A new report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) reveals that China has fallen short of its air quality targets, prioritizing economic growth over environmental concerns. Nearly half of the targeted cities missed PM2.5 reduction goals in late 2023 and early 2024. Henan province, particularly the Beijing region, saw some…
A PwC report has revealed that over 70% of critical minerals essential for the net zero transition, such as copper, cobalt, and lithium, could face significant drought risks by 2050 under a high emissions scenario. The study highlights that even under a low emissions scenario, significant portions of the production of these minerals and key…
The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has introduced a groundbreaking tool that promises to transform sustainability reporting: the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Taxonomy, also known as the ISSB Taxonomy. This innovative digital taxonomy is designed to help investors and other financial stakeholders efficiently analyze sustainability-related disclosures, significantly enhancing the transparency and comparability of financial data on…
EU member states in the European Council have greenlit a directive deferring the adoption of standards for sector-specific sustainability disclosures and sustainability reporting from companies outside the EU under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). This decision, which follows the European Parliament's earlier approval, finalizes the postponement of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) for…
The European Commission has initiated action against 20 airlines in collaboration with EU consumer authorities, targeting misleading greenwashing practices regarding CO2 emissions offsetting claims. Airlines have been urged to align their practices with EU consumer law or face potential enforcement actions, including sanctions. This move follows a complaint by the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) and…
Honda has unveiled plans to construct a robust electric vehicle (EV) value chain in Ontario, Canada, as part of its strategy to bolster its EV supply system in anticipation of growing EV demand in North America. This initiative entails an estimated investment of CAD$15 billion (USD$11 billion), inclusive of contributions from joint venture partners. Jean…
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has become a cornerstone for companies committed to responsible business practices. By systematically reporting on ESG criteria, organizations can showcase their commitment to sustainable development, social responsibility, and ethical governance. This level of transparency is crucial for building trust with stakeholders and securing investor confidence.
As ESG reporting becomes more…
The Canadian Government has unveiled its new Federal Plastics Registry, mandating plastic producers to report on the quantity and type of plastic they introduce into the Canadian market, aiming to track plastic throughout its lifecycle in the economy, from production to disposal. This initiative aligns with Canada’s zero plastic waste agenda, addressing the nation’s significant…
Lawmakers in the European Parliament have overwhelmingly approved the Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA), a pivotal legislation designed to bolster EU manufacturing of essential technologies vital for achieving Europe’s ambitious climate and energy objectives. The NZIA, proposed by the European Commission in March 2023 as part of its Green Deal Industrial Plan strategy, aims to enhance…
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong has announced mandatory climate-related disclosure requirements for all listed companies, based on the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) new reporting standards, with Scope 1 and 2 emissions disclosure starting from the 2025 reporting year. This decision follows a consultation launched last year, receiving broad support, and aligns with global…
The UK government has confirmed its target of mandating at least 10% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the UK jet fuel mix by 2030, as part of its efforts to decarbonize the aviation sector and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. SAF, derived from sustainable resources, is recognized as a key tool for reducing emissions in…
After overcoming years of negotiation hurdles, the European Parliament has voted 374 to 235 to adopt the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), marking a significant step towards mandating companies to address their negative impacts on human rights and the environment. This decision follows the rejection of an earlier version by member states in the…
