Policy uncertainty continues to hamper carbon emissions management

Uncertainty surrounding regulatory requirements is the main hindrance to carbon-intensive companies taking long-term action on managing emissions, my research finds. I interviewed 32 managers directly involved in carbon emissions management from 18 of Australia's largest companies. The interviews were conducted over two periods, in 2013 (before repeal of the carbon tax) and in early 2016 after the repeal of the carbon tax. Even though almost all companies sampled for the research believe the carbon tax was an effective mechanism in driving climate change actions, political uncertainty surrounding climate change policies was seen as a significant restraint on strategy.