• Natural Sciences -> Biology and anatomy

• 0 Comment

What role do large corporations play in contributing to climate change and what can be done to curb this?

Dorris Lockner

Large corporations have a significant role to play in contributing to climate change, and they need to take decisive actions to curb this trend. Several studies suggest that fossil fuel-based corporations, such as oil, gas, and coal, are among the highest emitters of greenhouse gases (GHG) that cause global warming. These corporations release carbon dioxide, methane, and other harmful gases into the atmosphere during their mining, refining, and transportation processes. As a result, they significantly contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer and global warming.

Moreover, large corporations' manufacturing and production processes are usually energy-intensive, and their supply chains contribute to further emissions of GHGs. For example, transportation and packaging of goods also produce CO2. Therefore, large corporations must adopt sustainable and eco-friendly practices that enable them to reduce their carbon footprint. Some corporations have already undertaken measures such as investing in renewable energy, adopting green patents, and setting carbon reduction goals. However, these measures are not enough to curb the adverse impacts of climate change, and more needs to be done.

One way large corporations can contribute to mitigating climate change is by investing in green technologies. Green technologies such as renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, or energy-efficient production methods will help reduce their GHG emissions. For example, switching to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power will significantly reduce GHG emissions. Additionally, energy-efficient production methods and reducing the wastage of raw materials and resources can lead to a reduction in GHG emissions.

It is also essential for corporations to consider their supply chain in their climate mitigation efforts. They should engage their suppliers to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly practices to reduce GHG emissions from the entire supply chain. They should also ensure that their raw materials are sustainably sourced and that they are environmentally friendly. Such efforts will help decrease the overall carbon footprint of the corporation.

Furthermore, large corporations should advocate for climate policies. They have significant economic and political power, and they can leverage it to influence climate policies. Through their advocacy, they can lobby for policies that encourage emission reductions and the adoption of green technologies in their respective industries. For example, they can lobby for policies such as carbon pricing, which would incentivize them to reduce their GHG emissions.

In conclusion, large corporations have a crucial role to play in contributing to climate change. It is incumbent upon them to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly practices in their operations, embrace green technologies, appropriately handle their supply chains, and advocate for climate policies. By doing so, they can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.