RENEWABLE energy technology businesses can reverse the effects of climate change - but only if world governments move rapidly, according to a report.

Campaign organisation WWF's report, Climate Solutions, concluded that renewables could be harnessed to meet a projected doubling in global demand for energy by 2050, while also achieving a 60 to 80 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

James Leape, WWF International's director general, said: "The world has never been more aware of climate change, or the urgent need to slow its advance.

"We have a small window of time in which we can plant the seeds of change, and that is the next five years. We cannot afford to waste them."

He added: "This is not something that governments can put off until the future."