As a result, there is growing regulatory pressure and stronger stakeholder expectations for companies to execute a robust climate change transition plan. These plans are crucial in helping companies navigate the risks of climate change and align with a low-carbon economy.
Against this backdrop, we focused on the UK market and analysed the transition plans of the FTSE 100 companies. Our research examines the details of these companies’ transition plans and how they present them, offering insights for those just starting their transition planning.
This is the second year that we tracked the climate disclosures for the FTSE 100 companies. Since last year, we have seen an increase in the amount of companies having a Transition Plan, with only 1/3 having them in place in 2023, compared to over 50% in 2024.
While 91% of FTSE 100 companies have set net-zero targets, only 13% align their transition plans with the voluntary Transition Plan Taskforce (TPT) guidelines. 58% have plans that do not adhere to the guidance.
With only 67% of companies having committed to a 45% emissions reduction by 2030, the urgency for a comprehensive plan with interim targets has never been more apparent.
Various jurisdictions are increasingly requiring companies to disclose their climate transition plans as part of their non-financial reporting. Countries such as the UK, Japan, and others in the EU are leading these efforts, disclosing frameworks like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) mandating specific disclosures.
The TPT was established to guide organisations in creating effective transition plans. Its five key elements include setting ambitious targets, defining implementation strategies, ensuring robust governance, and engaging stakeholders.
Companies such as HSBC and Compass are examples of the best practices in transition planning, as they clearly communicate their strategies and adhere to the TPT guidelines. DS Smith has created an easy comprehension of their climate transition journey on a one-page spread, highlighting their upstream, business model, and downstream changes.
To enhance their transition plans, companies should:
The urgency for companies to not only commit to net-zero targets but also develop detailed, credible transition plans that align with emerging regulatory frameworks, has never been clearer. This approach will ensure companies meet regulatory requirements and position themselves for success in the low-carbon economy.
To request the full research report or to find out more about how we can help you with your transition plans or wider sustainability disclosures please get in touch.
Black Sun Global is a stakeholder advisory and engagement agency that's been driving transformation and positive change for ambitious brands for more than 20 years. With deep expertise in disclosure and reporting, ESG, sustainability, and digital engagement, we reshape how organisations connect with customers, investors, employees, and the wider world.
We are trusted partners to some of the most influential global organisations, sparking innovation and sustainable performance through our strategic insights, partnerships, and proprietary technologies.
As founders of the Positive Change Group, we are on a mission to create a new kind of stakeholder relations partner. Our world-class specialists work closely with executive leadership teams to protect reputations, inspire trust, and promote responsible business practices - building resilience and long-term value in a rapidly changing world.
For more information, please visit: www.blacksun-global.com
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