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UK Government Proposes Ban on Plastic-Containing Wet Wipes to Tackle Pollution and Improve Water Quality

Published: 2023-10-13

The UK government has taken a significant step towards tackling plastic pollution and improving water quality by proposing a ban on wet wipes containing plastic. These wipes break down into harmful microplastics over time, which can have negative effects on the environment and human health. Major retailers such as Boots, Tesco, and Aldi have already stopped selling plastic-containing wet wipes, and the proposed ban would build on this action. This move aims to reduce the volume of microplastics entering wastewater treatment plants when wrongly flushed. The government is seeking views on banning the manufacture, supply, and sale of these wipes across the UK.

Meanwhile, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has been taking enforcement actions to protect consumers and small businesses. These actions include addressing greenwashing, which refers to the deceptive marketing practices used by companies to make their products or services appear more environmentally friendly than they actually are. ASIC is also cracking down on predatory conduct, poorly designed products, breaches of directors' duties, cyber resilience practices, and scam prevention by major banks. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that companies are held accountable for their actions and that consumers are not misled.

In a recent study by ESG Book, it was found that the majority of companies do not disclose important environmental, social, and governance (ESG) indicators. This lack of transparency is concerning, as ESG reporting is crucial for fund managers and investors to make informed decisions. The study revealed that only 0.4% of firms reported on measures such as the share of non-renewable energy versus renewable energy consumption, and only 22.2% reported their total greenhouse gas emissions. European companies had the highest disclosure rates, highlighting the need for global standards in ESG reporting.

Plastic recycling has been a topic of controversy, with environmentalists highlighting the negative impact of petroleum-based plastics on the environment. However, an article argues that scapegoating plastics is not the solution. Instead, the focus should be on improving recycling methods and implementing legal regulations to address the challenges faced by recycling facilities. The author advocates for advanced recycling methods that convert plastics into fuels or raw materials. They believe that the current recycling system in Massachusetts is working well and calls for a balanced approach to regulating plastics recycling.

In a surprising twist, a study by Ecosystem Marketplace found that companies participating in the voluntary carbon market (VCM) are actually climate leaders, not greenwashers. These companies are more likely to be decarbonizing their operations, investing in emission reduction, and setting science-based climate targets. However, media criticism and accusations of greenwashing are causing companies to fear participating in the VCM, potentially leading to a mass withdrawal that would have disastrous consequences for climate stability and nature conservation. The focus should be on improving integrity and standards in the market, rather than antagonizing companies.

In Zimbabwe, the government is planning to offer fiscal incentives to companies involved in carbon credit trading as part of its climate financing strategy. Carbon credits are tradeable certificates that offset one tonne of carbon dioxide or carbon dioxide equivalent. The government has introduced regulations to control and manage carbon credit trading projects, and a designated national authority will be established to promote the use of carbon credits in the market. The issuance of green bonds is also being explored as another climate financing strategy.

Compliance with ESG standards is becoming increasingly important for mining companies to secure investments and loans. Investors are demanding consistent reporting of emissions and socially responsible mining practices. The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is seen as a positive initiative by metal producers, but concerns about the administrative burden it may create have been raised. Mining companies are also investing in capacity to produce battery materials for the green transition.

In Jamaica, Sagicor Bank has launched a mortgage campaign and a one-stop-shop Mortgage Boutique experience focused on “eco-friendly” residential mortgages. The initiative aims to make home-ownership easier for Jamaicans while encouraging sustainability efforts. Customers can benefit from special offers, including competitive interest rates and discounts on commitment fees. The initiative is supported by Sagicor Property Services, Advantage General Insurance Company, and other partners.

In Vietnam, the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) have awarded cooperation pacts to pioneering enterprises. These enterprises will receive customized technical assistance to enhance their understanding of sustainable business models. The event also recognized firms as winners of the Vietnam ESG Initiative, highlighting their efforts in technological innovation, environmental protection, and climate change response. USAID is committed to promoting economic growth and competitiveness in Vietnam through collaboration with the MPI.

Lastly, concerns have been raised about the Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub (MACH2) project, which received a significant amount of federal grant funding. While the project is being promoted as “green” and “pink” hydrogen, an internal abstract reveals that “blue” hydrogen from fracked gas with carbon capture will be the hub’s first product. State Rep. Danielle Friel Otten emphasized the need for adequate regulation, oversight, and scrutiny to prevent greenwashing. She called for transparency, community engagement, and responsible negotiation of a regulatory framework that prioritizes public health, safety, and the environment in the development of clean-energy production.

These news summaries highlight the importance of transparency, accountability, and responsible business practices in the fight against greenwashing and the promotion of sustainability. It is crucial for consumers, investors, and regulators to be aware of deceptive marketing practices and to support companies that are genuinely committed to environmental, social, and governance goals.

https://www.miragenews.com/uk-gov-mulls-plastic-containing-wet-wipes-ban-1103524/

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