2022 - a year of ongoing uncertainties as COVID-19 pandemic rages on, geopolitical tension and global energy crisis from Russian-Ukraine conflict formed the backdrop for the global ESG developments. Some U.S states, instead of advocating ESG, are actively turning away from ESG investing in order to protect shareholder interest, and big finance firms are now rethinking the net zero targets they committed to just a year ago.

On the bright side however, a landmark deal on loss and damage was announced at COP27. Nations also ramped up their efforts to an unprecedent level to keep the Paris Agreement alive. Other encouraging developments included renewable energy capacity growing at the fastest speed ever and greenwashing was finally put under closer scrutiny under new regulations. It was not the best year, but we believe there are reasons to remain optimistic.

We share with you the top ten biggest ESG developments in 2022 that will carry great implications in 2023 and beyond:

1. COP27's milestone deal on "loss and damage"
2. ISSB draft disclosure requirements - A global baseline is born
3. Voluntary carbon market: Voluntary but necessary
4. Renewable capacity continues growth in its role in energy transition
5. EU's CBAM puts intenrational price on carbon
6. Inflation Reduction Act: Largest climate act in the US
7. China expects all state-owned listcos to report on ESG in 2023
8. From policy to market: EV had its best year
9. Party is over: ESG financial alliances face rising challenges
10. COP15 puts biodiversity on top agenda

Read the full report.