Business must join climate fight

As the Bali talks begins today, it is clear that business and government must work together to tackle climate change. There is a growing realisation that economic growth must go hand in hand with tacking climate change. No responsible business can hide from the enormous challenge presented by global warming. At times self-regulation will be appropriate, but this must also be complemented by government regulation. The European Union has shown leadership in this area, with its targets for the reduction in greenhouse-gas emissions agreed earlier this year, and its pioneering market-based emissions trading scheme. A survey published by Clifford Chance last week found that 81% of businesses support more climate change regulation. While Brussels is often demonised for its legislation, closer scrutiny reveals that in some areas the business community supports its firm regulatory action.

Roland Rudd
Chairman, Business for New Europe
Stuart Popham
Senior partner, Clifford Chance