The latest insights from CDP, the global environmental disclosure system The connections between climate change, water degradation and deforestation are complex and deep – addressing one means addressing all three. As natural carbon sinks, forests represent up to 30% of the climate solution, yet we’re currently losing 18.7 millions acres of forests per year, the equivalent of 27 soccer fields a minute. Simultaneously, a global water crisis looms. As climate change worsens, bringing increasing extreme weather events, from flooding to drought, ensuring clean, safe and secure water supplies is increasingly difficult. In March, CDP celebrated International Day of Forests and World Water Day, and recognised the duty the corporate community has to protect these invaluable natural resources. | |
Water withdrawals in ‘at risk’ facilities Companies are increasingly aware of the water risks they are facing, yet while many are setting targets to reduce their usage, water withdrawals are on the rise. Find out how companies’ 2018 water withdrawals measured up against their 2017 withdrawals, with our latest data graphic. | |
Treading water: Global water report 2018 2018 was marked by massive water-related financial losses of approximately US$36 billion, companies are now feeling the pressure to act. Our latest report explores which sectors are rising to the challenge, and which are lagging behind. Globally companies have a long way to go towards delivering a water secure future. | |
Soy: China’s deforestation dilemma China is increasingly relying on South American soy imports to sustain its population. But with more forest being cleared each year for agriculture, China’s dependence on soy is coming at a high environmental cost. As climate change related weather events threaten crop yields, China’s appetite for soy is threatening to undermine its own supply chains. Read our latest blog to find out how China can act on deforestation whilst maintaining its soy supply. | |
From risk to reward: Accelerating corporate action in the palm oil sector Palm oil is one of the most contentious and infamous issues of the past decade. In Indonesia, one of the world’s largest producers of palm oil, it is a major driver of deforestation. Yet it is also a major part of its economy and has created millions of jobs. We must, therefore, see a shift towards sustainable production, and it’s up to companies to implement responsible sourcing into their operations. Our latest report explores the actions companies are already taking to build sustainable palm oil supply chains, and the urgent need for further action. | |
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Elsewhere on the web Writing for Ethical Corporation, CDP’s Director of Water Security, Cate Lamb reminds us that while some companies are acting to secure water supplies, there’s much more to be done, and the rate of action must rapidly increase. Environmental Finance takes a deep dive into CDP’s 2018 Global Water Report, exploring the need for the retail sector to more closely monitor the business risks presented by water. The Guardian explores the risks posed by a lack of clean water and sanitation in war zones. Cate Lamb calls on businesses to do more to protect water supplies. BusinessGreen explores the growing number of companies reporting financial risks as a result of a lack of water security disrupting production and damaging brand reputation. Individual efforts, though important, can only take us so far towards a low-carbon future. CDP’s Vice President of Global Initiatives, Sara Law calls for action from major fossil fuel producers in Earther. Though companies are increasingly aware of the risks posed by sourcing unsustainable palm oil from Indonesia, many are failing to engage with their supply chains on the issue, finds CDP in Eco-Business. | |
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Events 3 April: For companies considering disclosing on high-risk commodity sourcing for this first time, CDP’s 2019 Forests Webinar will provide an overview of CDP's Forests questionnaire and provide advice on best practice for forests disclosure. Register today. 11 April: Join North America’s leaders in business, finance, sustainability & policy for the 2019 Canada Spring Workshop. Workshop participants will learn how companies & local governments can utilize disclosure to advance the low carbon transition. Register today. 23 April: Learn how to drive sustainable business practices, take away tools for implementing low-carbon projects & widen your network of people who can help you meet green goals at the 2019 U.S. Spring Workshop, with keynote speaker Brian Lehrer. Register today. 26 April: Join ESG leaders from across the UK to learn how your business can best prepare for the low-carbon transition at our UK Spring Workshop. Register today. 2 July: Bringing together representatives from governments, local authorities, universities and innovators, join Green Government 2019 to discuss & debate the future of sustainability. Register today. | |
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