Welcome to this week’s edition of #ElevatingNews, where we cut through the noise and spotlight what’s actually shaping the ESG and sustainability landscape – across markets, policy, culture, and capital.
This week marked a strong finish to July, with fresh initiatives reshaping how we track, finance, and label sustainability. From public consultations to AI breakthroughs, here’s what you need to know.
📄 Reporting & Regulation
- EFRAG Launches Public Consultation on Revised ESRS Drafts
EFRAG has released updated exposure drafts for the second set of European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and opened a 60-day public consultation. The revised drafts focus on sector-specific standards, building on the general ESRS launched in 2023 under the CSRD. The new consultation phase is critical for ensuring that future sector guidance reflects the needs and realities of preparers and investors alike. Read more→
- European Commission Adopts Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs
The European Commission has officially adopted a recommendation for voluntary sustainability reporting tailored to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Developed by EFRAG, the Voluntary Standard for SMEs (VSME) is designed to help SMEs that are outside the scope of the CSRD respond to growing information requests from banks and large corporates. The recommendation encourages financial institutions and large companies to align their ESG data requests with this new standar, aiming to reduce reporting fatigue and make it easier for SMEs to access sustainable finance.
Read more→
🤖 Technology & Innovation
- Google DeepMind Unveils AlphaEarth
In a major AI-for-climate milestone, Google DeepMind introduced AlphaEarth Foundations, an AI model designed to map Earth’s systems with unprecedented spatial and temporal precision. The model integrates satellite and climate data to simulate planetary dynamics – a breakthrough that could accelerate early warning systems, land-use planning, and biodiversity protection. Read more→
- Air France–KLM Supports Development of EU Flight Emissions Label
Air France–KLM became the first airline group to help pilot a new EU-wide label that will display the CO₂ emissions of individual flights. The initiative, spearheaded by the European Commission, aims to boost transparency in aviation and support passengers in making more sustainable travel choices. Read more→
💶 Finance & Impact
- BBVA Channels €63B Into Sustainable Business in H1 2025
BBVA announced it has mobilized €63 billion in sustainable finance during the first half of 2025 – a 48% increase compared to the same period last year. The bank’s figures highlight accelerating demand across sectors for green lending, social finance, and ESG-linked investment vehicles. Read more→
That’s a wrap on this week’s #ElevatingNews!
A quieter week on the headlines, but a meaningful one, with solid steps forward on data, disclosure, and decision-making tools. From regulation to AI, these are the updates shaping the next chapter in ESG
Which story caught your eye most this week?
👇 Let’s discuss.
