This brief provides strong evidence that responsible climate policy engagement remains an important feature of corporate strategy, underpinned by a range of business motivations. Based on 26 interviews conducted with representatives from major companies, business associations and NGOs, alongside evidence synthesised from academic and practitioner literature, we make three main points. First, we show that companies are continuing to engage with climate policy for business-driven reasons including strengthening competitive advantage, enabling the delivery of transition plans, and maintaining corporate credibility. Second, we present climate policy engagement approaches that are being effectively used by the world’s leading companies, setting out concrete examples. Third, we outline the factors our interviewees considered critical to success in the current political environment, regardless of the approach taken.
This brief draws together existing guidance and further resources to offer a relevant and practical foundation for companies seeking to engage effectively on policy in a complex and politically challenging environment.
Authors: Gabrielle Ginér, Rosalind Chaston, Kaya Axelsson, Rania McDonagh.
