Social Intelligence Series

Some might think that climate change is a ‘green’ issue of more relevance to affluent countries, focused on issues such as managing carbon emissions and reducing air travel. Africa is seen as having to deal with more serious and immediate concerns around poverty, governance and development, not to mention the current impact of a global economic downturn.

That view is increasingly looking mistaken. An emerging consensus places Africa as the most vulnerable continent to climate change, putting significant economic and human value at risk. Addressing Africa’s current climate risks and building resilience to the potential changes in the future is a crucial task that requires action from both government and business.

This report assesses the current climate risk exposure of different African economies because by understanding how climate factors affect business and the economy today, projections of future changes can be put into context.

Although analysis on climate impacts in Africa is increasing within the continent and amongst the international scientific community, key messages are often inaccessible for business decision-makers. They also lack information on how risks may materialise across core operations and value chains, the potential sector-specific impacts and climate risk management options. This report is intended to help address these issues.

Barclays is working to improve understanding of these issues in our African businesses as we believe this will help us to continue to support customers and clients and the wider communities where we operate.

Barclays moves, lends, invests and protects money for nearly 14 million customers and clients in Africa. We have operated in Africa for over a century and we intend to be a key part of the next 100 years. Africa has an optimistic future. Improving understanding of climate risks and building resilience will help secure future growth.