A new report by InfluenceMap reveals a marked increase in science-aligned climate lobbying by businesses operating within the European Union, signalling a growing alignment between corporate influence strategies and global climate goals.
According to the findings, the proportion of companies engaging in climate lobbying consistent with the 1.5°C temperature target rose from just 3% in 2019 to 23% in 2025. Conversely, the number of companies classified as misaligned with climate objectives has fallen significantly—from 34% to 14% over the same period. In total, more than half of the 200 EU-based companies surveyed were found to be at least partially aligned with climate pathways compatible with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
The research analysed a range of engagement channels including formal policy consultations, corporate disclosures, and public communications. More recent and formal actions were weighted more heavily in the analysis.
However, the report highlighted a lag in progress among industry associations. In 2025, only 12% of associations were found to be positively lobbying for science-based climate policy—up from just 2% in 2019. InfluenceMap noted that associations representing high-emitting sectors, such as chemicals, construction, and automotive, continue to use tactics that hinder climate ambition. These include stressing the perceived economic risks of environmental regulation and promoting ambiguous policy language that leaves room for continued fossil fuel use.
InfluenceMap also challenged the persistent notion that climate policy undermines European industrial competitiveness. Instead, it pointed to a shift among individual companies treating climate action not as a cost, but as a strategic imperative.
Commenting on the findings, Dominic Gogol, Director of Policy at the We Mean Business Coalition, said: “Recent polling shows that business leaders overwhelmingly support a rapid transition to renewable energy. Now, this research from InfluenceMap reveals that companies are acting on that strategic direction and treating climate action as material to their business.
This is not the preoccupation of a minority, but an increasingly significant portion of the corporate sector using science-aligned policy engagement to safeguard strategic investments in the energy transition. It is incumbent on the rest of the business and investor community to take note. The case is clear: reducing emissions offers a pathway to operational efficiencies, greater resilience and reduced risk. Companies must take proactive steps to ensure their lobbying and association memberships support – not undermine – their business goals.”
The report underscores a growing divergence between progressive corporate actors and slower-moving industry associations—highlighting the role of advocacy alignment in shaping credible climate leadership.
