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Technology

Beauty Powered by Nature: Partnerships for a More Sustainable Future at Nest Climate Campus, Climate Week 2025

This engaging panel, hosted at the Nest Climate Campus during Climate Week 2025, focused on how L’Oréal Groupe is mobilizing science and cross-industry collaboration to meet sustainability challenges. The conversation, moderated by Shyla Raghav, Chief Climate Officer at TIME, brought together L’Oréal leaders and key partners to detail how innovation and collective action are shaping a more sustainable, resilient future for the beauty supply chain. The Panelists: Driving Green Science and Ingredient Innovation The discussion featured L’Oréal executives responsible for research and innovation alongside two cutting-edge partners: Shyla Raghav, Chief Climate Officer, TIME (Moderator) Ana Kljuic, PhD, Vice President, R&I, L’Oréal for the Future and Green Sciences Adam Jones, Vice President of Business Development, L’Oréal Research & Innovation in North America Barbara Belvisi, Founder and CEO, Interstellar Lab Tony Martens, Co-Founder and CEO, Plantible L’Oréal’s Green Sciences: A Vehicle for Innovation The session began with Ana Kljuic detailing L’Oréal’s corporate sustainability program, L’Oréal for the Future (2020-2030), and the R&I response: Green Sciences. This framework integrates sustainability into every step of product development, with a goal to source over 75% of ingredients from nature or recycled sources by 2030. The critical challenge addressed by the panel was scaling these innovations. The core of this effort is L’Oréal Green Science Partnerships. 1. Sustainable Cultivation & Bio-Technology L’Oréal is moving from wild picking to farming, exemplified by Centella Asiatica (known for its repair properties). The objective is to secure supply without increasing environmental pressure. This pillar includes biotechnology, already at scale for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, and green chemistry, used in anti-aging molecules like Pro-Xylane. 2. Cross-Industry Collaboration and Scaling Adam Jones explained that L’Oréal engages with external startups, academics, and VCs because the problems of climate and biodiversity are “too big for just one company or even one industry.” Scaling Challenge: The long-term goal is to move innovations past the pilot stage to commercial reality. Jones noted that new ingredients must be scalable and affordable, warning that if a kilogram costs $10,000, it cannot be used by consumers. Adjacency Strategy: L’Oréal actively seeks partners from adjacent industries, like food (Plantible), to open new sustainable ingredient platforms. Partner Case Studies: Novel Solutions for Resilient Sourcing The partners demonstrated how their innovations address issues of water conservation, consistency, and resource use: 1. Interstellar Lab: AI-Controlled Farming Barbara Belvisi explained that her company spun off technology designed for space habitats to create AI-controlled greenhouse systems (Biopods) for Earth. Water Conservation: The Biopods use a new spray system (not hydroponics) that accelerates plant growth while saving 99% of water usage. Resilience & Quality: By recreating ideal, controlled climates, the system ensures stable sourcing and consistent quality. For example, Centella Asiatica that takes nine weeks to grow in nature can be grown in three weeks in a Biopod, avoiding toxins it might otherwise absorb from the soil. 2. Plantible: Lemna and the New Market Category Tony Martens described his company’s focus on extracting Rubisco protein (a catalyst in photosynthesis) from Lemna (duckweed). Sustainability Profile: Lemna is an aquatic plant that doubles in mass every 48 hours and can be grown year-round, making it highly sustainable. New Market: Plantible started in the food industry but found an exciting partnership with L’Oréal, viewing the collaboration as a way to decarbonize products and develop new textures, potentially defining a “whole new product category” in the beauty space. Broader Impact: Affordability, Social Equity, and Misconceptions The panel explored the wider implications of this transformation: Social and Governance Impact Tony Martens highlighted the social benefits of Plantible’s facility in rural West Texas. By becoming the largest employer in the county and increasing median household income by 61%, the company demonstrates how an environmental purpose can drive economic growth and social equity, allowing communities to be “part of the transition instead of having to fear the transition.” Misconceptions and the Path Forward The speakers collectively addressed the biggest misconception about Green Sciences: Performance vs. Green: Ana Kljuic countered the belief that if an ingredient is green, “it doesn’t work as well,” stating that new technologies like Biopods actually stimulate plants to produce equal or greater performance. Scalability: Barbara Belvisi and Tony Martens stressed that scalability and affordability must be considered from the very beginning, as solutions cannot succeed if they are priced out of the competitive market. Final Vision: Massifying Green Ingredients Looking to 2030 and beyond, Ana Kljuic expressed optimism that L’Oréal will be able to integrate all of these separate initiatives—sustainable cultivation, biotechnology, and vertical farming—”across the value chain and really massify” green ingredients. This systemic commitment, driven by partnerships and shared purpose, is seen as the undeniable future of the industry. Explore more transformative discussions from the Nest Climate Campus by checking out our full series of Climate Week 2025 sessions on ESG News

1 days ago

Technology

Neoen Launches 412 MW Goyder South Wind Farm to Power South Australia’s 100% Renewables Goal

Largest wind farm in South Australia and Neoen’s global portfolio, adding over 20% to the state’s wind capacity• Backed by long-term PPAs with ACT Government, BHP, and Flow Power — including Australia’s first renewable baseload contract• Delivers AUD 100 million in regional benefits and supports creation of a new national park South Australia Expands Its Renewable Power Base French renewable energy developer Neoen has inaugurated its 412 MW Goyder South Wind Farm, now the largest in both South Australia and Neoen’s global portfolio. Situated on Ngadjuri Nation land near Burra in the state’s Mid North, the project comprises 75 turbines and is expected to generate around 1.5 terawatt-hours of electricity annually — enough to boost South Australia’s wind generation by more than 20%. The wind farm positions the state firmly on course to reach its goal of 100% net renewable generation by 2027, solidifying South Australia’s role as one of the most advanced clean energy markets in the world. Multi-Sector Partnerships Drive Energy Security Goyder South is underpinned by three long-term power purchase agreements totaling 210 MW. These include a 14-year, 100 MW contract with the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government to advance its 2045 net-zero strategy, and a 10-year, 40 MW supply deal with electricity retailer Flow Power. Notably, Neoen has also entered into an industry-first renewable energy baseload contract with BHP for 70 MW. Paired with Neoen’s Blyth Battery, the agreement provides consistent clean power for BHP’s Olympic Dam mine — one of the world’s most significant copper, gold, and uranium operations. Jean-Christophe Cheylus, CEO of Neoen Australia, said the project demonstrates how advanced grid integration and corporate partnerships can accelerate the energy transition. “Goyder South is a credit to South Australia’s world-class wind resources and to the collaboration of our partners — from local landowners to government and industry. It shows how high-quality projects can deliver reliable renewable power at scale.” Local Economic and Environmental Gains During construction, the project created more than 400 jobs and now sustains 12 permanent roles. Neoen estimates over AUD 100 million in supply chain value has flowed into South Australia’s Mid North region. Beyond its economic footprint, Goyder South has supported the establishment of a new national park at Worlds End Gorge and funds an annual AUD 250,000 community benefit-sharing program. These initiatives, developed with local councils and First Nations representatives, are designed to preserve biodiversity and foster long-term regional partnerships. RELATED ARTICLE: TotalEnergies Commissions Its Biggest Offshore Wind Farm Energy Minister Tom Koutsantonis said Neoen’s investment reflects the growing confidence global developers have in South Australia’s renewables landscape. “We are well on track to meet our 2027 net renewables goal,” he said. “Projects like Goyder South demonstrate the quality of our wind and solar resources, and why investors around the world continue to choose South Australia.” Scaling Neoen’s Renewable Footprint Goyder South forms part of Neoen’s flagship Goyder Renewables Zone — a hybrid wind, solar, and battery hub that could eventually exceed 1.5 GW of total capacity. Construction of the next phases, Goyder North Wind Farm and Goyder Battery, will expand Neoen’s footprint across the state and strengthen Australia’s grid resilience. The company, already a key player in large-scale storage with projects like the Hornsdale Power Reserve, is reinforcing its integrated approach by combining generation assets with flexible storage and digital management systems. Xavier Barbaro, Neoen’s Group CEO, said the project’s success offers a model for future global deployments. “Projects of this scale deliver value to governments, customers, and communities alike,” he said. “Goyder South exemplifies how renewable energy infrastructure can anchor local development while advancing national and international climate goals.” Global and Regional Implications With global capital continuing to flow into Australia’s clean energy sector, Neoen’s latest investment underscores how state-level policy and corporate procurement can work together to accelerate decarbonisation. The project contributes directly to both South Australia’s and Australia’s national targets while advancing the country’s credentials as a renewable energy exporter in the Asia-Pacific region. As more jurisdictions pursue net-zero pathways, the structure of Goyder South’s PPA mix — balancing public sector demand, industrial users, and retail supply — may serve as a template for the next generation of utility-scale renewable assets. By 2027, if South Australia reaches its 100% renewables target, Goyder South and its companion projects will have played a decisive role in proving that high-penetration clean grids can be both commercially and operationally viable — a lesson with global relevance for investors, regulators, and policymakers driving the transition to low-carbon energy systems. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

1 days ago

Technology

Anthesis Appoints Michael Salvatico to Lead Climate and Nature Strategy in Asia Pacific

Appointment strengthens Anthesis’ regional climate and nature advisory capacity amid expanding disclosure and net-zero requirements.• Salvatico brings over 20 years of sustainability and finance experience across APAC and the Middle East.• Anthesis builds on its 1,400-strong global network to accelerate integration of nature and climate strategies across corporate and financial sectors. Sydney-based Role Targets Growing Corporate Transition Needs Anthesis has appointed sustainability veteran Michael Salvatico as its new APAC Climate & Nature Client Development Director, reinforcing its regional leadership in climate and nature advisory at a time of accelerating disclosure regulation and investor scrutiny. Based in Sydney, Salvatico will oversee client strategy across Asia Pacific, guiding companies and financial institutions as they integrate nature and climate considerations into governance, transition planning, and net-zero pathways. The move aligns with Anthesis’ goal to deepen its footprint across the region’s rapidly expanding sustainability market — from Singapore and Japan to Australia and the Gulf. Hanna Friedlander, Anthesis’ Regional Managing Director for APAC, said the appointment strengthens the firm’s capacity to help businesses meet growing expectations for credible, data-driven action. “Michael’s expertise enhances our ability to support clients as they respond to rising demands for climate and nature integration while driving sustainable performance across the region,” she noted. From Quantitative Finance to Climate Transition Leadership Salvatico brings more than two decades of experience spanning climate risk, biodiversity, ESG strategy, and carbon markets. He has led sustainability teams and advised major corporations and financial institutions across APAC and the Middle East, helping them navigate evolving regulatory frameworks and design measurable transition strategies. His background combines accounting, programming, and finance — disciplines he leveraged during nearly a decade as a quantitative equity strategist before founding a start-up in the voluntary carbon market. This cross-sector perspective, Anthesis said, will help clients link sustainability commitments to financial performance and long-term value creation. RELATED ARTICLE: Liberty Global Announces Appointment of Two New Board Members Matt Drum, Anthesis’ Managing Director for Australia, described Salvatico as “a great asset” as the firm scales its climate and nature services. “Our clients are under increasing pressure to translate ambition into action,” Drum said. “Michael’s insight into data-driven climate solutions and biodiversity finance will be pivotal in supporting that transition.” Shifting Regional Landscape for Climate and Nature Disclosure Across Asia Pacific, governments and regulators are tightening expectations for climate and nature reporting. Singapore and Australia are finalizing mandatory climate disclosure regimes aligned with the ISSB, while financial regulators in Hong Kong, Japan, and Malaysia are expanding nature-related risk guidance. At the same time, global frameworks such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and emerging biodiversity standards are influencing investor expectations. Salvatico said he views the role as an opportunity to bridge strategy and implementation. “This is a pivotal time for climate and nature in the Asia Pacific region,” he said. “I look forward to helping organizations build resilience and translate sustainability ambition into business strategy.” Expanding Anthesis’ Global Sustainability Network Anthesis, headquartered in London, is regarded as the world’s largest group of dedicated sustainability professionals, employing more than 1,400 experts across 45 countries. The firm advises governments, corporations, and investors on sustainability strategy, ESG reporting, decarbonization pathways, and nature-positive business models. The company has been expanding its APAC operations to meet surging demand for climate analytics, disclosure readiness, and impact measurement. Salvatico’s appointment, Anthesis said, will strengthen its ability to deliver integrated climate-nature advisory services — from transition planning and scenario modeling to biodiversity impact assessment and nature-related data solutions. For corporate and financial leaders, the hire underscores Anthesis’ intent to position itself at the center of the region’s fast-maturing sustainability ecosystem — one that increasingly requires expertise spanning carbon, nature, and finance in equal measure. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

Oct 20, 2025

Technology

Tokyo to Issue World’s First Certified Climate Resilience Bond

Tokyo Metropolitan Government becomes the first issuer globally to secure Climate Bonds Certification under the new Resilience Criteria and Taxonomy. The TOKYO Resilience Bond will finance large-scale adaptation projects, from river upgrades to coastal defense, benefiting 14 million residents. The issuance expands the Climate Bonds Standard beyond mitigation, creating a new blueprint for resilience-focused finance. Tokyo Sets Global Benchmark for Climate Adaptation Finance Tokyo is preparing to issue the world’s first climate resilience bond certified under the Climate Bonds Initiative’s (CBI) new Resilience Criteria and Taxonomy, marking a major evolution in sustainable finance. The bond, verified by Rating and Investment Information, Inc. (R&I), is part of the TOKYO Resilience Project, a sweeping municipal effort to fortify the capital against escalating climate risks. With over 14 million residents and exposure to severe flooding, storm surges, and typhoons, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) aims to use the TOKYO Resilience Bond to channel investment into long-term urban safety and climate preparedness. Financing the Frontline of Urban Resilience Proceeds from the issuance will fund a range of adaptation measures designed to protect critical infrastructure and communities. Key investments include upgrading river systems, developing coastal protection around Tokyo Bay and nearby islands, reinforcing storm barriers, and undergrounding utility poles to prevent collapse during extreme weather events. Other financed projects include sediment disaster prevention systems and the renovation of port facilities to shield remote island communities particularly vulnerable to typhoons. TMG officials say these projects represent both immediate and structural safeguards—combining flood prevention engineering with forward-looking resilience planning. A Turning Point for Climate Bonds Certification The certification marks a structural shift in how the Climate Bonds Standard—historically focused on emissions mitigation—can now accommodate adaptation and resilience projects with equivalent scientific rigor. The CBI’s new Resilience Taxonomy and Criteria formally extend the Climate Bonds Certification Scheme into the adaptation domain. This means issuers can now access green capital markets for projects aimed at strengthening systemic resilience to climate shocks, expanding the eligible investment universe beyond traditional mitigation assets such as renewables or energy efficiency. CBI Chief Executive Sean Kidney described the development as “a new generation of resilience and adaptation-focused finance.” He said Tokyo’s move “sets a precedent for cities everywhere to invest in resilience,” adding that channeling capital toward protecting citizens from floods and storm surges represents “a landmark moment for the sustainable finance market.” Policy Leadership and Financial Innovation For TMG, the issuance reflects both climate leadership and financial innovation. Japan’s capital has long served as a model for urban sustainability, but rising climate volatility has prompted a deeper pivot toward adaptation-oriented infrastructure. RELATED ARTICLE: Tokyo Stock Exchange Begins Carbon Credits Trading Trial Yamashita Satoshi, Director General of TMG’s Bureau of Finance, said the bond introduces “a new model of financing that supports investments in climate change adaptation measures.” He emphasized that achieving the first-ever certification under the Resilience Taxonomy “significantly bolsters TMG’s commitment to leveraging the power of finance to realize a sustainable and resilient society.” The issuance aligns with Japan’s broader climate adaptation strategy, which has increasingly prioritized local-level risk reduction and disaster preparedness. Tokyo’s decision to lead with a certified resilience bond provides a replicable framework for other municipal and sovereign issuers seeking to finance adaptation without diluting market confidence. Implications for Investors and Global Markets For institutional investors, the certification provides clarity and credibility in a fast-growing but still nascent segment of sustainable finance. Resilience-linked projects have often struggled to attract mainstream capital due to the lack of standardized verification mechanisms. By integrating the new criteria into the globally recognized Climate Bonds framework, CBI’s taxonomy now offers measurable thresholds and independent verification for adaptation outcomes. Market observers expect the TOKYO Resilience Bond to act as a bellwether for other governments and financial institutions exploring resilience-linked instruments—particularly in regions vulnerable to climate-induced disasters. The move could also influence how multilateral lenders, development banks, and municipal authorities structure future green and blue bond programs, particularly as adaptation needs outpace mitigation funding. A Global Step Toward Adaptation Finance Tokyo’s certified bond represents more than an isolated municipal initiative—it illustrates how cities can use capital markets to close the adaptation finance gap. With climate-driven weather events intensifying worldwide, the framework could be instrumental in directing large-scale investment toward the protection of lives, infrastructure, and economic stability. As Kidney noted, “Tokyo has once again shown leadership.” The city’s certification under the Climate Bonds Resilience Taxonomy places it at the frontier of a fast-maturing market, where climate resilience is no longer a policy aspiration but a financial imperative. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

Oct 20, 2025

Technology

IATA Launches Global Integrated Sustainability Program for Airlines

IATA’s new Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP) establishes a unified ESG certification and management system tailored to aviation. The program builds on IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA), expanding to cover sustainable procurement, social responsibility, and performance measurement. Air New Zealand and EVA Air are the first airlines certified under the ISP’s Sustainable Procurement module. Hong Kong Launch Sets New ESG Benchmark for Aviation The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched its Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP) at the World Sustainability Symposium, introducing a comprehensive certification and management system to standardize how airlines measure, report, and improve their sustainability performance. The program establishes a single global framework that integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into airline operations. Built upon IATA’s established Environmental Assessment (IEnvA), the ISP extends beyond environmental management to include sustainable procurement, social responsibility, and performance benchmarking. Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Sustainability and Chief Economist, said the certification “validates that an airline is managing its sustainability efforts at the highest level and in the broadest context.” The ISP, she added, provides regulators, investors, and customers with a transparent view of ESG progress while aligning aviation practices with international standards. Four Core Modules for ESG Integration The ISP consists of four modules that can be pursued individually or as part of an integrated certification. Each certification is valid for two years and requires independent reassessment to maintain compliance. Environmental Management:The first module fully integrates IATA’s IEnvA program into the ISP framework, incorporating ISO14001:2015 standards. It guides airlines in measuring and reducing emissions, waste, noise, and other environmental impacts while ensuring compliance with environmental obligations. Airlines already certified under IEnvA will transition into the ISP system, gaining access to additional ESG-focused modules. Sustainable Procurement:For the first time, the aviation industry gains a certification aligned with ISO20400:2017 standards for sustainable procurement. This module enables airlines to evaluate supply chain sustainability and ensure that suppliers adhere to responsible environmental, social, and governance practices. Social Responsibility:Incorporating ISO26000:2010, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and OECD guidelines, this module provides a structured approach for airlines to address labor, human rights, and community engagement risks. It helps organizations embed social governance practices and continuous improvement in customer care, employee well-being, and community development. Sustainability Performance:The final module allows airlines to track, benchmark, and disclose ESG performance metrics in line with evolving investor and regulatory expectations. By offering consistent and transparent reporting standards, the ISP supports data-driven decision-making and credible sustainability disclosures. RELATED ARTICLE: IATA and Chooose Partner to Deliver Accurate Flight Emissions Data Early Adopters: Air New Zealand and EVA Air At the Hong Kong symposium, IATA confirmed that Air New Zealand and EVA Air are the first airlines to receive certification under the Sustainable Procurement module. Kiri Hannifin, Air New Zealand’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, said the carrier views sustainability as central to its national and corporate responsibility. “By backing IATA’s new ISP, we want to play our part to help lift standards across aviation, and demonstrate that doing what’s right is about doing good business,” she said. EVA Air’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Jason Liu, described the certification as “a key milestone in EVA Air’s sustainability journey,” adding that it reinforces the airline’s commitment to building a resilient, ethical supply chain through collaboration with partners. Next Steps and Industry Implications Initially available only to airlines, IATA plans to expand the ISP to include ground handlers, cargo operators, airports, maintenance providers, and caterers. The association said the framework will evolve through consultation with industry stakeholders to ensure that guidance and standards remain practical and aligned with global ESG and regulatory developments. For executives and investors, the ISP offers a credible benchmark for assessing airline sustainability performance amid tightening disclosure rules and increasing scrutiny of aviation’s climate impact. It also provides a structured path toward integrating ESG principles across an industry responsible for roughly 2% of global carbon emissions. By consolidating environmental and social certifications under a unified global system, IATA’s program aims to embed ESG accountability directly into operational decision-making — a shift that could reshape how the aviation sector reports, competes, and collaborates on sustainability over the coming decade. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

Oct 20, 2025

Technology

Mars Launches Climate School to Embed Net Zero Literacy Across Global Workforce

Mars Climate School, developed with Project Drawdown, aims for 80% completion across key functions by 2025.• The six-hour e-learning program is mandatory for senior leaders in R&D, Supply, Commercial, and Corporate Affairs.• The initiative links directly to Mars’ Net Zero roadmap and broader sustainability upskilling strategy. Building a Climate-Literate Workforce Mars Incorporated has launched Mars Climate School, a global e-learning initiative designed to equip employees with the knowledge and tools to support the company’s Net Zero ambitions. The six-hour digital program, hosted on Mars University, forms part of the company’s strategy to integrate climate understanding across its operations and supply chain. The training targets senior leaders and managers in functions critical to achieving emissions reductions — including research and development, supply chain, commercial, and corporate affairs. Mars said the goal is to reach 80% completion across these key groups by the end of 2025, creating a workforce capable of embedding climate considerations into everyday decision-making. “Our Climate School is more than just training; it’s part of a movement to empower our people to lead the way toward a sustainable future,” said Alastair Child, Chief Sustainability Officer at Mars. “Sharing this story publicly reflects our commitment to transparency, innovation, and collective action.” Science-Based Learning for Practical Action Developed in partnership with Project Drawdown, a leading authority on climate solutions, Mars Climate School blends interactive videos, scenario-based modules, and real-world examples to translate climate science into business relevance. The program’s three sections — Climate Basics, Climate for Business, and Climate at Mars — build a progression from global science to company-specific action. Employees explore how climate change intersects with industry operations, what mitigation pathways exist today, and how Mars’ Net Zero roadmap translates into actionable steps across its brands and supply chain. Each module is designed to move learners from understanding to implementation, using practical tools that help link climate objectives with operational performance. “Mars Climate School gives our Associates the knowledge to make a difference,” said Alessandro Bussi, Global Supply and Technology Staff Officer. “When people understand the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of climate action, they generate ideas that drive innovation.” From Awareness to Advocacy Graduates of the program become designated “Climate Heroes” — internal advocates who integrate sustainability thinking into their teams and promote low-carbon innovation. Thousands of employees have already enrolled, and the company expects participation to expand rapidly as completion becomes a leadership expectation. Mars sees this initiative as part of a broader cultural shift, embedding environmental responsibility across every level of the business. The company said the Climate School complements its existing sustainability courses on sourcing, packaging, logistics, and operations — all aimed at developing a workforce equipped to accelerate the transition to Net Zero. RELATED ARTICLE: Mars Invests $5M to Protect Peanut Supply, Breed More Climate Resilient Crops Implications for Corporate Climate Governance For corporate sustainability leaders, Mars’ approach represents a growing trend: linking workforce capability directly to climate targets. By mandating training for leadership roles, the company is positioning climate competence as a core management skill — not a peripheral responsibility. This aligns with emerging expectations from investors and regulators, who increasingly view employee climate literacy as essential to credible decarbonization. By grounding its training in the methodologies of Project Drawdown, Mars is also addressing the scrutiny around science-based alignment and measurable outcomes. As multinational companies navigate tightening disclosure requirements and Net Zero pledges, Mars’ model suggests a new dimension of climate governance — one rooted in internal education, cultural accountability, and shared literacy across corporate hierarchies. A Broader Signal for Business Transformation Mars’ Climate School comes as businesses globally face rising pressure to demonstrate tangible progress toward emissions reduction. While many companies focus on infrastructure or technology, Mars’ emphasis on employee education positions human capital as a strategic lever in the climate transition. By investing in internal capability rather than external offsets alone, Mars is redefining what Net Zero readiness looks like inside the enterprise — from the boardroom to the production line. The initiative may offer a replicable framework for other multinationals seeking to translate corporate pledges into organization-wide engagement — a critical step if global Net Zero ambitions are to move from policy to practice. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

Oct 20, 2025

Technology

EcoVadis Launches Worker Voice Connect for Global Supply Chains

New digital grievance tool extends human rights due diligence to supply chain workers beyond direct employees. • Accessible via WhatsApp, QR codes, and web in 20 languages, reducing barriers for vulnerable workers. • Supports over 1,500 global buyers representing €2.3 trillion in spend to meet evolving due diligence regulations. Expanding Human Rights Due Diligence Across Global Supply Chains EcoVadis has introduced Worker Voice Connect, a digital grievance mechanism designed to give supply chain workers a direct, anonymous channel to raise workplace concerns — a capability long missing from corporate human rights systems. The platform, which builds on EcoVadis’ existing collaboration with worker engagement specialist Ulula, aims to fill one of the most persistent blind spots in global supply chains: limited visibility into labor conditions among indirect workers. “Grievance and whistleblower channels have been around for decades, but often only for direct employees,” said Pierre-François Thaler, Co-CEO and Co-founder of EcoVadis. “They rarely reach workers in the supply chain, leaving organizations blind to potential risks and limiting workers’ access to remedy.” Bridging a Critical Accountability Gap Grievance mechanisms are a cornerstone of human rights due diligence frameworks and a requirement under global standards such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Yet most systems remain designed for corporate headquarters, not remote farms, factories, or logistics hubs where rights abuses often occur. Worker Voice Connect addresses that gap by offering an inclusive, multilingual channel for reporting concerns. Workers can engage through platforms they already use — including WhatsApp, QR codes, or a simple web interface — without needing corporate applications or high-end devices. The platform enables two-way, anonymous dialogue between workers, suppliers, and buyers, allowing early identification of risks ranging from forced labor and unsafe conditions to harassment or wage disputes. It also provides structured dashboards for suppliers and procurement teams to track grievances, monitor remediation, and document outcomes for compliance reporting. Governance, Data, and Compliance Integration The launch comes as regulatory pressure intensifies across major economies. The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, and similar laws in France and Japan now require companies to demonstrate effective grievance mechanisms accessible to affected stakeholders. EcoVadis’ network of over 1,500 enterprise buyers — representing €2.3 trillion in global procurement spend — will be able to integrate the tool directly into their sustainability and risk management programs. The system allows data sharing across buyer networks, improving traceability and collaboration while reducing the cost and complexity of compliance. “Worker rights is an urgent ethical, financial, and regulatory matter, and companies that fail to act will face real financial, reputational, and legal consequences,” Thaler added. Technology Built for Field-Level Realities Developed in partnership with Ulula, a pioneer in digital worker engagement, the technology is grounded in several years of operational experience across diverse sectors — from agriculture and textiles to electronics and mining. The focus is on usability and trust: anonymous two-way communication ensures confidentiality, while real-time feedback loops enable organizations to respond promptly and effectively. EcoVadis said the design emphasizes inclusivity by supporting 20 languages and leveraging existing communication tools to overcome literacy and access barriers common in developing markets. ESG and Investor Relevance For investors and procurement leaders, Worker Voice Connect offers a tangible way to mitigate social risk and demonstrate adherence to internationally recognized due diligence principles. The system provides actionable data to assess supplier performance, monitor remediation progress, and evaluate whether corporate policies translate into measurable protection on the ground. As global scrutiny over labor practices grows, especially in sectors linked to deforestation, renewable energy, and critical minerals, the ability to document human rights performance through credible, verifiable worker feedback is becoming a competitive and compliance advantage. A Broader Shift in Supply Chain Accountability The launch reflects a broader shift in ESG governance from reactive compliance to proactive prevention. By embedding worker communication channels directly into procurement ecosystems, companies can identify emerging risks before they escalate into costly disruptions or public controversies. The approach also aligns with the trend toward digital traceability and responsible sourcing, linking human rights data with environmental and financial performance indicators. EcoVadis’ initiative may set a new operational benchmark for supply chain transparency — one that treats worker voice not as a compliance checkbox, but as an integral component of sustainable value creation. In an era of tightening regulation and stakeholder scrutiny, that shift could redefine how global enterprises translate human rights commitments into credible, measurable practice. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

Oct 20, 2025

Technology

UK Clean Energy Jobs Plan to Create 400,000 New Roles by 2030

Clean energy workforce set to nearly double to 860,000 by 2030, backed by £50 billion in private investment since 2024.• National strategy outlines 31 priority occupations — from electricians and welders to engineers and project managers — with training through five new Technical Excellence Colleges.• New labour protections and a Fair Work Charter aim to make clean energy jobs high-quality, well-paid, and union-supported. Britain’s Clean Energy Workforce Expansion The UK government has released its first comprehensive Clean Energy Jobs Plan, forecasting 400,000 new clean-energy jobs by 2030 as part of its mission to make Britain a “clean energy superpower.” The strategy sets out how government, industry, and trade unions will collaborate to deliver a workforce capable of building, maintaining, and operating the country’s rapidly expanding renewable and low-carbon infrastructure. The plan estimates that employment across clean-energy sectors will rise from around 440,000 in 2023 to 860,000 by the end of the decade, reflecting sustained growth in wind, nuclear, solar, carbon capture, and energy-efficiency projects. These industries already advertise average salaries exceeding £50,000 — about 35 percent higher than the national average. Training for the Transition To meet the projected demand, the government will establish five new Clean Energy Technical Excellence Colleges and invest more than £100 million in engineering skills. A further £1.2 billion per year will expand training for 1.3 million young people, including 65,000 additional learners annually by 2028–29. The plan identifies 31 priority occupations — ranging from plumbers and welders to project managers and electrical engineers — expected to account for nearly 40 percent of direct clean-energy roles by 2030. Shortages in these trades have prompted new regional “skills pilots” in Cheshire, Lincolnshire, and Pembrokeshire, with £2.5 million in funding for training centres and career programmes. Oil-and-gas workers in Scotland and the North Sea will receive £20 million in retraining support, while the Energy Skills Passport scheme — originally designed to help offshore engineers transition to renewables — will be expanded to nuclear and grid sectors. Investing Across Regions According to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), demand for clean-energy workers will be highest in Scotland, the East of England, and the North West — each projected to support 50,000 to 60,000 direct jobs by 2030. Flagship infrastructure projects are already driving regional growth: the £14.2 billion Sizewell C nuclear plant in Suffolk will employ 10,000 people at peak construction, while the Acorn and Viking carbon-capture projects are expected to create 35,000 jobs combined. Since July 2024, clean-energy investments totaling £50 billion have been announced across the UK. Labour Standards and Fair Work Beyond job creation, the government has placed strong emphasis on job quality. Legislation will be amended to align employment protections for offshore renewable workers with those in oil and gas, extending national minimum-wage coverage beyond UK territorial waters. A new Fair Work Charter, negotiated with the wind sector and trade unions, will link public funding to fair pay, collective bargaining, and strong workplace rights. Workforce criteria will also be embedded in energy-sector grants, including the Clean Industry Bonus, to ensure companies benefitting from public investment uphold fair-work principles. RELATED ARTICLE: UK Unveils $10 Billion Clean Energy Development Initiative Energy Secretary Ed Miliband described the plan as “pro-worker, pro-jobs, and pro-union,” arguing that “clean energy is the answer to bringing good, secure work to every region and nation of the country.” Trade-union leaders including the TUC and GMB welcomed the framework, calling it the “first serious plan in decades to rebuild Britain’s industrial heartlands” and ensure that “green jobs are good union jobs.” Inclusive Growth and Social Mobility The strategy includes tailored initiatives for veterans, school leavers, and ex-offenders — groups identified as having transferable skills relevant to clean energy. Veterans’ programmes will be piloted in the East of England, where over 60,000 people are expected to join the sector by 2030. For young people, entry-level clean-energy roles pay on average 23 percent more than comparable occupations in other industries, offering a route to higher wages and long-term security. Global and Economic Context The UK currently lags behind Germany and Scandinavia in renewable-jobs intensity, with up to five times fewer clean-energy positions per capita. The new plan aims to close that gap through coordinated industrial and skills policy, backed by the Office for Clean Energy Jobs — a cross-government unit overseeing workforce data, policy alignment, and union engagement. For investors and corporates, the plan provides visibility into the UK’s energy-workforce pipeline, with workforce forecasts to 2030 and clear government co-investment signals. For policymakers, it offers a replicable model of labour-market governance in the net-zero transition. A Just Transition Framework The plan’s broader ambition is to ensure the benefits of decarbonisation are evenly distributed — across regions, income levels, and generations. By embedding collective bargaining, training access, and fair-pay standards, the UK positions its clean-energy transition not just as an environmental imperative but as a cornerstone of inclusive economic renewal. As Miliband noted, “Clean energy jobs are everywhere — in every coastal and industrial community, in every city and region. This plan will bring new opportunities to people’s doorsteps.” Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

Oct 20, 2025

Technology

Global Companies Launch Carbon Measures to Create Standard Framework for Carbon Accounting

Coalition includes ExxonMobil, BASF, ADNOC, BlackRock’s GIP, Banco Santander, and others, spanning energy, finance, and industry.• Initiative to create ledger-based global carbon accounting system addressing accuracy, double counting, and product-level standards.• Framework aims to reshape industrial emissions tracking and inform policy, investment, and carbon-intensity markets. Leading Firms Unite to Standardize Carbon Data A consortium of global industrial, financial, and energy leaders has launched Carbon Measures, a coalition seeking to create a standardized, market-ready framework for carbon accounting across industries and products. The group aims to correct widespread inconsistencies in current emissions reporting and enable governments, investors, and companies to base climate decisions on verifiable, comparable data. Founding members include ADNOC, Air Liquide, Banco Santander, BASF, Bayer, CF Industries, EQT Corporation, ExxonMobil, EY, BlackRock’s Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), Honeywell, Linde, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsui & Co., Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, NextEra Energy, Nucor, the Port of Rotterdam, and Vale. Additional members are expected to join in the coming months. The coalition’s stated objective is to apply the precision of financial accounting to carbon management—creating a transparent, ledger-based system that reduces double counting, closes data gaps, and drives comparability. By doing so, Carbon Measures hopes to empower markets to price emissions more efficiently and accelerate low-carbon investment. From Reporting to Measurable Market Impact The coalition’s initial focus will be twofold: developing a universal carbon accounting methodology and defining carbon intensity standards for industrial products such as electricity, fuel, steel, concrete, and chemicals. These commodities form the backbone of global supply chains and collectively account for most industrial emissions. The proposed framework would introduce a rigorous, verifiable approach to product-level emissions data, designed to inform both investors and regulators. It also seeks to unlock competition—rewarding producers that invest in low-carbon technologies and enabling consumers and governments to assess emissions performance objectively. “Accurate and transparent calculation of carbon emissions at origin is the foundation for meaningful climate action,” said Ana Botín, Executive Chair of Banco Santander. “This initiative creates a reliable, globally comparable way to calculate carbon intensity across each step of the value chain, enabling standards that can accelerate the transition.” New Leadership and Industry Backing Former EY Global Vice Chair for Sustainability, Amy Brachio, has been appointed CEO of Carbon Measures. At EY, she led the firm’s global sustainability strategy and oversaw emissions reductions of 40%. RELATED ARTICLE: SAP Launches SAP Green Ledger, a Carbon Accounting and Reporting System “Good data leads to good decisions,” Brachio said in a statement. “For decades, businesses have struggled with systems overly reliant on estimates and voluntary pledges. Carbon Measures will establish a platform that unleashes markets and competition, unlocking investment and accelerating emissions reduction.” Support from industry leaders has been unequivocal. François Jackow, CEO of Air Liquide, said collaboration across sectors is “essential to reward low-carbon solutions and harness the power of markets.” ExxonMobil’s Chair and CEO, Darren Woods, added: “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Today, we don’t have an accurate system to do this. A standard methodology provides the foundation to mobilize market forces while meeting growing energy demand responsibly.” Nucor Corporation’s CEO, Leon Topalian, called the coalition “critical to ensuring comparability across industries and supporting credible progress toward emissions reduction.” Implications for Global Climate Governance Carbon Measures arrives as governments and investors face mounting pressure to align industrial data systems with climate commitments under frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). Current carbon reporting mechanisms—often fragmented and voluntary—have produced inconsistent results, limiting their usefulness for policy and capital allocation. A unified global accounting framework could help close the gap between national disclosure regulations and corporate reporting, while establishing a credible foundation for carbon border adjustments, trade alignment, and performance-based financing. For executives, the coalition’s work may redefine how emissions intensity is priced and managed across supply chains. For policymakers, it could enable evidence-based rulemaking grounded in comparable carbon data. By converging industrial precision and financial discipline, Carbon Measures seeks to establish the infrastructure for a transparent carbon economy—one where data integrity underpins competition, investment, and the pace of global decarbonization. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn

Oct 20, 2025

Technology

ESG News Week In Review: 12 October – 19 October

In this week’s ESG News Week In Review, policymakers and markets sent mixed signals on climate action. The Federal Reserve and FDIC withdrew proposed climate risk rules for large banks, while California delayed rulemaking for its landmark disclosure laws. In Europe, lawmakers scaled back corporate sustainability reporting thresholds as South Korea set 2027 for mandatory sustainable aviation fuel. Meanwhile, Indonesia reopened international carbon trading under a new transparency decree and Mexico advanced a climate-aligned legal framework. On the finance front, Brookfield and Bloom Energy launched a $5B partnership to power next-generation AI factories, Malaysia’s pension fund KWAP rolled out a $475M climate fund, and Climate Fund Managers closed $1B for adaptation in emerging markets. Across sectors, Apple, Siemens, and Airbus announced major renewable expansions, and India unveiled a $77B hydropower plan to offset China’s upstream dominance. GOVERNMENT, POLICY & REGULATION Federal Reserve, FDIC Withdraw Climate Risk Rules for Large Banks California Delays Rulemaking for Climate Disclosure Laws SB 253 and SB 261, Releases Draft Emissions Template EU Lawmakers Scale Back Sustainability Rules, Raising Thresholds for Corporate Reporting and Due Diligence South Korea Sets 2027 Start for Mandatory SAF on International Flights China Reports $30.5 Billion in Economic Losses from 2025 Natural Disasters Indonesia Resumes International Carbon Trade Under New Transparency Decree US Pushes Back Against EU Plan to Cut Global Shipping Emissions US Delays Wyoming Coal Lease Auction Following Weak Industry Interest in Montana Mexico Adopts 17 Climate-Aligned Legal Clauses to Advance Sustainable Law Frameworks JPMorgan Chase, Carbon Direct Launch Framework to Link Biodiversity with Carbon Markets Indonesia Resumes International Carbon Trade Under New Transparency Decree Greenly Launches AI-Powered EcoPilot for Corporate Carbon Accounting, Scope 3 Decarbonization CLIMATE & ENERGY TRANSITION Federal Reserve, FDIC Withdraw Climate Risk Rules for Large Banks Siemens, Airbus Partner to Decarbonize Three UK Manufacturing Sites by 2030 Apple Expands Renewable Energy Portfolio Across Europe Schroders Achieves 100% Renewable Electricity Across Global Operations One Year Ahead of Schedule Mexico Adopts 17 Climate-Aligned Legal Clauses to Advance Sustainable Law Frameworks India Plans $77B Hydropower Expansion as Strategic Buffer to China’s Upstream Dams McKinsey’s Global Energy Perspective 2025 Warns of Slower Transition Despite Renewables Growth Malaysia’s Rubber Industry Moves to Implement Net Zero Transition Framework Engie, Masdar Secure 1.5 GW Solar Project to Boost Abu Dhabi’s Clean Energy Capacity Mercedes F1 Nears Net Zero Goal with 99% Biofuel Logistics Coverage Across Europe EXECS ON THE MOVE EQT’s Arcwood Environmental Appoints Carol Roos as Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer Marex Appoints Jennifer Argote to Lead Renewable Energy Expansion SUSTAINABLE/ CLIMATE FINANCE Malaysian Pension Fund KWAP Launches $475M Climate Investment Fund to Accelerate Low-Carbon Transition Climate Fund Managers Closes $1B Climate Adaptation Fund for Emerging Markets Moeve Joins Avelia as First External SAF Supplier SHS Group Secures $1.8B Financing for Power4Steel, Advancing Germany’s Green Steel Transition Brookfield, Bloom Energy Launch $5B Partnership to Power Next-Generation AI Factories Climate Fund Managers Closes $1B Climate Adaptation Fund for Emerging Markets Google to Invest $5B in Belgium to Expand AI and Carbon-Free Infrastructure by 2027 Swedish Green Steel Firm Stegra Launches $1B Round to Finish Hydrogen Steel Plant ESG INVESTING & FUNDS Malaysian Pension Fund KWAP Launches $475M Climate Investment Fund to Accelerate Low-Carbon Transition Morgan Stanley Backs Corvus Energy with $60M to Accelerate Maritime Decarbonization ENVIRONMENT, NATURE & BIODIVERSITY JPMorgan Chase, Carbon Direct Launch Framework to Link Biodiversity with Carbon Markets Amazon Tests Next-Gen Decarbonization Strategies at New Indiana Facility EU Launches $6.1M Initiative to Scale Sustainable Algae Farming and Blue Innovation Hubs ESG & SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING California Delays Rulemaking for Climate Disclosure Laws SB 253 and SB 261, Releases Draft Emissions Template EU Lawmakers Scale Back Sustainability Rules, Raising Thresholds for Corporate Reporting and Due Diligence Harvard Accelerates Campus Decarbonization with 32% Emissions Cut INC Introduces First Global Sustainability Certification for Nut and Dried Fruit Industry TOOLS & SERVICES, TECHNOLOGY Greenly Launches AI-Powered EcoPilot for Corporate Carbon Accounting, Scope 3 Decarbonization INC Introduces First Global Sustainability Certification for Nut and Dried Fruit Industry 📬 Subscribe to ESG News Daily Brief to stay informed with trusted sustainability news every morning. Follow ESG News on LinkedIn!

Oct 20, 2025