Climate Ambition Accelerator

Applications for the 2024 SDG Pioneer program are now open!

Each year, we celebrate the remarkable efforts of business professionals who are driving positive change by advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and embodying the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. These individuals, known as SDG Pioneers, play a crucial role in inspiring action and showcasing the power of business to create a sustainable future for all.

As part of the 2024 UN Global Compact SDG Pioneers program, UN Global Compact Network USA is searching for individuals who exemplify dedication, innovation, and leadership in advancing the SDGs.

The UN Global Compact Network USA will award two 2024 Global Compact Network USA SDG Pioneers this year. One to represent Small & Medium-sized enterprises (<250 employees), and one to represent Large National & Multi-National Companies. Please note that companies must have submitted at least 1 CoP and be a signatory since October 1, 2023 to be eligible for this opportunity. The selected individuals will then have the opportunity to participate in the final search of Global SDG Pioneers and to be recognized during the 2024 UN General Assembly in September in New York.

Apply now before May 15, 2024 and please contact Caitlin McGinnis at caitlin@globalcompactusa.org for any inquiries. For additional information, visit https://unglobalcompact.org/sdgs/sdgpioneers/.

Ambitious business leaders are recognizing that they don’t have to choose between taking climate action and having strong economies and bottom lines. On the contrary —taking climate action is the best way to build healthier and thriving people, communities, businesses and economies. The Climate Ambition Accelerator is a six-month accelerator program designed to equip companies with the knowledge and skills they need to accelerate progress towards setting science-based emissions reduction targets aligned with the 1.5°C pathway, setting them on a path towards net-zero emissions by 2050. 

Perhaps your company has not yet set emissions targets, or you've created targets without using the science-based targets methodology. Maybe you're overwhelmed by the technical requirements involved.  No matter where you are in your sustainability journey, the Climate Ambition Accelerator will help you get started and make progress towards setting ambitious emission targets.

Led by the United Nations Global Compact with support from Patrons Ørsted and Natura & Co and sponsored by En+ Group, the Climate Ambition Accelerator aims to scale-up credible climate action across companies of all sizes, sectors and regions, enabling them to deliver on meaningful commitments to reduce emissions at scale. The Climate Ambition Accelerator builds on the UN Global Compact’s work to develop and promote the Science Based Targets initiative, its net-zero standards, and Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign, and will contribute to initiatives such as the Race to Zero campaign.

Through the Global Compact Local Networks around the world, participating companies will gain access to global best practices, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, capacity building sessions and on-demand training. 

Program Benefits

  • Learn how to set science-based emission reduction targets to achieve net-zero by 2050
  • Motivate investors, leadership, employees and shareholders with an emission reduction plan that sets your organization apart in the market
  • Gain a clear understanding of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and the net-zero concept, including methodologies, requirements, processes, benefits and applicability
  • Hear from peers and share insights in group sessions
  • Take advantage of on-demand learning that enables you to work at your own pace
  • Get access to industry experts and networking opportunities
  • Benefit from local delivery combined with global insights and best practices

Timeline

Company registration: February 21 – April 30, 2024

Program begins: May 2024

Program ends: November 2024