No industry will be untouched by the effects of climate change, but as our research has demonstrated, some sectors will experience more immediate and painful consequences, while others will only require minor adjustments to business as usual. And of course, not all the repercussions of climate change will be negative; the push for wind and solar energy would undoubtedly be weaker without society’s current desire to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Regardless, for each of the 30 industries, where there is great risk or great opportunity, there is a niche for a climate consultant.
While the climate change consulting industry is currently dominated by large firms, it is still an emerging sector that has yet to find its footing. Our report should help a small, start-up firm such as EnergetixClimate understand the role it can play in servicing affected industries. For instance, it may be that utility and mining companies are beyond EnergetixClimate’s reach as potential clients, but there are many small and medium sized food and beverage companies, which will need advice in mitigating their risks and improving their operations.
Additionally, this report is meant to assist consultants in understanding the complex factors (physical, regulatory, reputational and competitive risks) being considered by companies that will drive them to require climate change consulting services. Our research has shown that in most cases, businesses will be contending with more than one type of risk, and so consulting firms of all sizes should be prepared to offer a suite of services.