SpeedRead Sustainability #33: Weekly Highlights

Explore the latest sustainability updates and trends in this edition, which highlights the impacts and risks of social and environmental challenges, alongside innovative solutions that benefit both people and the planet.

Top Story:

Global Concerns Over Plastic Pollution Highlight Health Risks

As leaders gather for INC-5 to advance the UN Plastics Treaty, GlobeScan research reveals public concern over single-use plastics centers on health risks, such as microplastics and chemicals, alongside environmental impacts. Advocates are urged to frame plastic pollution as both a health and environmental crisis to drive stronger public engagement and policy action.

Business Spotlight:

World's Best Companies in Sustainable Growth 2025

TIME and Statista have recognized 500 companies excelling in financial performance and environmental sustainability. The list, dominated by midsize firms like Spain’s Solaria Energía and Grenergy Renovables, excludes corporate giants like Apple and Amazon due to insufficient growth or environmental impact. This ranking demonstrates how businesses across industries can achieve significant growth while prioritizing sustainability, reinforcing that economic success and environmental stewardship can coexist.

PUMA Engages Gen Z with Sustainability Podcast

PUMA Group new podcast, Green Flags, blends education and entertainment to inspire Gen Z on sustainability topics like circular fashion, carbon emissions, and renewable energy. Through relatable challenges and practical tips, the series highlights how small, individual actions can collectively drive meaningful environmental change.

LEGO's Transition to Paper-Based Bags: A Complex Sustainability Journey

the LEGO Group is phasing out single-use plastic bags in its sets, opting for paper-based alternatives after testing 180 paper varieties. These bags, designed to withstand transit and enhance the unboxing experience, are now in production worldwide, reflecting LEGO’s commitment to sustainable and recyclable packaging across its product line.

The Design Firm Making Net-Zero Emissions Buildings a Reality

CannonDesign is leading the shift to sustainable architecture with projects like Denver's net-zero Building 48. By repurposing old structures and using low-carbon materials, the firm reduces emissions while incorporating climate resilience and human-centered design.

New Powder Offers Breakthrough in Carbon Capture

A lab-developed yellow powder, known as a covalent organic framework, shows promise in combating the climate crisis by efficiently absorbing carbon dioxide from the air. Durable and reusable, the material requires low heat for regeneration, making it a practical solution for industrial applications and paving the way for scalable carbon capture technologies.

Fjällräven's Sustainability Leadership: Integrating Ethics and Innovation

Under CEO Martin Axelhed , Fjällräven has embedded sustainability into its core strategy, eliminating PFAS chemicals and championing durable, timeless designs. By prioritizing environmental responsibility and close supplier collaboration, the brand sets a high standard for sustainable growth in the outdoor apparel industry.

Formula 1 and Qatar Airways Partner for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Formula 1 has joined Qatar Airways' SAF program to reduce aviation emissions, marking a key milestone in its sustainability strategy. SAF, made from sustainable feedstocks, can cut lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80%. This partnership aims to decarbonize F1’s global logistics, aligning with its 2030 net-zero goals while showcasing how cross-industry collaboration can drive innovation and environmental progress.

Sweden's Hydrofoil Ferry Revolutionizes Sustainable Travel

Candela's P12 ferry, featuring hydrofoil technology and an electric drivetrain, cuts energy consumption by 75%, offering a faster and more sustainable transportation solution, according to founder and CEO Gustav Hasselskog.

San Quentin's Transformation: Rehabilitation Over Punishment

California's San Quentin prison is being redesigned into a Nordic-inspired rehabilitation center with classrooms, libraries, and green spaces to prepare inmates for societal reentry. This shift focuses on education and self-efficacy, signaling a belief in second chances and reducing recidivism.

Trends & Insights:

Land Degradation Expanding by 1m sq km Annually

A new report reveals land degradation is spreading at an alarming rate of 1 million square kilometers per year, with 15 million square kilometers already affected—an area larger than Antarctica. Unsustainable agricultural practices drive 80% of deforestation, reducing land's capacity to absorb carbon and worsening humanitarian crises.

Two Thirds of UK Fans Demand Sustainability in Soccer

A survey by Carbon Responsible reveals growing pressure on UK soccer organizations to enhance sustainability, with 66% of fans believing more effort is needed. Younger fans, especially Gen Z, are driving change by prioritizing net-zero goals and urging clubs to simplify sustainable behaviors for supporters.

Wildfire Air Pollution Causes 1.5 Million Deaths Annually, Disproportionately in Developing Countries

A study reveals wildfire-related air pollution leads to over 1.5 million deaths yearly, with 90% occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Highlighting severe health risks from PM2.5 and ozone, researchers call for urgent financial and technological support to address these environmental injustices in a warming climate.

Disinformation and Hacking Identified as Leading Global Threats

Ipsos' 2024 World Affairs report highlights disinformation and hacking as top global concerns, each cited by 76% of respondents across 30 countries. Despite rising fears of natural disasters, concerns about World War III have declined, reflecting evolving perceptions of global security risks.

Sustainability Takes a Backseat in Fashion’s 2025 Priorities

McKinsey’s 2025 State of Fashion report reveals sustainability has dropped as a key focus for fashion brands, overshadowed by weak sales and inflation pressures. While some progress continues, the industry risks falling behind without collaboration, supplier support, and stronger action toward decarbonization and circular practices.

Unlocking Business Value with Data-Driven Sustainability

Retail and consumer goods companies are leveraging ESG data to enhance sustainability and drive business value. By integrating data systems and using AI-powered solutions, companies like Eckes-Granini and Albert Hejin are improving transparency, reducing waste, and meeting environmental goals, demonstrating how ESG insights can simultaneously boost resilience and compliance.

Reclaiming Business Leadership in Climate Action

Businesses must shift from voluntary sustainability efforts to systemic change through political lobbying, movement-building, and pressure on peers and trade groups. By leveraging their influence, they can counter decades of fossil fuel industry resistance and drive meaningful climate progress.

Climate Change Challenges Professional Sports and Spurs Sustainability Innovations

Rising temperatures and extreme weather disrupt sporting events, venues, and athletes' health, posing significant challenges to the industry. However, sports organizations are adopting sustainable practices, from renewable energy and zero-waste policies to resilient infrastructure, aiming to secure a sustainable and adaptive future.

Extreme Weather Challenges for Gig Workers

Heat waves increase food delivery demand but expose gig workers to delays, health risks, and minimal financial gains. With limited labor protections, platform managers and policymakers must balance operational efficiency with worker safety during extreme weather conditions.

Advancements in Plant-Based Meat Alternatives

Plant-based meat manufacturers replicate the texture, flavor, and appearance of traditional meat through innovative methods like extrusion, emulsification, and the use of fats, proteins, and natural coloring agents. With global market growth projected at 20% by 2030, these alternatives are gaining popularity as sustainable and appealing options.

Reframing Climate Messaging for Impact

The focus on limiting global warming to 1.5°C has failed to resonate with the public, creating a binary narrative that oversimplifies the crisis. Experts suggest emphasizing relatable goals like reducing pollution and highlighting the irreversible consequences of inaction to drive meaningful climate action.

Bridging Climate Action and Polarized Views

Efforts to address climate change face resistance fueled by cultural and political divides. Solutions like framing climate action around shared values and engaging in meaningful, non-judgmental dialogues have shown promise in fostering understanding and reducing opposition.

Campaigns and Initiatives Roundup:

Yuka Empowers Consumers to Challenge Harmful Additives

Yuka’s new “Call-out” feature enables users to directly pressure brands to reformulate products containing high-risk additives linked to serious health concerns. By mobilizing consumer action via emails and social media, Yuka aims to drive transparency and industry change while updating users on progress.

Specialized Launches Free Repairs to Restore 1 Million Bikes

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Specialized aims to get 1 million bikes, of any brand, back on the road by 2025 through its Reduce, Reuse, ReSpecialized initiative. By promoting sustainability, reducing emissions, and enhancing rider experience, the program strengthens Specialized's leadership in the circular economy while benefiting consumers and retailers alike.

IAMS Highlights Pet Obesity with Giant Thanksgiving Parade Balloon

Pet food brand IAMS and adam&eveDDB London unveiled a massive Thanksgiving parade balloon in Chicago’s Loop, modeled after Waylon, an overweight dog. The balloon, stuck between buildings, drew attention to the 59% of American dogs struggling with obesity.