European power markets are experiencing a notable shift as renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar, become a larger part of the energy mix. On Wednesday, power prices in several European markets, including Germany, dipped below zero due to a surge in green electricity production.
Sustainable finance is facing an unexpected downturn, with ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) funds experiencing a sharp decline in 2024. After years of rapid growth, the number of new ESG fund launches dropped by 50% in the first half of the year. This decline is driven by market normalization, regulatory uncertainty, and greenwashing scandals, particularly affecting the U.S. market. However, Europe remains resilient, with French giants Amundi and BNP Paribas Asset Management leading new fund launches. To ensure sustainable growth in ESG investing, investors should focus on diversification, transparency, and innovation.
The global biodegradable plastics market is expected to reach USD 20.9 billion by 2028, reflecting a remarkable CAGR of 21.3% from USD 7.9 billion in 2023. This significant growth is driven by a combination of environmental concerns, regulatory actions, evolving consumer preferences, corporate sustainability initiatives, and advancements in biodegradable plastics technology.