Climate change is rapidly losing priority in British boardrooms despite the approaching COP30 climate summit, according to alarming new research that reveals a significant corporate backslide on environmental commitments.
Corporate Climate Focus Falters
A comprehensive analysis of corporate reports and earnings calls shows that mentions of climate change in UK boardroom discussions have dropped by approximately 15% compared to previous years. This decline comes as the world prepares for the COP30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil, scheduled for November 2025.
The research, conducted by climate data analytics company Net Zero Tracker, examined disclosures from nearly 300 of the world's largest companies. Their findings paint a concerning picture of waning corporate enthusiasm for climate action at precisely the moment when acceleration is most needed.
The Data Behind the Decline
The analysis reveals that only 11% of companies have implemented credible climate transition plans that align with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This represents a significant implementation gap between corporate climate pledges and actual strategic planning.
John Lang, project lead at Net Zero Tracker, expressed serious concern about these findings. 'Corporate attention has clearly drifted from climate change,' he stated, noting that businesses appear to be deprioritising climate action despite increasing physical climate risks and regulatory pressures.
The research identifies several factors contributing to this trend, including economic pressures, energy security concerns following geopolitical conflicts, and what Lang describes as 'climate fatigue' setting in among corporate leaders.
Consequences of Corporate Inaction
This retreat from climate commitments threatens to undermine global efforts to address the climate crisis. With the window for effective action rapidly closing, corporate backtracking could have severe consequences for meeting international climate targets.
The timing is particularly problematic as nations prepare for COP30, where businesses are expected to demonstrate substantial progress toward their net-zero commitments. Instead, the current trend suggests many UK companies are moving in the opposite direction.
Experts warn that this corporate complacency comes despite increasing climate impacts affecting business operations directly, from supply chain disruptions due to extreme weather to regulatory changes as governments implement more stringent climate policies.
The findings highlight an urgent need for renewed focus on corporate climate accountability and stronger mechanisms to ensure businesses follow through on their environmental promises.
