Forging a Path for Collective Action on Climate Justice

In a recent report, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change listed climate litigation and activism as potential ways to mitigate climate change. We’ve seen success with climate litigation in Switzerland with the European Court of Human Rights’ recent ruling that countries must better protect their people from the consequences of climate change, mandating European countries aggressively curb greenhouse gas emissions, from the advocacy of Senior Women for Climate Protection.

In April, a joint staff report was released in the U.S. from a multi-year investigation conducted by House Oversight Committee Democrats. The report, now part of a joint investigation with the Senate Budget Committee, reveals new documents that expose the role of the fossil fuel industry in spreading climate disinformation and preventing action on climate change. This report could play a significant role in the ongoing litigation against the oil and gas industry.

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) is set to discuss in its conference on Thursday whether to review a Honolulu climate case next term. This case accuses fossil fuel companies of deceiving the public about climate change, and so far the justices have declined appeals from oil companies to return the case to the states. While we await a decision on whether the case can stand, and whether the Department of Justice will accept requests to investigate the fossil fuel industry's actions, we in the B Corp community have our part to play.

In alignment with B Lab's mission of using business as a force for good, we must exercise collective action for climate justice. Business leaders must understand the intersection of climate action and social justice, and advance a justice-centered approach to sustainability efforts in their work. The Business Guide to Advancing Climate Justice co-published with Forum for the Future for Earth Month this year serves as a resource for business leaders, change makers, and others committed to centering equity and justice in their climate action efforts.

Furthermore, our recently released set of principles for corporate partnership with frontline communities developed collaboratively with B Corp companies and frontline community leaders, outlines best practices for businesses to forge equitable and respectful relationships with frontline communities, especially on climate justice work.?