Symantec is known for protecting some of things we care most about. The lifeblood of countless businesses is dependent upon a reliable Symantec software package that is both cost-effective and safe. So it is no surprise that Symantec has stood up for the protection of life as we know it through the appropriate regulation of carbon. As an energy purchaser and forward thinking business, Symantec boldly joined the leadership class of companies in BICEP (Business for Innovative Climate & Energy Policy) back in 2009 and has stayed the course ever since. Most recently the company joined over 100 others in prudently supporting the Administration's Clean Power Plan to regulate carbon. The letter to the Obama Administration last June highlighted the economic case behind the new standard:
It reads in part:
Our support is firmly grounded in economic reality. We know that tackling climate change is one of America's great economic opportunities of the 21st century and we applaud the EPA for taking steps to help the country seize that opportunity.
Investing in antivirus software allows us to feel confident about the future security of our most vital and sensitive materials. Investing in an energy future that is free of carbon emissions gives us the confidence that those who matter most to us...our children and grandchildren...can live in a cleaner, safer, more sustainable world. A critical part of that investment is the commitment to regulate CO2 from power plants. Not making that investment would be like going into the future blindly hoping that all will be well instead of bolding demanding that it be so.
Transitions are hard. But the necessary transition from a fossil fuel economy to one largely based on a diverse portfolio of energy sources is one that will make us all more secure. Companies like Symantec who purchase and use energy provide critical voices in this debate. We need others.
Fortunately, Climate Summit 2014 has already proven to be an inspiring platform for bold statements. From Secretary John Kerry to Ikea CEO Peter Agnefjall to Apple CEO Tim Cook - we have heard unprecedented commitments for immediate action on climate change. Collectively, along with the 400,000+ who marched in the streets, they are encouraging us to boldly go, eyes open, into a clean energy economy that offers the economic return and the energy security we need for an equitable, prosperous future. More companies need to take their blinders off and stand shoulder to shoulder with Symantec in support of controlling carbon once and for all.
Anne Kelly is BICEP's Director, Business for Innovative Climate & Energy Policy