BCSD Australia News
Business Council for Sustainable Development Australia
Galvanizing forward-thinking companies and organizations to accelerate the transition to a sustainable Australia.
This week’s newsletter highlights an accelerated shift in sustainability, technology, and policy - from AI-driven waste management to cost declines in EV charging solutions. As businesses explore regenerative agriculture financing and align with emerging frameworks like BSI Flex 3030, the focus remains on inclusive growth and resilience. Highlights also include calls for stronger supply chain oversight through modern slavery regulations, recognition of transformative community leaders like Neale Daniher and Brother Thomas Oliver Pickett, and guidance for nature-positive finance. Together, these developments remind us that collaboration, innovation, and transparency are paramount in shaping a sustainable, thriving future.
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?? The resources and waste sector is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by technological advancements and a commitment to sustainability.
This insightful article from UK online resource publication CIWM Circular explores the progress in the resources and waste sector.
?? Takeaways:
1. AI Revolutionising Waste Management: Enhanced sorting and efficiency through AI is setting new standards in Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs).
2. Blockchain for Transparency: This technology is ensuring accountability in material tracking, aligning with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies.
3. Data-Driven Decisions: Real-time analytics are becoming essential for operational improvements and regulatory compliance.
4. Carbon Capture Innovations: Energy-from-Waste facilities are adopting CCUS technologies to support a circular carbon economy.
5. Community Engagement: Gamified recycling initiatives are enhancing public participation, driving behavioural change towards sustainability.
?? Collaboration and investment in technology are paramount. The Australian government and businesses must work together to foster a skilled workforce ready for a tech-driven future.
???? The electric vehicle (EV) charging landscape is evolving rapidly, with significant price reductions and increased competition reshaping the market.
According to BloombergNEF data recently released in 2024, high-power chargers averaged $58,100, a 26% decrease from two years ago, driven by economies of scale and competition. This trend presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses and policymakers alike.?
As we navigate this transition, several key implications emerge:
1. Policy Alignment: Australia must adopt efficient and cost-effective EV charging solutions to meet international emission reduction targets. Regulatory frameworks should ensure charger reliability and efficiency, addressing consumer concerns.
2. Market Dynamics: The decline in charger prices could accelerate EV adoption, but manufacturers face risks such as price volatility and reliability issues. Strategic investments in innovation and consumer education are essential to maintain market share.?
3. Sustainability Goals: Aligning business strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can enhance brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
With climate change increasingly impacting the land-based sector, nature, and livelihoods, transitioning large agricultural landscapes to regenerative is imperative.
At this year’s World Economic Forum in Davos, we gathered business leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives to find actionable transition finance solutions for regenerative landscapes.?
Co-organised by the COP28 Action Agenda on Regenerative Landscapes, One Planet Business for Biodiversity (OP2B), Carlsberg Group, and the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), this session highlighted the need for increased collaboration, common priorities, and clear roles and responsibilities for stakeholders involved.
With the event behind us, it is time to turn words to actions - read more about why businesses should invest in landscape initiatives, what initiatives are already underway, and how to act in our latest opinion piece ??
?? Championing Health and Partnership: Neale Daniher’s Impactful Fight Against MND
Neale Daniher's relentless fight against Motor Neurone Disease (MND) transforming his personal battle into a powerful advocacy for research, founding FightMND and raising over $100 million through initiatives like the Big Freeze exemplifies how individual determination can align with global objectives. His journey underscores the critical importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: By raising over $100 million through FightMND, Neale has significantly advanced research and awareness for MND, contributing to better health outcomes.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: His initiatives unite communities, corporations, and individuals in a collective effort against MND, showcasing the power of collaboration.
Neale's recognition as Australian of the Year highlights the profound impact of aligning personal battles with global frameworks, inspiring both individuals and organisations to contribute meaningfully to our shared future.
Brother Thomas Oliver Pickett AM has transformed the lives of over 50,000 children in developing countries by co-founding Wheelchairs For Kids, providing custom-built wheelchairs to those in need.
His dedication exemplifies the essence of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: By enhancing mobility, Brother Pickett has significantly improved the quality of life and health outcomes for countless children.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: His work unites volunteers, donors, and international partners, showcasing the power of collaboration in addressing global challenges.?
Brother Pickett's recognition as Senior Australian of the Year underscores the profound impact of compassionate action and global cooperation. His journey inspires us all to leverage our resources and networks to create meaningful change.
Dr Katrina Wruck's innovative work in green chemistry through her company, Nguki Kula Green Labs, is revolutionising sustainable practices and supporting remote and disadvantaged communities.?
Her efforts align seamlessly with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably:
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Dr. Wruck's advancements in green chemistry promote sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities: By focusing on remote and disadvantaged communities, she addresses disparities and promotes inclusive growth.
As the Young Australian of the Year, Dr. Wruck exemplifies how scientific innovation can drive sustainability and equity. Her work encourages us to explore how our industries can adopt sustainable practices that benefit all.
?? Applauding Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello: Empowering Women Through Social Enterprise
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Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello, co-founders of Stepping Stone | Social Enterprise Cafe, have created a social enterprise that provides employment opportunities and support to women facing barriers to employment.?
Their initiative reflects the core principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially:
- SDG 5: Gender Equality: By empowering women with skills and employment, they actively promote gender equality and women's economic participation.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth: Their café offers fair employment opportunities, contributing to inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Being recognised as Australia's Local Heroes highlights the significant impact of community-driven solutions in fostering equality and economic development. Their model inspires us to consider how social enterprises can address local challenges and empower marginalised groups.
?? A recently announced inquiry into the UK’s Modern Slavery Act 2015 is a wake-up call for businesses globally, including in Australia.
With an estimated 27.6 million people in forced labour worldwide, including 3.3 million children, the urgency to address these issues is paramount.
The implications for businesses are significant:
1. Regulatory Compliance Risk: Increased scrutiny under the UK’s Modern Slavery Act and EU regulations necessitates robust compliance frameworks.
2. Supply Chain Transparency: Companies must implement due diligence processes to identify and mitigate risks associated with forced labour.
3. Reputation Management: Addressing human rights issues is crucial for maintaining customer trust and brand loyalty.
4. Market Access: Non-compliance may restrict access to markets, particularly in the EU.
5. Operational Costs: While compliance measures may increase costs, they are essential for long-term sustainability.
Businesses must take decisive action to address forced labour, ensuring compliance and maintaining their competitive edge. By aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 16, companies can enhance their corporate strategies and appeal to a broader range of stakeholders:
- Streamline Compliance: Integrate SDG targets into your compliance framework to stay ahead of international regulations and avoid penalties.
- Boost Transparency: Enhance supply chain oversight to meet consumer and partner expectations for ethical practices.
- Strengthen Brand Positioning: Publicise your commitment to these SDGs to improve brand image and customer loyalty.
- Attract Investment: Demonstrate responsible governance to appeal to investors focused on sustainability and ethical operations.
- Optimise Costs: Implementing sustainable practices can lead to long-term savings by preempting costly regulatory changes and boosting operational efficiency.
How can the financial services sector help contribute towards a #NaturePositive future?
More than half of global GDP is estimated to be moderately or highly dependent on #Nature. Therefore, financial institutions that underestimate the value of nature are likely to expose themselves to significant risks and missed opportunities.
To help secure a sustainable future, financial institutions must focus on the following priority actions and opportunities:
?? Build internal capacity to act on nature.
?? Develop financing policies, strategies and transition plans that favour nature.
?? Embed nature in risk management systems.
?? Develop robust nature-related reporting systems.
?? Engage with high nature-impact and high nature-risk businesses.?
Guidance developed by Planet Tracker in collaboration with Business for Nature, WBCSD – World Business Council for Sustainable Development and World Economic Forum, outlines the sector-specific actions the financial services sector should take to contribute towards a #NaturePositive future: https://lnkd.in/e8eFNSZ5
Creating a #NaturePositive world will require every industry to take action!
To support organisations in identifying, assessing and reporting on their nature-related dependencies, impacts, risks and opportunities, the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) has published new sector guidance to provide sector-specific considerations when applying the TNFD LEAP approach and disclosing sector-specific metrics in line with the TNFD recommendations.
The guidance builds on existing industry standards and tools and complementary sector guidance Business for Nature developed alongside WBCSD – World Business Council for Sustainable Development and the World Economic Forum.
"The release of this guidance marks a significant step forward in enabling businesses in specific sectors to assess and disclose their nature-related dependencies and impacts. This resource complements existing guidance for 14 sectors developed by Business for Nature, the World Economic Forum and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development that outlines the priority actions companies from these sectors should take to transform their business and meet the ambitions they have set out as part of a credible nature strategy." - Eva Zabey, CEO, Business for Nature.?
?? Explore TNFD's sector guidance - https://lnkd.in/gJ-ArCfA
How can we accelerate momentum towards a #NaturePositive future??
Earlier this month in #Davos the focus was on business and economics. But economics and nature are indivisible.
We are inherently connected to nature, yet we've arrived at a pivotal moment of decision: either persist on the current path that harms nature and jeopardises our future, or shift direction in a way that protects nature and transforms our economies.?
Business for Nature CEO Eva Zabey joined industry experts Marco Lambertini, Harvey Locke and Dorothy Maseke ,CFIRM to discuss how to work together towards nature-positive outcomes and live within planetary boundaries.
Watch the whole event here: https://lnkd.in/eui5Aq-a
See highlights from each speaker here: https://lnkd.in/gVxZRA-H
Sometimes you need to look back to understand where you are going.
Last week, in the alpine forests near Davos, CDP CEO Sherry Madera and founders Paul Simpson OBE and Paul Dickinson took a moment to reflect. Away from the buzz of the week, they joined a small group of CDP partners and friends on a forest walk to celebrate CDP's remarkable path from a bold idea to a global force for environmental transparency.
It started with a simple yet powerful ask: 35 pioneering investors requesting companies to disclose their emissions data. Today, that number has grown to over 700 investors – representing a quarter of global institutional financial assets – all united in demanding environmental accountability.?
As CDP approaches its 25th anniversary, it is not just celebrating history – it's accelerating the transition to Earth-positive business models. CDP's journey proves that transparency drives action.
Ready to be part of the next chapter? Discover the evolution of CDP: https://lnkd.in/ePeBVNzx