KnowESG

Takeaways Quantified impact is helping built-environment companies move sustainability beyond reporting and into everyday project decisions. Measuring environmental, social, and economic factors together can help teams identify trade-offs, reduce risk, and improve long-term asset value. Early sustainability impact assessment can influence design, investment, and delivery choices before projects become costly to change.

Takeaways A growing number of data center noise lawsuits are challenging the impact of facilities on nearby communities, with Microsoft now facing a case in Wisconsin. The Microsoft lawsuit highlights concerns over low-frequency noise that conventional noise monitoring methods may fail to capture. The legal trend could increase pressure on data center operators to adopt stronger noise controls, acoustic barriers, and monitoring systems.

Takeaways The world is likely to exceed the 1.5°C warming limit in the coming years, according to UNEP. UNEP says limiting the size and duration of the temperature overshoot will require sharp cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, alongside stronger adaptation. Carbon removal, climate finance and international cooperation will become increasingly important in managing long-term climate risks.

Takeaways UNESCO is exploring how Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) should evolve beyond 2030 to address emerging global challenges. A global expert symposium in Munich is helping shape recommendations that will feed into the 2027 World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development in Nairobi. The process aims to strengthen education’s role in building sustainable, peaceful and just societies while preparing learners to actively drive change.

Takeaways Google has signed a 396 MW geothermal power purchase agreement with Fervo Energy, the largest enhanced geothermal deal of its kind globally. Fervo could expand Google’s power supply from the Cape Station project by another 600 MW, bringing the potential agreement to nearly 1 GW. The deal supports Google’s growing need for reliable, carbon-free energy as its data centre and AI infrastructure expands.

Takeaways OPITO and PETRONAS have launched a globally recognized Decarbonization Certification to build workforce capabilities for the energy transition. The program covers areas including climate science, GHG accounting, carbon pricing, energy efficiency, and CCUS. Originally developed by PETRONAS and INSTEP, the training has already been completed by around 102 PETRONAS employees.

Takeaways Nature Foods has released its Nature Foods ESG Report 2025, detailing its environmental, social, and governance performance and setting targets for 2026-2028. The company reported 5,171 tCO₂e in greenhouse gas emissions, 170,424 m³ of water consumption, and 1.43 million kg of industrial waste in 2025. Its upcoming ESG goals include cutting electricity and water use, launching rooftop solar, and moving toward full raw material traceability.

Takeaways Amazon has signed long-term agreements for nearly 200 MW of electricity from four Swedish wind farms. The deals are expected to bring Amazon’s electricity supply in Sweden close to 1 GW as its data centre footprint grows. Rising AI and cloud computing demand is making reliable, low-carbon electricity a strategic priority for technology companies.

Takeaways Octopus Energy has launched Octopus Charge, bringing access to more than 211,000 chargers across 24 partner networks in the US and Canada through one app. The service aims to tackle fragmented EV charging infrastructure, allowing drivers to find chargers, start sessions, and pay without managing multiple accounts. The platform could support EV adoption, although major networks including Tesla Superchargers, Electrify America and IONNA are not currently included.

Takeaways The European Investment Bank has approved $10.7 billion in new financing for businesses, energy systems, transport, and healthcare across Europe. Around $5 billion will support companies in nine EU countries, with a focus on strategic sectors such as energy, defence, space and agriculture. The package links climate finance with EU competitiveness, energy security, and economic resilience.