hide
Free keywords:
business, society, resilience, adaptation, finance, climate
Abstract:
The business and societal case for investing in resilience and adaptation is increasingly clear. Earth systems—such as ice sheets, ocean currents, and permafrost—are interconnected processes that regulate the planet’s climate, sustain ecosystems, and provide essential services like carbon storage, water filtration, and temperature stabilization. These systems are the foundation of societal and economic stability, enabling communities to thrive. However, they are nearing irreversible tipping points, putting both natural and human systems at significant risk. The potential collapse of the Greenland and West Antarctic ice sheets, for instance, could trigger up to 10 meters of sea-level rise, displacing millions and exacerbating food insecurity for over 500 million people.
While the science behind these tipping points and related climate hazards is stark, turning these insights into actionable business strategies remains a challenge. This report addresses that gap, showing how hazards like extreme heat and flooding threaten corporate fixed assets, with businesses potentially facing annual earnings losses of 6.6%–7.3% by 2035.
The report offers a roadmap for business leaders to decarbonize, protect natural systems, and invest in adaptation, creating a foundation for sustainable, resilient societies.
