The Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership launched new guidance to help business leaders understand the implications of the Paris Agreement.

On the occasion of Climate Week NYC 2016, the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) launched a new business briefing to help companies prepare the transition to a zero carbon future. A new climate for business: Planning your response to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change explains the implications of the Paris Agreement and helps businesses formulate their strategic responses.

The Paris Agreement is the first truly global and binding treaty on climate change that includes specific actions on how to deliver a zero carbon economy. It was agreed by 195 countries at COP21 in December 2015, and marked a turning point for the world. The unprecedented speed with which countries are currently ratifying this Agreement shows the commitment of governments worldwide to respond to the climate challenge – a challenge demonstrated by the record breaking temperatures experienced this year.

Once it enters into force, the Paris Agreement will have major implications for the global economy and businesses everywhere. Business leaders now need to look closely at what the Paris Agreement means in their own contexts. Whilst the impact of the Agreement will vary from industry to industry and across geographies, there are common themes and an overall new context for change, which applies to all companies. The aim of CISL’s new business briefing is to provide a stimulus and framework for understanding the likely implications as companies begin to plan their next steps.

James Cole, Director of Corporate Relations and Communications, CISL said: “The private sector has a crucial role to play in the implementation of the Paris Agreement and we are already seeing great progress by leading businesses that are increasingly aware of the climate challenge and its associated risks and opportunities.

This awareness is catalysing real innovation and changes in the way companies operate to secure economic growth alongside social and environmental wellbeing. It is crucial that this momentum continues and that all businesses, regardless of size, sector or geography wake up to the changes ahead and plan accordingly. We hope this business briefing goes some way in helping companies embark on this exciting journey.”

Read the business briefing: A new climate for business: Planning your response to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change