Climate Strategies Must Include Adaptation and Resilience

SEPTEMBER 21, 2022

Ask any business leader about climate strategy and the answer will most likely involve mitigation. After all, reducing greenhouse gas emissions is critical to averting the worst effects of climate change. But fewer leaders are talking about adapting to climate change—and the distinct advantages that come with building adaptation into your climate strategy.

Adaptation is about transforming structures and processes to better withstand the effects of climate change. It’s about building resilience, helping companies and communities manage the risks and disruptions that come with extreme weather events, so they can continue to grow and thrive. Adaptation is particularly critical for low- and middle-income countries, many of which have fewer resources and greater vulnerability to climate change—including Egypt, where world leaders gathering in November for COP27 will spotlight the importance of adaptation and resilience to the global climate effort.

We asked several BCG experts what leaders need to know about adaptation and resilience and how to incorporate both principles into an effective climate strategy. Here’s what they had to say.