Sustainability in the News (May 04 – 11, 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

UNDRR Promotes Sustainable Cooling Solutions

On May 4, 2025, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) promoted sustainable cooling solutions via social media, pushing passive design, energy-efficient systems, and the phaseout of harmful refrigerants. These measures could reduce cooling power demand by up to 60%, supporting climate-resilient infrastructure.

Stanford Launches Sustainable Food System Initiative

On May 6, 2025, Stanford University announced a new global initiative to create a food system that is equitable, sustainable, and health-promoting. The program will combine scientific research, data analysis, and system design to address global food insecurity and environmental degradation.

CSE Celebrates 20 Years of Sustainability Leadership

Also on May 6, 2025, the Center for Sustainability and Excellence (CSE) celebrated its 20th anniversary and announced the 2025 World Sustainability Leadership Forum in New York City. The forum will focus on sustainable finance and climate resilience strategies.

Sustainable Aviation Futures Congress Planned

On May 6, 2025, GreenAir News reported the start of the Sustainable Aviation Futures EU Congress in Amsterdam, scheduled from May 6–8. The event focuses on scaling sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), lowering emissions, and addressing industry decarbonization challenges.

ATCO Reports ESG Progress in 2024 Sustainability Report

On May 7, 2025, ATCO Ltd. released its 2024 Sustainability Report, stating a reduction of 1.38 million tonnes of customer-related GHG emissions since 2020 and a $9.7 million community investment. The report underscores ATCO’s efforts to build a sustainable energy future.

Schneider Electric Achieves Q1 Sustainability Goals

Also on May 7, 2025, Schneider Electric announced a 7.95/10 score on its Q1 2025 Schneider Sustainability Impact (SSI) index, progressing toward its year-end target of 8.80/10. Programs include STEM education outreach and responsible value chain practices.

ArcelorMittal Advances Safety and Sustainability

On May 7, 2025, ArcelorMittal published its Q1 2025 Sustainability Presentation, highlighting zero-fatality objectives and implementation of key safety audits. Its 2024 report tracks broader efforts in decarbonization and environmental compliance.

USANA Releases 2024 Sustainability Report

On May 8, 2025, USANA Health Sciences released its fifth annual sustainability report. It focused on progress made since a 2020 stakeholder materiality assessment, including waste reduction, ethical sourcing, and employee wellness initiatives.

EU Investors Warn Against Green Rules Data Cuts

On May 9, 2025, Reuters reported that European investors are urging regulators not to dilute green finance rules by cutting mandatory data disclosures. They argue that such cuts could undermine ESG transparency and lead to greenwashing.

U.S. Companies Roll Back ESG Commitments

Also on May 9, 2025, Reuters noted that several U.S. firms are scaling back ESG goals amid political backlash and legal uncertainty. The reversal affects climate, diversity, and social impact targets, potentially weakening progress toward corporate sustainability.

US Regulators Recommend Approval for CP2 LNG Project

On May 9, 2025, U.S. federal regulators recommended the approval of Venture Global’s CP2 LNG project. Environmental advocates criticized the move, citing high carbon emissions and potential long-term harm to U.S. climate commitments.

Australia Elects Pro-Climate Action Government

On May 9, 2025, Australia elected a new administration pledging stronger climate action. The new government plans to accelerate investment in renewables and raise emissions targets in line with IPCC goals.

Spain Commits to Renewable Energy Expansion

Also on May 9, 2025, Spain reaffirmed its commitment to renewable energy expansion, including large-scale solar and wind projects. The announcement supports EU goals for energy independence and reduced carbon intensity.

Taiwan Advances Nuclear Phaseout Plan

On May 9, 2025, Taiwan updated its energy roadmap to accelerate the decommissioning of nuclear power plants and expand offshore wind and solar capacity. The shift is part of a long-term strategy to transition to 100% renewable energy.

EU Adjusts Car Emissions Targets

On May 10, 2025, the European Parliament voted to ease short-term CO₂ emissions targets for automakers, allowing fleet average compliance over three years. The move came after industry pressure and slow EV sales across key markets.

Legal Scholars Warn on EU Sustainability Law Changes

On May 10, 2025, 31 European law professors warned that proposed changes to sustainability disclosure laws could increase litigation risks for companies. The experts stated that vague or weak reporting standards would heighten legal exposure under EU accountability regulations.

Sainsbury’s Reinstates Fairtrade Label

On May 11, 2025, Sainsbury’s confirmed it would reinstate the Fairtrade label on its own-brand teabags after backlash against its previous “Fairly Traded” alternative. The move is expected to hugely boost UK Fairtrade tea volumes.

Rolex Showcases Sustainable Pavilion

Also on May 11, 2025, Rolex unveiled its Venice Architecture Biennale 2025 pavilion, featuring sustainable construction techniques with recycled timber, low-carbon glass, and passive cooling systems.

Massive Attack Promotes Plant-Based Venue

On May 11, 2025, the band Massive Attack announced that its June 5 concert at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena would serve only plant-based food, reinforcing its environmental advocacy through performance choices.

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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.