BHP is ignoring its community responsibility on climate change.

BHP claims through Chairman Jac Nasser (http://bit.ly/1aNLsbI) now to accept the mainstream climate science. Presumably they also acknowledge the substantial climate risk we face, the role BHP has played in this as a large emitter, and the social justice issues which follow, for instance to South Pacific island populations. Comments by Andrew McKenzie (CEO, BHP) at the recent BHP shareholder meeting (21 November 2013)) therefore give some concern. Mr McKenzie proposed that through BHP’s participation in the Abbott government’s direct action plan that BHP’s international competitiveness is protected. Is he suggesting, then, that the economy, in particular the international competitiveness of BHP, is subordinate to the task of finding the best mechanism available to protect the climate and environment from the global warming’s effects and the social injustices that are about to be delivered to a host of vulnerable communities?

Mr McKenzie also says, “There's no point in giving up [carbon dioxide] in Australia only to find that it's going to be emitted less efficiently elsewhere.” Really, does he mean this? Where then is the leadership? Where is the principle of doing the right thing, of an altruism which when it sees a gross disadvantage sets aside self-interest for the sake of justice? Where is the recognition that BHP as an emitter has responsibility to make restoration? Mr McKenzie’s approach seeks the lowest common denominator in leadership; it is as culpably irresponsible as it is unimaginative.

Here we have another example of economics replacing political and social discourse. Our society’s fixation on economic success, especially of the individualist kind, blinkers us to those other considerations which make us a human community.

What is the role of the corporation here? It has captured, presumably, some of the best talent the community has to offer. It has garnered tremendous investment in this country and internationally. It has been given the right to access vast economic resources on our behalf. What responsibility accompanies these gifts? Sure, it has a responsibility to its shareholders, but that is not, morally, prior its responsibility to the community which provides the social licence and the resources for its operation.

It is good to see that some shareholders at this meeting raising climate change as an issue for the company.