How can I prepare my business for climate change?

How can I prepare my business for climate change? 

Extreme weather is becoming a more visible and immediate risk for businesses in Greater Manchester however businesses that prepare will be better equipped to navigate these challenges. Carl Hirst, Sustainability Consultant offers his advice to help businesses manage the risks to continuity and establish a competitive advantage.  

While flooding has long been a concern, extreme heat is now also becoming more common, with temperatures above 30°C occurring more regularly each year. During the three heatwaves of 2026 so far, we have seen schools close, fires across Wales and England — including local incidents in the Peak District and at Dovestone Reservoir — and more than 2,700 excess deaths recorded. The effects of climate change are no longer distant or confined to hotter countries. They are happening here, and business owners have an important role to play in protecting their teams and maintaining continuity. 

What climate risks could affect your business? 

Climate-related extreme weather can affect businesses in different ways, depending on their location, operations, workforce and supply chain. The main risks to consider are: 

Each event presents its own challenges. Some risks are direct, such as disruption to premises, staff health, wellbeing and travel, productivity and day-to-day operations, whereas others could be from your supply chain.  

Supply chain risks 

Extreme weather events taking place globally can have a major impact on your operation with delays, shortages and price rises within your supply chain. Every organisation will have its own specific risks to understand and manage and those with a risk register and business continuity plans will be better positioned to respond to global supply chain disruptions.  

Read our guide to supply chain mapping

https://www.greeneconomy.co.uk/news-and-resources/insights/the-business-case-for-supply-chain-mapping/  

Competitive advantage  

There is also a growing strategic reason to act. More customers and partners want to work with suppliers that can demonstrate a credible approach to sustainability, climate resilience and carbon reduction. Meaning for those that act, it's a competitive advantage. 

If your business is based in an area at higher risk of flooding or wildfire, it is vital to have a contingency plan that keeps colleagues safe while helping you continue to serve customers. If your workplace is vulnerable to extreme heat, low and no-cost adjustments can improve comfort and safety, particularly for at-risk workers. If your operations rely on large volumes of water, you should also consider how to reduce demand and build resilience during periods of drought.

Top tips to prepare your business for extreme weather 

Acting does not have to be complicated. These practical steps can help you understand your exposure, plan and reduce the impact of climate-related disruption.