A strategic lens on the future: the importance of scenario planning
By Pat Concessi and Rob Abbott

Risk is inherent in the energy industry. Fluctuating fuel prices, capital costs, construction planning, geological surveying, political stability in far-flung countries and equipment failure all mean that managing risks is a key part of what executives do every day.

Now a wild card has been tossed on the table. Climate change is introducing a new level of uncertainty that needs to be recognized in long-range planning exercises, especially when capital expenditures will be involved. Scenario planning can help manage these uncertainties.

Full story: A strategic lens on the future

Going against the current: Husky Injection Molding Systems Inc.
By John Tenpenny

Husky works to reduce its environmental footprint to as close to zero as it can get. It isn’t solely about saving the environment; it’s as much about that old saying, ‘waste not, want not.’ The side benefits are a positive work environment and a creative mindset that can only bolster its global growth.

Full story: Going against the current

The feebate fiasco
By Gerry Malloy

You can’t count on what regulators will do. The ‘feebate’ program for the auto industry in last year’s federal budget is a case in point. Not only was it a surprise to the industry, it also did nothing to curb greenhouse gas emissions. So if your business is in a sector that is, or may be, subject to federal environmental regulation, beware! Make sure you communicate effectively as a group… but have a plan B as well.

Full story: The feebate fiasco

U.S. Governor proposes a bold approach to energy supply
By Robert Colman

West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin addressed the Economic Club of Toronto in mid-October, outlining the challenges and possible solutions for the United States’ dependence on foreign oil. Asked to address his country’s national energy policy, he stated “we still don’t have one.”

The governor, who also serves as chairman of the Southern States Energy Board, went on to say that he didn’t believe one would be created any time in the near future. He believes real change will happen at the state level. Manchin wants the U.S. to be energy independent by 2030, and he believes he knows how it can be done.

Full story: U.S. Governor proposes a bold approach to energy supply

Innovations in carbon reporting put business on notice

There is no doubt that businesses the world over are more aware of climate risk than they were even a couple of years ago. The Carbon Disclosure Project 2007, released in early October by the Conference Board of Canada, bears this out. It shows that Canada’s largest companies have greater awareness of the business risks and opportunities of climate change, and are more responsive to investor requests for information about their carbon risk strategies compared to one year ago. However, the study also notes that the information being disclosed is still insufficient to meet investor requirements.

The profile that this study has received, and the development of several other initiatives encouraging investors to consciously consider climate risk in their portfolio investments, suggests all companies should take heed and re-examine exactly how their supply chains operate.

Full story: Innovations in carbon reporting