Today’s ESG highlights include JPMorgan appointing an Ex-Goldman Sachs climate scientist to drive sustainability, Google using AI to help cities tackle climate challenges, and the EU investing €4.8 billion in clean technology. Experts still believe that EU companies are outperforming the US on climate initiatives and why this could be dependent on pending election results.
JPMorgan boosts climate expertise with new appointment to support client decarbonisation strategies
JPMorgan is responding to increasing client demand for climate-related expertise by appointing Dr. Sarah Kapnick, a seasoned climate scientist, to guide clients on transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Kapnick, with previous experiences at Goldman Sachs, will work closely with the bank’s corporate advisory team and environmental committee. Her proven expertise in bridging the gap between climate science and finance will help clients develop long-term decarbonisation strategies.
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Further reading: JPMorgan hires NOAA climate scientist to lead climate advisory practice
EU awards €4.8 billion to 85 net-zero projects, boosting innovation and clean technologies
The European Commission has granted €4.8 billion to 85 innovative net-zero projects across 18 countries. With projects ranging through sectors like renewable energy, energy storage, and carbon management, the aim is to cut 476 million tonnes of CO2 emissions by 2030. This funding, part of the EU’s Innovation Fund, strengthens Europe’s clean energy infrastructure, supporting key policy objectives like the Net-Zero Industry Act.
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Further reading: EU invests €4.8 billion of emissions trading revenues in innovative net-zero projects
EU firms outperform their U.S. counterparts in climate investments despite global slowdown
A recent European Investment Bank (EIB) survey shows EU companies are making strong progress in addressing climate change. Despite global investment slowdowns, 61% of EU firms invested in climate mitigation efforts, up from 56% in 2023. EU firms also outperform their U.S. counterparts in sustainable transport and renewable energy adoption, illustrating their commitment to a greener future.
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Further reading: Over Half of European Companies Invest in Climate Action
Google harnesses AI to combat climate change and promote sustainability in cities
Google is leveraging AI to help cities become more sustainable. Initiatives include the Heat Resilience tool, promoting cool roofs and optimising traffic flow. Google Maps’ fuel-efficient routing has reduced CO₂ emissions, while the FireSat system can help detect wildfires in real-time. These projects, in collaboration with governments and experts, aim to create a more sustainable future for urban populations.
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Further reading: ICC introduces new principles for sustainable trade finance to combat greenwashing
SME’s in the US delay ESG action, awaiting U.S. election outcomes, says RSM survey
A recent survey from consulting firm RSM shows that while 75% of middle market businesses are preparing for ESG regulations through staff training and tech investments, many are delaying further action. The report argues that companies are particularly cautious about the future of the SEC’s climate disclosure rules, which may be affected by election outcomes. To keep up to date with all regulation changes and make all their companies’ sustainability efforts count, industry leaders are leveraging AI-powered ESG reporting software.
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Further reading: Many middle market firms in ESG ‘wait and see’ mode, RSM says
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by the authors are their own, not those of impakter.com — Cover Photo Credit: IKECHUKWU JULIUS UGWU
