The Chinese government will announce its intention to cut it’s emissions intensity by 40-45% of 2005 in Copenhagen in December.
Assuming that China’s economy continues grow at 9-10% of GDP each year, that will mean that China’s emissions will more than double their 2005 emissions.
Apple, manufacturers of the popular computers, iPods and iPhones has released detailed information on the carbon footprint of its products and operations.
Apple’s comprehensive website breaks down the company’s 10.2 million tonne footprint, which includes facilities emissions, manufacturing, transportation, recycling and product use.
Environmental consulting company Trucost has released a report detailing the carbon footprints of major US Mutual Fund companies. It analyzes the carbon footprint ‘owned’ by 91 funds representing a combined value of 1.5 quadrillion dollars.
The key take-home message is this:
Companies that rely heavily on carbon-intensive operations and supply chains relative to sector peers could be most exposed to carbon liabilities. High emitters which find it difficult to fully pass these liabilities on in higher prices without losing market share could see profi ts fall, unless they profoundly change the goods they produce or how they produce them. Companies that are more carbon-effi cient for their sectors, with limited exposure to direct carbon costs or indirect costs passed on in input prices, stand to gain competitive advantage. Carbon pricing could present opportunities for low-emission companies in carbon-intensive sectors.