At the heart of today's panel discussion 'Climate strategy in practice' was a resounding focus on one thing: the power of data in action.
The kōrero, held at Generator New Zealand featuring panellists Andrew Roddy (Ecotricity NZ), Ingrid Cronin-Knight (WM New Zealand), and Matt Harcombe (Silver Fern Farms Ltd Farms), and facilitated by Toitū's Austin Hansell, highlighted 3 major themes:
1️⃣ Trust and transparency in data
Data is the foundation of effective climate action. As Matt Harcombe shared, “Building trust in data - whether it's a product's footprint or CO₂ savings - is critical.” This trust enables businesses to take meaningful action.
2️⃣ Strategic Finance
Sustainability-linked loans (SLLs) are transforming climate action by linking financial performance to sustainability targets. Ingrid explained, “It’s a risk-reward scenario. You get benefits, but also penalties if you don’t hit ambitious KPIs.” This drives accountability and impact.
3️⃣ Communicating Climate Claims
Trust is essential for climate claims. Matt highlighted how Silver Fern Farms tested their net carbon zero product claims with a skeptics group to ensure transparency. Andrew Roddy warned of “greenhushing,” saying, “If you have something positive to talk about, don’t be afraid to do it.”
Austin aptly closed out the discussion with the reminder that, “Tomorrow is International Day of Climate Action. I hope something from today inspires you to take action tomorrow - and every day after. Because it’s the actions we take every day that create the real impact.”
Packed full of insights and advice, we’ll be making the session available online soon.
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