Environmental, social and governance (ESG)

While much of the world watched Olympians go for gold, host city Paris kept a close eye on the event’s environmental footprint. In this edition, we look at the greening of the Olympic Games, a new report on decarbonising iron and steel production, fresh plans for Rio Tinto’s Boyne smelter near Gladstone, Boral’s exploration of low-carbon concrete, plus a hospitality giant’s support for the circular economy, and more.

The latest edition of Westpac IQ’s ESG Impact puts energy investment in the spotlight with the recent release of the International Energy Agency’s World Energy Investment 2024 report. We also explore new recommendations for increasing First Nations employment in the clean energy industry, the environmental impact of artificial intelligence, efforts to cut the carbon footprint of fashion, and more.

There were several roadmaps to follow this month, with the Federal Government outlining its courses of action on sustainable finance and decarbonising the transport sector. We also report on the progress of zero-emissions haulage, a groundbreaking new electricity deal for a New Zealand aluminium smelter, how sustainable snake meat may boost food security, and more.

The success of the Australian government’s first green bond means more are likely to follow in the years ahead.

In 2016, Austral Fisheries took the bold step of going carbon neutral – not an easy task in an industry that relies on giant diesel-powered vessels. CEO David Carter talks about the inspiration behind the move.

Challicum Hills wind farm in Victoria, which began operation in 2003, was Australia’s first commercially funded renewables project. It established a framework for financing in the sector which continues to have relevance today.

ACEN Australia has an ambitious pipeline of renewable energy projects across multiple technologies, positioning it to be a key player in the country’s clean energy transition.

An innovative battery energy storage system in southwest New South Wales is designed not only to back up variable wind and solar power, but also replicate the role of coal power stations in providing grid stability and strength.

Luxury brand Louis Vuitton’s move to team up with a conservation charity to help protect biodiversity in Cape York in Far North Queensland is part of a growing trend towards big companies supporting “nature-positive” solutions.