Stay informed on the latest sustainability developments with this weekly update, covering pivotal shifts in environmental policy, energy efficiency, and regulatory frameworks. This report explores key legislative changes and industry initiatives across Europe, Africa, Australia, and Asia, highlighting crucial debates on ESG standards, climate risk disclosure, and sustainable economic strategies. From the European Union’s reassessment of Green Deal policies to Africa’s push for integrating natural capital into GDP metrics, these updates provide a comprehensive overview of global efforts to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
European Community
According to the Wall Street Journal, the European Commission is reviewing its Green Deal policy amid concerns over economic competitiveness and regulatory burdens. Key sustainability directives, including CSRD and CSDDD, may be revised following pushback from businesses and EU member states. While some advocate for easing rules, major corporations and investors warn against undermining long-term stability. President Ursula von der Leyen insists the EU remains committed to the green transition with a flexible approach.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/europe-is-looking-to-roll-back-climate-accounting-rules-32c72856
Debate on ESG Regulations: There is an ongoing debate within the EU regarding the balance between maintaining stringent environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulations and addressing economic competitiveness. Some business sectors argue that current regulations may hinder innovation, while others emphasize the importance of upholding these standards to ensure long-term sustainability and public trust.
Germany
The Energy Efficiency Act (EnEfG), effective since November 18, 2023, introduces new reporting obligations for data centers in Germany to improve energy efficiency and waste heat utilization. Starting January 1, 2025, data centers with a nominal connected load of 300 kW or more must annually report waste heat data to the Federal Centre for Energy Efficiency (BfEE) by March 31.
The EnEfG also sets stricter efficiency targets, requiring data centers operational before July 2026 to improve energy consumption effectiveness by 2027 and 2030. New data centers must meet even tighter standards, ensuring 10-20% waste heat reuse. Non-compliance may result in fines up to €100,000.
https://www.taylorwessing.com/en/insights-and-events/insights/2025/01/abwaerme-von-rechenzentren
Africa
African nations are advocating for a recalibration of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) metrics to better reflect their extensive natural assets and resources. Spearheaded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), this initiative aims to improve debt metrics and alleviate borrowing pressures by incorporating natural capital—such as forests and ecosystems that contribute to carbon sequestration—into GDP assessments. The proposal is set to be discussed at upcoming G7, G20, and African Union summits.
Taking place 19-21 February 2025 in Cape Town, Africa’s Green Economy Summit (AGES) will connect high-impact climate and other sustainable development projects across Africa with global capital. This year’s theme, “Building a climate resilient Africa: Catalyzing investment and innovation in the green and blue economies,” will focus on the five sub-themes: green reforms, nature and biodiversity, climate finance, the future of African cities, and green industrialization.
Africa’s Green Economy Summit 2025 – CPI
Singapore
Sustainability Expo Asia 2025 will take place on April 1-2 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. This two-day event aims to bring together businesses, investors, and innovators committed to advancing sustainability. According to the organizers, the conference will serve as a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Key discussions will focus on AI, big data, and cloud solutions for ESG reporting, along with net-zero strategies and sustainable organizational transformations.
Sustainability Expo Asia 2025 – Sustainable Tech Partner for Green IT Service Providers
Singapore will allocate S$150 million (US$110.6 million) in 2025 to enhance flood resilience through drainage upgrades, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu announced on February 4, 2025. With 19 ongoing drainage projects and six more set to begin, the initiative responds to increased flood risks due to climate change. Recent monsoon surges caused heavy rainfall exceeding monthly averages, leading to localized flooding. Since 2011, Singapore has invested S$2.5 billion in drainage improvements, reducing flood-prone areas from 3,200ha in the 1970s to less than 25ha today. However, Fu emphasized that continuously expanding drainage infrastructure is neither practical nor sustainable, advocating for system-level resilience involving building owners, developers, and the community.
Singapore to spend S$150 million on drainage projects in 2025 to improve flood resilience
Australia
Australia’s mandatory climate reporting law, effective January 1, 2025, introduces the Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards (ASRS), aligning corporate climate disclosures with International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) guidelines. Companies must include climate risk reports in their annual reporting, with first disclosures due in 2026. A three-year modified liability period applies for Scope 3 emissions and transition plans, while full assurance requirements take effect from July 2030. To comply, businesses should assess data readiness, integrate climate risks into governance, conduct climate scenario analysis, and improve Scope 3 emissions tracking.