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The issue and the science

The Earth’s surface temperature has increased by a global average of 0.6oC over the past 140 years. And there is scientific consensus that human activities have contributed to this warming. With temperatures forecast to rise by a further 1.4 – 5.8oC over the next 100 years, there will be wide-ranging consequences for the environment and business.

Evidence that climate change is already occurring can be observed through a number of indicators including the retreat of mountain glaciers, the shrinking of the Arctic ice cap and rising sea levels and sea-surface temperatures.

The environmental consequences of further predicted rises in global temperatures include:

  • Increased occurrence of floods, landslides, soil erosion and avalanches
  • Increased occurrence of droughts
  • More intense and frequent extreme weather events
  • The disappearance of around one quarter of the Earth’s known plants and animals


The human costs of these environmental impacts will be equally severe:

  • More frequent famines
  • 2 out of every 3 people could be affected by food or water shortages by 2025
  • Deaths caused by extreme weather will be more frequent, and diseases such as malaria will spread
  • In total there will be an estimated 200 million environmental refugees by 2050

Business is as vulnerable to the physical effects of climate change as individuals are. It affects how and where it is possible for a company to operate and may lead to increased regulatory control.  But through taking action now, businesses can take a lead in developing their own sustainable future.

Useful documents

An introduction to Climate Change by Sir David King ScD FRS. Chief Scientific Adviser to HM Government and Head of the Office of Science and Innovation