VIDEO: The Climate Group’s Helen Clarkson on uniting businesses for clean energy systems at COP26

Speaking to edie’s senior reporter Sarah George at the Action Zone at COP26 earlier today (4 November), Clarkson gives her thoughts on the big announcements from the day, including the Global Coal to Clean Power Transition Statement, which has united 190 nations, states, cities, regions and banks in ending coal finance this decade. 

Another key discussion point is how businesses can harness this momentum and push nations further on oil and gas phase-outs, and on ensuring that this transition benefits the communities they serve. Clarkson touches on issues including infrastructure, affordability and reliability. 

The Climate Group is notably the architect of several of the world’s largest business coalitions on low-carbon issues, including electric vehicles (EV100), energy efficiency (EP100) and renewable energy purchasing (RE100).

Clarkson also outlines what she is looking forward to at COP26 in the coming days, with Friday (5 November) dedicated to youth and public engagement as well as water, and Saturday (6 November) dedicated to nature. 

She says: “We need the plans. It’s not just about the two weeks, it’s about the years to come and the year-round work – which we know is really hard work – for this decade.” 

edie at COP26

Want more exclusive content from the grounds of COP26? edie is running a daily podcast show, featuring exclusive interviews with some of sustainability’s sharpest minds. Check out the COP26 Covered podcast here.

We’re also running a live blog, every day of COP26. From a rousing speech from Sir David Attenborough to official and submitted climate plans from nations, the COP26 Live Blog gives you everything you need to know about each day at the Summit.

View all of edie’s COP26 content here. 

edie staff