
Sustainability and ESG News
EU Emissions Trading System: Significant Reductions in Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) has successfully reduced emissions in covered sectors by 50% since 2005. This achievement highlights the system's effectiveness in driving decarbonization across Europe.
Major ESG Developments in March 2025
The latest update from Wilson Sonsini's Sustainability and ESG Advisory Practice highlights significant regulatory and reporting developments in the ESG landscape. Key topics include the SEC's decision to end its defense of climate disclosure rules, the EPA's deregulatory actions, and updates to international ESG standards.
ING’s Climate Targets Gain Validation from SBTi
ING’s climate targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), confirming they align with global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C. The bank’s climate strategy focuses on reducing carbon emissions across its portfolio and financing the transition to a low-carbon economy.
EU Council Approves Corporate Sustainability Reporting Delay
The EU Council has approved a delay in corporate sustainability reporting requirements until 2028. This decision is part of a broader effort to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses while maintaining the EU's commitment to sustainability.
CFOs Increase Strategic Investments in Tech
n 2025, CFOs are investing in technology despite declining economic optimism as displayed through a survey conducted by Grant Thornton. Key areas of focus include digital transformation, customer satisfaction, and data quality.
Simplifying Sustainable Finance for SMEs: Platform on Sustainable Finance Report
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are key players in Europe’s sustainability transition but face challenges in accessing green finance. A proposed SME Sustainable Finance Standard aims to streamline financing processes, making it easier for SMEs to secure funding for sustainability efforts.
PwC’s State of Decarbonization Report: The Strategic Path to Net Zero
Decarbonization is not just a necessity for the planet but a strategic opportunity for businesses. This article explores how companies can align their decarbonization efforts with growth, profitability, and stakeholder trust.
Understanding the Net-Zero Standard V2: Key Insights for Businesses
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has released the consultation draft of its Net-Zero Standard V2, aimed at helping businesses set clear, science-backed targets to reach net-zero emissions. This draft outlines the necessary steps and criteria for companies to follow in reducing their carbon footprint and achieving net-zero by 2050.
The Sustainability Value Triangle: A Path to Business Success
The "Sustainability Value Triangle" report shows how businesses can unlock value by integrating sustainability with finance and IT. The key to success lies in collaboration, data, and new technologies like AI.
BCG Insights: Investing in Climate Action
Investing in climate action is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic imperative. This article explores why allocating resources to mitigate and adapt to climate change can yield significant economic benefits and prevent substantial losses.
North Sea Collision: Environmental and Industry Impacts of the Tanker Disaster
A recent collision between a U.S.-flagged oil tanker and a Portuguese-flagged cargo ship in the North Sea has raised significant environmental concerns. The incident resulted in a massive fire and fuel spill, highlighting the immediate need to improve current safety measures.
Japan Aligns with Global Trends: SSBJ Rolls Out New ESG Disclosure Standards
The Sustainability Standards Board of Japan (SSBJ) has issued its first set of sustainability disclosure standards aimed at aligning Japanese practices with international benchmarks. These standards, rooted in the International Sustainability Standards Board’s (ISSB) framework, aim to ensure comparability and enhance transparency in corporate sustainability disclosures.
The Resilient Future of ESG: Insights from the Ispos ESG Council
Despite headlines suggesting the demise of ESG, the reality is a strategic reset rather than a retreat. Senior sustainability leaders emphasize the ongoing transformation and the critical challenges and opportunities ahead.
CFOs Double Down on Sustainability Despite Political Headwinds
Despite the new U.S. administration's anti-ESG stance, CFOs remain committed to sustainability. A recent survey from BDO reveals that many companies plan to maintain or even increase their sustainability investments.
The Future of Europe’s Automotive Industry
The European automotive industry's path forward was a focal point of the Strategic Dialogue's second meeting on March 3rd, where innovation, clean mobility, and competitiveness took center stage. Key actions have been outlined to tackle pressing challenges and to ensure the industry stays ahead in the global arena.
Deloitte and IIF Report: Financial Sector’s Sustainability Surge
A recent report by Deloitte and the Institute of International Finance (IIF) reveals that 45% of financial firms now have a Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO), a significant increase from 15% in 2020. This shift underscores the growing importance of sustainability in the financial sector, though challenges in risk assessment and data quality remain.
BDO Survey: CFOs Double Down on Sustainability
A recent survey by BDO reveals that 77% of CFOs plan to maintain or increase their sustainability investments in 2025. This strategic focus on sustainability is expected to drive significant business growth, profitability, and resilience.
Simplifying Sustainability: The EU Omnibus Proposal
The European Commission's Omnibus Proposal aims to simplify sustainability regulations, potentially saving billions and boosting investment. This initiative could significantly impact businesses and the EU's sustainability goals.
KPMG Insights: The Role of AI in Enhancing Sustainability Efforts
A recent KPMG Study explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the role of Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) by providing advanced tools to tackle environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges. This article explores how AI is being integrated into sustainability strategies to drive impactful change.
KPMG Study: Emerging Markets Embrace Green Investments
Emerging market companies are increasingly turning to sustainable finance to meet rising decarbonization targets. A recent KPMG study reveals that 51% of these firms are leveraging sustainable finance options to drive their environmental goals.