ESG in 5 Sustainability News - 02-12-2025
- Eloise Bell
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
This week’s ESG developments highlight accelerating momentum across packaging innovation, carbon removal, supply-chain decarbonisation, and water stewardship. From major brands advancing sustainability commitments to Vietnam emerging as a regional green-transition hub, the stories reflect a continued shift toward scalable, measurable climate action globally.
LEGO hits major milestone in shift to paper-based packaging.
LEGO has passed the halfway mark in its transition from single-use plastic bags to fully recyclable paper-based packaging for its bricks. According to the company, 56% of its global packing lines now use paper bags, and around 93% of all LEGO packaging by weight is already paper, cardboard, or fibre. The rollout is nearly complete in Asia, with remaining factories in Europe and the Americas expected to convert by 2026–2027. The shift is part of LEGO’s broader sustainability strategy to reduce waste and embed circular-economy principles into its manufacturing and packaging operations.
Vietnam emerges as a green-transition hub in Asia.
Vietnam is positioning itself as one of Asia’s most dynamic green-transition markets, driven by strong policy support, rising renewable-energy investment, and a surge in sustainable manufacturing initiatives. The country is increasingly attracting global companies looking to decarbonize supply chains and align with tightening ESG expectations in export markets such as the EU and U.S. With momentum across clean energy, green industrial zones, and ESG-aligned business reforms, Vietnam is becoming a strategic destination for investors seeking both growth and long-term sustainability credentials.
Deep Sky deploys Airbus direct air-capture technology in flagship removal facility.
Climate-tech company Deep Sky has installed Airbus’ next-generation direct air-capture (DAC) system at its flagship carbon removal site, marking one of the most advanced deployments of DAC technology globally. The project aims to demonstrate scalable, high-efficiency CO₂ removal at a time when engineered solutions are increasingly seen as crucial complements to nature-based climate strategies. The collaboration highlights growing momentum in the carbon-removal sector as companies and governments look for credible pathways to meet net-zero commitments.
Marks & Spencer partners with Schneider Electric to decarbonise supply chain.
Marks & Spencer has partnered with Schneider Electric through the RESpark program to accelerate decarbonisation across its supplier network. The initiative will help suppliers measure emissions, build renewable-energy strategies, and develop long-term reduction plans aligned with M&S’s science-based climate targets. By supporting suppliers directly, the company aims to drive emission reductions beyond its own operations and tackle the more complex challenge of Scope 3 emissions, which account for the vast majority of its carbon footprint.
PepsiCo scales global water-replenishment strategy.
PepsiCo has announced new progress in its global water-stewardship efforts as the company expands projects focused on conservation, watershed restoration, and community water access. Its strategy includes investing in high-impact replenishment initiatives in water-stressed regions, improving operational efficiency, and working with local partners to restore ecosystems. The company aims to become net water positive by 2030, returning more water to local environments than it withdraws across key production regions.
