News in the spotlight: ESG Book launches platform “LEO” to transform sustainability reporting for corporates and financial institutions in cooperation with BCG
ESG Book has launched LEO, a new platform designed for smarter, faster, and more efficient sustainability disclosure. Developed in partnership with BCG and built on Google Cloud, LEO aims to streamline the reporting process for corporates and financial institutions by offering a secure, framework-neutral solution.
Products & Services
European Energy Efficiency Fund appoints SUSI Partners as portfolio manager
SUSI Partners has been appointed portfolio manager of the European Energy Efficiency Fund (EEEF), a public-private investment vehicle supporting energy efficiency projects in EU member states. Backed by the European Commission and institutional investors, the fund promotes low-carbon public infrastructure in areas such as renewable energy, clean transport, and building retrofits. SUSI brings over 15 years of experience in energy transition financing, having deployed over EUR 700 million through its credit strategy. The appointment ensures continuity and aims to accelerate capital deployment across Europe’s mid-market infrastructure. The EEEF, classified under SFDR Article 9, currently holds 16 active investments worth over EUR 170 million. Additionally, Alter Domus Management Company SA has been named the fund’s Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM) (source: susi-partners.com).
Campbell Global announces close of Forest & Climate Solutions Fund II with USD 1.5bn
J.P. Morgan Asset Management has announced the successful close of Campbell Global’s Forest & Climate Solutions Fund II at $1.5 billion, exceeding its $1 billion target. Including separate account mandates, total commitments reached $2.3 billion. The fund invests in sustainably managed timberland to generate returns while supporting carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Current holdings include ~212,000 acres in the U.S., managed under sustainable forestry standards. Campbell Global, acquired by J.P. Morgan in 2021, brings over 40 years of timberland management expertise and oversees $10.1 billion in assets.
Excelsior Energy Capital closes Excelsior Renewable Energy Investment Fund II at USD 1bn
Excelsior Energy Capital has closed its second renewable energy fund at just over $1 billion, exceeding its $750 million target. Fund II continues the firm’s strategy of investing in solar, wind, battery storage, and energy transition infrastructure across the U.S. Backed by the Development Bank of Japan and a diverse group of global investors, the fund is already over 50% deployed across 15 projects totaling 2.25 GW of capacity. A key part of the fund’s platform is Lydian Energy, Excelsior’s new portfolio company focused on utility-scale solar and storage. The firm’s first fund, closed in 2021, was fully deployed across 1.95 GW of clean energy assets.
Regulations, Law and Frameworks
ESMA consults on rules for external reviewers of European Green Bonds
ESMA, the EU’s financial markets regulator, has published a Consultation Paper on the remaining Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) for external reviewers under the European Green Bonds Regulation. The proposed standards cover the effectiveness of reviewers’ systems and procedures, the expertise of the compliance function, the reliability of information sources, application requirements, and the obligation to report material changes. The aim is to enhance transparency and credibility of external reviews, boosting investor confidence in the green bond market. Feedback is open until 30 May 2025, with final standards expected by 21 December 2025 (source: esma.europa.eu).
FCA searches for new members to join Sustainable Finance Advisory Committee
The FCA is refreshing its Sustainable Finance Advisory Committee (formerly the ESG Advisory Committee) and is seeking expressions of interest from external experts in sustainable finance. The committee advises the FCA Board on emerging sustainability issues, supporting the UK’s commitment to a net zero economy by 2050. Members are appointed in a personal capacity for a three-year term (renewable once) and must follow a conflict of interest policy. The FCA is especially interested in candidates with expertise in insurance, wholesale banking, or consumer advocacy. Applications, including a CV, should be sent to esgac@fca.org.uk by 9 May 2025.
IFRS Foundation and TNFD bring collaboration agreement forward to provide nature-related information
The IFRS Foundation and the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration and support high-quality nature-related disclosures for capital markets. The ISSB, part of the IFRS Foundation, will integrate TNFD recommendations into its ongoing sustainability standards work, particularly in the Biodiversity, Ecosystems and Ecosystem Services (BEES) project. Both organisations aim to reduce fragmentation in sustainability reporting by sharing research, technical expertise and jointly engaging with markets. This partnership builds on the ISSB’s previous role as a TNFD Knowledge Partner and supports global efforts, such as Target 15 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The TNFD has already seen early adoption by 500 companies and continues to advance practical guidance and access to nature-related data. Any future ISSB standards based on this collaboration will undergo public consultation.
ESG Data and Analytics
ESG Book launches platform “LEO” to transform sustainability reporting for corporates and financial institutions in cooperation with BCG
ESG Book has launched LEO, a new platform designed for smarter, faster, and more efficient sustainability disclosure. Developed in partnership with BCG and built on Google Cloud, LEO aims to streamline the reporting process for corporates and financial institutions by offering a secure, framework-neutral solution. It supports various global standards, including those from the ISSB and GRI, and features smart pre-fill capabilities that reduce reporting burdens. The platform is already being adopted by leading financial institutions like ING, Lloyds, and NatWest for improved risk management and data collection. LEO helps businesses manage disclosures, automate data collection, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations, ultimately driving efficiency and long-term value (source: esgbook.com).
OneStream announces a new ESG reporting and planning solution for CFOs
OneStream has launched a new ESG Reporting & Planning solution designed to help CFOs navigate the growing demands for sustainability reporting. This solution enables seamless collection, analysis, reporting, and planning for ESG requirements, including Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. It unifies ESG data and processes in OneStream’s platform, linking sustainability efforts to financial performance. Key features include unified ESG data collection, scenario modeling, and enhanced forecasting. The solution is designed to help businesses meet global compliance, improve decision-making, and manage renewable energy contracts. OneStream aims to empower finance leaders to integrate ESG planning with financial performance, aligning sustainability with business strategy for growth.
Leadership Announcements
Eric de Tessières appointed Chief Sustainability Officer of Edmond de Rothschild
Edmond de Rothschild has appointed Eric de Tessières as Group Chief Sustainability Officer, effective 7 April 2025. In this role, he will lead the group’s sustainability initiatives across asset management and private banking, reporting to Deputy CEO Cynthia Tobiano. With nearly 20 years of experience in sustainable investing, Eric previously served as COO at BNP Paribas Asset Management. Edmond de Rothschild has been committed to sustainable investing for over 20 years, with 50% of its assets under management classified as Article 8 or 9 under SFDR guidelines. Eric’s appointment underscores the firm’s dedication to sustainability amidst evolving regulations and market challenges.
BlueOrchard appoints Michael Wehrle as Chief Executive Officer
BlueOrchard has appointed Michael Wehrle as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective pending regulatory approval. Michael, who has been with the firm since 2021 as Head of Investment Solutions & Private Equity, will succeed Philipp Mueller. He brings over 20 years of experience in investment management, having previously held roles at Partners Group. Additionally, Maria Teresa Zappia, Chief Impact and Blended Finance Officer, has been nominated to join the Board of Directors. Michael expressed his honor in leading BlueOrchard into its next chapter, focusing on growth and impact investing. The Board also thanked Philipp for his contributions, noting his role in increasing BlueOrchard’s assets under management to USD 5 billion.