ESG in 5 Sustainability News - 04-11-2025
- Eloise Bell
- Nov 4
- 2 min read
Global momentum on climate action surged this week as major corporations and governments unveiled new steps toward decarbonisation and environmental protection. From Microsoft’s groundbreaking carbon-removal deal to Heineken’s renewable-heat innovation and Brazil’s success curbing deforestation, these developments highlight how technology, policy, and partnership are driving progress toward net-zero goals.
Microsoft Corporation inks major carbon-removal deal.
Microsoft has signed a multi-year agreement with the industrial mineralisation firm Arca to remove nearly 300,000 tonnes of CO₂ using mining waste as feedstock. This deal marks a significant step in Microsoft’s push towards carbon-negativity by 2030: the company says it is diversifying beyond power-procurement into permanent removal technologies. The technology uses mine tailings, autonomous rovers and a reactive surface layer to accelerate natural mineral carbon capture and store CO₂ for thousands of years.
Heineken Decarbonises Brewery with Renewable Heat Battery.
Heineken has teamed up with EDP and Rondo Energy to decarbonise its Vialonga Brewery in Portugal using one of the world’s largest renewable-powered heat batteries. The system will store solar and grid-supplied renewable electricity as high-temperature heat to produce zero-carbon steam, replacing fossil-fuel boilers. Operated under a “Heat-as-a-Service” model, the project will cut 6,600 tonnes of CO₂ annually and support Heineken’s goal to reach net-zero operations by 2030.
Google Steps Up Climate Investments Amid Rising Emissions.
Despite a 51% increase in overall emissions since 2019, Google is doubling down on climate action with a wave of green investments and partnerships to decarbonise its global operations. The company has already achieved 66% of its goal to run entirely on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030. Recent initiatives include renewable-power deals, AI-driven efficiency upgrades and circular-economy projects aimed at offsetting the carbon cost of expanding data-centre demand.
Meta Expands ENGIE Partnership with Major Texas Solar Project.
Meta Platforms has expanded its long-standing partnership with ENGIE North America, adding a new 600 MW solar project in Texas that will supply renewable power directly to Meta’s U.S. data-centre operations. The deal brings their total contracted capacity to 1.3 GW, reinforcing Meta’s commitment to net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2030. The project will generate enough clean electricity to power roughly 100,000 homes and will come online in 2027.
Brazil Cuts Amazon Deforestation to 11-Year Low Ahead of COP30.
Brazil has reduced Amazon deforestation to its lowest level in over a decade, marking a 55% drop year-on-year, according to new government data. The decline follows stronger forest-protection policies, improved satellite monitoring, and renewed global climate funding. The achievement comes as Brazil prepares to host COP30 in Belém in 2026, positioning the country as a leader in biodiversity protection and climate diplomacy.
