In the news for Monday, September 29, 2025, climate policy and corporate sustainability are prominent themes. Key developments include the Trump administration's support for expanded coal leasing, significant corporate actions by Apple and Tata Steel, and warnings about the financial risks associated with climate change.

Climate policy and energy

Expansion of coal leasing: The Trump administration announced a plan to expand coal leasing on federal lands and fund upgrades for coal-fired power plants. This move drew criticism from environmental groups, with the Sierra Club arguing it would increase pollution and harm public health.

EU and resources: A warning from the EU stated that climate change and pollution continue to threaten Europe's resources.

New York State climate investment: New York is moving forward with a $1 billion climate investment, accelerating the procurement of new wind and solar projects ahead of the potential expiration of federal subsidies.

Shift in renewable energy investment: The Trump administration's retreat from renewable energy is reportedly causing a wave of mergers and asset sales among smaller U.S. solar and wind companies.

Tackling the AI energy boom: An energy official stated that coal plants will likely be kept online to help power the energy-intensive boom in artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, some data center operators are planning to co-locate near specific energy sources, including nuclear plants, to manage their high power demands.

Corporate sustainability initiatives

Apple's forest restoration: Apple launched a new project aimed at restoring forests and generating carbon credits.

IBM's new tool: IBM introduced a new software tool designed to help companies integrate their greenhouse gas (GHG) emission calculations into their existing data systems.

Tata Steel and decarbonization: India's Tata Steel announced a pact with the Dutch government to lower carbon emissions from its steel production.

Luxury car manufacturing: Mercedes-Benz revealed that it is using low-carbon aluminum, produced with renewable energy and recycling, to reduce the environmental footprint of its new electric vehicle lines.

Corporate sustainability reporting: A PwC survey found that most companies feel increasing pressure to provide sustainability reports, even with regulatory changes and rollbacks.

Global environmental and water issues

Dry wells in Afghanistan: In Kabul, water scarcity has become a severe issue, with wells running dry and driving children out of school to join water queues.

Wildfire impacts: Wildfires in Namibia ravaged one-third of the country's flagship national park. A recent study also found that wildfire smoke is increasingly threatening lives across the United States.

Fishmeal and fertilizer from waste: A Peruvian fishmeal and fish oil company is reportedly using plant waste to create fertilizer, aiding its environmental sustainability efforts.

Other key news

Cosmetic packaging innovation: Silgan Dispensing introduced a new all-plastic, fully recyclable pump system called ERA for the cosmetic industry.

Financial risk from nature loss: A Barclays study highlighted that company earnings could drop by as much as 25% over five years due to disruptions from nature degradation.

Sustainability leaders in plastics: Plastics News released its "Notable Leaders in Sustainability 2025," recognizing those pushing the industry toward a more circular economy.

AI responses may include mistakes.