the climate crisis through adaptation and resiliency plans that focus on flood prevention and rewilding.

UK Government to end support for overseas fossil fuel projects

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that the UK Government will end financing and support for overseas fossil fuel projects in the build-up to COP26 in 2021.

A 'vital step': Green economy reacts to the UK's new climate commitment

Green groups and business leaders have welcomed Prime Minister Boris Johnson's announcement that the UK has created an updated domestic emissions target for 2030 as its contribution to the Paris Agreement, but with progress lacking against upcoming carbon budgets, many want to see more detailed action plans.

UK to slash emissions by 68% by 2030, as part of Paris Agreement NDC

The UK Government will aim to reduce emissions by 68% by 2030, as part of a domestic action plan that will deliver the nation's contribution towards the Paris Agreement and limiting global temperature increases to well below 2C and build towards net-zero by 2050.

CCC pushes Boris Johnson to bolster UK's 2030 climate target ahead of COP26

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) is urging Boris Johnson to commit to reducing the UK's emissions by at least 68% by 2030, through its updated Paris Agreement pledge for COP26.

Former COP26 chair Claire O'Neill: UK falling behind on international climate engagement

Former Energy Minister Claire O'Neill (nee Perry) has told MPs she is concerned that the UK Government is failing to engage policymakers from other nations on climate action ahead of COP26, risking an unjust global low-carbon transition.

Business giants urge Boris Johnson to confirm 2030 climate target

More than 75 major businesses have penned an open letter to Boris Johnson calling for an "ambitious", legally-binding, interim climate target to support the transition to net-zero by 2050.

Report: Can the retail sector deliver a green recovery?

edie has published a new report detailing how retailers can build back better from the coronavirus pandemic by aligning long-term strategies with the need to combat the climate crisis, foster new innovations and ultimately spur a green recovery.

Is Boris Johnson's Ten Point Plan enough to reach net-zero?

Businesses, green groups and entire sectors welcomed the far-reaching announcement from the UK Government to issue a Ten Point Plan that would put the nation on the road to net-zero, but already analysis suggests that more is required to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

Andrew Griffith: What we know about COP26's net-zero business champion

Boris Johnson has chosen Conservative MP Andrew Griffith as the UK's Net-Zero Business Champion for COP26. Here, we outline what we know about his history on climate action and his views on key environmental issues.

'An ambitious plan for a green industrial revolution': Reaction to Boris Johnson's Ten Point net-zero plan

Green groups have welcomed a new Ten Point Llan from Prime Minister Boris Johnson to deliver a green recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and build towards the net-zero emissions target, but the lack of a clear roadmap is dampening an otherwise monumental green policy moment.

#SustyTalk: Counting down to COP26 with Chapter Zero, the Green Alliance and Fundación Avin

for Net-Zero November, edie hosts a special #SustyTalk video panel discussion on preparations for COP26 with the Green Alliance's Shaun Spiers, Chapter Zero's Susan Hooper and Fundación Avin and the UNFCCC's advisory panel's Ramiro Fernandez.

Utilities and banks: UK unveils first round of corporate COP26 sponsors

The UK's COP26 secretariat has named utilities SSE and Scottish Power, along with National Grid and NatWest Group, as its first sponsors for the climate conference next year.

Anne-Marie Trevelyan: What we know about COP26's 'international adaptation' champion

The UK Government has appointed Conservative MP Anne-Marie Trevelyan to the role of International Champion on Adaptation and Resilience for the COP26. But as the first woman appointed to a senior role for the crucial climate summit, Trevelyan has a patchy history on climate action.

'No time to waste': Boris Johnson to set out 10-point plan to boost net-zero commitment

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued a global rallying call on nations to put forward raised ambitions to tackle the climate emergency as part of a year-long run-up to COP26, with the UK set to publish a 10-point plan to boost green jobs and reach net-zero imminently.

Net-Zero Live 2020: Register for today's Net-Zero Resources sessions

Following a thought-provoking two days of edie's Net-Zero Live virtual event, businesses looking at resource efficiency can hear from Unilever, Coca-Cola, Mars, Timberland and WWF on the final day of the flagship event.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirms UK's first sovereign green bond, mandatory TCFD disclosures

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has made a string of major announcements on green finance, confirming that the UK will issue its first green gilts in 2021 and will introduce new climate disclosure requirements.

UK retail sector pledges to reach net-zero emissions by 2040

More than 60 leading retailers, including Pret UK, Burberry, Sainsbury's and Missguided, have pledged to support a new collaborative roadmap to transform the sector and its supply chain to net-zero emissions by 2040.

COP26 was due started this week - here's what's happening instead

The UN's 26th climate conference - COP26 - should have begun in Glasgow this week. With the event postponed by 12 months due to Covid-19, edie explores the events keeping the international climate conversation going.

IPPR: UK Government must spend £33bn annually to combat climate and nature crises

The UK Government is allocating just £4bn annually to initiatives designed to reverse nature loss and tackle climate change, when the scale of the challenges requires some £33bn.

US Election 2020: What does Joe Biden's win mean for the global climate emergency?

US President-elect Joe Biden is outlining that first steps of his transition plan after beating Donald Trump in the US election. While the latter is yet to concede the results, leadership under the Democrats will deliver a very different outlook on global efforts to combat the climate crisis.

The Net-Zero election: Will the US continue to swim against the tide on climate change?

It is election night in the US and millions of citizens have already cast their vote on who should be the next president. The divide between Donald Trump and Joe Biden is evident, with one ready to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and the other ready to embrace the net-zero transition. The result of this election will likely shape global climate negotiations moving forward.

Business groups call on Prime Minister to set Paris Agreement commitment by end of year

A number of green business groups have called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the UK Government to set a substantial commitment to the Paris Agreement that is aligned to the nation's own net-zero target.

Net-Zero offers optimism amidst a crisis

There won't be many that look back on 2020 fondly, but the energy and ambitions from corporates and nations to reach net-zero emissions and alleviate the climate crisis can provide sustainability professionals with some much needed optimism during the despondency of the Covid-19 pandemic.

edie launches new report detailing how the hospitality sector can achieve a green recovery

edie has launched its latest sector insight report, examining how the hospitality and leisure sector can build back better from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic by focusing on low-carbon strategies as part of a green recovery.

Investors worth $8.5trn call for mandatory climate risk reporting for big businesses

Climate risk reporting should be made mandatory for the UK's biggest publicly listed businesses, an influential group of investors has told Ministers and regulators.

Government to publish 'comprehensive' net-zero strategy in build up to COP26

The UK Government has responded to the latest Committee on Climate Change (CCC) progress report, pledging to publish a "comprehensive" strategy that will detail how all parts of the economy will decarbonise in line with the national net-zero emissions target for 2050.

Businesses and green groups call for Government to set out 'negative emissions' policy framework

The National Farmers Union (NFU), Heathrow Airport and the Renewable Energy Association (REA) are amongst the organisations that have formed the Coalition for Negative Emissions, which is this week calling on the UK Government to set an "unambiguous commitment" to carbon capture and negative emissions.

UK Government reps 'discussing potential COP26 sponsorship deals with oil majors'

Despite a promise to ensure that COP26's corporate sponsors are "making real contributions" to climate action, government representatives have reportedly been in discussions with some of the world's highest emitting firms, including Equinor, BP and Shell.

edie launches new report on achieving a green recovery for the manufacturing sector

edie has today (29 September) published the first in a new series of reports looking at how businesses from key sectors can respond to the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic by focusing on a green recovery. First up, the manufacturing sector.

As Boris Johnson unveils COP26 'launchpad' event, is the world on track for a green recovery?

In a speech to world leaders today, Boris Johnson confirmed that the UK will co-host a climate event with the UN in December and will spend the coming months urging other nations to update their emissions targets. But is the UK keeping its own promises for a green recovery? And are world leaders walking the talk on their own commitments?

China's carbon-neutral target for 2060: What does it mean for global climate action?

The world's largest emitting country, China, has pledged to carbon neutrality by 2060, in a surprising yet welcome move that will boost global negotiations on climate action ahead of next year's COP26 summit.

Climate Week NYC: What happened on day one?

With COP26 postponed and many other large climate events postponed, rescheduled or moved online, all eyes are on Climate Week NYC. Here, edie rounds up the key announcements from the first day.

BT joins calls to accelerate climate action through 1.5C Business Playbook

BT has joined the likes of Ikea and Ericsson in supporting the 1.5C Business Playbook, calling for renewed efforts from corporates and policymakers to halve emissions by 2030 as part of a "race to zero".

Alok Sharma promises 'joined-up thinking' on net-zero policy, but examples remain scarce

Business Secretary Alok Sharma delivered rhetoric that the Government will approach the net-zero emissions commitment for 2050 through a "joined-up thinking" approach, but was unable to confirm any concrete policy announcements that would ensure fossil fuels aren't locked into the future economy.

Davos delayed: World Economic Forum postpones 2021 event over Covid-19 concerns

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has postponed the 2021 iteration of its namesake conference in Davos, Switzerland, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

UK Government starts search for corporate COP26 sponsors

The UK's COP26 presidency has outlined its sponsorship criteria for the conference, stating that it is only looking to work with businesses with "ambitious" net-zero targets.

Treasury defends lack of 'green strings' tied to corporate Covid-19 relief packages

The Government has defended its decision to issue billion-pound bailouts for carbon-intensive companies and sectors, with the Treasury hitting back at accusations that the Paris Agreement and the climate crisis had been cast aside, but a court case still looms.

edie's Net-Zero Live 2020 goes virtual as part of bumper month of inspirational content

edie's annual exhibition, Net-Zero Live 2020, will take place virtually over three days in November, as part of a themed month of digital content dedicated to accelerating climate action and helping business build back better.

Morgan Stanley to disclose climate impact of investments

Morgan Stanley has become the first US-based global bank to commit to measuring and disclosing the environmental impact of its investment portfolio and loan offerings and will join a global partnership to drive climate action across the global accounting sector.

Defra unveils natural capital 'assessment' funding as post-Brexit green recovery shapes up

Environment Minister George Eustice has announced a new £5m Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessment to protect the UK's environment as part of a new package of Environment Bill measures, on the same day that the Government unveiled a £16m sustainable farming package in South America.

Protecting our planet in the 'new normal' world

Ahead of edie's new smart grids content series with E.ON, the utility company's chief executive Michael Lewis notes that we cannot lose sight of our long-term commitment to protecting our planet while overcoming the coronavirus pandemic.

UK Government mulling ban on overseas fossil fuel financing, reports

Ministers are reportedly considering moves to ban the UK Government's direct lending facility from financing any new or existing fossil fuel projects overseas, following a series of high-profile exposés.

#SustyTalk: BT's Gabrielle Giner on COP26 and sustainability networking in the 'new normal'

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with BT's head of sustainability policy Gabrielle Giner discussing how climate momentum can continue in the run-up to a delayed COP26.

'Happy Birthday, you haven’t aged a day’: One year on from the UK’s net-zero announcement

It's been one year since the UK's historic net-zero announcement, and the movement is being kept afloat by the corporate sector in a year the has seen policy blindsided by a global pandemic and slowed to a frustrating pace by Brexit.

Race to Zero: What's set to be included in the UK's green Covid-19 recovery package?

The UK Government's landmark global campaign for mobilising net-zero support ahead of the postponed COP26 summit - 'Race to Zero' - was launched late last week. But what decarbonisation activities are the likes of Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak and Alok Sharma backing for inclusion in national recovery planning?

Rolls-Royce commits to net-zero carbon operations by 2030

Manufacturing giant Rolls-Royce has announced an intention to become a net-zero carbon business by 2030, alongside a wider ambition to enable sectors it sells to in becoming net-zero by 2050.

Race to Zero: COP26 campaign launched to push nations towards net-zero targets

To mark World Environment Day, the UK Government has launched its "Race to Zero" global campaign to mobilise support for the net-zero transition across businesses, cities and nations, with new data finding that 53% of global GDP is covered by a net-zero ambition in some form.

Green recovery: Net-zero transition can create £90bn annual benefits for the UK

The UK's net-zero transition can be the perfect remedy to the economic and health crises caused by the coronavirus, according to a new WWF-commissioned report that suggests that net-zero could deliver more than £90bn in annual benefits to the UK while growing the job market.

UK business giants call for national green recovery tied to net-zero

More than 200 UK businesses and investors, including Sky, Lloyds Bank and Asda, have called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to deliver a green recovery plan from the coronavirus pandemic that builds a stronger and more inclusive economy.

Boris Johnson confirms new COP26 date, urges nations to focus on green recoveries

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has reiterated a desire for the UK to deliver a "sustainable" recovery from the coronavirus pandemic in a way that brings together key international nations to reach the ambitions of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Reports: COP26 to be delayed until November 2021

Reports have emerged that the UK Government has put forward the first two weeks of November 2021 as new proposed dates for the crucial COP26 climate conference, citing concerns over the state of international travel safety due to the coronavirus.

#SustyTalk: Danone's Eric Soubeiran on Covid-19 and World Biodiversity Day

edie's #SustyTalk interview series continues with Danone's vice president for nature and water cycle Eric Soubeiran discussing regenerative agriculture and food practices and climate leadership to mark world biodiversity day.

edie launches updated net-zero business guide to account for Covid-19 and green policy delays

Organisations looking to understand the various issues surrounding the hot topic of net-zero and how the trend could be impacted by the coronavirus and delays to critical green legislation now have access to a crucial new edie Explains guide, which breaks down everything you need-to-know on the topic.

CCC: Change tax systems to build green economic recovery post-coronavirus

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has advised Prime Minister Boris Johnson, COP26 President Alok Sharma and national first ministers across the UK, calling for climate action to be placed at the heart of an economic rebuild following the coronavirus pandemic.

Green stimulus can repair global economy and climate, study says

Green economy recovery packages for the coronavirus crisis will repair the global economy and put the world on track to tackle climate breakdown, but time is running out to implement the changes needed, new analysis has shown.

Messages of hope: How world leaders are rallying for a green Covid-19 recovery

The two-day Petersberg Climate Dialogue finished yesterday evening, with ministerial leaders from the UK, Germany, the EU and the UN all delivering rallying cries for nations to focus on climate mitigation as part of any efforts to stimulate the economic downturned caused by the coronavirus outbreak.

Petersberg Climate Dialogue: Alok Sharma rallies for global net-zero transition policies

The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and COP26 President, Alok Sharma, spoke at the 11th Petersberg Climate Dialogue to call on nations to "set clear targets and policies" that are aligned to a rapid net-zero transition and will stimulate green economic growth.

Alok Sharma: 'Focus has not stopped' on global climate action

The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Alok Sharma had stated that the UK remains focused on preparations for the delayed COP26 climate summit, claiming that nations can't treat the coronavirus pandemic and climate action as an "either-or" scenario.

CCC boss: Green and resilient economic recovery can push UK towards net-zero target

EXCLUSIVE: The Committee on Climate Change's (CCC) chief executive Chris Stark believes the UK Government should prioritise a green and resilient economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic that doesn't lock in fossil fuels and puts the nation on an upwards trajectory towards a socially just net-zero transformation.

UK's climate watchdog to refocus advisory reports to account for coronavirus impacts on net-zero

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has announced it is amending its advisory reports due for publication over the next 12 months to account for responses to the coronavirus pandemic, with a report on the UK's sixth carbon budget pushed back to December.

Ed Miliband named as BEIS Shadow Secretary

Former Labour leader Ed Miliband has made a return to front-bench politics after being named by the party's new leader Keir Starmer as the Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), giving him a key role in lobbying for green policy.

MPs call for climate policy clarity on COP26 progress following postponement

The chair of the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has written to COP26 President Alok Sharma to seek an update on the "sad but unfortunate necessity" of postponing the climate summit, noting that climate change cannot afford to slip down the political agenda.

COP26 climate summit postponed due to coronavirus

The crucial summit to negotiate for higher ambitions on climate change scheduled for November in Glasgow has been postponed, with new dates for the meeting to be decided in the coming months. However, there are some positives to the delay.

A 'sensible step' and 'opportunity to rebuild': Green economy reacts to COP26 postponement

Green groups have expressed disappointment but understanding that the COP26 climate summit scheduled for Glasgow in November has been postponed until 2021, with many citing the opportunity for countries to accelerate climate action in the meantime.

Committee meetings with Claire O'Neill and Alok Sharma postponed

Due to the ongoing disruption caused by the coronavirus outbreak, the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee session with former COP26 President Claire O'Neill and the Lords Committee meeting with her replacement Alok Sharma have both been postponed.

MP's pension fund still investing in fossil fuels

MPs have yet again called for the trustees of the Parliamentary Pension Fund to divest from fossil fuel companies Royal Dutch Shell and BP, having finally integrated investment into renewables into the fund.

Online climate strikes: XR turns to digital activism amid coronavirus pandemic

Extinction Rebellion's (XR) Youth arm has taken its campaign to demand that fossil fuel representatives are excluded from COP26 negotiations online, after pausing mass demonstrations in light of the coronavirus.

Coronavirus vs. climate change and COP26: What happens next?

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the global economy to a standstill, with some now doubting whether the crucial climate talks scheduled for COP26 will be able to go ahead. So, asks Matt Mace, what impact would delaying the summit have on international efforts to combat the climate crisis?

Does the Budget put the UK on course for net-zero emissions?

Chancellor Rishi Sunak's first Budget was brimming with green funding for natural climate solutions and carbon capture and storage (CCS), but key spending reviews and strategies on the horizon will clarify whether these will act as the launchpad for a net-zero carbon economy.

edie's Net-Zero Live 2020 suspended to 10-11 November 2020

edie's publisher Faversham House has announced that Net-Zero Live 2020 - originally due to take place at Birmingham's NEC on 19-20 May 2020 - has been suspended and moved to the new date of 10 -11 November 2020.

UN head: Global action on climate crisis 'way off track'

The world is "way off track" in dealing with the climate emergency and time is fast running out, the UN secretary general has said.

Multiple House of Lords committees launch climate change inquiries

Five House of Lords committees will quiz government representatives and external climate experts on topics ranging from internal carbon markets to climate impacts on migration, in a bid to strengthen preparations for the COP 26 climate summit.

Vital COP26 climate talks could be derailed by coronavirus

Concern is growing among campaigners that vital UN climate talks will be derailed by the coronavirus outbreak, while government officials are working to find ways round the problem.

The Heathrow domino: Is Government nearing the promised land of joined-up climate policy?

The Government has long been urged to approach climate change through the lens of coherent, joined-up thinking and during a 'year of climate action' in the UK the first Heathrow-shaped domino may just have fallen to kickstart a new approach to climate policy.

Stage set for EU-UK tussle over green credentials

Trade talks between the EU and the UK start next week, with thorny issues like state aid and fish set to complicate matters. A fight brewing over environmental standards may make an agreement by year's end even more difficult to come by.

'Investing for net-zero must go mainstream': COP26 finance strategy unveiled

The UK has published its COP26 strategy to help private finance support a global economic transition to net-zero emissions, with a heavy focus on exploring mandatory reporting requirements for climate-related data.

Report: 49% of world's GDP covered by net-zero targets

Just under half of the world's annual GDP is now covered by nations, regions and cities that are legislating for a net-zero emissions target, a new study has revealed.

Glasgow and London-based sustainable business organisations partner ahead of COP26

Glasgow's Chamber of Commerce and London's Waste and Recycling Board have forged a partnership, in a bid to help businesses in both cities make circular economy shifts ahead of COP26 in November.

Cabinet reshuffle: All the key personnel changes that will impact the green economy

BREAKING: Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers has been sacked and replaced by George Eustice, while Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom has been replaced by International Development Secretary Alok Sharma, who has also been named as COP26 President.   

Alok Sharma: What we know about the COP26 President's views on climate change

In an unexpected announcement, Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom has been replaced by International Development Secretary Alok Sharma, who has also been named as COP26 President. Here, edie examines Sharma's track record on climate legislation to date.

'Climate risk is financial risk': TCFD surpasses 1,000 global supporters

The Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) has revealed that more than 1,000 organisations are supporting its recommendations, including corporates with a combined market cap of $12trn and investors with $138.8trn of assets under management collectively.

Carbon trading clarity and citizens in the spotlight: What do businesses want from COP26?

With a successor to the COP26 presidency role yet to be announced, all eyes are on Westminster for news on its plans for organising the crucial summit. But - beyond a stable delivery team - what are UK business's big asks of the conference, both in terms of organisation and execution?

Michael Gove urges 'most transparent ever COP' for Glasgow

Former Environment Secretary Michael Gove has laid out his big asks for COP26 preparations and denied rumours that he will replace former Energy Minister Claire O'Neill as the event's president during this week's cabinet reshuffle.

Reports: Budget to include new energy efficiency and EV subsidies to spur net-zero progress

Chancellor Sajid Javid is mulling a string of new subsidies to reduce building and transport emissions from homeowners and public sector organisations for next month's Budget, it has been reported.

Government's plans for low-carbon homes are 'a step backwards' on climate, London Mayor warns

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged Ministers to improve plans for decarbonising the UK's built environment sector, claiming that the capital and other cities are already going further and faster in the face of the climate emergency.

Northern Ireland declares 'climate emergency' as UK moves coal phase-out forward

In the same week that the UK Government announced green policy changes around coal and electric vehicles, the Northern Ireland Assembly has declared a 'climate emergency'.

Boris Johnson promises urgent climate action after stinging criticism

Boris Johnson has promised "urgent action" on the climate crisis, taking personal leadership of this year's UN climate talks after a blistering attack by the sacked former minister who was to lead them.

Mary Robinson: Business and governments must avoid net-zero 'hypocrisy'

EXCLUSIVE: The former president of Ireland Mary Robinson has claimed that net-zero commitments made by governments and corporates must lead to a "just transition" that also combats the "hypocrisy" of ignoring fossil fuel developments further afield.

COP26: Boris Johnson to move diesel ban forward to 2035 and call for global net-zero transition

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will use the COP26 climate conference to call on other nations to follow the UK in setting a net-zero target and is also set to reveal plans to move the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars forward five years to 2035 as part of a "year of climate action".

Sustainable Business Leadership in 2020: edie publishes results of flagship annual survey

edie has today published a comprehensive report breaking down exactly what 'business leadership' looks like from the perspective of hundreds of sustainability, CSR and energy professionals from across the country.

In the wake of Davos, what lies ahead for 2020?

From the breakfast table to the boardroom, 2019 saw the conversation around the climate emergency take root at every layer of society.

UK set to breach fifth carbon budget, despite setting net-zero goal

The UK is still set to miss its fifth carbon budget despite the creation of a legally-binding net-zero target for 2050 last year, new analysis has found.

Claire O'Neill removed from COP president position

Former UK energy minister Claire O'Neill will be replaced as the president for the upcoming COP26 climate conference in Glasgow this year, as Prime Minister Boris Johnson prepares to launch a new dedicated strategy for the conference.

Businesses team up to launch net-zero infrastructure taskforce

Industry bodies representing hundreds of firms across the engineering and environmental technologies sectors have partnered to analyse how the UK's infrastructure should be redesigned to meet net-zero by 2050.

Sainsbury's commits £1bn to become net-zero by 2040

Supermarket retailer Sainsbury's has pledged to invest £1bn over the next 20 years in order to become a net-zero business across its own operations.

Mark Carney announced as Boris Johnson's finance advisor for COP26

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has appointed the departing Governor for the Bank of England Mark Carney as his Finance Advisor for the COP26 climate summit, taking place in Glasgow at the end of the year.

Earthshot Prize: Royals aim to spur 'decade of action to repair planet'

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have partnered with Sir David Attenborough to launch the 'Earthshot Prize' - a new fund for individuals and organisations working to restore the environment.

CCC: Scotland must 'immediately' increase net-zero action in preparation for COP26

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has issued its annual progress report to the Scottish Parliament, urging Ministers to "begin work immediately" on implementing short-term net-zero legislation.

'A far cry from what science tells us is needed': COP25 reaches 'disappointing' conclusion

Green campaign groups, UN officials and business representatives have expressed disappointment after two weeks of negotiations at COP25 came to a close today (15 December), almost two days behind schedule.

'Promises are not enough': Green economy reacts to Boris Johnson's historic election win

After the Conservative Party secured a landslide victory in the UK's general election, members of the nation's green economy are calling on Boris Johnson to turn the green ideations in his party's manifesto into action.

Temperature check: The 1.5C movement takes shape at COP25

BT's head of environmental sustainability Gabrielle Ginér reflects on her time at the COP25 climate summit in Spain, and why science-based targets are driving the corporate sectors towards the Paris Agreement.

Almost half of global GDP covered by net-zero targets and commitments

Around 40% of the world's annual GDP now derives from nations and regions that are discussing or have set legislative net-zero emissions targets, to be achieved by 2050 at the latest.

Timeline: The rise and impact of Greta Thunberg

As climate activist Greta Thunberg heads to Madrid for the COP25 climate conference, edie looks back at her transformative rise from solo school striker to an influential public figure that has ignited a fierce debate on the inaction towards climate change.

Johnson frozen out of climate leaders debate as green groups call for net-zero pact between parties

With Prime Minister Boris Johnson quite literally frozen out of the leader's climate debate last night, more than 40 academics, policy specialists, trade bodies and businesses have called for a bipartisan net-zero pact between the UK political parties in order to ensure the nation meets its commitments.

General Election: Can UK policy deliver a climate emergency response?

As the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party launch election manifestos pledging to respond to the climate emergency by 2030, leading UK green group the Aldersgate Group has called for existing policy frameworks to be revamped to help reach the net-zero target for 2050.

Treasury's net-zero minister: Climate action will be a 'signature theme' of next government

Speaking exclusively to edie following the launch of its Net-Zero Review, HM Treasury minister Simon Clarke outlines the Government's plans to deliver on the legislation to reduce the UK's emissions to net-zero by 2050.

Treasury launches Net-Zero Review to measure costs of decarbonisation

The Chancellor of the Exchequer Sajid Javid has today (2 November) launched the Net-Zero Review, the first of its kind, which will assess how the UK can manage the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Heathrow CEO: Aviation sector must set net-zero plan 'as soon as possible'

EXCLUSIVE: Heathrow Airport's chief executive John Holland-Kaye has joined the growing calls for the aviation sector to implement a net-zero strategy, claiming that "imposing punitive costs" will not deter people from flying less.

International allies give go-ahead for UK to host COP26

The UK last night (10 September) formally received the backing of all countries responsible for agreeing on the host of the COP26 climate conference.

Glasgow lined up to host COP26 climate change summit

Glasgow is set to host the COP26 climate change summit next year, should the UK win the bid to host the international event, the Government has said.