WBCSD and ERM are proud to announce the launch of the Business Leaders Guide to a Just Climate Transition. This practical guide supports senior leaders embed people considerations into climate strategies and lead the transition with integrity, build trust and future-proof operations.
Why this guide matters
In today’s evolving business landscape, embedding people considerations into climate strategies is a strategic imperative. The transition to a net-zero, nature-positive economy is not only technical – it is deeply social. Employees, suppliers, communities and consumers are at the heart of the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Overlooking people can have serious financial consequences. From litigation, project delays, and reputational harm to missed opportunities in new markets, supply chains, and access to capital.
For Boards and C-Suite leaders, this guide helps to close a critical gap. Until now, most climate strategies have focused on emissions and technology, leaving workforce and community impacts fragmented or reactive. This guide helps companies integrate people priorities into transition plans, ensuring climate action is fair, inclusive and resilient.
By doing so, businesses can mitigate social and operational risks, strengthen stakeholder trust and unlock new opportunities for innovation and growth. Aligning these strategies with broader sustainability goals not only enhances competitiveness but also positions companies as leaders in shaping a net-zero, nature-positive economy.
What readers can expect
Ø A clear business case for a just transition
Ø Insights on sectoral and regional dynamics to inform place-based approaches
Ø Recommended actions for Boards and executives to align fiduciary duties with emerging due diligence expectations
Ø Practical steps to embed just transition thinking into climate strategies and transition plans
Ø Case studies and best practices from leading companies
How to get started
We invite readers to explore the Business Leaders Guide to Just Climate Transition and to start using it as a foundation to integrate the people dimension into their governance, strategy and operations.
Access or download the executive summary or the full publication using the link below.
What is next?
This publication is just the beginning. In 2026, the People Action Imperative will work with members to put these recommendations into practice. In small sector-specific working groups, companies are guided on pre-defined action areas such as how to drive action from the top, how to engage other business functions, and how to track progress.
Together with peers, participants will learn by doing what works and what does not and share insights with the group. With these lessons we will co-create an updated version of the Business Leaders Guide.
If you would like more information, please contact the People Action team at peopleaction@wbcsd.org
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