At the March meeting of the WBCSD Global Network, a clear message emerged: the business world must move from climate commitments to real implementation. A key topic was the preparation for the upcoming COP31 climate conference and strengthening the role of companies in the global climate agenda.

One of the main tools to support concrete action is the Business Action Bank – an open global database of corporate sustainability solutions. It was originally created in connection with COP30 in response to the need for a credible overview of already implemented climate actions.

The aim of this platform is to transform individual successful company projects into broader systemic change – helping to scale proven solutions, influence public policy, and accelerate investment in sustainable technologies. Within six months of its launch, the database already contains more than 240 concrete solutions from over 130 companies, with the ambition to reach 1,000 best-practice examples.

For COP31, not only political discussions will be crucial, but above all the presentation of concrete and verified solutions from practice. Connecting businesses, investors, and the public sector will be key to accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.

WBCSD representatives also emphasized the importance of involving regional partners, who are close to businesses and can help identify innovative projects with global impact. Local solutions are increasingly becoming inspiration for international climate action.

COP31 will therefore be not only a forum for political negotiations, but also a platform for sharing concrete steps that are already delivering measurable impact.

If you are interested in participating in COP31 or sharing best practices within the Business Action Bank, please contact: duchanova@cbcsd.cz

🌍 COP31 in Türkiye – Key Information

🔑 Main Motto

  • “COP for Future – COP for Implementation”
  • Emphasis on concrete and measurable climate action, not just commitments

🧭 Key Principles of COP31

  • Dialogue – inclusive cooperation with the private sector, transparency
  • Consensus – engaging businesses in shared responsibility and economic transformation
  • Action – moving from pledges to real implementation and investment

🏢 Role of Business

  • Strong involvement of companies in the climate agenda
  • Focus on turning ambition into practice (implementation)
  • Turkish business aims to be an active part of the global climate dialogue

📊 Business Readiness (Survey in Türkiye)

(based on 109 companies)

  • 85% consider climate and energy as strategic priorities
  • 72% have set net-zero or emissions reduction targets
  • 69% address sustainability at the board level
  • Key barriers:
    • 47%: access to finance
    • 40%: insufficient data infrastructure

🎯 Main Thematic Areas of COP31

  1. Transformation of energy, industry, and transport
  2. Protection of nature (forests, oceans, biodiversity)
  3. Agriculture and food systems
  4. Climate resilience of cities and infrastructure
  5. Social and inclusive transformation
  6. Enablers and accelerators of change

🏆 Business Engagement in Türkiye – Key Initiatives

  • Sustainable Business Model Transformation Awards
    • selection of best corporate solutions
    • presentation at COP31 and international forums
  • Best projects will be shared globally (e.g., via WBCSD platforms)

📅 Timeline

  • April 2026: launch of calls
  • June 2026: application deadline
  • September 2026: announcement of winners
  • November 2026: COP31 conference

📣 Additional Activities

  • webinar series (March–June 2026)
  • development of unified sustainability terminology
  • strengthening the role of companies as “solution providers,” not just participants