News & Views

ESG developments this week highlight major strides in corporate sustainability, clean energy expansion and biodiversity protection. Global firms are scaling investment in low-emission infrastructure, advancing nature-based resource stewardship and accelerating the energy transition, while scientists deliver a rare breakthrough in marine conservation. Together, these updates underscore the growing momentum behind climate and environmental action across sectors.

Global climate action gained momentum this week as Microsoft signed a major carbon-removal deal, Heineken unveiled a renewable heat project in Portugal, and Google expanded its clean-energy investments. Meta boosted its solar portfolio in Texas, while Brazil cut Amazon deforestation to an 11-year low — a strong signal of progress ahead of COP30.

lobal decarbonisation efforts gained pace this week as Microsoft and Amazon advanced major renewable energy deals, Barclays backed innovative carbon removal, and Germany launched a €7 billion industrial emissions plan. ESG data firm Diginex also expanded its sustainability intelligence through the acquisition of Matter, highlighting growing demand for transparent climate reporting.

Amazon buys 9.4 million litres of sustainable jet fuel, Meta taps geothermal energy, and the UK backs a £200M carbon capture project. Vietnam launches its first emissions trading scheme, covering 50% of its CO₂ output. In this week's ESG in 5, Anthony Walters breaks down what these global moves mean for the transition to net zero.