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US-based Verra has received approval from the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM) for its new cookstoves methodology under the Core Carbon Principles (CCPs) Assessment Framework. This approval marks a significant milestone for clean cooking projects and the voluntary carbon market, reinforcing the methodology’s scientific rigor and credibility. The methodology, VM0050, is one of the first for clean cooking projects to meet ICVCM’s high-integrity standards, ensuring real and measurable emissions reductions. This development aligns with efforts to strengthen confidence in the voluntary carbon market and its compatibility with international agreements like the Paris Agreement and CORSIA.

Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) announced a $100 million investment to upgrade the Nationwide Broadband Network, increasing speeds significantly. The Green Data Centre Roadmap was launched to improve energy efficiency and sustainability in AI computing. Furthermore, the Energy Efficiency Grant was introduced to support data centres in upgrading to more efficient equipment. IMDA aimed for a balance between rapid digital infrastructure development and environmental sustainability.

UK-based entities have announced support for South Africa’s energy transition through the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). The UK is providing over £330,000 to the Energy Council of South Africa for market reform analysis and interim transmission solutions. GuarantCo and British International Investment (BII) are offering $100 million in guarantee finance to unlock $500 million in renewable energy projects, adding 500MW to the grid and reducing CO2 emissions by 1.2 million tonnes annually. This initiative supports South Africa’s transition to a lower carbon economy and job creation.

Italy’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security, the Italian Gas Committee, and Hera’s subsidiary Inrete Distribuzione Energia have signed a protocol to test a mixture of natural gas and up to 10% hydrogen in household networks. The project, located in Modena, aims to decarbonize local areas by using existing gas infrastructure without modifying current heating systems. Initial trials will introduce a 5% hydrogen mixture, with plans to increase this percentage. The project involves collaboration with various partners and is supervised by internationally recognized bodies.

Philippines-based Indigenous leaders signed a landmark agreement to establish the country’s first locally owned forest carbon project. The initiative, which aims to protect 39,000 hectares of forest, will generate revenue through the sale of carbon credits to combat deforestation. This agreement encourages community management of resources and aims to set a standard for integrating biodiversity and community engagement into carbon trading.

US-based Minnesota House of Representatives has proposed a bill, HF1066, to increase funding for soil and water conservation districts from $12 million to $22 million starting in 2025. This funding aims to help these districts carry out their mission of managing natural resources with private landowners. The initiative was supported by Rep. Liz Reyer and emphasized by Sheila Vanney from the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, highlighting projects like lakeshore stabilization and urban rain gardens. This bill underscores a collaborative effort towards sustainable land management and improved water quality in Minnesota.

Brazil has sent international cooperation agreements to the National Congress, signed with Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, and the International Committee of the Red Cross. The agreement with Bangladesh focuses on technical cooperation in sustainable forest management and renewable energy, aiming to strengthen social and economic development between the two nations. The cooperation will include aspects of agriculture, livestock, and management of natural resources.

The European Union has underscored the critical role of hydrogen in its upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). As part of its strategic focus on sustainability and energy security, the EU initiated a public consultation to invite stakeholders to advocate for continued investment in hydrogen technologies. This initiative aims to ensure robust financial support for the hydrogen sector, emphasizing its significance in fostering competitiveness and decarbonizing the European economy. The consultation will influence the allocation of resources post-2027 for hydrogen research, innovation, and infrastructure development.

US-based Google has launched the first-ever Google for Startups Accelerator: AI for Energy, a 10-week program aimed at supporting startups focused on integrating AI into their energy solutions. The program includes mentorship and technical support for selected startups, enhancing their capacity to contribute to the energy sector. It targets themes such as grid optimization, demand response technologies, and energy efficiency, helping startups accelerate their development and impact in the field. Applications for the North American cohort opened on March 6, 2025.