June 2025 updates: policy, finance and practice
Edge Impact
A global impact consultancy combining science, strategy and storytelling to reimagine sustainability for positive impact
We’ve brought together the most important moves in policy, finance and practice to help you confidently navigate the changing sustainability space—all in under 10 minutes.
Australia launches its first sustainable finance taxonomy to guide green investment
IFRS Foundation publishes new guidance on climate transition plan disclosures
APAC financial regulators are embedding climate risk into their frameworks
NZ’s environmental watchdog reveals new research on NZ’s resource use and waste
APCO delays introduction of the new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fee model until after FY27
TNFD confirms financial risks from nature loss, drawing on over 600 studies to guide risk disclosure
We asked Laura Reed, Edge’s Client Partner and Governance & Transparency Lead:
What’s one big question clients are asking you right now?
How do we drive greater value from our climate-related compliance reporting?"
Strategic benefits include identifying and prioritising business risks and opportunities linked to climate, strengthening investor and stakeholder trust, and uncovering efficiencies or innovations that support long-term resilience.
We're also guiding clients through the process of strengthening their ESG and climate governance approach so that the insights generated through aligning with the new standards make it to the right forums and inform better decision-making.
Learn more about ASRS readiness Assessment and Climate Disclosure resources here.
NZ’s natural resource footprint revealed
The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment (PCE) has released a new research note summarising five key studies on Aotearoa’s resource use and waste generation. It includes the most comprehensive natural resource footprint to date.
In 2019, 107 million tonnes of resources supported NZ’s consumption
72% of resources went to food, housing, infrastructure and mobility
60% were imported, highlighting growing global reliance
New guidance on GHG emissions in Aotearoa: uncertainty and data quality
The External Reporting Board (XRB) has released guidance to support preparers and assurers of climate-related Scope 3 GHG emissions disclosures in Aotearoa.
Focus on data quality and uncertainty to strengthen transparency
Provides practical examples and advice on measurement methods and judgement
Applies to reporting under the NZ Climate Standards (NZ CS)
TNFD confirms financial risks from nature loss
New research from the TNFD finds strong evidence that nature-related risks affect company cash flows, cost of capital, and access to finance. The report draws on over 600 studies and expert insights, offering guidance for businesses and regulators.
APCO delays proposed EPR fee model
Following extensive consultation, the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has confirmed it won’t implement its proposed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fee model in FY27.
The current turnover-based fee structure will stay in place
Feedback highlighted fairness concerns and regulatory alignment issues
A revised approach and consultation summary will be released from July 2025
Australia launches Sustainable Finance Taxonomy
The Australian Sustainable Finance Institute (ASFI) has released the country’s first Sustainable Finance Taxonomy to help steer capital into credible climate solutions.
Aligned with international standards while reflecting Australian context
Offers sector-specific guidance and First Nations engagement principles
Supports investors, lenders, and companies to identify and scale sustainable activities
Explore the key takeaways here.
New guidance on human rights due diligence in Australia
The UN Global Compact Network Australia (UNGCNA) and Pillar Two have launched the 2025 edition of Business Integration of Human Rights Due Diligence in Australia: Modern Slavery and Beyond.
Expands on the 2023 edition, with updated analysis of the policy and legislative landscape
Reviews ASX50 company reporting beyond modern slavery
Features new case studies from GPT Group, Optus, QIC and Westpac
APAC policy momentum on climate-related financial risk
A new UNEP FI brief highlights how climate risks are being integrated into financial regulation across the Asia-Pacific. Trends include stronger climate disclosure rules and integration into both micro and macro prudential regulation.
New IFRS guidance on disclosing climate transition plans
The IFRS Foundation has released implementation guidance to help entities disclose credible transition plans under IFRS S2. The guidance supports high-quality disclosures across mitigation and adaptation strategies and builds on work from the UK’s Transition Plan Taskforce.
New Impact Metrics for Modern Slavery Action in Property and Construction
Following the launch of the Pathway to Respecting Human Rights with the Property Council of Australia, Edge has co-developed a new tool. The first of its kind globally, this guide helps businesses move beyond intention and turn it into measurable impact.
Limited-Time Offer (Available only until July 30)
We’re offering complimentary support to help your team embed these tools:
1-hour training to apply the pathway and metrics
A Statement review by our modern slavery lead, Nick Dexter
Contact us today to find out more.
From aged care to chicken welfare to workforce futures—one message rang clear across the panel: the real challenge isn’t the work itself, it’s helping others see its value.
Edge’s Global Client Director of Experience, Max Van Biene GAICD, guest-hosted the Leaders In Sustainability Network event last week, where a room full of professionals gathered to reflect on the realities of delivering sustainability in complex organisations.
Read the key takeaways from the evening here.
Edge Impact's circular economy and packaging experts can support your organisation in understanding—and complying with—the new regulations while driving sustainability across your business.
Discover practical tips, FAQs and up-to-date resources to help you stay ahead.
Edge Impact has been undertaking climate risk assessments for over 15 years across a range of sectors and industries.
Explore our range of practical resources, each designed to help your organisation navigate the upcoming climate-related reporting requirements with confidence.
Download and explore our range of resources here.
Just starting your sustainability journey?
Explore practical resources and first steps to build momentum.
Ready to tackle specific challenges?
Get in touch with our experts to discuss tailored solutions for your organisation.
— The Edge Impact Team