Researchers propose new method to improve corporate climate accountability

New research suggests that tracking companies' influence on policies and conservation efforts could provide a more comprehensive view of their contributions to global net-zero goals.

Joseph Winters reports for Grist.

In short:

Existing corporate climate targets are often unreliable, with many companies lacking formal net-zero goals.
A new proposal suggests tracking companies' influence in areas like policy advocacy and conservation efforts.
This approach could incentivize companies to take broader actions beyond reducing their own emissions.

Key quote:

"We have been leaving a huge amount of impact on the table by failing to encourage or invite companies to be rewarded and compared for their significant efforts beyond their value chain."

— Kaya Axelsson, research fellow at Oxford University

Why this matters:

Current climate reporting standards often miss the broader impact companies could have on global emissions. Encouraging companies to engage in systemic actions may lead to more meaningful progress toward net-zero goals.

grist.org

Researchers propose new method to improve corporate climate accountability

Opinion: How Maryland can meet its energy goals without sacrificing farmland

Changing weather patterns threaten time-tested houses in Nepal village

Global progress on extreme poverty is stalling and may reverse soon

Petrochemical expansion in texas will fall heavily on communities of color, study finds

From invasive species tracking to water security – what’s lost with federal funding cuts at US Climate Adaptation Science Centers

Who’s ready to think about blocking out the sun?

From invasive species tracking to water security – what’s lost with federal funding cuts at US Climate Adaptation Science Centers

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.