But this isn't just a conversation for world leaders. The private sector plays a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of COP29, as businesses are now integral to achieving global climate and sustainability goals. The expectations for companies—whether large or small—have shifted, and their leadership in reducing environmental impacts has become essential.

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Why businesses should care

The role of businesses in this space has evolved beyond adaptation; it is now about leadership and collaboration. Companies are being called to the table to share innovations, best practices, and strategies that reduce carbon footprints and create long-term, sustainable solutions. This means investing in renewable energy, setting net-zero emissions targets, and adopting circular economy principles. Moreover, fostering public-private partnerships will help drive innovation and build resilience in local communities.

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Real-world action in motion

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Take, for instance, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), which has committed to investing €100 billion in green energy projects by 2030. Their focus includes large-scale renewable energy initiatives, such as offshore wind and hydrogen production. Projects like CIP’s planned Hydrogen Island in the North Sea will produce 1 million metric tons of renewable hydrogen annually by 2030, positioning CIP as a leader in sustainable energy​. S&P Global

Another example is IKEA, which is working towards becoming climate positive by 2030. IKEA has already invested €4 billion in renewable energy and is phasing out fossil fuels across its operations. By 2021, over 56% of the materials IKEA uses were renewable. Their commitment to renewable energy and sustainable materials sets a benchmark for global companies looking to balance profitability with environmental responsibility​. World Economic Forum

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These examples show that climate leadership is not only beneficial for the planet but is becoming a key differentiator in today’s competitive marketplace. The transition to a sustainable economy presents both risks and opportunities, and those who act early will be the ones shaping the future of business.

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What businesses should be doing now

As COP29 unfolds, businesses have the opportunity to move beyond participation and step into roles as leaders in the global climate conversation. To start, organisations can:

• Follow daily updates from COP29 to stay informed about the latest discussions and emerging priorities.
• Assess their current climate impact and set ambitious, measurable goals that align with global sustainability targets.
• Explore public-private partnerships that foster innovation and create pathways for positive change in their industry.
• Book a meeting with our trend experts to see how Trendtracker keeps them up-to-date with emerging trends and risks.

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By engaging stakeholders—employees, customers, and communities—on sustainability initiatives, companies can ensure that their actions align with a broader sense of social responsibility. This not only strengthens the company’s resilience in an evolving world but also contributes to a shared future where businesses are part of the solution to global challenges.

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Looking ahead

The outcomes of COP29 will influence strategies for governments and businesses alike for years to come. Key themes such as finance, energy, and urbanisation will emerge as central to the discussions. As the conference progresses, companies that position themselves as leaders in sustainability will help shape a more resilient, sustainable economy—one that balances environmental responsibility with long-term success.

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How to stay up-to-date with emerging trends?

In a world where the pace of change is relentless, businesses face growing challenges in staying ahead of emerging risks and opportunities. Yet, tracking these shifts—whether in your industry, region, or the global market—is crucial for making informed, future-focused decisions.

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That’s where our Trend Board comes in. We’ve curated the most pressing themes from COP29, spotlighting key trends in Finance, Energy, Technology, and more. But we don’t stop there—our AI Analyst, your strategic partner, transforms these insights into actionable strategies tailored to your organisation’s needs.

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Curious about how it all works? Let’s talk. Book a demo with our trend experts and discover how Trendtracker can help you stay ahead of the curve.