Key Impact Points:
- Over 38,000 business and societal leaders urge G20 countries to demonstrate strong climate leadership ahead of COP29.
- The letter calls for NDCs aligned with the 1.5°C goal and robust climate finance for developing countries.
- Business leaders emphasize readiness to invest in clean energy and support climate-focused policies.
The Call to Action for G20 Leaders
RIO – A coordinated letter by the We Mean Business Coalition and Mission 2025 is urging G20 nations to take decisive action ahead of COP29. With participation from over 38,000 businesses and societal leaders, the message is clear: G20 countries must lead the fight against climate change to secure a sustainable future.
Demonstrating Climate Leadership
“As the world’s largest economies, G20 countries can lead by example in addressing the global climate crisis,” the coalition emphasizes. The letter calls for G20 nations to honor their commitments made at COP28 in Dubai and take further steps by presenting ambitious Nationally Determined Commitments (NDCs).
Business Commitment to Climate Action
The coalition points out that major businesses, covering 39% of the global market by capitalization, are already taking proactive measures. “Thousands of companies…have already committed to reducing their emissions through targets aligned with climate science and are investing in clean energy technologies,” reinforcing their dedication to a clean energy future.
Economic Resilience and Climate Urgency
The global economy depends on stable and resilient supply chains, which are increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate change. Addressing climate issues, transitioning to renewable energy, and restoring nature can provide significant benefits. “Our global economy is dependent on well-functioning and resilient global supply chains, which are at risk through the increasingly frequent and devastating impacts of climate change,” the coalition notes.
Clear Policy Recommendations
The letter outlines specific requests for G20 leaders:
- “Publish the plans”: Submit sector-specific NDCs aligned with the 1.5°C target, supported by clear plans and investment policies.
- “Move the money”: Advance financial reform and set high-ambition climate finance goals to meet the needs of developing countries.
The UAE Consensus from COP28 has already set the stage, signaling a global push towards tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030. “The direction is clear, and 1.5°C remains within reach,” the letter affirms.
The Path Forward
Peter Bakker, President and CEO of WBCSD, and other notable leaders such as Mindy Lubber, CEO of Ceres, have signed the letter, reinforcing their collective commitment to working alongside G20 governments. The coalition states, “Our networks connecting more than 38,000 businesses globally, stand ready to work with you in setting and delivering on the targets and policies needed for a just transition toward a more prosperous, resilient, and clean future.”
Notable Signatories
Prominent leaders and organizations have endorsed the letter, including:
- Peter Bakker, President and CEO, World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)
- Mindy Lubber, CEO, Ceres
- Jesper Brodin, CEO, Ingka Group (IKEA)
- María Mendiluce, CEO, We Mean Business Coalition
- Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General, CEO and Executive Director, United Nations Global Compact
