HRH The Prince of Wales and the Prime Minister challenge business on climate change

Today at his May Day business Summit on climate change, HRH The Prince of Wales was joined by the Prime Minister to applaud those businesses that are providing solutions to the critical issue.

Climate change demands an urgent response from government, business and consumers who must all recognise that they are an essential part of the solution"

The Prince of Wales used the opportunity to call on businesses to copy the examples set by May Day Network members.  One member is Unilever, which announced at the Summit that it will procure 100 per cent of its palm oil from certified sustainable sources by 2015.

Business needs to do more 

However, the 1,700 business leaders at the Summit were told that they need to do more to address climate change. Since last year’s Summit, 831 businesses and organisations have signed up to the May Day Network.  207 of these reported on the pledges they made.  But out of those, only 51% measured AND reported their carbon footprint.

Carbon footprint

The May Day Summit took place in 13 locations across the UK, and attendees were challenged to make 6 climate change pledges.  Those that measure and report their carbon footprint will be entitled to use the prestigious May Day Network logo.

Stephen Howard, Chief Executive of Business in the Community said:

“We set up the May Day Network to provide a focal point where all companies, large and small could share experience and collaborate on climate change. But it is also about challenging companies to do more. This is why we are asking companies to pledge to take action against 6 commitments and to mobilise action in their sector.  We have a long way to go if we are to stand a chance of responding to the emergency that is climate change. “

Join the May Day Network 

Any business can join the May Day Network and pledge to take action on climate change.  To find out more and the sign up, please visit the May Day Network pages.