EcoSecurities, ClimateBiz and Baker & McKenzie LLP have recently published the findings of their recent ‘Carbon Management and Offsetting Trends’ survey results 2009 and are ‘whooping up’ the fact that a surprising number of companies have reported that they have in place, or are planning, a carbon management strategy -  despite the economic downturn.

When you dig a little deeper, however, the survey is no more than another serving of the same old line; the report finds that, with or without carbon management strategies or footprint measurements, companies are ‘already taking action by implementing energy efficiency measures’. There’s also too much talk about offsetting.

In the light of recent announcements regarding the level of energy price increases predicted over the next decade, it seems naive to still be talking about offsetting; it is also disappointing to note that the only real, tangible driver for sustainable action is short-term cost reduction.

The research sampled 280 global, multinational and regional (US) organisations along with 31 carbon companies. Respondents stated that they preferred renewable energy projects above any other project type with solar scoring 92% and wind 86% - there was no clear intent to utilise their own funds for a sustainable, long-term investment strategy, however.

ClimateBiz managing editor, Matthew Wheeland, said: “It’s highly encouraging to see this growth in interest from companies taking climate action, despite the doom-and-gloom outlook on the global economy this year.” Herein, however, lies the continuing problem and challenge; although this survey was mostly US based, the evidence is the same across the global business community – as we come closer to edge of the precipice, one which threatens the viability of every business construct, whether you are a global giant or a local ‘mom & pop store’, there is still way too much ‘interest’ and way too little action.

What we need at this late stage of the game is a survey or two showing what some of the top companies are doing, demonstrable medium to long-term strategies and quantifiable figures for carbon emission reduction. From next year, of course, we will see some of this information, with the commencement of the Carbon Reduction Commitment; but there is a suspicion that the news may not be too good, especially as a raft of companies and organisations are currently being challenged on their carbon measurement methodologies, some of which are highly questionable and may cause some cutting PR damage when the shaky foundations are finally exposed.

As one commentator stated, “The survey provides an authentic insight into the thoughts and opinions of multinational and regional organisations with regards to carbon management strategies and offsetting.” If you want to read the detail of the survey, just go to: http://www.ecosecurities.com/Standalone/Carbon_Management_and_Offsetting_Trends_Survey_Results_2009/default.aspx and download the survey for free.

The overwhelming impression that the survey creates as a reflection (admittedly of the North American region) is, “let’s wait and see”. Sorry, cousins, but I think we’re beyond that now, don’t you?

Share this: