Willis Towers Watson announces net zero commitment

Managing climate risk a "strategic and financial imperative"

Willis Towers Watson announces net zero commitment

Environmental

By Terry Gangcuangco

The world’s number three insurance broker is the latest to express its commitment to delivering net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its business operations.

In alignment with the Science Based Targets Initiative, Willis Towers Watson has pledged to be net zero by 2050 at the latest. The plan includes a target of at least a 50% reduction by 2030, as well as 100% renewable energy supplies within Willis Towers Watson’s real estate portfolio.

The Irish-domiciled global company, which serves more than 140 countries and markets, said it is committed to minimising its environmental impact and carbon emissions through improvements to energy efficiency in its operations, leveraging virtual meeting technologies, promoting recycling, minimising the waste sent to landfill, purchasing environmentally responsible office supplies, and encouraging colleagues to adopt environmentally responsible habits.

“Climate change and its growing impact on society represents a significant global challenge,” stated Willis Towers Watson chief executive John Haley. “As one of the world’s leading risk advisors and experts in assessing and mitigating climate risk, Willis Towers Watson is committed to supporting measures aimed at helping to tackle climate change.

“The need to manage climate risk and support an orderly transition to a low-carbon, resilient economy is no longer solely a matter of conscience but a strategic and financial imperative. [This] announcement further reinforces our company’s commitment to addressing this global challenge.”

Willis Towers Watson, a member of the Insurance Development Forum and ClimateWise, has been closely involved with various governments, intergovernmental organisations, and civil societies on climate policy and research for years. It also supports the Taskforce on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures and plays a leadership role in the Coalition for Climate Resilient Investment.

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