International Development News | ESG & Sustainability | OneStop ESG

U.S. Rejects UN Sustainable Development Goals, Citing Sovereignty Concerns

The Trump administration has rejected the UN Sustainable Development Goals, calling them inconsistent with U.S. sovereignty. This move is part of a broader retreat from global climate efforts.

Japan’s SSBJ Launches First Sustainability Disclosure Standards Aligned with ISSB Guidelines

Japan’s SSBJ has issued its first sustainability disclosure standards, aligning with ISSB’s global frameworks. The move enhances ESG transparency and ensures Japanese companies remain globally competitive.

AWS and GE Vernova Join Forces to Electrify Data Centers and Cut Carbon Emissions

AWS and GE Vernova are joining forces to electrify data centers, integrate renewables, and optimize energy infrastructure, setting a new standard for sustainability and efficiency.

UN Finalizes $200B Plan to Protect Biodiversity by 2030

Governments finalized a $200B annual biodiversity fund, launching the Cali Fund for private sector support and enhancing monitoring for global conservation goals.

Countries Renew Push for $200 Billion Annual Biodiversity Fund Amid Disputes

Countries meet in Rome to secure $200 billion annually for biodiversity. Debates focus on funding sources, governance, and subsidy redirection, with the Cali Fund facing shortfalls.

Climate Fund Managers Launch €150 Million Energy Transition Fund for Emerging Markets

CFM launches Climate Investor Three, a €150M fund accelerating energy transition and green hydrogen in emerging markets, with projects in Namibia and South Africa backed by European donors.

TikTok and Two Drifters Partner with Climeworks to Remove Over 6,000 Tons of CO₂

TikTok partners with Climeworks to remove 5,100 tons of CO₂ by 2030, while Two Drifters commits to 1,067 tons by 2032. The initiatives align sustainability with financial strategy.

ICAO Launches Finvest Hub to Drive Aviation Decarbonization Investments

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has launched the Finvest Hub, a platform designed to connect aviation sustainability projects with investors. The initiative aims to scale up funding for projects such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, clean energy infrastructure, and other decarbonization efforts, with a strong focus on supporting developing nations.

EU Postpones Deforestation Regulation Enforcement to 2025 Without Changing Core Objectives

6 Key Takeaways from COP29: Climate Finance, Carbon Markets, and the Road to COP30

COP29 made strides in climate finance, carbon markets, and operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund, but the $300 billion pledge drew criticism for its inadequacy. With climate goals at stake, the road ahead remains challenging.

COP29 Finalizes Adoption of Article 6, Advancing Global Carbon Markets

COP29’s adoption of Article 6 sets the stage for global carbon markets, enabling enhanced cooperation and emissions trading. Despite its potential, concerns over implementation and transparency remain.

EU Establishes Certification Framework for Carbon Removals and Soil Emission Reductions

The EU has launched a certification framework for carbon removals and soil emission reductions to boost transparency and help achieve its 2050 climate neutrality goal.