Sustainability Bulletin | 22 July 2024
Cura Terrae Land & Nature
Delivering sustainable solutions for a thriving environment.
Headlines
Six million people at risk from extreme heat in England, campaign group warns
Friends of the Earth warns that six million people in England are at risk from extreme heat due to inadequate climate protections. Their report highlights that older adults and young children, particularly those living in heat-vulnerable neighbourhoods, face the greatest risk. This includes 1.7 million children under five and 4.3 million people over 65. The analysis reveals 15,662 heat-vulnerable neighbourhoods, with Birmingham having the most. Prolonged periods of temperatures over 27.5°C are becoming more common, and the actual number of people at risk is likely higher when accounting for those with disabilities and health conditions.
The report also notes that 3.7 million people with high blood pressure, 1.5 million with asthma, and 1.6 million with diabetes live in these high-risk areas, where extreme heat can worsen these conditions. Friends of the Earth, along with disability rights activist Doug Paulley, will challenge the UK’s climate adaptation plans in a high court case next week. They argue that the current plans are inadequate and urge the new Labour government to implement stronger measures to protect those most vulnerable to climate impacts.
King’s Speech sets in motion ‘Energy Independence Bill’ and green industrial growth plans
The King delivered a major speech to the House of Lords, presenting over 30 bills following Labour’s landslide election victory earlier this month. The new Government has decided to forgo the traditional summer recess to prioritise its legislative agenda, which includes accelerating clean energy projects, expanding grid infrastructure, and boosting housebuilding. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasised that economic growth is central to his agenda, aiming to enhance stability and create wealth across the UK.
Legislation will support the creation of Great British Energy for renewable projects, with ambitious goals for offshore wind, onshore wind, and solar capacity. A new National Wealth Fund will invest £7.3 billion in sectors like electric vehicle batteries and carbon capture. Additionally, there will be bills to increase scrutiny of fiscal decisions and support workers. Despite the focus on growth, there are concerns about balancing infrastructure development with environmental protection and the need for effective climate adaptation strategies.
Is Britain on track for a zero-carbon power sector in six years?
Labour’s 2024 election victory brought a promise to make the UK a “clean energy superpower,” aiming for zero-carbon electricity by 2030 with the creation of Great British Energy. Coal's share in electricity has plummeted from 30% to under 1%, and wind and solar now provide over 28%, suggesting the target is achievable. However, removing gas from the power system is challenging and requires filling gaps left by renewables with reliable storage or low-carbon generators. Regulatory delays are slowing grid upgrades. Achieving full decarbonisation also means addressing emissions from Britain’s 27 million homes through technologies like heat pumps and solar panels.
From melting tracks to rising alcoholism – how sport is being forced to adapt to the effects of climate change
In her book Warming Up: How Climate Change is Changing Sport, sports ecologist Madeleine Orr reveals how climate change impacts global sports, from rescheduling races to midnight marathons. The book is timely as May 2024 was the warmest on record, continuing a troubling trend. This summer's major events, including the Paris Olympics and the Tour de France, are being affected by extreme weather.
Orr’s book highlights unusual effects of climate change on sports, like increased alcoholism among ski staff due to shorter seasons, and pollution impacting Olympic water sports. It underscores the urgent need for sports to adapt and address their environmental impact.
Sustainability At The Centre Of Formula E's London Finale
Now in its 10th year, Formula E is the leading global racing series specifically designed to showcase and advance electric vehicle technology, where the cars offer impressive speed, efficiency and sustainability. Formula E has unveiled its significant sustainability measures for the Season 10 finale, taking place on 20-21 July 2024 at the Hankook London E-Prix. This includes hosting 170 young women through the FIA Girls on Track programme, powering the event with 100% renewable energy, and supporting local community projects such as the Better Futures Fund's donation to Community Food Enterprise. Formula E also features hydration stations, reusable cups, and a sustainability education programme. The event will highlight diversity with music from local female artists and an Inspiration Hour community tour, reaffirming Formula E’s commitment to social and environmental sustainability.
UN forum on sustainable development concludes with renewed commitment, call for urgent action
The High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development ended on 17 July, urging accelerated actions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Held under the UN Economic and Social Council, the Forum's theme was "Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises."
Key outcomes included debates on the ministerial declaration, which saw contentious votes. One amendment, supported by Belarus and others, urged states to avoid unilateral economic measures that hinder development, while another, proposed by Israel, sought to remove a paragraph linking sustainable development with peace and security. The latter was retained after a vote. Paula Narváez, ECOSOC President, emphasised the urgency of implementing the 2030 Agenda and praised the negotiation process, which involved extensive discussions to produce a balanced document.
How Germany aims to get to net zero without breaking the bank
Germany faces a €17 billion budget shortfall while striving for climate neutrality by 2045, complicating the transition to low emissions. The 2025 budget does not fully cover the costs of electrification, carbon sequestration, and renewable hydrogen, potentially impacting energy projects.
Funding measures include EU carbon pricing, which raised €18 billion for climate initiatives in 2023, and a fuel tax aimed at encouraging electric vehicles. The renewable energy surcharge was abolished in 2023, shifting costs to the general budget. Additional measures include grid fees, a proposed hydrogen transport grid cost plan, and subsidies for alternative fuels.
Legislation and policy
Labour has left farmers facing agriculture budget ‘cliff edge’, says NFU
Farmers are facing uncertainty as the Labour government has not committed to maintaining England's agriculture budget, according to the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) president. This is a key issue amid Labour's tight fiscal rules. Conservative MPs plan to challenge the lack of commitment, with Labour deferring comments until after the autumn spending review.
Previously, £2.4 billion annually supported farmers in England, linked to environmental improvements. This funding is set to end this year, leaving farmers with just months to plan their finances. NFU President Tom Bradshaw is urging the government to secure and potentially increase the budget, emphasising the importance of stable funding amid environmental challenges.
Chris Skidmore launches investment bank to catalyse net zero growth
Skidmore announced the launch of Desmos Capital Partners at an event in London this week. Desmos, a global "boutique" investment firm, will be based in the UK, France, Canada, and the UAE. It aims to attract private investment for low-carbon transition projects, focusing on firms in Series A or B funding rounds, and plans to support international connections for startups and scaleups. Skidmore highlighted the importance of cleantech in achieving the UK's clean energy goals and creating well-paid jobs.
Desmos will back innovations in low-carbon heating, digital energy management, and zero-emission transport. Skidmore, a former UK Minister and critic of recent government policies on climate, continues to work on global green initiatives and research. He has advocated for long-term certainty in net zero policies to attract up to £1 trillion in investment, which is crucial for addressing climate challenges and unlocking economic opportunities.
Cumbria coal mine shows planning is the next battleground in UK climate policy
Last week, the UK’s new Labour government, led by Angela Rayner, withdrew support for a coal mine near Whitehaven in Cumbria, approved by the previous Conservative administration. This decision follows a Supreme Court ruling that has made it more difficult to approve new fossil fuel sites. Rayner cited an "error in law" by former minister Michael Gove in 2022. Despite ongoing legal challenges from the mine's developers and environmental groups, the government’s move signals a shift away from fossil fuels. However, to fully embrace clean energy and economic justice, Labour must address planning reforms and balance local concerns with climate goals.
Why Westminster’s new backbench MPs may unlock progress on climate change
The UK government considers its backbenchers crucial, a point highlighted by political scientist Anthony King's 1976 article. This dynamic was evident during 14 years of Conservative rule, where internal party debates often dictated policy, including climate issues. Recent research by Alan Wager using polling data from 2019 to 2024, reveals that MPs' views on climate change were strongly influenced by their party affiliation. Labour MPs showed more support for climate action than Conservatives, who were often hesitant about climate policies due to internal opposition. With many new Labour MPs having climate movement backgrounds, this trend likely continues.
Sustainable products to become norm for consumers as new law enters into force
The EU's new Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) mandates higher sustainability standards for a wide range of products. It aims to enhance durability, repairability, and recyclability while reducing harmful chemicals and increasing recycled content. The ESPR, building on the existing Ecodesign Directive, introduces performance and information requirements, including a Digital Product Passport. It bans the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear, with some exceptions. Implementation will begin with a multiannual working plan covering key products like clothing and electronics. The European Commission will also create an Ecodesign Forum for stakeholder input.
EU invests record €7 billion in sustainable, safe and smart transport infrastructure
The EU will allocate over 7 billion euros to 134 projects under the 2023 Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) call for proposals to enhance sustainable transport infrastructure. This funding will support upgrades and construction of railways, roads, inland waterways, and short-sea shipping routes, including connections to ports, airports, and multimodal terminals.
Projects in Ukraine and Moldova will also receive support to develop the EU Solidarity Lanes and smart traffic management systems. Major cross-border rail projects, maritime port upgrades, inland waterway improvements, and road safety enhancements are included. Air traffic management projects aim to develop the Single European Sky for better efficiency and environmental performance.
Strict EU sustainable finance rules deter emerging market investment, banks say
EU rules on sustainable finance are deterring investment in emerging markets, warns Michael Jongeneel, CEO of FMO. Strict requirements are pushing potential clients toward Chinese and Middle Eastern investors. The EU’s “green asset ratio” fails to recognise overseas investments, creating reputational risks and deterring private capital.
Brussels plans to raise €300 billion for global infrastructure through its Global Gateway scheme, but regions like the Gulf and China are increasing their investments elsewhere. Critics, including the European Development Finance Institutions (EDFI), argue that the stringent rules harm progress and Europe’s influence. The European Commission is considering adjustments but has faced criticism for its impact on development and competitiveness.
JD Vance: Climate activists alarmed by Trump’s ‘dangerous’ pick for vice president
Campaigners are alarmed by Ohio Senator JD Vance’s selection as Donald Trump’s vice presidential nominee, citing his climate denial and strong ties to the oil industry. Despite previously advocating for clean energy, Vance now supports fossil fuels, receiving substantial donations from Big Oil. Critics argue he will undermine climate protections and backtrack on clean energy progress. Activists stress that Vance's views and actions align with Trump's anti-climate agenda, which has already harmed US climate efforts. A second Trump term could exacerbate climate issues, significantly increasing US greenhouse gas emissions.
‘It’s nonsensical’: how Trump is making climate the latest culture war
At a recent rally, Donald Trump criticised low-flow water fixtures and energy-efficient appliances, framing them as part of a broader attack on environmental policies. Trump has denounced electric vehicles and offshore wind turbines, promising to eliminate related incentives. His administration previously rolled back efficiency standards for toilets and lightbulbs, which the Biden administration has since restored.
Republicans, inspired by Trump, are now introducing bills targeting energy efficiency standards for home appliances. This trend, supported by a right-wing backlash against clean energy, is eroding bipartisan support for renewables, with recent polls showing decreased backing for solar, wind power, and electric vehicles.
Reporting and disclosures
Using the same assurance methodology for sustainability and financial reporting could be short-sighted
As global jurisdictions adopt sustainability reporting requirements, a dual approach is emerging that combines finance and sustainability professionals' methodologies. Over 20 jurisdictions, representing nearly 55% of global GDP and more than half of global greenhouse gas emissions, have adopted or are adopting standards set by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). This shift is expected to increase the demand for sustainability assurance services. Critics argue that modelling these methods solely on financial information is limited.
Fresh guidance launched for nature-focused science-based targets
The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) has released an updated guide to help companies set science-based targets for nature. Last year, SBTN launched a global initiative to help firms evaluate and mitigate their environmental footprints, initiating a pilot programme with a group of companies. This year, 24 new companies, including Accenture, Heineken, and Toyota North America, joined the programme. The pilot programme, completed in June, informed the new guidance for setting feasible, science-aligned targets. Further results will shape the next iteration of guidance. Only 14% of businesses feel they have no role in supporting nature beyond legal requirements, with 62% addressing biodiversity impacts and 74% having net zero plans. CDP data shows a 24% increase in climate and nature disclosures from the previous year.
EUDR: Meeting new regulations collaboratively to reduce global deforestation
EUDR, effective from 30 December 2024, aims to reduce global deforestation, allowing biodiversity to thrive. Yet, many companies lack clear guidelines and data platforms from the EU. Compliance poses challenges, particularly for industries like cocoa, where small farms are prevalent. Essential steps include implementing robust traceability systems, managing crop expansions ethically, and educating farmers on human rights. Only 7.5% of soft commodity manufacturers can currently prove their supply chains are deforestation-free. Collaboration with farmers and communities is crucial for achieving sustainable and compliant supply chains.
ISSB and EFRAG publish guidance to streamline sustainability reporting
The IFRS Foundation and EFRAG have issued guidance to align the International Sustainability Standards Board’s (ISSB) IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). This aims to help companies efficiently apply both standards, especially for climate-related disclosures, reducing complexity and duplication. The guidance harmonises key concepts like materiality and presentation, enhancing transparency and comparability. It supports global sustainability reporting, praised by EU officials for reducing reporting burdens and advancing data quality. This collaboration aids companies in meeting both ISSB and ESRS requirements, streamlining ESG and sustainability reporting.
Tech giants ask data centre suppliers for emissions data as AI pushes Scope 3 spike
The iMasons Climate Accord (ICA) Governing Body, including AWS, Digital Realty, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Schneider Electric, released an open letter on 16 July. The letter advocates for adopting Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), which detail a product's greenhouse gas emissions across its lifecycle. While EPDs are common in many sectors, they are rare in the data centre industry, which is increasingly scrutinised for its carbon footprint. With internet use and data centre demand soaring, addressing Scope 3 emissions is crucial. EPDs provide transparency, helping companies meet net zero goals by making informed, low-carbon procurement decisions.
Conferences and events
Sustainability LIVE
10-11 September, Business Design Centre, London
Sustainability LIVE London offers a hybrid event, fostering connections and discussions on critical sustainability issues. Join to explore innovative strategies, gain insights from experts, and collaborate on shaping a sustainable future for enterprises.
New Statesman Regional Development Conference 2024
14 November, The Studio, Manchester
From the next tier of devolution and the role of skills and investment in regional growth to the regional benefits of the net zero transition and the role that transport can play in connecting ‘left behind’ parts of the UK, the New Statesman's annual Regional Development conference will bring you key insights into the biggest opportunities and challenges of the levelling up strategy and address pressing questions on the future of local growth.
Recycling Expo 2024
15-16 October, ExCel London
Recycling Expo is more than just an event; it’s a marketplace dedicated to connecting industry providers with buyers and creating business relationships centred around responsible resource management, an increase in the reuse of materials, a reduction of consumption based Co2 production, and a shift away from wasteful linear economy models. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to inspire, educate, and connect businesses in their journey towards a less wasteful economy and a more eco-conscious future.
Responsible Packaging Expo 2024
15-16 October, ExCel London
Attendees can expect to absorb insights from some of the brightest minds in the industry, with an impressive line-up of seminars sharing nuggets of wisdom about everything from recyclables to edible packaging. Along with the educational side, there will also be countless relevant products on display for visitors to browse, get more familiar with, and even order at special discounted prices.
UK Black Business Week 2024
14-19 October, ExCel London
With events delivered by industry leaders, the UK Black Business Week promises to equip black professionals and entrepreneurs with business insights, new skills and knowledge.
London Climate Technology Show
27 November, Excel London
The London Climate Technology Show aims to be the largest climate technology exhibition and conference in the world for advancing the global net zero economy transition and shaping a sustainable future with ground breaking and collaborative technologies.
Sustainability in 60 seconds
What is CPD?
In our latest video, Sustainability Consultant Sophia Reeve explains what CDP is.
CDP, previously known as the Carbon Disclosure Project, is a non-profit organisation promoting transparency and action on environmental issues by overseeing a global disclosure system.
CDP provides organisations with a score, which is an assessment of how an organisation operates in line with a 1.5-degree Celsius, nature-positive future. These scores are aligned with other major environmental standards to allow for comparability.
The scoring deadline for disclosures is the 18th September 2024. If your business needs support or advice in the new reporting period, get in touch with colin.brown@ecusltd.co.uk.