Sustainability Snapshot: March 2025
- Admin
- Mar 30
- 3 min read
View the complete March 2025 Newsletter
The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) hosted the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) from March 5-7, 2025, bringing together global leaders, experts, and stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions for sustainable development and climate change. The summit focused on fostering partnerships to accelerate progress in areas such as renewable energy, climate action, and sustainable business practices. Key discussions centered around the need for collaborative efforts to meet global climate goals and ensure equitable, long-term sustainability across industries and regions. (WSDS)
Microsoft has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by entering a long-term agreement to purchase carbon removal credits from an extensive afforestation project in India. This collaboration not only aids India's sustainability efforts but also promotes the use of carbon removal as a solution to mitigate climate change. Microsoft's investment showcases how corporations can lead the way in environmental stewardship, demonstrating the potential for impactful corporate initiatives to drive sustainable change in emerging markets.(ESG Dive)
India's fashion and textile sector aims to reach a value of $350 billion by 2030, but faces challenges in meeting global sustainability goals. The industry must reduce emissions, with regulations like the UN Fashion Charter banning coal boilers by 2030. To meet this, factories are adopting renewable energy, including rooftop solar and biomass boilers. Projects like the Future Forward Factory aim to develop near-net-zero textile facilities, balancing growth with environmental responsibility. (Vogue Business)
Key Updates: Global
U.S. Representative Andy Barr introduced the Ensuring Sound Guidance Act, which seeks to ensure pension funds prioritize profit maximization over Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. The bill mandates that firms disclose any disparities in fees and returns linked to ESG investments, aiming to highlight the potential financial risks of prioritizing ESG goals. This move is intended to protect investor interests and maintain economic growth, while addressing growing concerns over ESG-driven financial decisions. (New York Post)
China plans to expand its carbon trading market to include the steel, cement, and aluminum industries, impacting around 1,500 companies. This move is designed to cover more than 60% of the nation's carbon emissions. The expansion aims to drive the adoption of low-carbon technologies while encouraging the closure of outdated, polluting facilities. The initiative is part of China's broader strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and accelerate its transition to a greener economy.(Reuters)
U.S. asset managers are caught between conservative state officials opposing ESG investments and green-minded European investors. Republican leaders have pulled funds from firms backing climate and social justice, leading some managers to withdraw from climate initiatives and green resolutions. This shift risks damaging relationships with environmentally-conscious European clients, exposing a growing divide between asset managers' actions and the ESG expectations of asset owners. (Financial Times)
The trend of 'greenhushing' has emerged, where companies quietly pursue ESG initiatives without publicizing them. Fearing regulatory scrutiny and public backlash, many firms are choosing to downplay their sustainability efforts despite investing in green practices. This cautious approach reflects the growing concerns over potential criticism and the complex balance companies face between promoting their green actions and avoiding unwanted attention. (The Times)
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