The convergence of global leaders at COP28 underscores the need for urgent action on climate change. And with a week still to go, a focused approach is essential.

While a myriad of topics are being discussed, there are some common themes, including renewable energy and labour rights, reflecting global business pressure for pragmatic solutions that ensure sustainable progress doesn’t come at the cost of human dignity.

The crucial nexus at COP28: Renewable energy and labour standards

There’s broad consensus on the critical role of renewable energy in combating climate change, but its impact on labour rights remains a critical concern.

COP28 is an opportunity to reinforce the message that labour rights are essential to sustainable development. It's a chance to ensure that the shift towards green energy includes safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers in these industries.

Balancing act: Addressing ethical challenges in renewable energy

The ethical complexities inherent in renewable energy supply chains are clear. Fair Supply has even written a white paper on it addressing the risk of modern slavery practices in the production of key green technologies.

COP28 can be a turning point, encouraging countries to establish regulations that prevent exploitation and protect vulnerable workers in these sectors.

The role of business in the COP28 agenda

Businesses are central to climate change dialogue, especially as COP28 zeroes in on actionable solutions for a sustainable future. While governments negotiate and set policies, companies are the operatives on the ground, turning climate commitments into reality. Their role goes beyond compliance; they are innovators, educators, and enforcers of environmental and social governance. COP28 can be used as a platform for businesses to focus on key areas, such as:

1. Innovation & implementation

Business is often at the forefront of technological advancements in renewable energy. Their investment in research and development drives the creation of more efficient and affordable green technologies, which is critical to scaling up renewable energy solutions. Businesses can showcase their innovations, share best practices, and commit to investing in technologies that minimise environmental impacts while maximising social benefits.

2. Enforcement & due diligence

Companies are also enforcers of labour standards within their supply chains. Businesses can set the standard, adopting rigorous due diligence processes to identify and reduce the risk of modern slavery (something I’ve talked about recently with Aotearoa New Zealand looking to implement modern slavery legislation). This includes auditing supply chains, establishing strict supplier codes of conduct, and working closely with suppliers to ensure compliance with labour laws and ethical standards.

3. Collaboration for impact

Collaboration between businesses can amplify the impact of individual actions. Companies can form coalitions to address shared challenges in the renewable energy sector, such as sourcing ethically produced materials. COP28 should act as a catalyst for these collaborative efforts, encouraging companies to pool resources, standardise due diligence processes, and collectively push for improvements in labour conditions.

A practical future: Renewable energy with respect for workers

As COP28 continues to unfold, it's crucial that discussions translate into actionable commitments. The transition to renewable energy must be accompanied by enforceable labour standards. Decisions made by the summit should lead to tangible improvements in the lives of workers around the globe.

Businesses need to actively engage in COP28 discussion. They have the resources, reach, and responsibility to ensure that the transition to a low-carbon economy is also a transition to a more just and humane world. It’s essential that businesses not only participate in the conversation but take concrete actions that will echo through their operations and supply chains long after the conference concludes.

In conclusion, COP28 should set a precedent for renewable energy development that is ethical and just. It's an occasion to move towards a global standard where environmental benefits don’t come at the expense of human rights. Let this be the moment we commit to a future where our environmental initiatives are also benchmarks for social equity.