19 September 2011: The UNFCCC Secretariat has signed an agreement with the UN Global Compact and the UN Environment Porgramme (UNEP) to join the “Caring for Climate” initiative, which aims to advance the role of business in addressing climate change. Launched by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2007, Caring for Climate: the Global Business Leadership Platform is endorsed by nearly 400 companies from 65 countries.

Caring for Climate provides a framework for business leaders to advance practical solutions, articulate climate strategies, and help shape public policy as well as public attitudes. To better guide its future development, the initiative will seek strategic input from the UNFCCC Secretariat through the Caring for Climate Steering Committee.

The three organizations will work together to better align Caring for Climate with the climate policy agenda and enhance the visibility of business actions in the process. In the months ahead and starting at the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP 17) to be held in Durban, South Africa, at the end of 2011, Caring for Climate signatories will have several opportunities to exchange information and experiences, and enhance their understanding of the UNFCCC process. [UNFCCC Press Release]