ESG in 5 Sustainability News - 16-09-2025
- Eloise Bell
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
This week’s ESG in 5 showcases how global companies are raising the bar on sustainability, innovation, and social impact. From PepsiCo’s progress on its pep+ strategy to Microsoft and Rolls-Royce trialling low-carbon fuels for data centres, businesses are finding practical ways to cut emissions and build resilience. The release of Sustainability Magazine’s Top 250 Sustainable Companies list underscores how ESG has become a core measure of corporate performance, while new initiatives from the Rainforest Alliance and Land O’Lakes highlight how agriculture and food producers are tackling environmental and social challenges head-on. With Salesforce also recognised for advancing sustainable and equitable AI, this week’s highlights reflect how ESG is no longer a side agenda - it’s central to strategy, technology, and long-term success.
PepsiCo’s pep+ Progress: Nutrition Meets Net Zero.
PepsiCo has released its 2024 update on its pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) strategy, showing strong progress in both sustainability and nutrition. The company has reduced greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain and expanded regenerative agriculture practices to over 1.5 million acres. It also reformulated several products to reduce added sugars and sodium, aligning with global health goals.
Microsoft & Rolls-Royce Fuel Data Centres with HVO.
Microsoft and Rolls-Royce are using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) to power backup generators at data centres in Singapore. The low-carbon fuel, made from waste oils, cuts emissions by up to 90% compared to diesel. It’s a practical step toward Microsoft’s 2030 carbon-negative goal and supports Rolls-Royce’s clean energy ambitions. In regions where renewables are scarce, HVO offers an immediate, scalable solution. This collaboration shows how tech and engineering leaders can decarbonise digital infrastructure — without waiting for the grid to catch up.
Top 250 Sustainable Companies List Released.
Sustainability Magazine has revealed its 2025 ranking of the world’s top 250 sustainable companies, spotlighting leaders in climate action, ethical supply chains, circular economy models, and inclusive workplaces. The list includes global brands like Unilever, IKEA, and Patagonia, recognised for their transparency, science-based targets, and stakeholder engagement. Companies were evaluated on impact, innovation, and long-term ESG strategy, reflecting how sustainability is now central to business performance. This year’s ranking underscores a growing shift: ESG is no longer a niche concern — it’s a core driver of corporate resilience and relevance.
Rainforest Alliance Launches Regenerative Agriculture Standard.
The Rainforest Alliance introduced a new Regenerative Agriculture Standard aimed at coffee farmers in tropical regions. Active in 62 countries, the nonprofit’s new certification—set to debut in 2026—will verify farms using practices that improve soil health, biodiversity, water management, and climate resilience. This initiative supports nearly 8 million farmers and 7,800 businesses, including Starbucks and Nestlé.
Land O’Lakes Tackles Food Waste with Tech.
Land O’Lakes, a farmer-owned agricultural cooperative and one of the largest producers of butter and dairy products in the U.S. has diverted over 5.7 million pounds of food from landfills, saving nearly $200,000 in landfill and recycling fees. The system enables near-expiry products to be donated quickly to food banks like Feeding America, helping communities while reducing environmental impact. The initiative has already surpassed the company’s original 2030 donation goal and earned recognition from Fast Company for innovation in corporate social responsibility.
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