What is COP26 and How Will it Affect You?

22 Oct, 2021

COP26 is fast approaching but what is it and how could it affect the way organisations operate in the future?

Back in 2019, we talked about how much damage 0.5 degrees could have on our planet after it was announced that global warming hit 1 degrees.  Since then, it’s been reported that even with immediate and rapid cuts, global warming will hit 1.5 degrees. 

On the current track, temperatures are likely to hit nearly 4 degrees or more by the end of the Century which will have a devastating impact on the world we know today. 

At the end of the month, nearly 200 countries will meet in Glasgow for the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties also known as COP26.  Here, they will lay out their climate commitments and plans towards supporting the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming. 

COP26 will be the biggest summit the UK has ever hosted and the most significant climate event since the 2015 Paris Agreement.

What is the Paris Agreement?

The Paris Agreement is the first legally binding international treaty on climate change.  Its goal is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees, preferably 1.5, compared to pre-industrial levels. 

The Agreement provides a framework for financial, technical, and capacity building support to those countries who need it.

As part of the agreement, countries’ commitments will be reviewed every five years, hence the upcoming summit. 

Why is COP26 important?

This is the first time the parties will review the most up to date nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and how they will help limit global warming.  In addition, they will also be hoping to achieve four key goals:

1. Secure global net zero by mid-century and keep 1.5 degrees within reach
2. Adapt to protect communities and natural habitats
3. Mobilise finance
4. Work together to deliver

Are we on target to limit global warming?

Not currently. 

To prevent further temperature rises, we need to make substantial changes by the end of the decade.  UK Prime Minster, Boris Johnson, highlighted four areas that needed tackling “coal, cars, cash and trees”. 

How will it affect your organisation?

The meeting is likely to lead to many changes to our everyday lives and how organisations operate.

With the UK hosting this year’s conference, there has been a lot of focus on the UK’s commitment to reduce emissions by 78% by 2035, compared to levels in 1990.  This ambitious target will bring the UK more than three quarters of the way to net zero emissions by 2050.

Net zero will mean that we are taking out of the atmosphere as much carbon as we emit into it. This change will be difficult for lots of organisations, particularly those who emit a lot of carbon and organisations are therefore being urged to act now and set out their plans to become net zero. 

How Can the ISO 14001 Environmental Management Standard help?

The ISO 14001 Environmental Management System provides a way of managing the aspects of your organisation which have a significant impact on the environment.  In addition, it can help improve your legal and regulatory compliance so when the Government does make changes, you will have the security of knowing that your ISO 14001 certification will help ensure compliance. 

If you’re interested in learning more about  ISO 14001 and its benefits, take a look at our Introduction to ISO 14001 online module.  Alternatively, you can call our team today on 0330 058 551 or request a quote.