Sustainability and ESG News
Australia’s Green Aluminum Initiative
Australia is set to boost its green aluminum industry with a $1.2 billion credit plan. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices in the aluminum sector.
EBA's New Guidelines: A Step Forward in Managing ESG Risks for Banks
The European Banking Authority (EBA) has released comprehensive guidelines for banks to manage Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) risks. These guidelines aim to ensure the financial stability of institutions as the EU transitions towards a sustainable economy.
EU Sustainable Finance Platform Proposes Taxonomy Enhancements
The EU Platform on Sustainable Finance has proposed updates to the EU Taxonomy to simplify and expand its scope. These changes aim to enhance the usability and effectiveness of the classification system for sustainable economic activities.
Navigating ESG in 2025: Latham & Watkins LLP’s Key Insights for the Year Ahead
In 2025, the ESG landscape is set to evolve significantly, driven by new regulations, technological advancements, and geopolitical shifts. Companies must stay agile and informed to navigate these changes effectively. Latham and Watkins provides their insights for navigating this in the upcoming year.
Biden Administration's Clean Electricity Tax Credits: A New Era for Clean Energy
The Biden Administration has released final rules for clean electricity tax credits, aiming to boost clean energy projects and reduce utility costs for American families. These new regulations are expected to save U.S. households up to $38 billion by 2030 while supporting job creation and energy resilience.
Major US Banks Exit NZBA: What It Means for Climate Commitments
Bank of America, Citigroup, and Morgan Stanley have recently exited the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), a significant move in the financial sector's climate commitments. This decision follows similar exits by Goldman Sachs and Wells Fargo, raising questions about the future of climate-focused banking initiatives.
ISSB to Focus on Rule Rollouts Over New Standards
The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) is prioritizing the implementation of its existing standards over developing new ones. This strategic shift aims to ensure widespread adoption and effective application of the current ESG reporting frameworks.
Yale Insights: The Impact of ESG News on Investors
Investors are increasingly attentive to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) news, but primarily when it impacts financial returns. A recent study from Yale School of Management reveals that retail investors' trading behavior is significantly influenced by ESG-related news events.
China Unveils Basic Standards for Corporate ESG Disclosure
In December 2024, China introduced its Basic Standards for Corporate Sustainability Disclosure, aiming to align with global ESG practices. This initiative marks a significant step towards a unified national ESG reporting system, with full implementation expected by 2030.
New U.S. Climate Goal Set by Outgoing Biden Administration
The Biden administration has announced a new climate goal to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 61% – 66% by 2035. This ambitious target aims to continue the momentum of climate action despite the upcoming change in administration.
Ohio and Oklahoma Challenge ESG Investing: A Growing National Debate
Ohio and Oklahoma are the latest states to push back against Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. This move reflects a broader national debate on the role of ESG considerations in public finance and corporate governance.
PwC Insights: What US companies need to know about the EU’s CSRD
The European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is set to revolutionize ESG reporting for companies operating within the EU, including US companies with significant EU operations. This directive mandates comprehensive sustainability disclosures, aiming to enhance transparency and drive sustainable business practices. In their recent insights, PwC provides companies with recommendations for understanding this directive.
EU's Green Revolution: 100% Recyclable Packaging by 2030
The European Union has introduced groundbreaking regulations requiring all packaging to be 100% recyclable by 2030. This ambitious move aims to significantly reduce packaging waste and promote a circular economy.
EY Institutional Investor Survey: Problems with Greenwashing in ESG Reporting
A recent EY survey reveals that 85% of investors view greenwashing as a growing problem in ESG reporting. Despite increased use of ESG data, trust in its accuracy and impact remains low, prompting calls for better sustainability reporting.
Switzerland Enforces Climate Transparency with New Net-Zero Disclosure Mandate
Starting January 2024, Switzerland will require large companies to disclose their climate-related risks and net-zero emission plans. This move aims to enhance corporate transparency and align with global sustainability standards.
PwC Insights: Navigating the CSRD
A recent PwC survey reveals that less than half of companies required to report under the EU's new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) are fully confident in meeting the new sustainability reporting requirements. This article explores the survey's findings, highlighting the challenges and preparations companies are making to comply with the CSRD.
Biden’s $100 Billion Clean Tech Push: Securing a Sustainable Future
The Biden administration has awarded over $100 billion in clean tech grants from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), securing funding for renewable energy projects and sustainability initiatives. This milestone comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, with potential plans to rescind unspent IRA funds.
Kellogg Insights: Why Firms Should Lean into Sustainability
In today's rapidly changing world, sustainability is no longer optional for businesses. Embracing green initiatives can drive innovation and competitive advantage, ensuring long-term success.
Belgium Implements EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive
Belgium has recently adopted the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), marking a pivotal moment for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) transparency in the region. This directive is set to transform how companies report their sustainability efforts, ensuring greater accountability and transparency.
EU’s New Initiative to Simplify ESG Reporting
On November 8, 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a groundbreaking initiative to consolidate various ESG reporting obligations into a single regulation. This move follows the Budapest Declaration, which emphasized the need for a "simplification revolution" to create a clear, simple, and smart regulatory framework in the EU.