From climate policy tensions and regulatory shifts to recalibrated corporate strategies, the past month’s headlines reveal a more complex, and at times contradictory, sustainability landscape.
UBS delayed its operational net-zero target from 2025 to 2035, citing the complexities of integrating Credit Suisse. At the same time, major banks including HSBC and Standard Chartered dropped climate-linked incentives from executive pay, prompting questions about how seriously leadership is taking ESG targets.
At this year’s CERAWeek energy conference in Texas, BP and Shell signalled a move away from previous climate commitments. Both companies are ramping up fossil fuel output to meet demand, which is a notable shift from earlier, more climate-conscious messaging.
In the UK, Labour MPs drew criticism for supporting an amendment that could weaken protections against forced labour in solar panel supply chains.
The move has raised questions about ethical oversight as the country pushes toward a renewable energy future.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) reaffirmed that carbon offsetting shouldn’t be a substitute for real emissions reductions. The guidance is aimed at ensuring businesses focus on decarbonising their operations and supply chains first and foremost.
Coca-Cola has agreed to disclose how much it is investing in reusable bottles, following pressure from shareholders.
The move is seen as a step forward in tackling plastic waste and improving transparency in the consumer goods sector.
Amazon launched a new platform to help companies invest in verified carbon credits. Meanwhile, Nasdaq-backed Puro.earth surpassed 1 million tonnes of CO2 removed, a milestone that highlights growing interest in durable carbon removed solutions.
TotalEnergies announced it would increase gas sales in the coming years — a move that could raise its indirect (Scope 3) emissions. However, the company also updated its sustainability strategy, committing to an overall emissions reduction. Its 2024 report shows total emissions fell by 10 million tonnes year-on-year, with a focus on transitioning away from coal and oil.
Ryanair, British Airways’ parent IAG, and other major European carriers have called on the EU to relax carbon pricing rules and delay sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandates. The industry argues that current targets are unrealistic due to cost and supply constraints. The European Commission has so far held firm, insisting that SAF targets are achievable and key to decarbonising aviation.
The Guardian: Is the US placing profits over people?
The government's ESG U-turn puts corporations out of step with what most Americans want, activists claim. Read here.
The Responsible Investor: Tangible action must preface offsetting.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) reaffirms that carbon offsetting will never substitute real emissions reductions. Read here.
Business Green: Amazon's carbon credit service.
Amazon launches a new carbon credit service for suppliers and partners to support decarbonisation. Read here.
The FT: Coca-Cola reveals its eco expenses.
Coca-Cola has committed to disclosing its investment in recycling, having recently watered down its reuse goals. Read here.
Reuters: TotalEnergies pivots from gas and oil.
TotalEnergies says its natural gas expansion will help clients transition from dirtier fuels, reducing C02 emissions over time. Read here.
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