The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published an Opinion on the Sustainable Finance Regulatory Framework, setting out possible long-term improvements. ESMA acknowledges that the EU Sustainable Finance Framework is already well developed and includes safeguards against greenwashing. At the same time, ESMA considers that, in the…

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the IFRS Foundation have entered into a strategic partnership to strengthen sustainable capital markets by enhancing sustainability and climate reporting in emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs). Announced during London Climate Action Week, this collaboration represents a significant step towards standardized and transparent reporting practices. “Today marks a pivotal moment…

Maersk has celebrated the launch of its first low greenhouse gas emission warehouse in Taulov Dry Port, Denmark. This groundbreaking facility, constructed in less than two years, represents a significant step towards Maersk’s goal of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2040. Built to BREEAM Excellent standards, the warehouse features zero direct emissions, electrified equipment, solar…

In a historic move, Denmark is set to introduce the world’s first CO2 tax on agricultural emissions, specifically targeting livestock. This landmark policy, achieved through broad agreement among farmers, industry, and environmental groups, aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The tax, beginning in 2030, will gradually increase by 2035, with revenues dedicated to supporting…

Canada has amended the Competition Act to combat greenwashing, imposing strict requirements for businesses to substantiate their environmental claims. Effective June 20, these regulations introduce significant penalties for non-compliance, including hefty fines and private litigation starting in June 2025. Companies must urgently review their environmental claims and implement robust compliance programs to mitigate risks. This…

The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled its second set of climate-related financial disclosures, revealing a noteworthy decline in carbon emissions from its monetary policy portfolios. Key drivers include the Eurosystem's tilting framework and issuers' improved carbon efficiency, with one-fifth of reductions attributed to reinvestments favoring better climate performers. Expanded disclosures now encompass 99.7% of…

The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has announced significant strides in harmonizing sustainability disclosure through strategic partnerships and a new two-year work plan. Key collaborations include the Transition Plan Taskforce, GHG Protocol, CDP, Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures, and Global Reporting Initiative. These efforts aim to streamline sustainability reporting, ensuring investors receive high-quality, comparable information.…

A landmark $10 billion climate resilience bond is proposed for California’s November 2024 ballot, aiming to become the largest voter-approved climate investment in U.S. history. The bond focuses on protecting the state's most vulnerable communities and natural resources from the impacts of climate change. With support from over 180 organizations, the initiative promises comprehensive solutions,…

Vietnam Electricity (EVN) is advancing its integration of renewable energy sources, with solar and wind now making up 12% of its energy mix. Despite these efforts, the utility still heavily relies on coal to prevent blackouts and ensure a stable electricity supply. In May 2024, EVN produced 21.05 billion kWh, predominantly from coal-fired plants, to…

On World Environment Day, June 5, we reflect on the extraordinary career of Sir David Attenborough, who, beginning in the 1950s, evolved from a zoologist into a leading climate advocate, earning the UN’s highest environmental accolade. “We must recognize that we are all citizens of one planet, or we won’t solve its problems,” Attenborough stated in…

This festival season, Decathlon is launching an innovative initiative aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainable festival experiences. The “No Tent Left Behind” campaign showcases the complete range of Quechua MH100 tents, encouraging festival-goers to engage in responsible outdoor activities while earning rewards for their contributions. A Commitment to Sustainability The “No Tent Left Behind” campaign, endorsed…

A recent Clarity AI study suggests that 44% of funds using environmental and impact terms may need to change their names or divest assets to comply with new EU regulations. The research reveals that these funds are invested in assets breaching the Paris-aligned benchmark (PaB) exclusionary criteria, which disallows investments in sectors such as controversial…