Ask someone if they are concerned about climate change and they’ll usually say ‘yes’. In reality, however, their actions are not those of someone who is genuinely concerned about climate – people often respond positively to the question because they are worried about how they’ll look if they say ‘no’.
And it’s action that we need. Simply saying that we are worried isn’t enough. We need to start doing things differently now if we are to make an individual impact, or do our bit to convince those in power that they need to act differently too.
In October 2021, ahead of the COP26 UN Climate conference in Glasgow, the Office for National Statistics conducted an Opinions and Lifestyle Survey, which looked at people’s attitude to climate change. It found:
· 75% of responders were worried about the impact of climate change.
· Those who said they were worried were three times more likely to have made lifestyle changes than those who were less worried.
· Only 24% of those aged 70 or over were worried, compared with 71% of people aged 25-29.
· One-fifth of adults surveyed said they had made no lifestyle changes to help tackle climate change. The most common reason was that they believed large polluters should lead the way before individuals. Many also felt that individual actions wouldn’t make any difference.
What are you doing?
If we asked you about how you feel about the impact of climate change, what would you say? And what are you doing – personally and in your business – to make things better? Perhaps you don’t think there’s any point in changing the way you do things, or you can’t be bothered – this apathy is common for big issues like climate change. But we believe that there are ways you can make your voice heard, and if you join with millions of other people making the same different choices, you can absolutely make a difference.
Here are some of the most common reasons for not getting involved:
‘What I do doesn’t affect the planet’ – we know that not to be true. Our emissions – from cars, central heating and flights, for example – contribute to climate damage. By trying to reduce these, and encouraging others, such as employees or suppliers, to do the same, you can begin to reduce your impact.
‘My investments are my future’ – that’s true, but moving some of your pension or investment away from fossil fuels and into sustainable funds is not only easy – it’s clever investing. Despite current reports of huge profits, fossil fuel companies are going to be compelled to change or do less, whilst renewable and sustainable companies will continue to grow. We believe smart money comes out of polluters and goes into sustainable funds.
‘It won’t affect me – the UK will be a safe place to be’ – we don’t actually know the full extent of the impact of climate change. So whilst the UK might be less vulnerable than other countries, we are still at risk. Regardless, pressure on homes, agriculture and supply of other goods will almost certainly affect your supply chain for your business and your personal energy and food chain at the very least. We have to work together, no matter where we live.
‘Change is expensive’ – that depends on the change. You can actually make great decisions now that cost very little – or even nothing at all. For others, you may need to make an investment, but it is an investment that is likely to bring positive returns, whether that’s reputational or new business returns for your organisation or ethical and practical returns for you personally.
What can business owners do?
First, you can download our dedicated climate e-book, which has tons of help and advice to help you get started on a greener, more ethical business path. You can help yourself, your business, your employees and your suppliers to change, by looking for the support that makes it easy – whether it’s using a climate-conscious accountant and wealth adviser, or working with your regulator or professional body to adapt best practices.
Read more, learn more and do more. It’s easier than you think, and it’s definitely better for us all than apathy.
To find out more about how we can help you do more, contact us today.
Please note: This is not meant to constitute professional advice. It is generic guidance only and things may have changed since it was written –please always seek specific & tailored advice for your circumstances.