This newsletter aims to provide key insights, expert analysis and actionable guidance as we navigate a world where ESG considerations continue to be a key theme in businesses’ relationships with stakeholders as well as regulatory and legal compliance.

ESG regulations and industry priorities continue to evolve. The European Commission’s omnibus package of proposed amendments to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) signals a clear response to concerns over regulatory complexity. The proposed revisions aim to ease compliance burdens while maintaining the EU’s ambitious sustainability agenda. In our lead article below, we explore the key changes outlined in the omnibus proposals and their potential impact.

Another major shift comes in the form of adjustments to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), a cornerstone of the EU’s climate strategy. While CBAM is designed to level the playing field for European industries, questions remain about its impact on global trade and supply chains. We outline below what businesses need to know as the framework evolves.

Beyond regulation, the Niamh Burke Renewable Energy Bursary, now in its fifth year, is open for applications. The bursary was established in memory of former Arthur Cox partner and consultant Niamh Burke and offers a €10,000 boost to students pursuing studies related to renewable energy. We also look forward to the Energy Ireland Conference 2025 as well as covering the Chambers DEI Global Report for 2024, which examines the latest diversity and inclusion trends in the legal profession and features a case study on Arthur Cox. 

Read the full update from our ESG Group: ESG Newsletter, Spring 2025

As always, if there is anything in this newsletter that you would like to discuss further, please get in touch with a member of our ESG Group by visiting our ESG Hub here.