Renewables Surpass Coal Globally as Mexico Updates NDC 3.0

This week in sustainability news: renewable energy has surpassed coal as the world’s largest source of electricity generation for the first time. Meanwhile, Mexico unveiled new details of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) during Mexico Climate Week. PROFEPA signed an agreement with ANIQ to enhance verification processes for the import, export, and reexport of hazardous materials, substances, and waste.

More news below:

Renewables Surpass Coal in Global Electricity for the First Time

Renewable energy has overtaken coal as the world’s largest source of electricity generation for the first time. In 1H25, wind and solar power produced 5,072TWh globally, surpassing coal’s 4,896TWh and marking a milestone in the transition to a lower-carbon energy economy. The shift is primarily driven by growth in China and India.

Mexico Unveils Updated NDC 3.0 Commitments Ahead of COP30

Speaking at Climate Week Mexico, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Alicia Bárcena presented new details on Mexico’s updated nationally determined contribution (NDC 3.0), including a 35% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2035. Mexico plans to reduce emissions to 564–604 million tCO2e, with an additional 532–569 million tCO2e reduction contingent on international climate financing. 

PROFEPA, ANIQ Sign Environmental Inspection Treaty

Mexico’s Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA) and the National Chemical Industry Association (ANIQ) signed an agreement to strengthen verification processes in the import, export, and reexport of hazardous materials, substances, and wastes. The new agreement establishes collaboration mechanisms for training, information exchange, planning, and institutional coordination to streamline PROFEPA’s environmental verification and inspection processes.

Mexico EU Push Sustainability, Social Justice at VI Forum 

Mexico and the European Union reiterated their commitment to advancing a green and inclusive transition during the VI Mexico–EU Forum, aimed at strengthening political and economic sustainability cooperation. Minister of Environment Alicia Bárcena called for stronger biregional cooperation to promote a “green, inclusive, and just transition” that balances sustainable development, social justice, and environmental protection. 

Smart Decarbonization: Sustainability is a Competitive Advantage

Decarbonization is a competitive advantage for MSMEs. Focus on renewables, efficiency, and green finance to drive growth, writes Andrés Friedman.