Marisa Flower

Beyond Good Intentions: How Materiality Drives Real Value 

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Corporate sustainability has evolved significantly over the decades. While many companies have made genuine commitments through comprehensive reporting and environmental initiatives, there has been an ongoing challenge around connecting these efforts to measurable business impact. A critical transformation is now underway as companies increasingly re-focus on what is financially material to their operations, fundamentally changing …

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Summary of CARB’s May 29th Workshop on California’s Climate Disclosure Rules 

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) hosted a workshop on May 29, 2025 to outline its approach to implementing California’s pending climate disclosure requirements, with attendees from five continents demonstrating the global interest in California’s approach. What’s Being Required and When  SB 253: Companies doing business in California with annual revenues exceeding $1 billion will …

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California’s Cap-and-Trade Program: Major Extension Announced in 2025 

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This week, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced his proposal to extend the state’s landmark cap-and-trade program for GHG emissions through 2045. The extension was included in Governor Newsom’s revised budget for 2025–26 and seeks to secure the program’s role as a cornerstone of California’s climate strategy. The announcement timing is based on the approaching expiration …

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New York and Colorado Introduce GHG Emissions Accounting Legislation Similar to California’s SB 253 

In a move to continue progress on increasing transparency and accountability in corporate GHG emissions reporting, the states of New York and Colorado have recently introduced legislation that closely resembles California’s Senate Bill (SB) 253, also known as the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act.  California’s SB 253, passed in 2023, requires companies with over $1 …

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The Business Case for Conducting Climate Risk & Opportunity Assessments 

Climate risk and opportunity assessments, commonly known as Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) reports, have become crucial tools for businesses to navigate the complex landscape of climate change and position themselves for long-term financial success. These assessments are also increasingly being woven into regulations around the globe, including in California, where businesses with …

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Issues with ESG Data Integrity Persist Despite Growing Demand from Investors and Regulators

Investors rely on data that is consistent, comparable, decision-useful and accurate to inform their investment decisions. With sustainability issues increasingly intertwined with business strategy, ESG data analysis is increasingly commonplace. According to a recently released study by the global professional services firm, EY, 43% of investors now employ full-time sustainability analysts and 25% anticipate significant …

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Canada’s Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions and Sustainable Economic Growth

Canada’s Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions and Sustainable Economic Growth  Canada is on a mission to grow its economy while achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. To achieve their goals, Canada’s Department of Finance has determined they need between $125 and $140 billion of annual investment. However, navigating the complex landscape of sustainable investing can be …

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