Governance & Risk News | ESG & Sustainability | OneStop ESG

DNA links modern Picuris Pueblo tribe to ancient New Mexico site

A Nature study, published April 30, 2025, confirms a genetic link between the Picuris Pueblo tribe and ancient inhabitants of Pueblo Bonito in Chaco Canyon, New Mexico. Analyzing DNA from 13 modern Picuris members, 16 ancient Picuris individuals (1300–1500 A.D.), and prior Pueblo Bonito remains, the Picuris-led research validates their oral histories tying them to the UNESCO World Heritage site. Initiated to counter marginalization in Chaco preservation discussions, the study, controlled by the tribe, highlights ethical Indigenous-scientific collaboration. It strengthens Picuris advocacy amid oil and gas drilling debates but does not challenge other tribes’ connections to Chaco.

The Rising Stakes of Ocean Mining

As the world accelerates its transition to clean energy, a new scramble for critical minerals is unfolding deep beneath the oceans. Deep-sea mining promises access to metals essential for the future — but risks disrupting ecosystems we barely understand. Companies, countries, and conservationists are now locked in a global debate over how, when, and whether to exploit these new frontiers. The outcome will shape not only environmental futures but the geopolitics and economics of a rapidly changing world.

Can You Lead Through the ESG Reset?

ESG fatigue is real — but it’s not the end of sustainable business. It’s a wake-up call for companies to move beyond glossy promises and deliver real-world impact. Here’s how leaders can navigate the ESG reset and rebuild trust in 2025.

Goldman Sachs shareholders stand firm on DEI, reject conservative rollback push

Greenhushing: The Silent Retreat from ESG Commitments

More companies are going quiet about their climate commitments—not because they’ve abandoned sustainability, but because talking about it has become risky. This growing trend, known as greenhushing, sees firms pulling back on public ESG disclosures to avoid legal scrutiny, political backlash, and accusations of greenwashing. From BlackRock scrubbing climate pledges to McDonald’s rebranding its ESG messaging, silence is becoming a strategy. But what does this mean for transparency, investor trust, and real progress on climate goals? In this editorial, we unpack why companies are retreating from ESG conversations, the hidden costs of staying silent, and how businesses can strike the right balance between caution and credibility. If you’re navigating sustainability in today’s polarized landscape, this is a conversation you can’t afford to ignore.

Can DEI 2.0 Truly Include Everyone? Corporate America Reframes Inclusion Amid Political Pressure

Corporate DEI is transforming into “Inclusion and Belonging” as companies navigate legal, political, and stakeholder pressures. DEI 2.0 focuses on business value and culture without alienation.

Climate Startup Aspiration Partners Files for Bankruptcy Amid Fraud Scandal

Aspiration Partners, a climate finance startup backed by Microsoft and Meta, files for bankruptcy after co-founder Joseph Sanberg’s fraud scandal derails funding. $170M in debts remain unpaid.

DWS CEO Resigns Following Greenwashing-Related Police Raid on Deutsche Bank Offices

DWS CEO Asoka Woehrmann resigns following a greenwashing-related police raid at Deutsche Bank’s offices. The firm is accused of misleading investors on ESG practices, prompting global scrutiny.

Amro Partners Promotes Elisabetta Li Destri Nicosia to Managing Director for ESG & Sustainability

Amro Partners promotes Elisabetta Li Destri Nicosia to MD for ESG & Sustainability, leading its climate strategy across the UK and Europe while strengthening investor ESG alignment.

Companies Rebrand DEI Efforts Amid Political Backlash, Not Abandoning Goals

Amid political pressure, companies are rebranding DEI efforts rather than abandoning them. The focus is shifting toward measurable workplace inclusion while avoiding legal risks.

Baloch Activist Calls on UN to Address Human Rights Violations in Balochistan

Baloch activist Manzoor Baloch addressed the UNHRC’s 58th session, urging the council to take immediate action against human rights violations in Balochistan. He called for the UNHCR to recognize Baloch refugees and conduct a mission to assess the crisis, citing widespread oppression, forced disappearances, and lack of humanitarian support.

How to Invest in ESG in 2025: Top Funds, Sectors & Smart Strategies

Looking to grow your money and make a difference? ESG investing in 2025 is all about aligning your financial goals with positive environmental and social outcomes. But to get it right, you need more than just good intentions—you need strategy, insight, and the right tools.