IMO's Net-Zero Framework, Climate Cooperation, and ESG Updates

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced a new framework to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by 2050. Meanwhile, Mexico and the United Kingdom discussed the need for stronger bilateral cooperation on climate issues.

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IMO Aims to Reach Net Zero Emissions by 2050

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced a Net-Zero Framework aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions from large ships by 2050, including a global fuel standard and a carbon pricing mechanism starting at US$100 per excess ton of CO₂. The plan, backed by 63 countries but opposed or abstained from by oil exporters and the United States, will require ships to improve fuel efficiency or switch to cleaner alternatives like methanol or green hydrogen. Revenues from emission fees will fund low-emission ship design, R&D, and support for developing nations, with the regulations set for formal adoption in 2025 and implementation by 2027.

Mexico, UK Deepen Climate Cooperation Amid Global Uncertainty

At the Mexico-United Kingdom Summit, Minister of the Environment Alicia Bárcena emphasized the urgency of international cooperation to tackle climate change and its economic impacts, including water stress and rising inequality. She highlighted key climate actions underway in Mexico, such as promoting EVs, conserving mangroves, and developing a national emissions market, while pointing to joint initiatives like a sargassum processing project in Quintana Roo and green financing mechanisms. Bárcena explained that climate change is both a global threat and an opportunity for economic transformation through a just and collaborative transition.

FAO Commits to Landscape Restoration at 20x20 Summit

At the 20x20 Initiative Summit, the FAO reaffirmed its commitment to landscape restoration as a key strategy for sustainable development, climate resilience, and transforming agrifood systems in Latin America and the Caribbean. Deputy Regional Representative Eve Crowley highlighted regional efforts such as the Central American Dry Corridor Initiative, which aims to restore 300,000 hectares and generate 5,000 green jobs by 2030. The summit emphasized the region’s leadership in ecosystem restoration under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, supported by strong partnerships and coordinated regional action.

Provident, UN Women Partner on Financial Inclusion

Provident Mexico and UN Women Mexico launched a three-year initiative, Finances for All, to promote financial inclusion and economic empowerment for female entrepreneurs, particularly those in vulnerable conditions in Oaxaca and the State of Mexico. The program includes financial education, savings mechanisms, and policy support, alongside corporate reforms within Provident to strengthen gender equality practices. Through partnerships with government and civil society, the initiative aims to dismantle sociocultural barriers and advance gender-responsive development aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Latin America to Meet Only 23% of SDG Targets by 2030

According to a new ECLAC report, Latin America and the Caribbean are on track to meet only 23% of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) by 2030, as the region has seen setbacks in key areas like poverty reduction, inequality, and climate action. The report attributes these shortcomings to weak institutions, limited fiscal capacity, and post-pandemic challenges, while highlighting deep regional disparities and governance issues.