Climate Change and Sustainability

Climate change is a certainty, not a probability, and severe weather is becoming a part of everyday life.

Global economic losses from natural disasters in the first half of 2023 are estimated to be $194 billion on a preliminary basis, well above the 21st century average of $128 billion. While nearly half of this amount is attributed to the February earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, 24 of 25 catastrophe events in the first half of 2023 triggering a billion dollars or more in economic losses were weather related.

Climate change is tied to tangible risks where the impact is immediate and measurable – business interruption, material scarcity, supply chain issues, and reputation damage. Regulators around the world are demanding action, reporting, and transparency.

Yet the interconnected nature of climate risk creates an opportunity to take a more holistic approach to building resilience through preparedness. As well, as the world moves toward achieving net-zero transition, new technologies and green solutions present an opportunity to make real progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and avoiding worst-case climate change scenarios.

But the uncertainty of investing in emerging markets and technologies can be an obstacle, especially in an increasingly volatile economy. Organizations in all sectors will need to protect their people and physical assets, reduce their carbon footprint, and invest in new solutions to thrive. Mitigating physical risks is a critical first step. For sustainable growth, companies must also reduce the costs of the net-zero transition and de-risk climate-related investments – connecting capital to opportunities.

Insights to Make Better Climate Decisions

  • $66B

    Economic loss events, the highest on record

    Source: Aon's 2024 Climate and Catastrophe Insight

  • 398

    Notable natural disasters

    Source: Aon's 2024 Climate and Catastrophe Insight

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