Quick learning bites:

Here are some quick takeaways from recent developments. Read more on these in the longer reads section below.

• US Emissions Update: The latest US EPA Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2023 data) indicates a 17% reduction from 2005 levels. Transportation has overtaken electric power as the top CO2-emitting sector from fossil fuels.
• Aussies Cooling on Nuclear: Support for nuclear power in Australia has declined, with 59% now wanting to maintain the ban, up from 51% in 2023, according to a Monash University survey.
• April 2025 Second Warmest Globally: April 2025 was the globe's second-hottest April on record, marking the 21st month in the last 22 where global average temperatures exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
• Australian Shopping Centres Greener: The NABERS 2025 Index shows record sustainability participation from Aussie shopping centres, with 13 portfolios achieving 100% energy disclosure. QIC's Active Retail Property Fund leads with 5.9 energy stars and 97.46% renewable energy use.
• Renewable Diesel’s Catch: The surge in renewable diesel demand is raising concerns about potential tropical deforestation as land is converted for energy crops like oil palm and soy.
• AI's Thirst for Power & Water: AI model training and deployment in data centres are highly energy-intensive; a single AI data centre can use as much electricity as 100,000 homes. Image and video generation significantly increase this demand, alongside growing e-waste concerns.
• Australasia Bucks ESG Outflow Trend: In Q1 2025, Australian and New Zealand ESG funds attracted about US$305 million in net new money, contrasting with global record outflows of US$8.6 billion from sustainable funds.
• China's Renewables Overtake Thermal: For the first time, China's combined wind and solar power generation capacity has surpassed that of its thermal power plants as of Q1 2025.

Longer reads:

For those who want to delve deeper.

1. Climate Change & Global Impacts

• Copernicus: Second Warmest April Globally, Temperatures Persist Over 1.5°C Anomaly: Details on recent global temperature records and their significance. (Copernicus Climate Change Service)
• First Person: Living on the Climate Frontlines in Vanuatu: A personal account of the direct impacts of climate change on island nations like Vanuatu. (UN News)

2. Energy & Sustainability

• US Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report Shows Progress and Challenges: An insight into the latest US emissions data, highlighting sector-specific trends and the pace of reduction efforts. (CBS News)
• Is China's Race to Become a Climate Leader Paying Off?: An examination of China's significant investments and progress in renewable energy and climate initiatives. (Green Central Banking)
• Renewable Diesel’s Catch: Explores the potential environmental downsides of the growing renewable diesel market, particularly concerning feedstock sourcing. (Mongabay)

3. AI & Sustainability

• Podcast: The Environmental Footprint of AI: SBS News delves into the energy consumption, water usage, and e-waste associated with artificial intelligence. (SBS News)
• How CSOs Should Use AI for Sustainability: KPMG Insights: KPMG discusses the role of AI in helping Chief Sustainability Officers manage data, report effectively, and drive environmental initiatives. (ESG Dive)
• Redefining Sustainability: How AI is Helping Airlines Go Green: Examples of AI applications in the aviation industry aimed at reducing its environmental impact, from optimising catering to sustainable packaging. (APEX Aero)

4. ESG & Finance

• Australasia Defies Record Global ESG Outflows: Analysis of how ESG investment trends in Australia and New Zealand are faring compared to the rest of the world. (Financial Newswire)
• IEEFA: ESG Investment Trends May Fluctuate, But Climate Risk is Here to Stay: IEEFA's perspective on why underlying climate risk remains a critical factor for investors despite shifts in ESG sentiment. (IEEFA)

5. Australia & Policy

• What Australians Really Think of Nuclear Power: Monash University's latest survey reveals shifting public sentiment on nuclear energy in Australia. (Monash University)
• Shopping Centres Shine in NABERS 2025 Sustainability Portfolio Index: A look at how Australian retail properties are performing in sustainability benchmarks. (Shopping Centre News)
• US EPA Research in Limbo as Scientists Brace for Potential Job Cuts: Discusses the uncertainties facing US environmental research agencies. (Reuters)
• German Chancellor Pushes EU to Re-evaluate Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Law: Reports on Germany's stance regarding the EU's CSDDD and its implications for corporate accountability. (ESG News)
• Blue Bonds & Mangrove Protection: Small Island Nations Lead Climate Resilience: The Lowy Institute explores innovative financing and nature-based solutions for climate adaptation in vulnerable island states. (Lowy Institute)

‍