The UK Environment Agency's recent guidance on green hydrogen production marks a significant advancement towards achieving the country's Net Zero goals, focusing on the electrolysis of water as a method for generating hydrogen using renewable energy sources. Developed in consultation with various stakeholders, this guidance outlines the environmental and operational standards required for businesses aiming…

In a historic collaboration, the presidents of France and Brazil have unveiled a pioneering $1.1 billion initiative dedicated to the conservation of the Amazon rainforest, showcasing a united front in environmental protection efforts. This fund, supported by both public and private sectors, underscores the renewed commitment of both nations to safeguard one of the planet's…

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has taken a landmark step by establishing toll rates for New York City's Central Business District, marking a pivotal moment in the city's quest to implement congestion pricing. This decision, influenced by extensive public feedback, aims to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and generate vital funds for public transit enhancements.…

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) is enhancing the integrity of the EU Green Bond market through its recent consultation on Draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) for the registration and supervision of external reviewers. Aimed at ensuring the reliable assessment of EU Green Bonds, ESMA's proposals set forth detailed criteria for evaluating the qualifications…

In a striking development, the Texas Permanent School Fund (PSF) is cutting ties with BlackRock, marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate over Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. This decision to withdraw $8.5 billion managed by BlackRock stems from a disagreement regarding ESG practices, which the Texas State Board of Education perceives as…

The UK's upcoming Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), set to launch in January 2027, heralds a significant shift towards aligning carbon costs across domestic and imported goods, aiming to level the playing field in international trade while addressing carbon leakage. This initiative, developed through comprehensive consultations led by HMRC and HMT, reflects the UK's commitment…

In a pivotal move for environmental and public health, the U.S. EPA has set forth historic pollution standards for vehicles spanning model years 2027 through 2032, aiming to significantly curb carbon emissions and societal costs. These robust standards are expected to prevent over 7 billion tons of carbon emissions, delivering $100 billion in annual societal…

In a landmark legal decision, the District Court of Amsterdam ruled that KLM's sustainability advertising, which portrayed flying as sustainable and claimed alignment with the Paris Agreement goals, breached EU consumer law due to its misleading nature. This historic ruling, prompted by legal action from environmental groups Fossielvrij and Reclame Fossielvrij, sets a significant precedent…

In a notable announcement, the German government expressed confidence in achieving its ambitious 2030 climate goals. Economics and Climate Action Minister Robert Habeck highlighted new data from the German Environment Agency (UBA), indicating that Germany is on track to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 64% compared to 1990 levels, aligning closely with the Climate…

The European Council has agreed on a mandate for a regulation on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings to enhance investor confidence in sustainable products. ESG ratings, which assess a company’s sustainability profile and its impact on society and the environment, are becoming increasingly influential in capital markets. The new rules aim to improve the reliability…

January 3, 2024 The Brussels Airport Company, with the backing of the federal government, is set to offer a special financial contribution to encourage the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Despite the first delivery of SAF via the NATO pipeline a year ago, its high cost has hindered widespread adoption by airlines. To overcome this, a…

January 3, 2024 In 2023, renewable energies accounted for nearly 52% of Germany’s gross electricity consumption, marking the first time the share has surpassed the 50% mark for a full year. This data, revealed by the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) and the Federal Association of the Energy and Water Industry (BDEW),…