CDP Embarks on a New Journey to Enhance Global Environmental Transparency and Science-Based Disclosure

CDP's Landmark Transformation

In a groundbreaking announcement, the global environmental disclosure system CDP has unveiled plans to transform into two separate yet interconnected entities. This strategic move is set to enhance the company's capacity to deliver meaningful environmental data and insights, which are critical to fostering sustainability worldwide. The evolution will consist of the commercial entity known as CDP, now backed by global investment firm Permira, alongside the formation of the CDP Foundation, a charitable organization focused on advancing science-based disclosure methods.

A New Organizational Structure

The separation into CDP and CDP Foundation marks a significant step in the organization’s growth and its commitment to environmental transparency. CDP will continue to provide a comprehensive array of services related to environmental data and disclosures, enabling businesses around the world to make informed and responsible decisions. The foundation, on the other hand, will lead research initiatives that translate cutting-edge environmental science into actionable disclosure strategies that inform and guide businesses.

Both entities will collaborate to achieve a shared goal: to enable and support decision-makers who strive for Earth-positive outcomes. This ambitious vision comes at a time when environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discourse, and there is a pressing need for innovative approaches to sustainability.

Elevating Environmental Standards

For over 25 years, CDP has been pivotal in positioning environmental disclosures at the heart of corporate decision-making. This new model is anticipated to significantly enhance their capabilities, allowing for a greater investment in technology that simplifies the process of disclosure. The objective is to provide users with more valuable insights into their sustainability practices, helping them assess risks, build resilience, and create effective sustainability strategies.

Sherry Madera, CEO of CDP, emphasizes this transformative moment, stating, "We are deepening our priorities – enabling CDP to deliver stronger science-led disclosures while leveraging new technologies to simplify the experience for our users. This change will not only enhance our capabilities but also increase the value of our insights for companies and financial institutions alike."

The Role of the CDP Foundation

The CDP Foundation will play a crucial role in evolving the disclosure frameworks that guide CDP's questions and metrics. By harnessing pioneering environmental indicators, the foundation aims to push the boundaries of standard market practices, aligning its focus with the overarching health of the planet. This dynamic will empower CDP to maintain its innovative spirit and remain committed to its founding principles

Katherine Garrett-Cox, Chair of the CDP Board of Trustees, reiterates this commitment to innovation and science as the backbone of both organizations.

Building for the Future with Permira

Permira’s investment will provide CDP with the necessary resources to advance its mission further. With a clear strategy in energy transition and a strong commitment to sustainability, Permira will assist CDP in scaling operations efficiently. This partnership is expected to bolster CDP's ability to deliver impactful insights, thereby enhancing the environmental decision-making process globally. Anish Patel, Partner at Permira, states, "The need for trusted data in environmental risk has never been more critical, and we look forward to partnering with CDP as they embark on this next chapter."

What Lies Ahead

As CDP steps into this new phase of its existence, both CDP and CDP Foundation will not only continue with their current services but will also develop innovative solutions designed to tackle today’s environmental challenges proactively. With regulatory approvals pending, the organizations are poised to complete their transformation within the next six months, heralding a new era of environmental transparency and accountability.

In this pivotal moment, the CDP and CDP Foundation stand united in their mission, ready to drive forward with bold, science-based disclosures that promote a sustainable future for generations to come.

Conclusion

CDP’s restructuring reflects a dynamic response to the complicated demands of the climate crisis and the need for impactful, science-driven information in the business world. As we move forward, the anticipated developments from both CDP and the Foundation promise to reshape how organizations prioritize and implement environmental strategies, driving us closer to a sustainable and resilient planet.