Open letter to G8 leaders on climate change

As set out in the ICC’s G8 Statement, “Business and the Global Economy, ICC’s Statement to the Heads of State and Government attending the Gleneagles Summit”, ICC believes it is vital that G8 leaders should not miss this opportunity to truly advance concrete global cooperation on climate change, and contribute to the broader objectives of energy and development for the developing world.

ICC recognizes that climate change presents risks that may have serious economic and environmental consequences. Addressing these risks is a high priority, long-term concern for governments and business. It is clear that considerable differences exist among countries and regions about the most effective ways to address climate change. ICC therefore supports a long-term solution to a long-term problem and would encourage inclusive global solutions.

It is important to recognize that emissions reductions will come from taking positive actions. ICC believes that the G8 can show the way to a cost-effective approach that will help policymakers reach and implement an international consensus on an effective, long-term and global cooperation to address the risks of climate change and promote energy, capacity building and development. The G8 should focus on spurring cooperation to advance long-term innovation and investment, especially in research, development and deployment of existing and new technologies, and strengthening infrastructure for energy supply and use, with special attention on Africa and other developing countries.

Business is actively addressing climate change by measuring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions from facilities and products, by investing in energy efficiency and conservation, and by undertaking research to develop advanced, innovative new technologies and processes with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The challenge in which businesses all over the world are engaged is to meet the world’s growing demand for energy – essential to raising global living standards – while also reducing the harmful impact of greenhouse gas emissions.

ICC remains committed to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and believes that it provides a useful structure in which countries across the world can cooperate to develop measures to confront climate change over the longer term.

We wish you success in your deliberations, an d are ready to contribute to developing and implementing the solutions to the climate challenge that will also drive economic growth and cleaner development.