News from the World of Environmental Politics – April 2025

By Laura Mc Leod

After an unexpected hiatus, For Climate Out Loud is back—and so much has happened in the world of environmental politics over the past month. Episode 2 is now live with an update on April's biggest climate and environmental policy headlines from around the world.

Here’s a quick recap of what it covers:

Europe: Climate Progress and Political Whiplash

The European Union sent mixed signals in April. On the one hand, Germany announced a historic €100 billion investment in climate action and energy transition, and EU-regulated carbon emissions dropped 5% thanks to increased renewable and nuclear energy use. The EU’s Emission Trading System is on track to meet its 2030 targets.

On the other hand, the EU also moved to weaken key sustainability regulations. Smaller companies will be exempt from reporting their environmental impacts until 2028, and new proposals would allow laxer environmental due diligence requirements. Environmental groups have challenged these changes, calling them rushed and lacking transparency.

The EU is also considering watering down its 2040 climate targets—potentially relying more heavily on controversial carbon capture technologies, which many experts argue are inefficient and a distraction from real solutions. Meanwhile, its anti-deforestation law was loosened with less frequent reporting requirements for companies importing high-risk commodities.

Switzerland: The Swiss National Bank Faces Criticism

Switzerland’s National Bank faced public pressure for investing in companies that significantly damage the environment. Protesters and researchers are calling for stronger criteria to ensure financial institutions play a constructive role in the climate transition.

Brazil: Leading with Ambition

There’s encouraging news from Brazil, which is preparing to host this year’s UN Climate Summit. The country launched a bold $2 billion plan to restore 1 million hectares of degraded land and is calling on global powers—including the EU and China—to set stronger emissions goals.

China: Clean Energy Surges, But Targets Lag

China’s renewables now outpace its coal-powered energy capacity for the first time—a major milestone. Still, the country has not committed to more ambitious targets beyond its current 2030 goals. Its carbon intensity remains off track, though it continues to invest heavily in wind and solar infrastructure.

The Bigger Picture: Growth Through Green Policy

A joint OECD and UN report released in April found that ambitious climate action would increase global GDP—not harm it. Contrary to the myth that net-zero policies hurt economies, countries that act now stand to gain the most. Cutting emissions could lift 175 million people out of poverty by 2030 and reduce the risk of losing one-third of global GDP due to unchecked climate change.

United States: Setbacks and Sabotage

Unfortunately, the U.S. under the Trump administration is moving in the opposite direction. April saw:

• The firing of hundreds of scientists working on the federally mandated National Climate Assessment.

• Cuts to climate research funding at Princeton University.

• Loosening of environmental impact and mercury pollution rules.

• New exemptions to the Endangered Species Act.

• A retreat from international climate negotiations, including efforts to decarbonize shipping.

In short, the U.S. government is aggressively dismantling climate policy infrastructure and prioritizing fossil fuel interests—potentially undermining years of progress.

A Final Thought

The global picture is mixed. While some nations are stepping up with landmark investments and bold plans, others are backpedaling just when the stakes are highest. But one thing remains clear: real climate action isn’t just necessary—it’s economically and morally imperative.

Listen to the full episode for all the details — and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and follow For Climate Out Loud wherever you get your podcasts.