Sustainability Weekly 9 - 13 February 2026

Last week, the French government announced the acquisition of a minority stake in Imerys' EMILI lithium project. TotalEnergies published its 2025 results and its outlook for 2026. At the European level, EU leaders are divided on the future of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), amid lobbying efforts by the chemical industry for its relaxation. The EU adopted a measure to support the incorporation of recycled plastic through chemical recycling. The IPBES published its methodological assessment of the impacts and dependencies of businesses on biodiversity. The US government wants technology companies to commit to principles regarding the energy performance of AI data centers. The French government published its third Multiannual Energy Program. Global electricity demand is expected to grow sharply by 2030, highlighting the need for investments in grids and flexibility, according to the IEA. ArcelorMittal has confirmed the construction of an electric arc furnace (EAF) at its Dunkirk steel plant. On the social side, Thales is accelerating its recruitment drive in 2026, following a sector-wide trend. In human rights, the German Constitutional Court rejected an appeal challenging arms export licenses to Israel. Regarding governance, Eramet's CFO has been temporarily suspended from his duties pending an investigation into management practices.