A new economic brief from the European Commission highlights three major barriers hindering green investments: legislative challenges, a lack of specialized skills, and operational hurdles. The paper outlines potential policy measures and market-based solutions to address these obstacles and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. According to the report, climate finance reached $1.5 trillion in…

As climate change continues to pose global challenges, the need for coordinated action involving both public and private sectors has never been more critical. Addressing these challenges requires substantial investments and financial sustainability, yet public sector resources alone are insufficient to meet the growing demands of a low-carbon transition. Recognizing the vital role of capital…

Increased Recycling Efforts: The UK Government has officially announced the launch of the long-anticipated Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), set to begin in October 2027. This initiative aims to incentivize consumers to recycle single-use drink containers by offering financial rewards for returning empty plastic and metal bottles, ranging from 150ml to three liters. The scheme is…

The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) today announced a significant step forward in the global efforts to strengthen sustainability reporting and assurance. The two boards have unveiled an integrated package of standards designed to advance transparency, trust, and accountability in sustainability information. This collaboration results…

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) has projected that solar power will be the primary driver of growth in U.S. power generation over the next two years. In a recent report, the EIA stated that utilities and independent power producers in the U.S. are expected to add 26 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2025,…

Aquaculture: A Double-Edged Sword for Ocean Health and Economic Potential Aquaculture, often hailed as a solution to overfishing and food insecurity, has become a leading contributor to the declining health of the ocean. Across Southeast Asia, unsustainable practices in aquaculture have wreaked havoc on marine ecosystems. Shrimp ponds in Lombok, Indonesia, have destroyed mangrove forests…

A new survey by Deloitte highlights growing concerns about climate change and sustainability, revealing that many individuals believe their companies are falling short in addressing these critical issues. The survey, part of Deloitte's ongoing "ConsumerSignals" series, polled over 20,000 respondents across more than 20 countries, offering insights into consumer attitudes and behaviors shaped by climate…

As governments face increasing pressures to fund public services and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a newly released policymaker guide provides comprehensive strategies to enhance tax transparency, governance, and global collaboration. The guide underscores the pivotal role of tax revenues in addressing critical societal needs, including infrastructure development, poverty reduction, and climate change mitigation, while…

In a widely anticipated move, newly inaugurated President Donald Trump announced plans to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement, marking a dramatic reversal of his predecessor’s climate agenda. The decision is part of a broader strategy the White House describes as “ending Biden’s policies of climate extremism.” This will be the second time the…

The European Commission is preparing to propose a ban on the use of PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals," in consumer products, while allowing exemptions for essential industrial applications, EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall revealed in an interview with Reuters. PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals that persist in the environment,…

The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has finalized its due process on the Contracts Referencing Nature-dependent Electricity – Amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 and submitted its Endorsement Advice Letter to the European Commission. Background Published by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) on 18 December 2024, the Amendments aim to enhance the financial…

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has released detailed Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) risk management guidelines, setting a framework for EU financial institutions to address climate, social, and governance risks effectively. Effective Dates Large institutions: Comply by January 11, 2026 Small and non-complex institutions: Comply by January 11, 2027 Core Focus Areas Governance…