Welcome to this week’s edition of #ElevatingNews, where we cut through the noise to bring you the ESG and sustainability updates that actually matter.
This week reminded us that sustainability isn’t just about goals on paper, but about building the systems to get there. From carbon credit reform and circular product design to decarbonizing the high seas, the shift from promise to practice is picking up speed.
These are signals that the net-zero economy is taking real shape.
Let’s dive in.
🌍 Policy & Regulation
- UK Supports Businesses to Trade Carbon Credits and Unlock Finance
The UK government launched a package to strengthen voluntary carbon markets and mobilize private finance. It includes new guidance, integrity principles, and plans for a national framework to ensure carbon credit claims meet robust standards. The move aims to turn voluntary carbon markets into a credible climate finance tool. Read more→ - EU Adopts New Green Public Procurement Criteria for Key Sectors
The European Commission introduced updated sustainability requirements for public procurement in sectors like steel, cement, and textiles. These criteria aim to harmonize green purchasing across the EU, encouraging low-carbon products and accelerating the bloc’s industrial transition. Read more→ - IMO Approves Global Net Zero Strategy for Maritime Shipping
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has formally adopted new net zero targets for international shipping, including lifecycle GHG intensity limits, emissions reduction milestones, and a climate fund to support decarbonization in developing countries. The decision marks a major breakthrough in aligning global maritime transport with the Paris Agreement. Read more→
⚙️ Corporate Action & Innovation
- Microsoft Launches “Sustainable by Design” Product Strategy
Microsoft unveiled a new framework that embeds circular economy principles across its operations. The “Sustainable by Design” approach covers everything from product engineering to end-of-life recovery, focusing on repairability, recyclability, and reuse. It’s a blueprint for zero-waste digital infrastructure.
Read more→ - Hitachi to Source 100% Fossil-Free Steel for Rail Projects
Hitachi announced it will switch to 100% fossil-free steel in its UK and European rail manufacturing, starting in 2026. The company will partner with CELSA Group to reduce embodied emissions in large-scale infrastructure projects – a major leap in Scope 3 decarbonization. Read more→ Apple Cuts GHG Emissions by 60% Since 2015
Apple disclosed a 60% reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions since 2015, achieved through 100% renewable energy in operations, low-carbon materials, and supply chain decarbonization. The company is now pushing suppliers to align with its 2030 carbon neutrality goal. Read more→
💰 Sustainable Finance & Metrics
EU Launches Platform to Improve Environmental Label Transparency
The European Commission introduced a new digital platform to centralize environmental labelling data across the EU. The initiative aims to empower businesses and consumers to verify claims and prevent greenwashing, especially as demand for credible sustainability data surges. Read more→
That’s a wrap on this week’s #ElevatingNews! Stay tuned for next week’s insights.
Which headline caught your eye? Drop your thoughts in the comments 👇
