Sustainability & ESG Insights October '24: Britain’s Billions, CSRD warnings, and Canada’s Mandatory Climate Disclosure
Vincent de la Mar
Founder & CEO at Sustaira | Accelerating Sustainability Initiatives
??Via this monthly newsletter, we'll share more knowledge and content about what's arguably the most important domain of our generation: Sustainability and ESG. The goal is to inspire and share insights so each and every one of us can make a difference in the Environmental, Social and Governance domain we call Sustainability.
Valuable ESG and Sustainability news of October '24
??In this months’ newsletter:
EU Commission warns 17 member states over? CSRD implementation
California passes new climate disclosure law
Britain to invest up to $28.5 billion in carbon capture projects
Sustaira and Capgemini expand Global Sustainability and AI Alliance Partnership
Canada introduces mandatory climate disclosure requirements for large companies
BCG releases 2024 Sustainability in Private Equity Report
KPMG releases 2024 ESG Due Diligence Study
Leading CEO climate alliance achieves major emissions reductions and revenue growth
And more…
Green Climate Fund Commits $2.7 Billion to Combat Climate Change in Egypt and Beyond
The Green Climate Fund has approved a massive $2.7 billion for climate projects across several countries, including Egypt. This funding aims to support sustainable development and combat climate change on a global scale.
Funding Breakdown
The approved funding includes:
Impacts on Sustainable Development
This funding will significantly boost efforts to promote sustainable development and address climate change. By investing in green financial systems, smart agriculture, and resilient infrastructure, the Green Climate Fund is helping countries transition to a low-carbon economy and build resilience against climate impacts.
Fore more information check out the article below!
Leading CEO Climate Alliance Achieves Major Emissions Reductions and Revenue Growth
The Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders has successfully reduced its aggregate emissions by 10% while achieving an 18% revenue growth over the past three years. This demonstrates that significant climate action can coincide with robust economic performance.
Emissions Reduction Milestone
The Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, a global community of chief executives committed to net-zero emissions, has achieved a remarkable 10% reduction in aggregate emissions from 2019 to 2022. This reduction is equivalent to the annual emissions of France and surpasses the Science-Based Targets initiative’s (SBTi) 1.5°C-aligned pathway to net zero.
Economic Growth Amidst Climate Action
Despite the focus on reducing emissions, the alliance members have also recorded an impressive 18% aggregate revenue growth during the same period1. This growth, amounting to over $640 million, outpaced global GDP growth of 15%. The results highlight that sustainable practices can drive economic success.
Collaborative Efforts and Leadership
The alliance’s success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of its members, who represent diverse industries including healthcare, retail, heavy industry, and agriculture. By sharing knowledge and learning from each other’s transition efforts, the members have been able to achieve significant value creation alongside emissions reductions.
Focus on Scope 3 Emissions
A key factor in the alliance’s achievements has been its focus on addressing Scope 3 emissions, which account for over 85% of the alliance’s combined footprint. Initiatives targeting these emissions have been crucial in driving the overall reduction.
The Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders has set a powerful example of how bold and decisive leadership can lead to both environmental and economic benefits. Their achievements underscore the potential for green growth and the importance of collaborative action in tackling climate change.
Read more here:
EU Commission Warns 17 Member States Over CSRD Implementation
The European Commission has issued warnings to 17 EU member states for failing to implement the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) by the July 2024 deadline. This directive aims to enhance transparency and accountability in corporate sustainability reporting across the EU.
Background on CSRD
The CSRD is a significant update to the EU’s Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD). It expands the scope of companies required to disclose sustainability information from around 12,000 to over 50,000. The directive mandates detailed reporting on environmental impacts, human rights, social standards, and sustainability-related risks.
The Infringement Procedures
The European Commission has initiated infringement procedures against 17 member states, including Belgium, Germany, and Spain, for not transposing the CSRD into national law. These states have two months to respond and complete the transposition. Failure to comply could lead to further legal action, including potential penalties from the Court of Justice.
Importance of CSRD Compliance
The CSRD aims to harmonize sustainability reporting across the EU, enabling investors to make informed decisions based on companies’ sustainability performance. Without full implementation, achieving this level of harmonization is challenging, potentially undermining investor confidence and the EU’s sustainability goals.
Broader Implications
The CSRD is part of a broader EU strategy to promote sustainable business practices. It aligns with other initiatives like the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which will also impact non-EU companies, including many from the U.S., by 2026. This highlights the EU’s commitment to global sustainability standards.
Next Steps
The 17 member states must act swiftly to integrate the CSRD into their national laws. The European Commission’s firm stance underscores the importance of timely and uniform implementation of sustainability reporting standards across the EU.
Read more here:
?? Join Sustaira x Capgemini Webinar On Accelerating Sustainability with AI and App Templates
Wednesday November 6, 2024 at 9:00 AM EST / 15:00 CEST
?? Speakers: Sustaira 's Sustainability Lead Rory O'Sullivan and Capgemini 's Global Data & AI Sustainability Lead Christopher Scheefer
?? Explore 150+#Sustainability accelerators, including solutions, templates, services, and connectors.
? Learn how #AI and #Lowcode technology make your teams more efficient and effective. Use cases such as Goals/KPI Tracking, Carbon Accounting, Disclosures, (Net Zero) Scenario planning, Forecasting, Benchmarking, Supplier Monitoring, and more will be shared and demonstrated.
?? Webinar Agenda
?? Introductions Capgemini & Sustaira
?? Sustainability & ESG Challenges
?? Solutions Paradigm shift with AI & Low-code to foster speed & agility
?? Sustainability Accelerators & Sustainability Marketplace
?? Leveraging Sustaira’s & Capgemini Solutions: Demo
?? Q & A
? Sign-up via the link in the comments. Join live or get the recording!
California Passes New Climate Disclosure Law
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a landmark climate disclosure bill into law, requiring large companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related financial risks starting in 2026. This legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in corporate environmental practices.
Key Provisions of the Bill
SB 219 introduces several critical requirements for large corporations:
Amendments and Flexibility
While the core requirements remain stringent, SB 219 includes amendments to provide some flexibility:
Implementation Timeline
Implications for Businesses
This legislation is expected to have a broad impact, affecting many large U.S. companies due to California’s significant economic influence. Businesses will need to prepare for comprehensive emissions tracking and climate risk reporting, which could drive more sustainable practices and greater accountability.
California’s new climate disclosure law marks a pivotal step in the fight against climate change, setting a precedent for corporate environmental responsibility. As companies gear up to meet these new requirements, the hope is that increased transparency will lead to more sustainable business practices and a healthier planet.
Read the details via the link below.
Britain to Invest up to $28.5 Billion for Carbon Capture Projects
Britain has committed to investing up to £21.7 billion in cleaner energy by 2035, aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.
Britain’s Clean Energy Pledge
In a bold move, the British government has announced a £21.7 billion investment in cleaner energy. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The funding will support the development of renewable energy projects, including wind, solar, and nuclear power.
Impact on the Economy
This massive investment is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth. The government believes that the transition to cleaner energy will not only benefit the environment but also boost the economy by fostering innovation and attracting investment in green technologies.
Environmental Benefits
The commitment to cleaner energy is projected to significantly reduce the UK's carbon footprint. By focusing on renewable energy sources, Britain aims to decrease its reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. This shift is crucial for combating climate change and promoting sustainable development.
Challenges and Considerations
While the investment is ambitious, it comes with challenges. Ensuring the timely implementation of projects and overcoming potential regulatory hurdles will be key to achieving the set goals. Additionally, balancing the interests of various stakeholders, including local communities and environmental groups, will be essential for the success of this initiative.
Britain's pledge to invest in cleaner energy marks a significant step towards a sustainable future. With a clear vision and substantial funding, the country is poised to lead the way in the global fight against climate change. The success of this initiative will depend on effective planning, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship.
Read more about it via Sustaira's article below!
KPMG Releases 2024 ESG Due Diligence Study
A recent KPMG study reveals that 61% of investors in the European Market for Alternative Investment Funds (EMA) prioritize ESG due diligence, driven by the potential for monetary gains.
The Study’s Findings
KPMG's study highlights a significant shift in investor behavior, with a majority now considering ESG factors as crucial in their decision-making process. This trend underscores the growing importance of sustainability in the investment landscape. Key findings include:
Economic Incentives
Investors are increasingly recognizing that integrating ESG criteria can lead to better financial performance. The study suggests that ESG-focused investments often yield higher returns and lower risks, making them an attractive option for those looking to maximize their profits.
Implications for Companies
The findings indicate that companies with strong ESG practices are likely to attract more investment. This trend encourages businesses to adopt sustainable practices and improve their ESG reporting to meet investor expectations. Specific implications include:
Challenges and Opportunities
While the shift towards ESG-focused investing presents opportunities, it also poses challenges. Companies must navigate the complexities of ESG reporting and ensure transparency to gain investor trust. However, those that succeed can benefit from increased investor confidence and financial support.
The KPMG study underscores the growing importance of ESG due diligence among investors in the EMA. As the trend continues, companies that prioritize sustainability are likely to see greater financial rewards and investor interest.
Read more here:
Climate Bonds Initiative and EMF-ECBC Partner to Align EU-Covered Bonds with Sustainable Finance Goals
The Climate Bonds Initiative and the European Mortgage Federation-European Covered Bond Council (EMF-ECBC) have partnered to develop standards that align EU-covered bonds with the EU Taxonomy, promoting sustainable finance.
The Partnership
The collaboration between the Climate Bonds Initiative and EMF-ECBC aims to create and promote standards and frameworks that ensure covered bonds—debt securities backed by mortgages—conform to the EU Taxonomy. This initiative is designed to provide investors with a clear path to supporting a low-carbon economy.
Importance of Covered Bonds
Covered bonds play a crucial role in financial markets, offering a secure investment backed by a pool of mortgages. By aligning these bonds with the EU Taxonomy, the partnership ensures that investments contribute to environmentally sustainable economic activities
Benefits for Investors
Investors benefit from this partnership as it offers greater transparency and assurance that their investments are contributing to sustainable development. This alignment with the EU Taxonomy helps investors make informed decisions that support the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Implications for the Market
The partnership is expected to boost the market for green covered bonds, encouraging more financial institutions to issue bonds that meet the EU Taxonomy criteria. This move is a significant step towards integrating sustainability into the financial sector and promoting the EU Green Deal.
The collaboration between the Climate Bonds Initiative and EMF-ECBC marks a pivotal step in aligning EU-covered bonds with sustainable finance goals. This initiative not only supports the transition to a low-carbon economy but also enhances investor confidence in sustainable investments.
Here’s a link to the full article:
Webinar | Embracing Transparency and Action with PCAF: A Financial Sector Revolution
Join us for an insightful webinar on the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), where we will explore how this global standard empowers financial institutions to measure and disclose the climate impact of their portfolios. Learn about PCAF’s integration with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and its comprehensive approach to tracking emissions across various asset classes. Discover how tools like Sustaira’s platform can simplify compliance and enhance data quality, driving meaningful environmental impact.
Webinar Agenda:
Sign up to join this webinar via the form below. If you can’t join live, we will share the recording!
De-Risking the Energy Transition in Europe: PwC’s Insights
PwC's latest report delves into the challenges and strategies for de-risking the energy transition in Europe, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and regulatory frameworks.
The Energy Transition Challenge
Europe's energy transition is a monumental task, aiming to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. This transition is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. However, it comes with significant risks, including technological uncertainties, regulatory complexities, and financial constraints.
Key Strategies for De-Risking
To manage these risks, PwC outlines several key strategies:
Impacts on Businesses
The energy transition presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses:
PwC's report emphasizes the importance of a coordinated approach to de-risking the energy transition in Europe. By leveraging technological innovation, regulatory support, financial mechanisms, and collaboration, businesses can navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the energy transition.
Find more of PwC’s insights on the Sustaira website:
GRESB’s 2024 ESG Benchmark Insights: Real Estate Sector Embraces Net Zero Goals
The latest GRESB (Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark) 2024 ESG Benchmark reveals a significant increase in net zero targets among real estate participants, with 65% now committed to achieving net zero emissions. This marks a notable shift towards sustainability in the real estate sector.
The Rise of Net Zero Targets
The GRESB 2024 ESG Benchmark highlights a 15% increase in the number of real estate participants setting net zero goals. This surge reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sustainability and the urgent need to address climate change. Notably, 29% of these participants have incorporated embodied carbon into their net zero plans, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to reducing emissions.
Impacts on the Real Estate Sector
The commitment to net zero targets is reshaping the real estate sector in several ways:
Challenges and Opportunities
While the shift towards net zero targets presents opportunities, it also comes with challenges:
The GRESB 2024 ESG Benchmark underscores the real estate sector's commitment to sustainability and the growing momentum towards achieving net zero emissions. By embracing these targets, real estate companies can not only contribute to environmental goals but also enhance their market position and attract investment.
Feel free to explore the full report for more details:
BlackRock Survey: 99% of Insurers Set Climate Transition Goals
A recent BlackRock survey reveals that an overwhelming 99% of insurers have set climate transition goals within their investment portfolios, marking a significant shift towards sustainability in the insurance industry.
The BlackRock Survey Findings
BlackRock's survey, which included 410 senior insurance industry executives across 32 markets, highlights a strong commitment to sustainability. Nearly all insurers have set climate transition-related objectives, with more than half aiming for net zero targets. This reflects a growing conviction towards investing in the low-carbon transition.
Focus on Clean Energy Infrastructure
A notable finding from the survey is the emphasis on clean energy infrastructure. 60% of insurers are targeting investments in wind, solar, and other renewable energy projects as part of their transition objectives. This focus on clean energy is a crucial step towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development.
Increased Allocations to private Assets
The survey also indicates a trend towards increased investments in private assets. 91% of respondents plan to boost their allocations to private markets over the next two years, with a particular interest in clean energy infrastructure and transition-focused technologies. This shift underscores the importance of private investments in achieving sustainability goals.
Implications for the Insurance Industry
The commitment to climate transition goals has several implications for the insurance industry:
The BlackRock survey underscores the insurance industry's significant shift towards sustainability and climate transition goals. By focusing on clean energy infrastructure and increasing investments in private assets, insurers are playing a crucial role in the global effort to combat climate change.
For more information, see:
Canada Introduces Mandatory Climate Disclosure Requirements for Large Companies
Canada is taking a bold step towards sustainability by introducing mandatory climate disclosure requirements for large companies. This move aims to enhance transparency and drive the country's transition to a low-carbon economy.
The Announcement
On October 9, 2024, the Canadian government announced amendments to the Canada Business Corporations Act (CBCA) to mandate climate-related financial disclosures for large, federally incorporated private companies. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to address climate risks and promote sustainable investment.
Why It Matters
Mandatory climate disclosures offer several key benefits:
What Businesses Need to Know
The upcoming amendments will primarily apply to large federally incorporated companies. While small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are currently exempt, the federal government is considering ways to encourage voluntary reporting from these smaller businesses.
Canada's move towards mandatory climate disclosures is a significant step in promoting corporate sustainability and transparency. By aligning with global standards, Canadian businesses can contribute to environmental goals while attracting investment and enhancing their market position.
Read more here:
BSR Report: C-Suite Collaboration Key to Ambitious Sustainability Goals
BSR’s recent report “The CSO at a Crossroads” highlights that 83% of Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) believe collaboration with other C-Suite leaders is crucial for driving ambitious sustainability goals. This teamwork is essential for aligning sustainability with core business functions.
The Power of Collaboration
The report reveals that 83% of CSOs see collaboration with other C-Suite leaders as a driving force behind ambitious sustainability objectives. This growing teamwork across leadership roles is crucial for advancing sustainability goals and ensuring they are integrated into the company's overall strategy.
Regulatory Impact
Interestingly, 64% of CSOs believe that regulation plays a significant role in enabling meaningful strategic impact. This suggests that supportive regulatory frameworks can enhance the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives.
Focus on High-Impact Work
The report also highlights that 50% of CSOs spend the majority of their time on high-impact work. This underscores the need for CSOs to focus on strategic initiatives that can drive substantial progress in sustainability.
The BSR report underscores the importance of C-Suite collaboration in achieving ambitious sustainability goals. By working together, leaders can ensure that sustainability is woven into the fabric of their business operations, driving meaningful change and long-term success.
Read more here:
BCG Releases 2024 Sustainability in Private Equity Report
Boston Consulting Group's (BCG) latest report reveals that 85% of investors plan to prioritize sustainability in the next three years, driving private equity firms to accelerate their net-zero efforts.
Investor Focus on Sustainability
According to BCG's second annual Sustainability in Private Equity report, 85% of limited partners (LPs) intend to increase their focus on sustainability-related topics. This growing emphasis is pushing both general partners (GPs) and portfolio companies to adopt stronger sustainability frameworks.
Private Equity’s Response
The heightened expectations from investors have led private equity firms to prioritize ESG goals more than ever before. While only 22% of PE-owned companies currently have a decarbonization strategy, those that do are making faster progress in reducing emissions compared to public companies.
Impact on Portfolio Companies
The report highlights that 70% of LPs believe companies that thoughtfully manage sustainability considerations deserve a valuation premium. This investor pressure is driving portfolio companies to integrate sustainability into their core operations and strategies.
BCG's report underscores the significant shift towards sustainability in the private equity sector, driven by investor demand. By prioritizing ESG goals, private equity firms and their portfolio companies are making strides toward achieving net-zero targets and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Read more here:
MSCI Releases Funds and the European Sustainable Finance Landscape Report
A recent MSCI report reveals that European sustainability funds have surged to €8 trillion under the SFDR Article 8 and 9 rules, highlighting a significant shift towards sustainable investing in the region.
The Surge in Sustainability Funds
The MSCI report shows that as of June 30, 2024, assets under management (AUM) for Article 8 and 9 funds reached €6.9 trillion and €330 billion, respectively. This surge reflects the growing demand for sustainable investment options among European investors.
Improved Fund Disclosures
One of the key findings of the report is the significant improvement in fund disclosures. The number of funds submitting data via the European ESG Template (EET) has tripled compared to 2023, indicating better transparency and reporting practices.
For more information, see:
Sustaira Expands Sustainability and AI Collaboration Into Global Alliance Partnership With Capgemini
During Climate Week in New York City and a week after the launch of Sustaira’s Sustainability Marketplace, Sustaira expanded the collaboration into a Global Alliance Partnership with 凯捷咨询 . ?
The conference recognized the pressing need for companies and societies to develop, deploy, and finance sustainability solutions and technologies at scale. To help companies address this, Sustaira recently undertook two important initiatives – which can also convert a requirement into a driver of business value:
1. Sustainability Accelerator Marketplace.
In September, Sustaira launched its Sustainability Accelerator Marketplace . This includes more than 150 solutions and services, plus more than 50 connectors – all designed to accelerate how companies address their sustainability data aggregation and disclosure challenges. Available solutions include GHG-protocol-based Carbon Accounting, Sustainability KPI tracking, CSRD disclosures, Suppliers Sustainability, ESG reporting, Materiality Assessments, Scope 3 scenario analysis, and more. The portfolio also includes tools that accelerate net-zero environmental initiatives and solutions that address social and governance challenges such as DEI insights, supplier risk monitoring, and compliance tracking. Sustaira’s sustainability accelerators include a number of out-of-the-box solutions, app templates, services, and widgets – plus configurable connectors for Salesforce, SAP, Microsoft, and Oracle. In addition to its own, flexible Carbon Accounting solution, Sustaira offers a GHG Carbon Ingestor and Integration Module that directly injects carbon data into the Sustaira platform, extending and unlocking more rigid sustainability point solutions such as IBM Envizi, Workiva, Enablon, Sphera, Sweep, Watershed, Persefoni, and Greenly.
2. Sustaira x Capgemini Global Strategic Alliance.
At Climate Week NYC 2024, Sustaira and Capgemini announced they’ve expanded their relationship into a Global Strategic Alliance. This software and services partnership enhances Capgemini’s global expertise in sustainability, data, and AI, by providing its clients with access to Sustaira’s complete portfolio of solutions. Capgemini and Sustaira are also building new solutions and services designed to solve unique sustainability challenges. Our two companies have already co-created a portfolio of flexible solutions that combine Capgemini's AI and domain expertise with the speed and agility of Sustaira’s Sustainability Platform. Solutions include the Carbon Visualizer, AI-enabled Net Zero Forecaster, Sustainability Scenario Planner, and Supplier Risk Monitoring.
Read the blogpost and announcement here:
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Operations ESG Performance Manager / Drilling Fluids, Cementing and Waste management SME / Expert with Law Firm transitioning to Management Consultant (Q4 2024)
3 周Michael Kouima CertIOSH member, Sydney MBADINGA