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      In 2026, the UN Climate Change Conference COP31 will centre on a question that is becoming increasingly crucial for businesses: How can climate targets be reconciled with a sustainable business model?

      COP31 will therefore focus increasingly on concrete implementation – ranging from electrification and energy security, through the decarbonisation of industry, to resilient supply chains and new financing models.

      We are covering COP31 on the ground and analysing developments with a view to their implications for the economy and businesses.

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      Executive briefing ahead of COP31, Antalya, November 2026

      These are the key topics at COP31

      Achieving climate targets faster and ensuring energy security

      W&whilst the world seeks practical ways to accelerate the energy transition whilst ensuring energy security, resilienceresilience in crises and affordable energy, electrification is emerging as a key priority.  It can help pave the way for both climate progress and economic growth. For electrification to drive this development forward, it should be promoted through renewable energy, supported by battery storage or hydrogen solutions, and implemented in conjunction with strategies for procuring clean energy and planning the transition of infrastructure. The next chapter in climate action is likely to be shaped not only by emissions targets, but also by how quickly governments and businesses can build resilient, affordable and electrified economies.

      Translating the net-zero target into value creation

      In the current climate, many companies are increasingly focusing on issues beyond climate reporting and disclosure.They are guided by transformation plans that drive concrete measures, investments and long-term value creation. Effective planning helps companies devise science-based pathways to decarbonisation and optimised resilience, whilst addressing challenges such as the management of Scope 3 emissions, climate risks, the costs of CO₂ reduction, and the role of CO₂markets and CO₂ removal. By integrating climate protection considerations into their strategy and operational processes, companies can accelerate implementation, strengthen their competitiveand capitalise on opportunities arising from the transition to a low-carbon economy. We will focus in particular on how companies can play a key role in facilitating systemic change.

      Integrating adaptation measures and resilience into corporate strategy

      In view of the changing, companies are increasingly focusing on understanding and managing physical climate risks to their operations, assets and value chains. Building resilience goes beyond risk assessment – it requires the integration of adaptation measures into strategic planning, capital allocation and investment decisions. To better protect long-term value, strengthen business continuity and effectively address growing climate risks, companies should ensure that measures and resilience are integrated into their corporate strategy from the outset.

      Mobilising private capital to finance the energy transition in emerging economies

      Achieving climate targets on a large scaledepends on the ability to mobilise capital and link financing to implementation. As the practical implementation of their climate strategies is becoming a priority for many companies, numerous organisations could increasingly  focus on climate finance solutions that unlock investment in emerging markets and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. From blended finance and sustainable finance frameworks to adaptation finance, green funds and innovative financing structures for supply chains, the focus is on mobilising private capital, developing investment-readyand creating the financial pathways needed to put transition plans into action.

      Achieving Scope 2 and Scope 3 targets

      The procurement of renewable energy is becoming an increasingly important lever f&climate protection, as companies work to meet their decarbonisation commitments whilst also managing energy costs, availability and supply. Aligning procurement strategies with overarching sustainability and business objectives can help companies accelerate progress towards net zero and create long-term value and energy security.

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