Stay informed on the latest sustainability developments with this weekly update, covering pivotal shifts in environmental policy, energy efficiency, and regulatory frameworks. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has voted to stop defending climate disclosure regulations, aligning with the Trump administration’s broader deregulatory agenda. This move underscores growing tensions between federal and state climate strategies, particularly as states like California push back with their own environmental initiatives. Meanwhile, global developments—from shifting ESG standards in Europe to renewable energy investments across Latin America and Europe—highlight the complex and evolving landscape of sustainability policy and corporate responsibility.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) voted to cease defending regulations that required companies to disclose climate-related emissions, risks, and expenditures. This decision aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader agenda to dismantle climate-related policies from previous administrations.
States have become central figures in opposing the federal government’s climate policy rollbacks. For instance, California has recommitted to emission reductions and engaged in lawsuits to uphold environmental standards, highlighting a growing constitutional conflict between state and federal authorities.
The administration’s deregulatory stance has led to heightened examination of voluntary carbon markets. The SEC’s new rules have made it easier for companies to challenge shareholder resolutions related to ESG issues, thereby reducing opportunities for investors to influence corporate environmental practices.
U.S. businesses have expressed concerns over the EU’s ESG regulations, arguing that the stringent rules serve as significant barriers to trade. Organizations like the American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union (AmCham EU) have urged the EU to reconsider key ESG policies, highlighting the compliance burdens these regulations impose on U.S. companies operating in Europe.
Concerns over the EU’s regulations
Shell has decided to discontinue its solar and onshore wind power projects in Brazil. This strategic move is influenced by an unfavorable investment environment characterized by energy oversupply, slow demand growth, and regulatory uncertainties. Shell will continue operating Prime Energy, focusing on smaller, decentralized solar generation assets in the country.
Colombian electricity generator Celsia plans to invest up to 1.3 trillion pesos (approximately $316.5 million) in 2025, with around 900 billion pesos allocated to solar energy projects. These projects are expected to add approximately 300 megawatts of capacity.
The World Bank approved a $1 billion project to support Brazil’s efforts in improving tax and financial stability, promoting sustainable finance, environmental protection, and enhancing social inclusion.
The eighth meeting of the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean on Sustainable Development is scheduled from March 31 to April 4, 2025, in Santiago, Chile. The forum will focus on preparing for the 2025 High-Level Political Forum and exchanging progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals in the region.
https://foroalc2030.cepal.org/2025/en
Experts and authorities have called for joint efforts to align trade policies with sustainability objectives, emphasizing the need for coherence between economic activities and environmental preservation.
On March 27, 2025, Commissioner Jessika Roswall met with UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen to strengthen global environmental cooperation. They discussed advancing a circular economy, water resilience, and climate security. The EU committed €21.5 million to support global environmental efforts, and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the European Environment Agency and UNEP.
On February 24, 2025, FAO and WHO launched a project in Bosnia and Herzegovina to transform urban food systems using a One Health approach. Focused on cities like Trebinje and Kakanj, the initiative aims to improve public health, food safety, and resilience by engaging local communities and promoting sustainable, healthy lifestyles.
On March 4, 2025, the OECD urged Czechia to ensure fiscal sustainability and boost economic growth. Key recommendations include improving spending efficiency, supporting startups and innovation, advancing carbon pricing, and enhancing education and skills to address labor shortages and meet climate goals.
Estonia has topped the Emerging Europe Sustainability Index for 2024-25, scoring 75.47 points. The index assesses 23 countries across five pillars: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership. Estonia led in the Prosperity pillar with 87.76 points and exceeded 90 points in the Peace pillar, reflecting strengths in governance and civil rights. Despite economic challenges, Estonia’s resilience and strong institutions have upheld its sustainability leadership. The report suggests leveraging technology for social inclusion, developing green economy skills, and fostering public engagement to sustain progress. Estonia’s advancements in digital infrastructure and renewable energy contribute to its exemplary performance.
In 2024, Germany’s renewable energy capacity increased by nearly 20 GW to approximately 190 GW, with renewables accounting for almost 60% of the nation’s electricity generation. This growth was primarily driven by expansions in solar and wind energy. The Bundesrat approved reforms to the Renewable Energy Sources Act, streamlining approval processes and enhancing support for biogas and combined heat and power plants. These measures have reduced wind energy project approval times from up to five years to about 1.5 years, accelerating the country’s energy transition.
https://www.gtai.de/en/invest/industries/energy/green-energy-news-march-2025-1882302