Welcome to my Monthly Roundup Newsletter! We’re a little late with September’s roundup, as it’s been a busy few weeks, but just like taking action on climate change—better late than never!
Each month, I’ll bring you updates that have piqued my and my team’s interest on key developments, articles, and important information related to climate change mitigation, emissions management and reduction, sustainability, and more in the climate change space.
In this issue, you’ll find insights on carbon units, wildlife, accountability in business practices, and exciting upcoming events.
Stay connected by following us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our mailing list for timely updates and insights.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts and feedback.
– Carly
Key Insights and Developments
Unpacking the Difference Between NZUs and VCUs
There’s a growing confusion surrounding New Zealand Units (NZUs) and Voluntary Carbon Units (VCUs)—what they are, their uses, and whether they are interchangeable. We clarify these concepts in our latest post, emphasizing that opting into the NZ ETS is not the same as participating in the voluntary carbon market. Read more here.
The F-List
In June 2024, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called advertising and PR agencies “enablers of planetary destruction” for their connections to fossil fuel clients. In response, the climate communications group Clean Creatives released its 2024 list of these agencies globally. A dedicated list for Australia and New Zealand has also been created in collaboration with Comms Declare.
Industry updates
Verra’s New Scope 3 Standard
Verra has launched a Scope 3 Standard Program Development Group to facilitate large-scale investment in credible supply chain climate action. Learn more about it here.
Forest Carbon Diligence Report
This interesting report summarises progress and challenges in mapping biomass globally. this topic is directly realted to my work with GFOI on the informed use of biomass maps in national GHG inventories. Next month we have a global working meeting on providing more guidance on the use of space based biomass data so look in next months round up. Explore the report here.
Innovation and Research
Promising Research Funded by AgriZero
AgriZero is supporting the development of a feed product that aims to achieve a 75% reduction in methane emissions from bolus. Find out more here.
AjiPro-L: A New Feed Supplement
AjiPro-L is a new feed supplement on the market, claiming to reduce NOx emissions and is currently being adopted in France. Read more here.
New Zealand
Otago University Climate Scores
Air NZ and Mitre 10 have received the lowest climate scores in recent Otago University rankings. Discover how leading NZ businesses are addressing climate change and what more they need to do. Congratulations to Sara Walton and her team for such initiative in this space. Read more here.
Greenpeace Sues Fonterra
Greenpeace has taken legal action against Fonterra over its 100% grass-fed butter claim, arguing that the company allows up to 20% non-grass feed in their cows’ diets while still labeling their product as grass-fed. Full transparency and accountability when making claims is the message here. Find out more here.
Climate Action Tracker Aotearoa
The Corporate Climate Action Tracker Aotearoa offers a New Zealand-specific tracker to analyse company reports and improve transparency around sustainability claims. Learn more here.
Coastal Wetland Blue Carbon Policy Research in Aotearoa
A groundbreaking report from The Nature Conservancy and the Ministry for the Environment emphasises the critical role of coastal wetlands in climate change mitigation and adaptation. We are proud to have worked on this project alongside Jacobs, Anderson Lloyd, and Conservation International. This report sets the stage for transformative action in coastal wetland management across Aotearoa New Zealand. Read the full report here.
Supreme Court Ruling on Fishery Sustainability
A recent Supreme Court ruling emphasises the importance of science and biodiversity over commercial interests, marking a significant victory for sustainable practices. Read more here.
Government and Centre for Sustainable Finance Partnership
The New Zealand government is collaborating with the Centre for Sustainable Finance to enhance the country’s global competitiveness and attract climate-focused investments. Learn more here.
Australia
Mandatory Climate Reporting in Australia
Australian businesses are gearing up for mandatory climate reporting, with ASIC urging them to prepare. Learn more here.
MLA’s Carbon Edge Trainers Manual
At EAS, we created a comprehensive manual for Meat and Lamb Australia’s (MLA) Carbon Edge trainers, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to address complex queries about carbon management in agriculture. Read about our case study here.
The Pacific
Timor-Leste’s Innovative Governance
Timor-Leste is prioritizing innovative governance in its land sector to address environmental pressures. Our collaboration in designing effective Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) systems is essential for comprehensive international reporting and accessing financial rewards for emissions reductions. Explore our involvement here.
Vanuatu’s Forest Reference Level (FRL)
In 2022, we supported Vanuatu in completing their Forest Reference Level (FRL), ensuring alignment with UNFCCC guidelines. We’re thrilled to see Vanuatu’s successful FRL verification. Learn more about our work here.
For a bit of fun
Geckos and Skinks: A Review
EAS senior consultant Dr. Felicity Thomas shares her appreciation for New Zealand’s hidden tresures in her review of Geckos and Skinks: The Remarkable Lizards of Aotearoa. These tiny creatures can be truly marvelous when we take the time to look closely. Check out her review here.
Your Name in Landsat
Try this engaging tool that creates unique images of your name using Landsat satellite data. Each attempt generates a new series of pictures. Our world from space is truly remarkable. Check it out here.
Carbon Tracker by Birth Year
Explore how CO2 levels have changed since the year you were born with this interactive carbon tracker. It’s a striking reminder of the urgency for climate action. Dont try this before bed! Discover it here.
WAO Summit 2024
Mark your calendars for the WAO Summit from October 29 to November 2 in Queenstown and Wānaka! Join us for an impactful week focused on climate action and community growth. Get your tickets here.
Thank you for joining us on this journey toward a more sustainable future. We hope you find these updates and insights both informative and inspiring. We look forward to bringing you more important climate news and developments next month. In the meantime, stay connected by following us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our mailing list for timely updates and insights