The environment can pose many risks to your business, but climate change is perhaps the biggest environmental risk. Climate change refers to the build-up of man-made gases in the atmosphere that trap the sun’s heat, causing changes in global weather patterns. It has environmental, economic and social impacts.
Climate change risks for your business may include:
- frequent extreme weather – you may have increased insurance costs, more damage to property and resources, and disruption of power and water. Customers may be unable to visit or contact your business, or suppliers may be unable to deliver goods or services.
- decreased demand – there may be less demand for your goods and services if they are not environmentally friendly, or competitors with energy-efficient products may target your customers. It may also be difficult to attract and retain staff if your business is not sustainable.
- global impacts – overseas suppliers may be unable to deliver goods or services due to climate change events in their country or international customers being encouraged to buy locally.
- increased costs – you may experience higher costs for energy, water and other resources. Water restrictions may also affect your business.
Prepare a risk management plan
Identify the risks that climate change brings to your business and prepare a risk management plan that deals with climate change. Then plan ways to manage these risks. Assess how climate change is already affecting your business and how it could affect it in the future.
Taking steps now to address climate change risks can save your business from financial or other problems, and improve the sustainability of your business.
Source: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/environment/environment-business/risks