Congress of Business (COB26) returns on 12 May 2026 during Glasgow Climate Week, showcasing meaningful climate action delivered since the city took the world stage at COP26. Building on the Glasgow Climate Pacts, COB turns sustainable ambition into tangible results by highlighting real stories of change from speakers by demonstrating what climate leadership looks like in practice.
Bringing together major UK businesses and leading academics, the event underscores that cities and industry are not just participants but drivers of climate transformation. Through standout initiatives and peer‑to‑peer learning, COB positions businesses as climate leaders committed to accelerating progress and resilience.
COB amplifies collective action by uniting businesses across the British Chambers of Commerce global network, fostering partnerships that deliver both global connections and local impact. SMEs are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools needed to contribute confidently to the climate transition at every level.
Acting as the key convening moment between COP summits, COB maintains strong executive level engagement, ensuring climate action stays at the top of the agenda. With Glasgow as a living case study through the ongoing work of Climate Chamber initiatives, COB keeps momentum alive and supports a business community ready to lead the path to a sustainable economy.
Stuart Patrick CBE, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, reflects on Glasgow’s achievements so far and explores how the Chamber’s projects are helping businesses support the city’s ambitious climate and growth goals.
HEAR FROM STUART PATRICK CBE
Andy Haldane OBE, Chief Executive of The RSA (The Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce), explores how cities and businesses can drive the transition to a greener future and why convening business at COB is vital for accelerating impact.
HEAR FROM ANDY HALDANE OBE
Baroness Martha Lane Fox CBE, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, discusses how the Chamber network and technology can power a greener, more inclusive future and why convening business at COB is crucial for accelerating progress.
HEAR FROM BARONESS MARTHA LANE FOX CBE
Congress of Business 2026
is held in partnership with
British Chambers of Commerce
Scottish Chambers of Commerce
University of Glasgow
E.ON
COB Inspires is a career‑focused sustainability event specifically designed for students, recent graduates, and early‑career professionals who are interested in exploring sustainability-focused jobs.
Through open discussions, interactive panels, and highly engaged networking spaces, COB Inspires is intentionally designed to spark curiosity, ambition, and commitment to sustainability, attracting individuals who are actively seeking roles with purpose and impact.
COB Futures is designed to inspire and empower the next generation to take an active role in shaping a sustainable future.
Aiming to connect young people with the opportunities emerging from the green job agenda and the transition to a low-carbon economy, pupils in S3 will engage with leading voices in sustainability who will share insights into the skills and careers driving the green transition.
Want to get involved? Find out more
