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Multinational Layoffs: Amazon, Nestlé, Verizon Job Cuts Surge

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Tech and Consumer Giants Announce ​Significant Layoffs ⁤Amid Economic Uncertainty

A‍ shift ⁤is underway as companies ‍move from hiring freezes to active​ workforce reductions. ⁣After years of ‍maintaining payrolls despite economic ⁤uncertainty, major multinationals like Amazon, Verizon,‍ and Nestlé are now announcing ample layoffs in response to a more volatile global⁢ landscape. This environment is characterized by trade⁣ tensions, the impact of ⁣previous tariff ​policies, and broader economic slowdowns.

Nestlé⁢ is ⁢undertaking a significant restructuring, planning to cut approximately 16,000 ​jobs globally. ‍While the majority of⁤ these cuts ⁢will affect office-based roles, positions​ in production and logistics will also be⁣ impacted. This move ⁣is part of a larger efficiency plan aimed at streamlining⁤ internal organization, eliminating redundancies, and speeding ⁢up decision-making.Nestlé is also increasing its savings targets, signaling a focus on cost control rather than aggressive growth.

Amazon is preparing for its largest corporate layoff as 2022,potentially eliminating up to 30,000 office positions – ⁤roughly 10% of its corporate workforce. Affected areas include People Experience and Technology, Operations, ⁤Devices and Services, and Amazon web Services (AWS). CEO Andy‍ Jassy is driving a reduction⁣ in bureaucracy and management layers, ‌utilizing internal ‌feedback mechanisms to implement ⁣operational changes. Amazon acknowledges that increased productivity through⁣ automation and ⁣AI ​is ‌enabling these cuts. While AWS revenue grew 17.5% in the second quarter to⁢ $30.9 billion, it is currently growing at a slower⁤ pace than competitors Azure and Google Cloud.

Verizon recently joined this trend, announcing a major restructuring under new ⁢CEO dan Schulman. The company plans to reduce its non-union workforce by up to 20%, impacting over 13,000 ⁢employees. This ⁤restructuring aims to simplify the company’s​ structure, reduce costs, ‍and improve competitiveness following two consecutive​ quarters of subscriber losses.The cuts will affect retail​ staff,customer service⁣ representatives,and ‍some executive positions.

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Business

Babybel’s Sustainable Packaging Shift: Recycling & Reducing Carbon Footprint

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Babybel⁣ Redesigns Iconic Packaging in Shift Towards Sustainability

The Bel⁤ Group, maker ​of babybel cheese, is undertaking a⁢ meaningful packaging overhaul, ⁤replacing the traditional plastic wrapping ⁢of its signature product with paper. ​This move, described by the company as‌ “a decisive turning point,”⁢ aims ⁤to address growing consumer and societal expectations regarding packaging sustainability.

For fifty years, ⁢Babybel has relied on plastic to maintain freshness and ‍portion control, allowing the company to produce 5 million units ⁢daily. However, the Bel Group recognizes the need for change. “There are strong and growing societal expectations on the appearance of⁣ packaging and, as a company ‌that invented portioned cheese, ⁣we have a obligation,” stated⁣ Béatrice de Noray, deputy general manager responsible for growth at Bel.

The shift comes as plastic consumption in the agricultural and food sectors – accounting for 20% of all plastic used in France in 2023, with 91% dedicated⁢ to food packaging – faces increasing scrutiny.This​ issue ⁣was recently debated in the French national ‍Assembly, where the government proposed increased taxes on plastic packaging⁢ to encourage​ industry responsibility, though these measures were ultimately rejected by deputies.

Bel insists the transition to paper is a “long-term response,” not‍ simply a reaction to external pressure. Delphine Chatelin, vice-president of research, innovation and growth, emphasized the goal is “to offer the consumer packaging that ⁣is more respectful of the planet.” ​The company projects the new paper packaging will reduce CO2 emissions by 2,500 tonnes, representing ⁣a 62% reduction in the carbon footprint of Babybel’s packaging.

This paper-based ⁢packaging is a stepping stone towards Bel’s broader ambition of achieving 100% recyclable⁣ or⁣ home compostable packaging by 2030. The company is also exploring similar changes for its Kiri cheese, currently packaged in aluminum, ‌and is collaborating with​ start-ups to develop a paper alternative that provides the necessary barrier against ⁤water, air, and grease while meeting health standards.

However, challenges remain. Current recycling infrastructure struggles to process the⁤ small size of the new paper packaging. “These packaging, which are too small, are not currently adapted to the ‌current lines of the sites,” acknowledged⁤ Ms.chatelin, adding that the company is ​actively “working” on developing a larger-scale recycling ⁤sector.

Environmental NGO Zero Waste France has expressed ‍skepticism, arguing the change ⁤represents a mere substitution of “one single-use packaging for another.” Marine Bonavita,⁤ advocacy manager for the institution, stated to AFP that the move “will have no effect on ​the quantity of waste that it will generate,” and that “It’s the disposable model as a whole that ‍needs to be rethought.”

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World

China ‘is not just talking, it’s walking the walk,’ say green industry leaders on why the eastern superpower is a new leader in climate action

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

China Leads in Climate Action,Backed by Renewable Energy dominance

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Kuala Lumpur,malaysia – ⁤November 20,2025 – china is rapidly establishing itself as a pivotal force in global climate action,moving beyond pledges to⁣ demonstrate concrete progress in the energy transition,according to industry leaders speaking at the‍ Fortune Innovation Forum in kuala⁢ Lumpur on Tuesday. This shift comes as other nations grapple with shifting political landscapes and the complexities of implementing climate policies.

The increasing ‌prominence of China’s‍ climate leadership was highlighted against the backdrop of the COP30 summit currently underway in Belém,Brazil. Attendees noted ‍a significant presence of Asian countries at the conference,with China maintaining a notably large pavilion showcasing its ​advancements ‌and commitments.This growing influence signals​ a potential reshaping of climate diplomacy, with Beijing taking a more ​assertive role.

A Shift in Climate Diplomacy

“Climate diplomacy is now being pushed very much by the Chinese,” stated Faroze Nadar, executive director⁢ of the UN Global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei. Fellow panelists concurred, emphasizing that⁢ China’s actions are matching its ⁢rhetoric.

ying staton, ⁤Chief Sustainability Officer and‌ Vice President for Asia Pacific at Plastic Energy, succinctly put it: China is not just ​talking, it’s walking the walk. staton explained that⁤ the eastern ⁢superpower is ⁤actively driving the‌ global energy⁣ transition ​by expanding renewable energy⁤ production and together lowering costs.

Dominating the Renewable Energy Landscape

China’s dominance⁤ in key renewable energy‌ sectors⁣ is substantial. Currently,the nation produces 90%⁢ of the world’s solar panels,60% of wind ‍turbines,and 85% of battery cells. It ⁤also holds a leading position in the supply of rare earth metals, essential ⁢components ‌in many green technologies. This manufacturing capacity provides China with significant leverage in​ shaping the ⁤future of sustainable energy.

technology China’s Global Share (2025)
Solar Panels 90%
Wind Turbines 60%
Battery Cells 85%
Rare Earth Metals Dominant

Did you Know? ‍

China’s investment in renewable energy surpassed that of all developed nations combined in 2023, ⁢according to the International Energy Agency.1

U.S. Influence Remains Despite Federal⁣ Shifts

Despite the previous U.S.governance’s withdrawal from key climate agreements, American influence‍ at climate talks hasn’t entirely diminished. A delegation⁤ of state and local representatives,including California Governor Gavin newsom,traveled to Brazil for ⁤COP30,demonstrating continued commitment from subnational actors. ​Staton noted that there are so⁤ many policy ⁣levers that you​ can ​pull, and frequently enough it’s ‍the local municipal governments who have the ⁢more direct levers.

The Role of Business and Profitability

Nadar⁣ emphasized the crucial role businesses​ play in driving‍ climate action,stating that⁣ the new economy is going to build on‍ the climate movement,so there ⁣is business sense ⁢in being part (of it). He added that businesses ⁣are ofen easier to collaborate with due to their focus on profitability. The UN global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei, under Nadar’s leadership, frequently partners with Sarawak Energy-Malaysia’s largest green⁢ energy producer-on corporate sustainability initiatives.

Pro Tip: Framing climate action as a strategic advantage, rather than a cost, can ​unlock significant investment⁤ and innovation.

The Declining Green Premium

Staton ⁣highlighted the decreasing green premium-the additional cost associated with‌ sustainable practices. The more you build ⁣and the ⁤more you scale, the cheaper these solutions​ become, and that’s how you drive‌ the green premium to⁣ zero, she explained. She pointed to renewable energy as an example, noting that a‍ green premium existed 20 years ago but has since disappeared.

Aiying Wang, President‌ &⁣ CEO of Greater China, ⁣SEA and India at⁣ Envac AB, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance​ of scale‍ for both‌ green technology and infrastructure to enable businesses to do​ the right thing without compromising profitability.

Background: The Global Climate Action Landscape

Global efforts to combat climate change have intensified in recent years, ⁣driven by the urgency of the climate crisis and the increasing recognition‍ of the economic opportunities associated with a sustainable transition. The Paris Agreement,⁢ adopted in 2015, set a global goal ​of limiting warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above⁣ pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit ‍it to 1.5 degrees ​Celsius. However, achieving these goals requires significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions across all sectors of the ⁣economy. China, as the world’s largest emitter, plays a critical⁢ role in ⁢this effort, but its​ growing economic influence also⁣ presents opportunities for accelerating the global transition to a low-carbon future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is China’s current climate policy?

china has pledged to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. It is investing heavily in renewable energy and phasing out coal-fired power plants, although⁤ the pace of this‍ transition‍ remains a​ subject of debate.

How does China’s dominance in renewable energy ⁢manufacturing affect global⁢ prices?

China’s large-scale production capacity has driven down the cost of ⁢solar panels, wind turbines, and battery cells, making renewable energy more affordable and‍ accessible worldwide.

what role do subnational ‌actors, like California, play in ‍climate action?

state and local governments can implement policies ⁢and initiatives that go beyond national commitments, demonstrating leadership and ⁣driving⁢ innovation in areas such as renewable energy, energy ⁣efficiency, and sustainable transportation.

What is the ‘green premium’ and why is it declining?

The ‘green premium’ is the extra cost associated with choosing sustainable products or practices. It’s declining due to technological advancements, economies‍ of‌ scale, ‍and increasing demand for sustainable solutions.

How can businesses benefit from investing in climate action?

Businesses ‍can benefit from enhanced brand reputation, access to new markets, reduced ‍operating costs (through energy efficiency), and⁤ increased resilience to climate risks.

What are your thoughts on China’s growing role in climate leadership? ⁤Share your perspective in the comments below!

If you found this article insightful, please share it with your network and subscribe for ⁤more updates on sustainable business and climate action.

1 International Energy Agency,‍ Renewable Energy Market ⁣Update (Accessed November 20, 2025)

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World

Canadian Energy Firms Reassess, Return to Home Base

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor
written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Canadian Energy Sector Sees Renewed Investor Interest as U.S. Shale Production Declines

CALGARY – A wave of‍ investment ⁣is returning to Canada’s oil and gas​ sector as‍ concerns mount over declining production​ rates in​ U.S. shale⁣ formations, coupled ⁤with a more supportive ⁣regulatory habitat in Canada. Recent multibillion-dollar‌ deals, like Ovintiv‘s acquisition ⁢of NuVista Energy, signal a shift in investor sentiment, reversing a trend that saw capital flow ⁣south⁤ during the shale boom.

For the ‍past decade,Canadian energy projects were hampered by new laws ⁣and rulings that discouraged international‍ investment,according to Jeremy McCrea,an energy analyst at BMO Nesbitt Burns. Though, ⁢he notes a recent change, ⁣stating, “we’ve seen more operators ​take an ⁢interest ⁤in Canadian oil ⁣and gas,” driven in part by “a federal government that’s looking to be more workable ⁣with the oil and gas industry ⁣and more‍ keen to ​get our product to market here.”

This renewed ⁢interest coincides with challenges facing U.S. shale producers. Companies like Pioneer Natural Resources Co. (PXD-N) and EOG Resources Inc. (EOG-N) pioneered ​fracking techniques that propelled the ⁣U.S. to ‍become the⁣ world’s largest oil producer. Though, shale‍ wells are ⁣known for their rapid depletion rates, and this is⁤ now becoming a reality. EOG Resources, a shale pioneer,⁢ is estimated to have only ‌three or four years of⁢ quality drilling locations‌ remaining, contributing to a 10% decline in its share price this year.

During the⁣ U.S. shale ‌boom,​ many international players‍ shifted focus, ⁢also citing insufficient ‌Canadian export infrastructure‍ and increasingly ‍stringent regulations, including‍ environmental, ​social, and governance (ESG) guidelines,‍ as deterrents to investment in canadian energy assets.

Now, ‌that earlier retreat is being viewed as favorable, as Canadian companies possess considerable undeveloped resources. ⁢Ovintiv’s CEO highlighted this potential during⁣ the NuVista acquisition announcement, describing NuVista’s Montney portfolio as⁣ “one ‍of ‍the highest​ quality ⁤undeveloped acreage positions​ in North ⁤America⁣ and the overlap with our existing land makes ‌us‍ the natural owner.”

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Technology

Supercontinent Pangea Ultima: Earth’s Inhospitable Future

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor
written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Supercomputer Simulation Predicts Earth Could Become Largely Uninhabitable in 250 Million Years

BRISTOL, UK – A new climate simulation, ⁤run by researchers at the University of Bristol,‌ paints a stark picture of ‌Earth’s distant future: the formation of⁢ a supercontinent⁤ dubbed “Pangea Ultima” could render the planet almost uninhabitable for mammals, including⁢ humans, in approximately 250 million years. The findings, published in Nature, detail a future characterized by scorching temperatures and widespread drought.

The simulation predicts that Pangea Ultima, formed by the eventual convergence of today’s continents, would experience average ⁣temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius (104-122 Fahrenheit), wiht daily⁤ peaks soaring even higher. This extreme heat would be compounded by increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, driven by more frequent ‌volcanic activity and a more luminous sun.

“This‍ combination of factors would create a virtually unlivable surroundings for humans and other ‌mammals,” explains Alexander ​Farnsworth, principal investigator of the study. “the ability of these species to regulate their body temperature through⁢ sweating would be compromised, making survival almost impossible in the face of ‍extreme heat and humidity.”

While the predicted timeframe is far in the ⁢future,researchers emphasize the urgency of addressing current climate change. The study serves as a chilling reminder that the consequences of unchecked global warming could mirror the‍ conditions projected for Pangea⁢ Ultima, but on a drastically accelerated timescale.

Co-author Eunice Lo⁢ stresses the need ⁤to meet net-zero ​emissions targets. “The already observable effects ​of global warming,such ⁢as extreme heat waves,have⁣ a direct impact on human health⁣ and ‍biodiversity,” she stated. ​

A recent UN report echoes this warning, highlighting that without important reductions in global warming,⁣ billions of people ⁤and​ countless species will struggle to adapt. ‌Benjamin Mills,​ another co-author, points⁣ out that even halting fossil fuel use⁣ immediately wouldn’t prevent CO2 levels ⁢from potentially doubling from current⁤ levels if effective mitigation strategies aren’t implemented.

The ‌University of Bristol team’s simulation, though focused on a geological⁣ timescale, underscores the⁣ critical importance of immediate⁤ climate action. The prospect of a future Earth hostile to life as we certainly know it ​reinforces the need for​ sustained and decisive efforts to preserve⁢ habitable conditions on the planet.

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World

: What Bananas Tell Us Now About Tariffs and Inflation

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

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What Bananas Tell Us Now about Tariffs and Inflation

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The humble banana, a staple in kitchens worldwide, is offering a⁤ surprising glimpse into the current state of global ⁤trade and inflation. Recent price increases for this everyday‌ fruit ​aren’t⁤ simply​ due to weather⁤ events; they’re a symptom of a larger economic story involving tariffs, supply chain vulnerabilities, and shifting geopolitical dynamics.

For decades, bananas have been a relatively stable grocery⁤ item. However,over‍ the past year,consumers have noticed a consistent climb in prices. This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s a microcosm of the broader inflationary pressures impacting numerous commodities.

Did ‌You‍ Know? bananas are​ the ‌most traded fruit globally, making them a sensitive indicator of international trade conditions.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on the price of bananas ‌at your local grocery store – it can be a surprisingly accurate barometer of global economic ‌health.

The Role of Tariffs

Historically, bananas benefited ⁢from preferential trade agreements, especially for producers in Latin America. However, changes in trade policies‍ and ⁣the imposition of tariffs have begun to disrupt this established system. The European Union, such as, has a complex system of tariffs on bananas, designed to protect its former colonies. Thes tariffs,⁣ while intended ⁣to support⁤ specific regions,​ ultimately increase costs for consumers.

As Joe ​Weisenthal and Tracy Alloway note in their newsletter, Sometimes​ it’s us, Joe Weisenthal and Tracy Alloway, bringing you our thoughts on the most ‌recent developments in markets, finance and the economy (Weisenthal & ​Alloway, 2025). Their⁤ analysis highlights the interconnectedness of global markets and how seemingly small changes ⁢in trade policy can ripple through the supply chain.

Supply Chain Disruptions and disease

Beyond tariffs, supply chain disruptions continue ​to plague the banana industry. the Panama disease, Tropical Race 4 (TR4), poses a meaningful threat ⁣to banana production worldwide. This⁣ soil-borne ⁢fungus⁣ is devastating Cavendish ​banana plantations, the most widely consumed variety. Efforts to develop TR4-resistant banana varieties are⁢ underway, ⁤but a viable⁢ solution remains years away.

Moreover, logistical challenges – including port ‌congestion and ‌container shortages – add to the cost of transporting⁤ bananas from farms to consumers. These disruptions exacerbate the impact of⁢ tariffs, leading to higher prices at ‍the checkout counter.

“The ‌banana industry is facing a ​perfect storm​ of challenges, from disease to trade barriers to logistical nightmares.” -⁤ United States Department of Agriculture, Banana Market Report (2023).
⁤

What Does This Mean for Inflation?

The rising cost of bananas isn’t just about bananas.​ It’s‌ a signal that inflationary pressures are becoming more entrenched. When the price of a staple food item like bananas increases, it impacts household ​budgets and contributes to overall inflation. This, in turn, ‌can ‍lead ​to broader economic‌ consequences, including reduced consumer spending and slower economic growth.

The‍ banana’s story serves as a reminder that inflation is a complex phenomenon wiht multiple contributing factors. Addressing ⁢it requires a multifaceted approach ‍that considers​ trade‌ policy, supply chain resilience, and agricultural⁤ innovation.

The banana​ market has long been a bellwether for global ⁤trade dynamics. Historically, the industry has been characterized by periods of price volatility, often linked to political instability in producing countries and the influence of large multinational corporations. The current situation,however,is unique in its combination of factors – tariffs,disease,and widespread supply chain disruptions⁤ – creating a sustained period of price increases. Looking ahead, the progress of TR4-resistant banana varieties‍ and a more stable global trade habitat will be crucial for ensuring the long-term affordability‌ and‌ availability of this essential ⁢fruit.

Frequently Asked‌ Questions About Bananas, Tariffs, and Inflation

  • Why are banana prices increasing? Banana prices are rising due to a ​combination of factors, including tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and the spread of the Panama disease (TR4).
  • how do​ tariffs affect ⁤banana prices? Tariffs‍ increase the cost of importing⁣ bananas, which is ultimately passed ‍on to⁢ consumers.
  • what is TR4 and how does it impact
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