Stay informed on the latest sustainability developments with this weekly update, covering pivotal shifts in environmental policy, energy efficiency, and regulatory frameworks.
This week, the UN scheduled new plastics treaty negotiations after failed talks in South Korea, while Saudi Arabia launched its first solid waste treatment plant at Jeddah Islamic Port. Azerbaijan reported a ninefold increase in solar production as part of its green initiatives, contrasting with China’s struggle to meet carbon reduction targets. Meanwhile, Australia introduced mandatory climate reporting requirements, and the 5th UN Ocean Forum emphasized aligning trade with marine sustainability amid record $2.2 trillion in ocean trade.
International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8, highlights women’s achievements and advocates for gender equality. The 2025 theme, “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” calls for global action to address the challenges women face. Established by the UN in 1977, it focuses on issues such as equal pay, education, and protection from violence. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged action to safeguard women’s rights, particularly against growing digital threats. Events worldwide, including protests and discussions, aim to drive change for gender equality.
International Women’s Day | United Nations
The United Nations Environment Programme announced that a new round of negotiations for a global plastics treaty will take place from August 5 to 14 in Geneva, Switzerland. This follows the failure to reach a final agreement during the previous session in Busan, South Korea. The key sticking points include capping plastic production, regulating chemicals of concern, and securing financial support for developing nations. While over 100 countries supported a treaty draft proposing a global reduction in plastic production, oil-producing states pushed back against such limits. As negotiations resume, geopolitical tensions and shifting climate policies could further complicate efforts to reach a consensus.
In a recent bulletin released by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), the importance of care leave regulations was emphasized as essential for promoting social and gender co-responsibility in the workplace. The report, titled Time for Care in Latin America and the Caribbean: Towards Social and Gender Co-responsibility, highlights that only a few countries in the region meet international standards for maternity leave, with many offering less than the recommended 14 weeks.
The bulletin also points out that while there have been improvements, significant challenges remain, particularly regarding low female labor participation and high informality rates. For instance, only 50% of women are active in the labor market, compared to 75% of men. The report calls for bold policy changes to enhance care leave provisions, including parental leave and emergency leave, which are crucial for achieving gender equality. ECLAC and ILO recommend aligning national regulations with international standards to ensure equitable access to care-related rights for all workers.
Saudi Investment Recycling Co. has launched Jeddah Islamic Port’s first solid waste treatment plant, a major step toward sustainability and a circular economy. Operated by its subsidiary Reviva, the facility aims to enhance efficiency and safety while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of net-zero emissions by 2060. The plant enables on-site treatment of solid and hazardous waste, reducing landfill dependence and environmental impact. Part of a broader strategy to expand recycling investments, the initiative is expected to generate jobs and contribute significantly to the Kingdom’s economy while reinforcing its position as a global leader in waste management.
Saudi Arabia’s PIF-backed SIRC launches solid waste plant at Jeddah Port
Azerbaijan is making significant strides in renewable energy as it shifts towards a greener future. With 2024 declared “The Year of Solidarity for a Green World,” the country is accelerating solar and wind energy initiatives, aligning with global climate efforts. In partnership with ACWA Power, Azerbaijan has launched large-scale solar projects, leading to a ninefold increase in solar energy production in early 2024. Plans are underway to develop new wind and solar plants, with a total capacity of 5 GW by 2030. These initiatives not only enhance energy security but also reinforce Azerbaijan’s commitment to sustainability and economic growth.
Azerbaijan’s growing green energy initiatives: Solar Power’s role in shaping sustainable future
Bahrain is strengthening its environmental and climate commitments through comprehensive policies and initiatives aligned with its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Economic Vision 2030. The Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) plays a central role in advancing regulations on waste management, air quality, and marine conservation, while also leading climate action efforts. The Kingdom has set ambitious goals, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, reducing greenhouse gases by 30% by 2035, and expanding renewable energy. Key projects, such as the National Energy Strategy and the Coastal Resilience Strategy, aim to enhance sustainability, biodiversity, and climate adaptation across Bahrain’s most vulnerable sectors.
Climate Change and Environment Protection
In 2024, China reduced its carbon intensity by 3.4%, falling short of the 3.9% target, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. This reduction measures the amount of carbon dioxide produced per unit of economic growth. Over the 2021-2024 period, China achieved an 8% reduction in carbon intensity, leaving a challenging 10% decrease needed in 2025 to meet the 18% reduction goal set for 2021-2025. Despite a record surge in renewable energy capacity, these figures indicate that China is struggling to align with its climate objectives.
China cuts carbon intensity in 2024 but still lags on key targets | Reuters
Australia has introduced a mandatory climate reporting scheme, effective from January 1, 2025, impacting over 6,000 entities. Under new legislation, companies must include a Sustainability Report alongside financial disclosures, detailing climate risks, greenhouse gas emissions, and governance strategies. The Australian Accounting Standards Board has set reporting standards aligned with international frameworks. Directors face potential liabilities for non-compliance, though transitional immunity applies until 2028. Political uncertainty looms, with opposition parties vowing to repeal the laws if elected in 2025. Companies must prepare for compliance while monitoring potential regulatory changes.
https://chambers.com/articles/australias-landmark-climate-reporting-regime-commences
The fashion industry is grappling with a complex web of supply chain reporting requirements, leading to inefficiencies and increased burdens on suppliers. The multitude of certifications, standards, and regulations has resulted in brands developing disparate systems, compelling suppliers to navigate multiple reporting frameworks. This fragmentation not only escalates costs but also hampers progress toward sustainability goals. Initiatives like the Global Textiles Transparency Governance (GTTG) project have highlighted how the current system can discourage the collection of accurate supply chain data, sometimes leading to falsified information to meet regulatory demands. To address these challenges, efforts are underway to harmonize reporting requirements and develop standardized sustainability metrics, aiming to streamline processes and enhance transparency across the industry
Confused by supply chain reporting rules? You’re not the only one | Vogue Business
The 5th United Nations Ocean Forum, held from March 3-5, 2025, brought together global leaders, experts, and stakeholders to discuss aligning trade and economic policies with ocean sustainability. The forum focused on the threats posed by climate change, overfishing, and pollution to marine ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of sustainable ocean economies. With ocean trade reaching a record $2.2 trillion, the event aimed to explore opportunities for developing countries and coastal communities while addressing rising risks. The forum also highlighted the role of oceans in regulating climate and supporting food security.
In February 2025, UN human rights experts expressed concern over actions by the new U.S. administration that they believe undermine human rights both domestically and internationally. They called on the administration to recommit to human rights principles and policies
The new US administration must recommit to human rights at home and abroad: UN experts | OHCHR