Purpose & Sustainability March 2025: Practical pathways to climate and nature investment in a changing political landscape

The first 100 days of Donald Trump’s second term of office in the White House have indeed checked the course of global momentum on sustainability.  

The unpredictable political and volatile economic landscape has undoubtedly shifted momentum on both sides of the Atlantic. Here in the UK Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has changed her party’s policy towards achieving net zero, while right-wing media such as the Daily Telegraph continue to mount a noisy and relentless campaign that questions every aspect of the value and impact of climate targets.   

Yet, despite the turbulence and all the shouting, a compelling case remains for a positive, proactive, and practical approach to climate and nature investment, grounded in economic and scientific realities. 

Here are some of the messages that will continue to resonate with business, investors and the public alike towards climate action and investment despite the torrent of negativity. The real cost is in doing nothing about tackling climate change and biodiversity loss.   

Economic resilience and growth

Climate action is not just about environmental stewardship; it's a powerful driver of economic resilience and growth. UK energy prices are currently four times higher than those in the U.S., underscoring the urgent need for viable new electricity sources. According to the UK Government’s independent advisory body, the UK Climate Change Commission, the Britain needs 50GW of offshore wind, 30GW of onshore wind, and 45GW of solar power to meet clean power targets by 2030. This transition to renewable energy sources is set not only to reduce energy costs but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Climate investment is a powerhouse of job creation and economic expansion. A recent study from the CBI highlights how the UK green economy is growing three times faster than the rest of the economy. Another indication of how the green economy is not just viable but is good for growth. 

Investment opportunity: the UK as global climate leader

The UK is the only major economy currently aiming to meet the Paris Climate Agreement promises it made a decade ago. That global leadership does make Britain an attractive safe haven for global investors who recognise the potential for strong returns in the green economy. The creation of the National Wealth Fund is a hopeful indication and template for how public funds can de-risk private investment, unlocking the potential of private capital to drive green growth.

By adopting a practical and pragmatic approach, the UK can navigate the reality of this new political landscape and still work towards its ambitious climate targets. 

A little bit of positivity goes a long way. The future is about actions not words, turning commitments into projects that benefit both people and the planet.

As the Canadians have been saying increasingly recently, it’s time to be “elbows up.”