11.3 Keynote Speaker in Climate Linked Economics: Business Resilience at the Intersection of ‘Values’ and ‘Value’

Wednesday, 15 January 2025: 2:15 PM
205 (New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center)
Steve Bochanski, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Boston, MA; and M. C. Rencurrel

As climate change continues to pose unprecedented risks to communities, ecosystems, and economies, the meaning of “climate resilience” is evolving. The growing recognition that climate risk is business risk – with far reaching (financial and nonfinancial) implications that are already being felt today – is motivating business leaders across the ideological spectrum to act, with the potential to further unlock capitalism as a tool for climate progress.

To effectively address these multifaceted challenges, businesses are increasingly forming cross-disciplinary teams that bring together a diverse array of skills and expertise including climate science, financial modeling, and domain knowledge from across the entire value chain. By leveraging this collective knowledge, companies are developing robust strategies that not only ensure compliance with evolving regulations and enhance their adaptive capacity, but also have positive outcomes for society.

This keynote addresses the intersection of ‘values’ and ‘value’, exploring how climate mitigation is not just a matter of corporate social responsibility or altruism, but a vital business imperative that directly influences strategic planning and business sustainability both today and in the future. We will delve into the necessity for companies proactively participate in the energy transition while adapting their businesses for the reality of a more volatile future, examining how this approach not only mitigates potential threats but also uncovers new opportunities for growth and innovation. This presentation will highlight exemplary case studies and best practices, offering actionable insights into how businesses can successfully navigate the intersection of climate change and strategic planning to build a resilient future.

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