How can you make your climate change claims and actions more credible and transparent?

Disclosure furthers transparency. In addition to aligning with global standards, publicly disclosing the results (such as emissions values annually etc.,) can add credibility to the targets and initiatives completed. Additionally, accuracy is key to avoid any backlash or claims of greenwashing. While setting targets, it is important for companies to understand what these targets mean, from a strategic and implementation perspective. Before publicly disclosing climate targets, it would be beneficial to engage with experts to help develop realistic targets, with a realistic implementation plan to achieve these targets. Monitoring and tracking progress to readjust targets is another way to ensure company's targets are realistic and credible.

Research and know the interests and objectives that underpin the companies. There’s a lot of corporate nonsense and greenwashing out there, including misuse of data and irrelevant indicators. Look for standards and certifications that come from -or align with - the best available science, like IPCC; that publish reports openly, and that conduct peer review by independent 3rd parties. At national level, check out the UN Climate Change Reports - whether for GHG data, or national updates on climate policy/action. Cross-check and corroborate your sources of information with reputable organizations. And always look for standards and certifications that are constantly evolving to reflect the latest science and most stringent requirements.

To anticipate possible shortcomings or criticisms, you can invite a red team to simulate a possible civil suit or even criminal charge against greenwashing (eg under the CSRD directive) and find out whether or not you would stand the test.

Leadership comes to mind for this point. In my climate Advocacy work, it is my first objective to listen to other points of view and ask questions, open-ended. The more I can be earnest in my inquiries, the more the other perspective can lend itself an understanding of mine. This is a big part of humility and a chance for me/my organization to admit to shortcomings and ask the other person to explain more about their experience.

Ensure that climate claims and actions are backed by factual data that is easily accessible to stakeholders. For example, many companies publish QR codes on their products enabling increased supply chain transparency. In the fashion industry, brands are using mobile technology such as QR Codes and NFC tags to provide customers with end-to-end information on the product they have purchased from raw materials and production, right through to distribution and beyond. Increased end-to-end product traceability gives supply chain stakeholders the right to ask questions and engage, as well as consumers to understand and apply circular economy principles to reduce the end-of-life product environmental footprint and reuse or recycle the product.