ESG in 5 Sustainability News - 21-04-2026
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
This week’s ESG developments highlight a continued shift from target-setting to execution, with companies and governments scaling practical initiatives across supply chains, energy systems and natural capital. From Henkel tightening Scope 3 ambitions to Amazon and Apple accelerating clean energy adoption, the focus is increasingly on embedding sustainability deeper into operations. At the same time, strong demand for high-integrity carbon credits and expanded international trade cooperation signal how both markets and policy are evolving to support the next phase of the transition.
Henkel raises ambition on 2030 sustainability targets.
Henkel has strengthened its 2030 sustainability targets, with a sharper focus on reducing Scope 3 emissions across its value chain. The company plans to increase the share of sustainable raw materials used in its products and expand the use of recycled plastics in its packaging. It is also targeting 100% recyclable or reusable packaging across its consumer goods portfolio.
The updated targets build on Henkel’s existing climate commitments, with additional emphasis on lowering emissions linked to sourcing, production and product use. The company is also continuing efforts to reduce its operational footprint and improve resource efficiency across its global business.
Vietnam and China expand agricultural trade partnership to $20bn.
Vietnam and China have agreed to expand their agricultural trade partnership to $20 billion, strengthening cooperation across production, processing and cross-border logistics. The agreement aims to improve market access for agricultural goods and streamline customs and regulatory processes between the two countries.
The partnership also includes closer coordination on quality standards and traceability, supporting the trade of key commodities such as fruit, seafood and other food products. Both countries are looking to enhance supply chain efficiency and increase the scale of bilateral agricultural exports.
Amazon nears 1GW renewable capacity in Australia with new deals.
Amazon has announced nine new renewable energy agreements in Australia, bringing its total capacity in the country to 990 MW. The projects include a mix of wind and solar developments that will supply electricity to Amazon’s operations, including its growing network of data centres.
The expansion forms part of Amazon’s broader commitment to power its global operations with 100% renewable energy. The new agreements also contribute additional clean energy capacity to the Australian grid, supporting the country’s wider transition toward lower-carbon electricity generation.
Apple avoids 26 million tonnes of emissions.
Apple has avoided more than 26 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the use of clean energy across its global supply chain. The company has been working with suppliers to transition manufacturing operations to renewable electricity, with participation in its clean energy programme continuing to grow.
These efforts are focused on reducing emissions beyond Apple’s direct operations, particularly across manufacturing and production. The company has made supply chain decarbonisation a central part of its climate strategy as it works toward its long-term emissions reduction goals.
Mast Reforestation sells out US carbon credits in six weeks.
Mast Reforestation has sold out its latest batch of carbon credits from U.S.-based reforestation projects within six weeks of release. The credits are generated from projects focused on restoring forests affected by wildfires and supporting long-term ecosystem recovery.
The rapid sale reflects strong demand for carbon removal credits linked to nature-based solutions. The projects are designed to deliver verified emissions removal while also contributing to biodiversity restoration and land regeneration.