Businesses Break Ranks Over Climate Change: How Public Pressure Can Change Corporate Culture

By KLD_Blog on October 6, 2009 1 Comment AEP, Alan Petrillo, American Electric Power, Ann Fifield, capital markets, carbon emissions, CEO, climate policy, coal, coal state, Coal States, coal-friendly economy, corporate culture, culture of governance, David Vidal, engaged citizens, environment, environmental issues, Ethical Context, Exelon, financial markets, Financial Times, green credentials, Green Inc, Green Rankings, KLD Blog post, KLD forum, KLD Research & Analytics, lobbying, Mike Morris, National Resource Defense Council, Newsweek Green Rankings, NIKE, NRDC, Pete Altman, PG&E, recycling, reputation, sustainability, sustainability culture, Tennessee ash spill, The Conference Board, US Chamber of Commerce, utilities

Senior members of the US Chamber of Commerce are strdently opposing the Chamber’s position of opposition to climate policy. These organizations are eager “to boost their green credentials,” for fear of alienating their customers and senators. This is an indications that Social movements shape political power and concerned citizens, can move even the most entrenched corporate and political interests. NRDC research finds that “only 23 members of the U.S. Chamber’s board have a publicly stated position on climate change and more than 80 percent [19 members] are not on board” with the Chamber’s official position.