Sustainability in the News (April 27 – May 04, 2025)

Here’s a brand new update in our Sustainability in the News updates, on critical developments in science, climate policy, and research integrity from the past week.

These updates serve as a quick-read supplement to our in-depth articles, ensuring you stay informed about the latest breakthroughs, policy shifts, and discussions around the future. While our longer articles provide comprehensive analysis and context, these telex updates will focus on key headlines, emerging trends, and essential insights – delivered in a clear and easily digestible format.

Whether it’s a groundbreaking study, a pivotal climate agreement, or an integrity issue in research, we’ll bring you the most relevant updates every week.

So here are the latest news items that passed by related to current events.

Latest Developments in Sustainability

EPA Ends Environmental Justice Programs

On April 23, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, under the Trump administration, officially terminated programs focused on mitigating environmental racism. Analysts warned that this policy change could increase exposure to industrial pollution in underserved communities due to the absence of federal safeguards.

Earth Action Expo Engages Community at Dow High School

On April 26, 2025, the Earth Action Expo took place at H.H. Dow High School, bringing together more than 70 exhibitors and community members. The event featured interactive sustainability exhibits and emphasized environmental education and local engagement.

Renting Clothes for Sustainable Fashion Faces Challenges

On April 27, 2025, ScienceDaily reported findings from Chalmers University of Technology indicating that renting clothes can reduce fashion’s environmental impact, but most business models face scalability problems. Niche markets like performance wear show more viability through direct supplier collaboration.

Human Urine Proposed as Sustainable Fertilizer

On April 27, 2025, research from the University of Birmingham highlighted that human urine, when properly stored, can be used as a sustainable fertilizer. The study emphasizes its benefits in reducing synthetic fertilizer use and improving soil health in urban agriculture.

Interface Integrates Carbon into Carpets

On April 28, 2025, Interface announced new investments in carbon capture technology for flooring products. The company’s latest initiative incorporates carbon into carpet tile materials as part of its broader goal to become carbon negative by 2040.

UK Fossil Fuel Generation Falls to 1950s Levels

On April 28, 2025, official statistics showed that fossil fuel power generation in the UK had declined to levels not seen since the 1950s. The drop was largely attributed to reductions in gas-fired electricity and the complete phaseout of coal.

Global Firms Add 127,000 New Electric Vehicles

On April 28, 2025, global corporations were reported to have added 127,000 electric vehicles to their fleets, bringing the global total to over 700,000. This surge reflects efforts to decarbonize transport and reduce corporate emissions.

BP Green Energy Chief to Exit Amid Strategic Shift

On April 29, 2025, BP confirmed that Giulia Chierchia, its executive vice president for strategy and sustainability, would leave by June. Her departure follows BP’s pivot away from low-carbon energy investments in favor of core fossil fuel operations.

ITER Completes World’s Largest Superconducting Magnet System

On April 30, 2025, engineers at the ITER fusion facility in France completed the installation of the world’s most powerful superconducting electromagnet. The magnet system is designed to help confine plasma at 150 million °C, advancing global nuclear fusion capabilities.

Energy & Sustainability Washington Update Highlights Federal Policy Shifts

On May 1, 2025, Mintz reported that the Trump administration’s first 100 days included major federal policy changes, including staff cuts at environmental agencies and prioritization of mining and energy dominance initiatives. Ten new mining projects were fast-tracked.

Franco-Nevada Publishes 2025 Sustainability Report

On May 2, 2025, Franco-Nevada released its 2025 Asset Handbook and Sustainability Report. The document outlines progress in environmental governance and emphasizes sustainable mining practices, ESG risk management, and responsible capital allocation.

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I have a background in environmental science and journalism. For WINSS I write articles on climate change, circular economy, and green innovations. When I am not writing, I enjoy hiking in the Black Forest and experimenting with plant-based recipes.