Stay informed on the latest sustainability developments with this weekly update, covering pivotal shifts in environmental policy, energy efficiency, and regulatory frameworks.
The EU agreed on new plastic pellet pollution regulations, while the shipping industry will now pay for vessel carbon emissions. The Czech Republic strengthened its “polluter pays” principle, Germany adopted its Sustainability Strategy 2025, and Italy launched a €232 million renewable energy program. Brazil updated ambitious climate targets ahead of hosting COP30, the UK introduced steep fines for greenwashing, and Southeast Asia shows potential as a hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel production. UNEP’s Champions of the Earth Award nominations remain open until April 30.
On 8 April 2025, the Council of the EU and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on a new regulation to prevent the loss of plastic pellets (microplastic pollution) across the supply chain. The rules will mandate stricter handling and cleanup measures for plastic pellet spills on land and at sea. This EU-wide measure aims to reduce the 52 140 and 184 290 tonnes of pellets lost to the environment each year (estimation based on 2019 data).
In a landmark decision, the global shipping industry will now have to pay for the carbon dioxide emissions generated by their vessels. This marks the first time such a measure has been implemented within the sector, driven by regulations from the International Maritime Organization. While seen as a step forward in addressing shipping’s climate impact, the agreement doesn’t go as far as a broader carbon levy that many developing nations were advocating for. These nations had hoped such a levy would generate funds to help them cope with the growing challenges of the climate crisis.
Shipping companies to pay for carbon dioxide produced by vessels | Shipping emissions | The Guardian
The Czech government approved an amendment to the Environmental Damage Prevention and Liability Act aimed at improving prevention and remediation of major environmental accidents. The draft law will streamline and accelerate responses to serious environmental harm (to water, soil, protected habitats) and strengthen the “polluter pays” principle. The move was prompted by past incidents (e.g. the Bečva River chemical spill) where legal gaps hindered accountability under existing water and nature protection laws.
A new study published 9 April 2025 by the Stockholm Environment Institute revealed gaps in Estonia’s and Sweden’s implementation of the EU Green Deal commitments. It found that limited institutional capacity and a lack of coherence between EU and national policies are slowing down the adoption of European climate and environmental legislation in the countries
Study: Green Deal implementation in Estonia and Sweden has gaps. • Table.Media
The German Cabinet approved an updated German Sustainability Strategy 2025 (Deutsche Nachhaltigkeitsstrategie) in early April. Titled “Transformation gemeinsam gerecht gestalten” (“Shaping Transformation Together Fairly”), the strategy builds on the 2021 plan and aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It was adopted by the government on 2 April 2025 and serves as Germany’s roadmap to 2030, calling for accelerated efforts over the next five years to reach climate and sustainability targets. The update incorporated public input and expert consultations, underscoring a whole-of-society approach to sustainable development
Cabinet adopts German Sustainable Development Strategy 2025 | Federal government
On 8 April 2025, Italy launched the “C.S.E. 2025 – Comuni per la Sostenibilità e l’Efficienza energetica” program, a funding call to help municipalities invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency for public buildings. The Environment and Energy Security Ministry allocated €232 million in grants (covering 100% of project costs) for installing solar panels, geothermal heat pumps, LED lighting, high-efficiency windows, and other upgrades in municipal facilities
In his April 2, 2025, speech, Paolo Angelini, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Italy, discussed how geopolitical fragmentation is hindering global environmental sustainability efforts and complicating the green transition. He emphasized the role of central banks in managing climate-related risks and called for caution in revising EU sustainability regulations while promoting transparency and investments in renewables. Angelini reaffirmed the Bank of Italy’s commitment to sustainability as essential for economic stability and growth.
La sostenibilità nell’industria finanziaria: vecchi modelli per nuovi scenari?
UN experts are urging Switzerland and other European states to accelerate climate efforts following a landmark European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruling. The ruling found Switzerland liable for human rights violations due to insufficient climate action. Experts recommend using UN guidance to ensure climate measures do not discriminate and to inform the public about risks and priorities. This comes as Switzerland faces rising temperatures, glacier loss, and extreme weather events.
UN experts urge Switzerland and other states to accelerate climate efforts – JURIST – News
Starting April 6, 2025, companies making misleading environmental claims could face fines up to 10% of their global annual turnover, according to the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The CMA will initially focus on the most harmful practices, including false information and unfair contract terms. This action follows increased scrutiny of “greenwashing” in the food and drink sector, with firms like Arla Foods and JBS facing accusations of misleading consumers. The CMA’s new powers aim to deter companies from making misleading environmental claims and encourage evidence-based commitments to reduce emissions.
Greenwashing fines worth up to 10% of turnover possible from 6 April
As the host of COP30 in Belém, Brazil is positioning itself as a global leader in climate action. The country has updated its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), aiming to reduce emissions by 59–67% by 2035 from 2005 levels. To achieve these targets, Brazil is implementing its “Plano Clima” and developing a national emissions trading system (ETS) to attract private sector investment and demonstrate commitment beyond rhetoric
Mexico’s Federal Executive published reforms to establish new regulations for the electricity, hydrocarbons, and renewable energy sectors. These reforms aim to modernize and strengthen the country’s energy industry
Mexico mandated sustainability reporting for securities issuers and other securities market participants, starting in 2026. This aims to align the Mexican securities market with international sustainability standards
The UNEP Champions of the Earth Award 2025 is open for nominations until April 30, 2025. The award honors people and organizations that are making a transformative impact on the environment by addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Nominations can be made in the categories of Policy leadership, Inspiration and action, Entrepreneurial vision, and Science and innovation. UNEP staff and subject matter experts select Champions based on impact, novelty, and influence.
A Canadian-ASEAN research project found that Southeast Asia can become a global hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production, leveraging its abundant agricultural waste. The initiative could exceed local demand, enabling exports, while promoting job creation and environmental benefits. To succeed, it requires policy harmonization, infrastructure investment, and scaled-up production.
Southeast Asia Poised to Become a Global Hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel – ASEAN Main Portal