Today’s ESG Updates
- $200B for Biodiversity: Governments pledge $200B by 2030, boosting global conservation efforts.
- Biogas Emissions Tracker: Biogas CAT launched to measure carbon impact and support GHG reduction.
- Oil Prices Drop: Brent at $71.08, WTI at $68.01 as U.S. pauses Ukraine aid and eyes sanctions relief.
- CFOs Bet on Sustainability: 92% increasing investments, with 69% expecting higher ROI via ESG solutions.
Global commitment: $200 billion annually for biodiversity conservation by 2030
Governments agreed to mobilize $200 billion annually by 2030 for biodiversity conservation, with $20 billion in international funding by 2025, rising to $30 billion by 2030. The agreement establishes permanent financial mechanisms and a monitoring framework to track progress. COP16 sets the stage for long-term biodiversity protection under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Businesses can use ESG solutions to align biodiversity funding with private investment and impact tracking.
Photo credit: Vladimir Patkachakov
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Further reading: UN Nature Meetings Finalize $200B Plan to Protect Biodiversity by 2030
Biogas carbon accounting tool launched to enhance emissions tracking and investment
The American Biogas Council launched the Biogas Carbon Accounting Tool (Biogas CAT) to measure biogas projects’ lifecycle emissions. Developed by EcoEngineers, it ensures transparent carbon accounting, supports credit trading, and attracts investment. Biogas projects convert waste into renewable energy, reducing GHG emissions. Unlike existing tools, Biogas CAT accounts for methane reduction and fertiliser replacement. It enables companies, regulators, and policymakers to track carbon reductions, enhancing reporting and supporting climate goals with accurate emissions data
Photo Credit: Alexander Tsang
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Further reading: ABC Launches Tool to Track Biogas Project Emissions
Oil prices decline as U.S. pauses Ukraine aid and considers easing sanctions
Oil prices fell on Tuesday as U.S. President Trump paused military aid to Ukraine and markets prepared for tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. Brent dropped 54 cents to $71.08, while WTI fell 36 cents to $68.01. The White House’s move signaled a potential easing of the Ukraine conflict, raising hopes of sanctions relief for Russia and increased oil supply. Reports suggest U.S. officials are considering easing sanctions in upcoming talks with Moscow.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
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Further Reading: Oil prices fall 2% to 12-week low with OPEC+ set to increase output
CFOs prioritise sustainability investments, expect higher ROI in 2025
A survey of 500+ CFOs found that 93% see a clear business case for sustainability, with 92% increasing investments in 2025. Nearly two-thirds of CFOs plan to allocate over 2.1% of revenue to sustainability, despite 61% viewing it as a cost rather than a value driver. However, 69% expect higher ROI from sustainable initiatives. Kearney advises CFOs to reframe sustainability as a strategic asset, leveraging green bonds and data-driven metrics to maximise impact and competitive advantage. Firms can use ESG solutions to turn sustainability into a strategic asset through data, finance, and impact measurement.
Photo Credit: Guillaume de Germain
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Further reading: 92% of CFOs plan to boost sustainability spending
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by the authors are their own, not those of impakter.com — Cover Photo Credit: Florian van Duyn