SOURCE:SiMPACT Strategy Group

DESCRIPTION:

Companies in the LBG Canada network are engaging their employees through volunteering programs. 

Employee volunteering is an important aspect of community investment.

LBG Canada companies are engaging their employees through both, during work hours and during non-work hours volunteering.

84% of LBG Canada companies have a during work hours volunteering program, and 82% actively encourage non-work hours volunteering.

Interested in developing or improving your employee volunteering program? Join LBG Canada!

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About LBG Canada

LBG Canada is a network of corporate community investment professionals from many of Canada's leading companies, who work together to apply, develop and enhance the use of the LBG Model and measurement framework in Canada. Participation in LBG Canada encourages companies to focus on strategy, measurement and reporting to demonstrate the business value achieved through investment in community. LBG Canada is facilitated by SiMPACT Strategy Group.

Tweet me:Companies in the #LBGCanada network are engaging their employees through #volunteering programs. http://bit.ly/2tYAUKg #CIMatters

KEYWORDS: LBG Canada, Community Investment, employee volunteering programs, Employer Supported Volunteering, Employee Engagement

$20 Million Facility to be Located at Innovative Circuit West District

SOURCE:Consumers Energy

DESCRIPTION:

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 15, 2018 /3BL Media/ – Consumers Energy’s investment in West Michigan continues with plans announced today for a new $20 million headquarters in the city of Grand Rapids to serve the fastest-growing region of its company.

The building will house up to 275 employees who support the design and delivery of energy service in the Grand Rapids area, the company’s largest electric service area in Michigan.

The 6-story, 40,000 square-foot-building, including an onsite parking structure, will be located in the Circuit West area on the city’s west side. Circuit West is a 13-block hub of innovative electricity generation, distribution and storage and energy efficient building construction. Circuit West is led by Consumers Energy and Rockford Construction, which will serve as the new building’s construction manager. The energy provider recently closed on the sale of the property at 501 Alabama St. NW. A groundbreaking for the new headquarters is anticipated later this year with the building complete by 2020.

“Our Circuit West investment already includes work underway for an innovative, more responsive and reliable electric distribution system, energy storage and rooftop solar installations,” said Garrick Rochow, senior vice president of operations for Consumers Energy. “Constructing this building within Circuit West shows our continued commitment to a prosperous, growing Grand Rapids and West Michigan region.”

Rochow said locating the building in the city’s West Side, a vibrant area seeing significant redevelopment centered on sustainability and walkability, is a promise to Consumers Energy’s employees of today and tomorrow.

“We are very focused on retaining and attracting the workforce of the future, which means providing a work environment that is connected within a community where people can work, live, and play.”

Rockford Construction’s corporate headquarters is less than a block west of the planned Consumers Energy building. Rockford has been closely involved with the recent Circuit West building boom.

“Our vision is to provide a safe, innovative, sustainable neighborhood on the West Side that is a magnet for people and commerce,” said Mike VanGessel, Rockford Construction’s chief executive officer. “We are pleased to welcome Consumers Energy as a new neighbor within Circuit West.”

Today’s announcement comes less than a year after Consumers Energy dedicated its John G. Russell Leadership Center, an $11 million facility on Grand Valley State University’s Robert C. Pew Campus, immediately south of the L. William Seidman Center near downtown Grand Rapids. In June 2016, the company began commercial operation of its 3 megawatt Solar Gardens generating facility in nearby Allendale adjacent to GVSU’s main campus.

Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss welcomed today’s announcement.

“Consumers Energy’s decision is another indication that Circuit West is attracting high-quality investment focused on a sustainable Grand Rapids,” Mayor Bliss said. “This is on top of Consumers’ infrastructure investment already well underway and shows the company’s commitment to our city and the entire region.”

Up to 275 employees currently based at the company’s West Kent Service Center, 4000 Clay Ave. SW, Wyoming, are expected to move into the new building. The employees include the customer contact center, engineering, business customer care, human resources and customer experience. About 250 workers will remain at the Clay Avenue facility, including operating, maintenance and construction field employees, work management center for all dispatching and scheduling activities and electric system control. The current bill payment center will remain as well. Consumers Energy plans no changes to its East Kent service center in Kentwood or its North Kent facility in Sparta.

The new Circuit West building will be constructed to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.  Consumers Energy has constructed all of its recent buildings to LEED standards, including a number in West Michigan, like the Russell Leadership Center and new service centers in Norton Shores and Hamilton.

“The Grand Rapids area is our largest electric service region and is seeing continued growth,” Rochow said. “This new building within Circuit West is in response to that growth and our continued commitment to our purpose of world class performance delivering hometown service.”

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Media Contacts:

Tweet me:.@ConsumersEnergy plans new Grand Rapids headquarters at innovative #CircuitWest district http://bit.ly/2HEgIiB @CityGrandRapids #Michigan

KEYWORDS: Consumers Energy, Grand Rapids, Circuit West

SOURCE:Las Vegas Sands

DESCRIPTION:

Las Vegas Sands remains committed to its 50,000 Team Members worldwide, from Las Vegas to Macao and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to Singapore.  The company provides Team Members with an outstanding work environment, strong benefits, a dedication to diversity, and extensive training and other opportunities to advance and thrive in the hospitality industry.  The company, its subsidiaries and affiliates adhere to an equal employment opportunity policy for all current and future Team Members, without regard to a person’s race, color, religion, sex, handicap, veteran’s status or status within any other protected group. 

In honor of International Women’s Day, Las Vegas Sands has chosen to highlight female Team Members in all of the regions in which we operate that have initiated change in their communities and the workplace.  The company supports all its Team Members in their efforts to make their departments better and their efforts in volunteering in the community. 

Christine Kaelbel-Sheares, Vice President of Food and Beverage
Christine Kaelbel-Sheares was part of the opening team at Marina Bay Sands in 2009, as the Executive Director of VIP Food and Beverage Operations. She took on her current role in 2016, where she leads the food and beverage team operations in strategic planning and managing of all food and beverage outlets across the entire Integrated Resort, which includes10 celebrity chef restaurants, in-room dining for over 2,500 suites, casino, MICE catering and banquets. Her experience in managing several international hospitality operations has allowed her to hold a number of positions in hotels and top-rated restaurants the United States and in Asia, including The Venetian and The Palazzo in Las Vegas. Kaelbel-Sheares played an integral role in implementing new sustainable menus to inspire a healthier lifestyle through food.  She also brought in a certified dietitian to work with property chefs and oversaw the newly revamped RISE Restaurant, where sustainable food sourcing is a priority, using locally sourced seafood and using fresh herbs from the restaurant’s own garden.

Hazel Chan, Executive Director of Retail Leasing
Hazel Chan oversees all leasing for retail locations at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.  Since 2011, she’s assisted The Shoppes in growing its retail portfolio, seeking new tenants and brands. Chan was responsible for the tenant remix in 2013 and 2014 where she discovered a new method to increase both revenue and foot traffic by devising a strategic formula that involved expanded their luxury brand categories and re-arranging stores between two floors, making it possible for several brands, including kids’ brands, to flourish. The Shoppes hold some of the only brands’ stores in Singapore, which further cements its luxury position in the market. Chan monitors brands’ sales performance, trends, business direction and movement to help find the right fit and continuously find ways to optimize tenancy mix, rental income and evolve The Shoppes into what it is today.

Chan Yit Foon, Senior Vice President, Human Resources
Chan Yit Foon is responsible for prioritizing and implementing human resources strategies for the Integrated Resort. She plays a vital role in developing programs for talent management, rewards and benefits, leadership training, staff development and team engagement as well as initiatives for more than 9,800 Team Members. She oversees a dynamic human resource strategy that is customized for every Team Member at the property. With 22 years of human resources experience, Yit Foon is most pleased with Marina Bay Sands’ leveled playing field, offering diversity in the business and opportunities for Team Members to excel. Yit Foon and her team continue learning about different generations of people to gain more insight while working on programs and policies for future-proofing.

Tweet me:.@LasVegasSands Honors #InternationalWomensDay - @MarinaBaySands http://bit.ly/2tQ56qO #Singapore

KEYWORDS: Las Vegas Sands, Marina Bay Sands, International Women's Day

SOURCE:America's Charities

DESCRIPTION:

By Feed the Children

This World Water Day, we’d like you to imagine a few simple scenes. First, imagine yourself on a sweltering summer day, drinking a refreshing cup of cold water. Then, picture yourself finally getting to bathe after a long day of work or travel. Lastly, think of getting up early to cook a big pot of oatmeal for your family’s breakfast. In your mind, was the cold water you drank a cloudy yellow color? Did you have to walk a mile or more to bathe in a murky river or pond? Or did you have to consider that your family might become ill from the food you cooked with contaminated water?

For many who read this, clean water is so accessible that we may have never considered how different our lives would be without it. However, for the 2.1 billion people around the world without easy access to safe, clean water, this lack puts a constant strain on their health and time. In 2010, The UN declared The Human Right to Water and Sanitation (HRWS) as a human right. They stated: "The human right to water entitles everyone to sufficient, safe, acceptable, physically accessible and affordable water for personal and domestic uses."

Ensuring adequate water, sanitation and hygiene practices (WASH) is a key global health initiative, and we work diligently to develop and maintain our Health & Water program activities to this end. These activities vary from building water pans to collecting water from underneath dry riverbeds; from capping springs to providing safe water containers and water-treatment products.

The following anecdote provides a snapshot of the difference that such interventions can make.

In Northern Uganda, four-year-old Openy Bob's home is situated in a plain dehydrated area, supplied with dry grass, and scotching sunshine. The milky-white water was shared communally with all the people and animals in the village. With donor support, we constructed a borehole that is run by a committee to regulate usage of water. They raise money for maintenance to ensure that clean water is no longer scarce. Children can drink it, parents can cook with it and everyone can wash with it.

Clean water and proper hygiene also make a huge difference in nutritional outcomes. It doesn’t matter how healthy a child’s diet is, if all the child drinks and washes with is dirty water. That is why our Health & Water projects include presentations, home visits and campaigns to encourage proper hand washing and to teach communities how to avoid common waterborne illnesses.

While Openy’s life has changed for the better with access to clean water, the UN estimates that each day, nearly 1,000 children die due to preventable water and sanitation-related diarrheal diseases linked to poor hygiene and unsafe water, and that 1.8 billion people still get their drinking water from a source that is contaminated with fecal matter. This World Water Day, we hope that you are inspired to take action on WASH issues. Evaluate our ecosystems and find nature-based solutions have the potential to solve many of our water challenges. So how will you celebrate World Water Day?

Support Feed the Children through your employee giving program:

As a donor, you can support Feed the Children by donating to them through your employer’s workplace giving program. Payroll pledges made through employer-sponsored charitable giving programs represent a cost effective and near effortless way to support your favorite charities.

As Feed the Children's workplace giving partner, America’s Charities can help your company design and implement a program centered on supporting their work - through workplace giving campaigns, employee fundraising, cause-focused signature programs, volunteerism, donation drives, matching gifts, Dollars-for-Doers, In-Kind Giving and other employee engagement and philanthropic initiatives. Click here to request a demo and learn how we can help you do this.

Tweet me:.@AmerCharities @Feedthechildren: How different would your life be without access to clean water? The lack of easy access to safe, clean water puts a constant strain on the health & time of 2.1 billion people around the world: http://impact.ac/2HK4LYM #WorldWaterDay #SDGs

KEYWORDS: America’s Charities, workplace giving, Corporate Social Responsibility, csr, charity vetting, Feed the Children, world water day

Cutting Edge Deployment of Advanced Technology Vehicle & Charging Signals Shift Away from Reliance on Combustion Engine

SOURCE:UPS

DESCRIPTION:

LONDON, March 19, 2018 /3BL Media/ - A UPS (NYSE:UPS) led consortium has deployed a radical new charging technology in London that overcomes the challenge of simultaneously recharging an entire fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) without the need for the expensive upgrade to the power supply grid. The breakthrough signals the beginning of the end of a reliance upon traditional combustion engine powered vehicles by allowing UPS to increase the number of EVs operating from its central London site from the current limit of 65 to all 170 trucks based there. This major advance – believed to be the first time these systems have been deployed at this scale anywhere in the world – is the result of the ‘Smart Electric Urban Logistics (SEUL)’ project with UK Power Networks and Cross River Partnership, with funding secured from the UK’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles.

“UPS thinks this is a world first, right in the heart of a mega-city. We are using new technology to work around some big obstacles to electric vehicle deployment, heralding a new generation of sustainable urban delivery services both here in London and in other major cities around the world,” said Peter Harris, director of sustainability, UPS Europe. “Electric vehicles are an integral component within UPS’s alternative fuel and advanced technology fleet. Our collaboration with UK Power Networks and Cross River Partnership marks a major turning point in the cost effective deployment of electric vehicles which in turn will play a key role in ensuring the global trend toward urbanization is sustainable. We are applying new technology to make the charging process smarter and our delivery service cleaner.”  

As a result of this initiative, combined with the advances the company announced just last month in reducing the cost of electric vehicles, UPS believes the day is rapidly drawing closer when the acquisition costs to put an electric vehicle on the road, including those associated with getting power to the vehicle, will be lower than the equivalent costs of its diesel counterpart. This development will be instrumental in enabling electric vehicles to be deployed at scale in the world’s cities which is an essential component of tackling the air quality challenges in these urban environments.

“This trailblazing solution has enabled UPS to increase their electric vehicle fleet without upgrading their network connection, paving the way for future electrification of delivery vehicles in our cities,” said Ian Smyth of UK Power Networks Services. “We are delighted to work with UPS and our other partners to design, deliver and operate this sustainable smart-grid solution. This project will deliver a huge impact on improving the air quality for Londoners and contribute to UPS’s legacy of sustainability.”

A key part of this initiative is the use of onsite energy storage batteries. Although new batteries have been deployed at this stage, it is envisaged that in the future these could be second-life batteries that have already been used in a UPS EV. Together with the smart-grid, this will pave the way toward a UPS EV infrastructure strategy that can dynamically make use of a conventional power upgrade, a smart grid, onsite storage, and in many cases, local power generation including solar and other alternative sources.

“Our previous work on electric freight vehicles has shown that local grid infrastructure constraints are one of the main barriers to their large-scale uptake,” said Tanja Dalle-Muenchmeyer, programme manager electric freight at Cross River Partnership.  “We need to find smarter solutions to electric vehicle charging if we want to benefit from the significant air quality and environmental benefits these vehicles offer, and we believe this is such a solution.”

UPS has a long history with EVs, having first introduced them into its fleet in the 1930s, and, reintroduced modern EVs in 2001. Currently, UPS has more than 300 electric vehicles and nearly 700 hybrid electric vehicles deployed in Europe and the U.S. The company recently ordered 125 new fully-electric Semi tractors to be built by Tesla in 2019, one of the largest pre-orders to date. Additionally, last September, UPS announced it will become the first commercial customer in the U.S. to start using three medium-duty electric trucks from Daimler Trucks Fuso brand, called the eCanter.

Notes to Editor

These initiatives will help UPS attain its goal of one in four new vehicles purchased by 2020 being an alternative fuel or advanced technology vehicle. The company also has pledged to obtain 25 percent of the electricity it consumes from renewable energy sources by 2025 and replace 40 percent of all ground fuel with sources other than conventional gasoline and diesel, an increase from 19.6 percent in 2016. 

UPS operates one of the largest private alternative fuel and advanced technology fleets in the U.S. Now at more than 9,000 vehicles worldwide, the fleet includes all-electric, hybrid electric, hydraulic hybrid, ethanol, compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG) and propane.

Addressing the Charging Challenge

Recharging a fleet of electric vehicles can be extremely expensive as it often requires upgrades to the external power grid, an option not attractive to most businesses or operators. This system will allow UPS to increase the number of EVs operating from the central London site from the current limit of 65 to all 170 trucks stationed there -- without the need for such upgrades. This is achieved with a smart-grid which uses a central server which is connected to each EV charge post as well as the grid power supply and the on-site energy storage.  

The system adopts an “intelligent” approach to charging by spreading this throughout the night so that the building can use the power it needs to run the business of logistics (lights, sortation machinery and IT) and ensure that all EVs are fully charged by the time they are needed in the morning, but at the same time never exceed the maximum power available from the grid.

As a result of this project and the learning that comes with the related investments, UPS can now tailor the lowest cost approach building by building and determine how best to adopt and charge a fully electric fleet. This will be accomplished by combining a variety of solutions including conventional power grid upgrade, smart grid, on-site energy storage with batteries and local power generation (using, for example, solar energy generated on facility roof tops).

For more information on UPS's sustainability initiatives, please visit www.ups.com/sustainability.  

About UPS 

UPS (NYSE: UPS) is a global leader in logistics, offering a broad range of solutions including transporting packages and freight; facilitating international trade, and deploying advanced technology to more efficiently manage the world of business. UPS is committed to operating more sustainably – for customers, the environment and the communities we serve around the world.  Learn more about our efforts at ups.com/sustainability. Headquartered in Atlanta, UPS serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. The company can be found on the web at ups.com and its corporate blog can be found at longitudes.ups.com. To get UPS news direct, follow @UPS_News on Twitter.

About UK Power Networks Services

UK Power Networks Services finances, designs, develops, delivers and manages safe and sustainable power systems and multi-utility networks for owners of major infrastructure and is the commercial division of UK Power Networks.  

We serve important clients in both the public and private sector, including EdF (Hinkley Point C), the four major London airports, the High Speed 1 rail network, Network Rail, London Underground, Ministry of Defence, Docklands Light Railway and Canary Wharf. UK Power Networks Services are at the forefront of the integration of renewable innovative energy systems, changing electricity demand and the digitisation of distribution networks. Our clients require smarter, better managed and versatile systems to meet the demands imposed by their financial and operational drivers. Our team utilises Distribution Energy Resources to assist business’ in dealing with their energy challenges.

About Cross River Partnership  

Cross River Partnership (CRP) is central London’s largest public-private partnership and has been delivering regeneration projects in the capital since 1994. Over the last 23 years CRP has worked to support sustainable growth across London, developing and delivering innovative pilot projects with, and for our partners, including 19 Business Improvement Districts, local authorities and public service providers such as Transport for London and the Greater London Authority. Improving air quality is one of CRP’s four overall objectives. CRP has co-ordinated the 4.5-year FREVUE project during which 80 fully electric vans and trucks were deployed across eight European cities. For more information please see www.crossriverpartnership.org.

###

Tweet me:With new smart-grid charging technology @UPS is leading the way when it comes to #sustainable logistics http://bit.ly/2DDp2gn

KEYWORDS: UPS, London

New model will harness technology and convene multi-sector partners to support veterans transitioning into higher education, civilian life, and the workforce

SOURCE:Citi

DESCRIPTION:

NEW YORK, March 19, 2018 /3BL Media/ - Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration today announced a new collaboration with Citi to increase educational programming and support for veterans and military family members making the transition to two- and four-year colleges, graduate and professional schools, civilian life, and the workforce. With $300,000 in support from Citi Community Development, the national expansion of the Center will provide tools and resources that address the unique challenges veterans face entering the classroom and workplace with the aim to reach 10,000 service members and their families in the first two years.

Veterans pursuing higher education after transitioning out of the military often face different life circumstances and challenges than their peers. Between 2002 and 2013, veterans utilizing the GI Bill® as non-traditional students took on average approximately two years longer to complete certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor degrees than “traditional” postsecondary students. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, student veterans tend to be older than their peers: 85 percent of college-seeking veterans are at least 24 years old. Nearly one in two veteran students have families: 47 percent are married and 47 percent have children. Student veterans are often employed while in school, and may have service-connected disabilities. Reservists and guard members also can face interruptions in their enrollments due to unit activations.

Columbia’s expanded Center for Veteran Transition and Integration Center model will leverage technology and build partnerships in order to provide student veterans with the resources and knowledge they need to adjust to student and workplace life. In addition, the methods will help extend the value of scarce resources and enable more community colleges and universities to better serve their students.

The Center’s approach will focus on three areas:

• Online Education: Develop and deliver a suite of open online courses designed to facilitate the successful transition of up to 3,000 service members and veterans to higher education.  Courses will help prepare students for transition from service to academia, strengthen academic skills to prepare veterans for academic success, and provide career readiness guidance to support the transition from service or school to new careers.
• Higher Education Collaborative: In collaboration with community colleges, universities, and government agencies, launch a nationally-focused, university-based collaborative to share best practices and improve the transition process for service members to higher education.
• Advancing Employment:  Convene veteran service organizations, schools, and government agencies with fifty companies across fifteen geographic locations to hire and retain veterans.

“Veterans are not traditional college students. They have different backgrounds, experiences, and often are juggling a job or family while in pursuit of their degree,” said Michael Abrams, the Center’s executive director. “Citi’s support will allow us to provide tailored courses, resources and opportunities that will make a direct and lasting impact in the lives of thousands of veterans nationally.”

Veterans also face difficulties transitioning into the workplace. According to research published by the Center for Talent Innovation, nearly half of all veterans leave their first post-military job within the first year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that post 9/11 veterans ages 18 to 24 years have an unemployment rate that is more than double the rate for post 9/11 veterans ages 25 years and older. At thirteen percent, their unemployment rate is also higher than that of similarly aged nonveterans (10.9 percent).

"Whether transitioning into school or the workforce, service members need access to resources tailored to their unique experiences," said Ruth Christopherson, Senior Vice President of Citi Community Development and Citi Salutes. "Citi's collaboration with Columbia University will continue to help enable transitioning service members to build successful careers and long-term economic resilience." Ruth is a retired Colonel of the South Dakota Air National Guard.

Through Citi Salutes, a company-wide initiative led by Citi Community Development and employees across the firm, Citi collaborates with national and local organizations that support employment, financial education and housing for veterans and military families.

Columbia has an existing portfolio of high quality online resources designed specifically for veterans, including University Studies for Student Veterans, a full-length open online course designed specifically to help veterans transition smoothly from military service to higher education and bolster their success once they arrive. Led by a team of academic advisors from Columbia University, the course offers strategies for academic success for service members and veterans navigating the transition from military service to the college classroom. More than 800 students are currently enrolled in the course.

"As a veteran transitioning directly from active duty into academia, I was concerned that I would be behind many of my peers,” says former Marine sergeant and Arab linguist Samantha Demezieux. “The University Studies for Student veterans course served as a roadmap that helped me navigate my way through a highly competitive and rigorous academic environment. The course has helped myself and my fellow veterans achieve continued success."

Today more than 650 veterans are enrolled at Columbia, most of them supported by the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program. The University has enrolled more student-veterans than all other Ivy League schools combined, while maintaining a graduation rate above 90 percent and a record of job and graduate school placement that equals Columbia’s non-veteran graduates. Columbia’s successful efforts in helping military service members make the transition to a rigorous academic environment has prompted interest from other universities, employers, government agencies, and veteran-support organizations across the country that would like to replicate its veteran support model. Columbia created the Center for Veteran Transition and Integration in order to collaborate, share best practices, and have a national impact on the issue of veteran transition and upward mobility.

To learn more about the Center, visit https://veterans.columbia.edu/.

Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration
Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration is having a direct and lasting impact on the issue of veteran transition and upward mobility by creating and providing access to evidence-based, effective programming veterans and military family members need as they transition from active service to college and the workforce. Addition information may be found at www.veterans.columbia.edu | Twitter: @Columbia_CVTI

Citi
Citi, the leading global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions. Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management. Through Citi Salutes, a company-wide initiative led by Citi Community Development and employees across the firm, Citi collaborates with national and local organizations that support employment, financial education and housing for veterans and military families.

Additional information may be found at www.citisalutes.com | Twitter: @Citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Blog: http://blog.citigroup.com | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi.

Tweet me:Veterans transitioning into college or the workforce often face different life circumstances than their peers. Learn how #Citi is working w/ @Columbia_CVTI to help vets gain access to tools and resources to boost their academic and professional success http://bit.ly/2FKmenf

Contact Info:

Patricia Tuma
Citi
+1 (212) 793-7682
patricia.tuma@citi.com

KEYWORDS: Citi

SOURCE:Booz Allen Hamilton

DESCRIPTION:

The digital world is rewiring every aspect of our lives. From how we shop, eat, sleep and play, everything is connected. But is technology really neutral? Where are the challenges? Who is being left out and how can we use technology to foster inclusion instead? Can we prevent it from hurting our relationships? Will we ever be able to unplug?

On March 19th Booz Allen Hamilton is hosting a TEDxTysons after-work salon to discuss the possibilities and challenges of our rapidly growing digital world.

Speakers include:

• Kerel Fryar, Director of Creative Product Innovation at Hilton - Engineer, Innovator, and Entrepreneur
• Jennifer Joy Madden, Health Journalist & Author of The Durable Human
• Evan Barba, Professor, Georgetown University’s Communication, Culture and Technology Program
• Kymberly DeLoatch, Advocate for People with Disabilities, Arc of Northern VA

For more information on speakers and to purchase tickets, click here.

Tweet me:Is #tech really neutral? Will we ever #unplug? Join TEDxTysons @BoozAllen on life in #digital age: http://bit.ly/2FXrhgw

KEYWORDS: tedx, Booz Allen Hamilton, digital

SOURCE:British American Tobacco

DESCRIPTION:

LONDON, March 19, 2018 /3BL Media/ -- British American Tobacco (BAT) recently published its Annual Report and Sustainability Report – both of which outline the Company’s commitment to transform tobacco by offering an unrivalled suite of potentially reduced-risk products that address the varied preferences of today’s consumers.

The reports – both titled ‘Transforming Tobacco’, clearly set out BAT’s ambition to lead and shape the transformation of the industry by achieving a triple win: for consumers – who will be offered a range of potentially safer choices; for society – who could benefit from real progress in tobacco harm reduction; and for shareholders – who will own an even more sustainable and profitable business.

Complementing its existing combustible portfolio, BAT now offers a wide range of potentially reduced-risk products, including Next Generation Products (NGPs), comprising vapour and tobacco heating products (THPs), as well as oral tobacco and nicotine products, such as snus and moist snuff.

Commenting on the two reports, Nicandro Durante, Chief Executive, said:

“We recognise that the tobacco and nicotine industry has entered a dynamic period of change and we are committed to leading this transformation. Increased public health awareness, new societal attitudes and rapid developments in new technologies have all combined to create a unique opportunity to accelerate the delivery of our long-held ambition to provide our consumers with less risky tobacco and nicotine choices.

“These two important reports out today, clearly outline our strategy to transform tobacco by building our business based on outstanding products, informed consumer choice and a potentially reduced-risk portfolio. Put simply: more choice, more innovation, less risk.”

The Company’s commitment to the important role these potentially reduced-risk products will play, is reflected in its aims to generate over £1 billion revenue from NGPs in 2018 and to increase this figure fivefold to £5 billion by 2022.

Since 2012, together with Reynolds American Inc., BAT has invested approximately US$2.5 billion in developing and commercialising its range of Next Generation Products.

Mr Durante added:

“Transforming Tobacco isn’t just about harm reduction, though. To respond to evolving challenges and opportunities, we need to continue to focus on the other key areas of our Sustainability Agenda, including sustainable agriculture and farmer livelihoods, and corporate behaviour. These are fundamental imperatives that set the foundations for our business for years to come.”

Now in BAT’s 16th year of sustainability reporting, the latest Sustainability Report, ‘Transforming Tobacco’, details the Group’s 2017 sustainability performance and how the Company is shaping the future and transforming tobacco to create shared value for consumers, shareholders and stakeholders across its value chain.

About the reports

To download the Annual Report and Accounts and Sustainability Report, visit www.bat.com/reporting.   

British American Tobacco’s Sustainability Report is independently reviewed by its Stakeholder Panel and Ernst & Young LLP provide limited assurance of selected sustainability data. Detailed performance information, including progress against goals, data charts for key performance indicators and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G4 reporting, can be found online at www.bat.com/sustainability/data. 

About British American Tobacco

British American Tobacco (BAT) is one of the world’s leading, multi-category consumer goodscompanies, that provides tobacco and nicotine products to millions of consumers around the world.

It employs over 55,000 people, with market leadership in over 55 countries and factories in 42. Its Strategic Portfolio is made up of its global cigarette brands and an increasing range of potentially reduced-risk products, comprising vapour and tobacco heating products, as well as oral tobacco and nicotine products such as moist snuff and snus.

In 2017 the Group generated reported revenue of £20 billion and profit from operations of £6.5 billion. In July 2017, British American Tobacco p.l.c. acquired the remaining 57.8% of Reynolds American Inc. that BAT  did not already own, creating a stronger, global tobacco and nicotine company.

ENQUIRIES

British American Tobacco Press Office
Anna Vickerstaff / George Parker
+44 (0) 20 7845 2888 (24 hours)

Investor Relations
Mike Nightingale / Rachael Brierley / Stephanie Brassinne
+44 (0) 20 7845 1180 / 1519 / 2012

Forward looking statements

This communication contains certain forward looking statements, including “forward-looking” statements made within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “could,” “may,” “would,” “should,” “intend,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “will,” “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “positioned,” “strategy,” “outlook”, “target” and similar expressions. These include statements regarding our intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, amongst other things, our results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the economic and business circumstances occurring from time to time in the countries and markets in which the Group operates.

All such forward-looking statements involve estimates and assumptions that are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual future financial condition, performance and results to differ materially from the plans, goals, expectations and results expressed in the forward-looking statements and other financial and/or statistical data within this communication.

Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements are uncertainties related to the following: the impact of competition from illicit trade; the impact of adverse domestic or international legislation and regulation; changes in domestic or international tax laws and rates; adverse litigation and dispute outcomes and the effect of such outcomes on the Group’s financial condition; changes or differences in domestic or international economic or political conditions; the inability to obtain price increases and the impact of price increases on consumer affordability thresholds; adverse decisions by domestic or international regulatory bodies; the impact of market size reduction and consumer down-trading; translational and transactional foreign exchange rate exposure; the impact of serious injury, illness or death in the workplace; the ability to maintain credit ratings and to fund the business under the current capital structure; the ability to develop and commercialise new alternative products and to do so profitably; and changes in the market position, businesses, financial condition, results of operations or prospects of the Group.

It is believed that the expectations reflected in this communication are reasonable but they may be affected by a wide range of variables that could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated. Past performance is no guide to future performance and persons needing advice should consult an independent financial adviser. The forward-looking statements reflect knowledge and information available at the date of preparation of this communication and the Group undertakes no obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.

Additional information concerning these and other factors can be found in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the Annual Report on Form 20-F filed on 15 March 2018 and Current Reports on Form 6-K, which may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website, http://www.sec.gov, and the Company’s Annual Reports, which may be obtained free of charge from the British American Tobacco website www.bat.com. 

Tweet me:READ: British American Tobacco shares commitment to transform tobacco in latest #Sustainability Report. http://bit.ly/2GAf7Li @BATPress #SustyReporting #sustainableagriculture

KEYWORDS: British American Tobacco (BAT), sustainable agriculture

By Alyssa Danigelis

SOURCE:T. Rowe Price

DESCRIPTION:

T. Rowe Price has published its 2016 – 2017 corporate social responsibility report. The Baltimore-based global investment management organization demonstrated reductions in greenhouse gas emissions per associate over a six-year period.

Between 2010 and 2016, the firm’s total GHG emissions went down 4% and were reduced by 31% per associate, according to the report. This occurred despite a 51% increase in the firm’s associate population.

In addition, T. Rowe Price’s Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions per square foot went down by 6% over the six-year period. Emissions per revenue decreased by 46%.

Continue reading on Environmental Leader.

Tweet me:.@TRowePrice CSR Report Shows Emissions and Waste Reductions via @ELDaily http://bit.ly/2GBeeT5

KEYWORDS: T. Rowe Price, environmental committment, environmental sustainability, carbon footprint, Corporate Social Responsibility

Teams at the Famous Hollywood Bowl and Chicago’s Historic Museum of Science and Industry Recognized as Catersource Achievement in Catering Excellence (ACE) Award Winners

SOURCE:Sodexo, Inc.

DESCRIPTION:

GAITHERSBURG, Md., March 19, 2018 /3BL Media/ - Sodexo, a food services and facilities management company committed to improving Quality of Life, announced today that its catering and event teams at the  legendary Hollywood Bowl in California and the iconic Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago have been recognized with a prestigiousCatersource Achievement in Catering Excellence (ACE) Award, which honors companies that have shown noteworthy achievement in the catering industry through culinary, business, community and professional development.

“At Sodexo, we are committed to enhancing the customer experience as soon as people arrive at our venues,” said Charlotte Jensen, CEO Sports & Leisure, Sodexo North America. “We are honored that our teams, who work tirelessly to deliver operational excellence in food, catering and events for our clients, were recognized as Catersource Achievement in Catering Excellence (ACE) Award Winners.  This level quality is a testament to our continued drive for excellence and creativity globally.”
California’s renowned Hollywood Bowl is celebrated for hosting popular entertainers and has played host to historic acts, including the Beatles and Billie Holliday. The 17,500-seat venue boasts several dining options from fine dining to street kiosks and food trucks executed by Sodexo, in professional partnership with James Beard Foundation award-winning Chef Suzanne Goin and James Beard Foundation multiple award nominee, Restaurateur Caroline Styne.

The Sodexo catering team at the Hollywood Bowl was recognized for its innovative dining services specifically for its work during the Los Angeles Philharmonic Press Preview, which showcased the latest and greatest menu items across the Hollywood Bowl grounds.

Additionally, the Sodexo catering team at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry, one of the world’s largest science museums and home to 400,000-square-feet of exhibits, was also recognized with a prestigious ACE award for its unique event planning for the 35^th Annual Black Creativity Gala and 37^th Annual Columbian Ball. This is the second consecutive year that the Sodexo team at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry received this distinction.

The Hollywood Bowl and The Museum of Science Industry are operated under Sodexo’s Sports & Leisure division, serving as a provider for cultural destinations and event venues around the world and in the U.S., including Space Center Houston, the Dallas Art Museum, the National Zoo, California Academy of Sciences, Chicago Botanic Garden and the Virginia Aquarium.

About Sodexo North America

Sodexo North America serves 15 million customers in corporate, education, healthcare, senior living, sports and leisure, government and other environments daily.  The company employs 133,000 people at 13,000 sites in all 50 U.S. states and Canada and indirectly supports tens of thousands of additional jobs through its annual purchases of $9.2 billion in goods and services from small to large American businesses. In support of local communities across the U.S., the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation has contributed close to $30 million over the past 20 years to help feed children in America impacted by hunger.  To learn more about Sodexo, visit SodexoInsights.com and connect with us on Facebook and @SodexoUSA on Twitter.

Tweet me:.@SodexoUSA recognized for catering and event-planning excellence http://bit.ly/2GsMqQJ

Contact Info:

Heidi Marino
Sodexo, Inc.
+1 (301) 233-6658
Heidi.Marino@Sodexo.com

KEYWORDS: Hollywood Bowl, Catering, Event-planning, Sodexo, Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago

SOURCE:CBRE Group, Inc.

DESCRIPTION:

LOS ANGELES, March 19, 2018 /3BL Media/ - CBRE hosted its 2018 CBRE Women’s Networking Forum, the largest company gathering of women, March 14-16 in Chicago. The conference theme this year was “Impact,” recognizing the positive impact of women in the company and the commercial real estate industry.

“The Women’s Networking Forum has been an important business development opportunity for our members for 18 years,” said Lisa Konieczka, Women’s Network chairperson and executive vice president in the company’s Chicago office. “The environment is collaborative and focused on success. We meet, share best practices, explore new ideas, improve our business skills, and recognize and celebrate the positive impact of women to our organization and CBRE.”

More than 400 women from across the company attended the conference to take part in business skills-building workshops and networking events, and hear prominent guest speakers including:

• Bob Sulentic, president and chief executive officer, CBRE
• Wendy Silverstein, chief executive officer, New York REIT
• Dr. Victoria H. Medvec, Medvec & Associates and Kellogg Graduate School of Business, Center for Executive Women
• Erica Dawhan, leadership strategist and connectional intelligence expert
• Carla Harris, vice chairman, Global Wealth Management, Morgan Stanley
• Karina Muller, founder and chief executive officer, Mariposa Wellness

The conference also included a major community service project at one of Ada S. McKinley’s program locations on the South Side of Chicago.

Bob Sulentic, CBRE CEO, said, “The CBRE Women's Network’s powerful platform of programs and resources helps our women move closer to their career goals. At the Women's Networking Forum the learning sessions and networking opportunities help our professionals become increasingly valuable advisors to our clients.”

The CBRE Women’s Network was formed in 2000 and has more than 3,000 members from all levels of the organization, the company’s three regions and every business line. The group’s mission is to “Promote the Success of Women,” which is guided by three key principles: Growth, Connection and Mentorship.

About CBRE Group, Inc.
CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Los Angeles, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2017 revenue). The company has more than 80,000 employees (excluding affiliates), and serves real estate investors and occupiers through approximately 450 offices (excluding affiliates) worldwide. CBRE offers a broad range of integrated services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

Tweet me:.@CBRE hosts 2018 Women’s Networking Forum, recognizing the positive impact of women in the company and the #CRE industry http://bit.ly/2ps6E4G @CBREWomen

KEYWORDS: CBRE, 2018 CBRE Women’s Networking Forum, CBRE Women's Network

by Andy Pharoah

SOURCE:Mars, Incorporated

DESCRIPTION:

Mars isn’t big on tooting our own horn. We don’t like to boast and that’s the way it’s been for more than a century. All along, we’ve been pleased to let our brands – from M&M’S®, Snickers® and Extra®, to Pedigree® Royal Canin®, Banfield Pet Hospital® and Uncle Ben’s®-- speak for themselves. But after much discussion and even some disagreement, we made a conscious decision to start sharing our story.

Why the shift? Because we recognized there were a number of significant challenges – economic, societal and environmental – that we could positively impact by speaking up. We also recognized that in order to achieve the business success we want over the long term in a “disrupt or be disrupted” world, people needed to know who we were. They already knew our products, but too many didn’t know anything about Mars…good, bad or indifferent. They needed to get to know us as a company that’s equally as distinct and attractive as our brands.

When we do talk about our actions, we’re careful not to do it cavalierly. We share in a way that’s authentic and honest. There can’t be a gap between what we say and what we do. We can’t cherry pick the easy conversations and shy away from when those that make us uncomfortable. We must take informed stances on issues, then back our positions with example. We also can’t outsource reputation building. It’s not a campaign…it’s a long-term collaborative process across our entire business, backed by the reality of our brands and who we really are as a company.  

Now, with our first RT100 ranking under our belt, we’ll certainly take a moment to celebrate. And then we’ll get back to the business of walking the talk. 

Click here to continue reading on LinkedIn.

Tweet me:"Reputation is critical to every aspect of our business - we care about reputation because it's a leading indicator of our positive influence on society." - Andy Pharoah, @MarsGlobal http://bit.ly/2GziKl3 #ProudlyMars

KEYWORDS: Mars Incorporated

SOURCE:Antea Group

DESCRIPTION:

Antea Group spotlights David Matthews, a consultant in the Atlanta, GA office. David works in Health and Safety and is an expert in industrial hygiene and health and safety audits.

From delivering newspapers to evaluating the effectiveness of personal protective equipment against chemical warfare agents, he has come a long way. Read more about David Matthews and his life and career.

About Antea Group

Antea Group is an international engineering and environmental consulting firm specializing in full-service solutions in the fields of environment, infrastructure, urban planning and water. By combining strategic thinking and multidisciplinary perspectives with technical expertise and pragmatic action, we do more than effectively solve client challenges; we deliver sustainable results for a better future. With more than 3,000 employees in over 100 offices around the world, we serve clients ranging from global energy companies and manufacturers to national governments and local municipalities. Learn more at http://us.anteagroup.com.

Tweet me:.@AnteaGroup Practitioner Spotlight--David Matthews http://bit.ly/2G7sd2N

Contact Info:

katie.nordenson@anteagroup.com

KEYWORDS: health and safety, CIH, AIHA, industrial hygiene, EH&S audits, antea group

Let’s eradicate modern-day slavery once and for all.

SOURCE:UPS

DESCRIPTION:

There are nearly 46 million people in 167 countries living in some form of slavery today, and women and girls in developing nations make up more than 70 percent of those exposed to constant abuse and extreme poverty.

They can’t live freely or earn enough to meet basic needs for themselves or their families.

Let’s shine a light on one of the many women with stories to tell.

Meet Bavishni

Bavishni lives in rural India and grew up facing a lifetime of captivity. From a young age, she understood that, at best, she’d spend her teenage years and adult life in an apparel factory.

At worst, she’d be forced into a marriage … a practice internationally recognized as a form of sexual slavery. When she was 15, Bavishni’s father abandoned her and her four sisters, seemingly destroying any chance they had to make a better life for themselves.

A better path

But in 2015, Bavishni learned about a fashion organization that would change her life.

She started a job with a partner of CAUSEGEAR®, an international provider of fashion apparel and accessories. From her remote Indian village, Bavishni created goods for sale around the world.

CAUSEGEAR® isn’t a regular clothing company. Its mission is to provide opportunities through sustainable employment to people trapped in modern-day slavery or extreme poverty.

Brad and Katherine Jeffery founded the company after seeing this plight during their work and travels.

The company’s sourcing policy is already breaking the chains of poverty and generating economic opportunity where opportunities didn’t previously exist.

CAUSEGEAR® utilizes a 5X compensation system for the artisans that create the goods they sell. That means its supply chain starts with laborers making five times the typical wage in their local markets.

Does the system work?

Well, today, Bavishni is a young artisan providing for her family and offering a path of freedom for her four sisters and mother.

Jobs mean liberty

For free women like Bavishni, jobs mean liberty. She’s paid more than just a living wage, and the people that buy her high-quality wares get quality and value in their purchases.

Believe it or not, the 5X model remains affordable for the consumer.

Products appear alongside stories on their website. Statements quantifying days of freedom for the artisans behind the products are included in corporate and event orders.

Human justice in the supply chain

Change often starts at the grassroots level. But it must happen on a larger scale as well.

It isn’t just conscientious consumers making a difference. Sustainability and human rights are top-of-mind issues at today’s most successful businesses.

Corporations that source goods responsibly find meaningful ways to measure the impact of such practices. This approach influences perceptions, changes behaviors and supports positive corporate culture.

More companies – and their investors– are measuring success by how they impact the world around them. It’s time we all take a hard look at where we source our purchases – from the department store all the way up to the boardroom.

It’s good for business. But more importantly, it’s good for the Bavishnis of the world who will ride a supply chain of freedom to a better life.

Tweet me:Experts at @UPS say it’s time we all take a hard look at where we source our purchases – from the department store all the way up to the boardroom to bring an end to modern slavery. http://bit.ly/2tNAnuz

KEYWORDS: UPS, supply chain, CAUSEGEAR

Participate in National #cleanYOURblock Party during Great American Cleanup, Nation’s Largest Community Improvement Program

SOURCE:Keep America Beautiful

DESCRIPTION:

Keep America Beautiful is officially kicking off the 20th anniversary of the Great American Cleanup, the nation’s largest community improvement program, today -- the first day of spring -- with thousands of cleaning, greening and beautification events taking place across America through the spring, summer and fall.

The 2018 Great American Cleanup social theme – #cleanYOURblock – is a call-to-action to engage more volunteers and participants in public space cleanup, beautification and recycling events conducted by Keep America Beautiful affiliates nationwide. Once an individual becomes a Great American Cleanup volunteer with their local Keep America Beautiful affiliate or partner, the national nonprofit’s goal is that they will be inspired to take that experience home to organize similar, smaller-scale events in their own neighborhood – right on their own block – with neighbors, family and friends, creating a national #cleanYOURblock Party! Get started by learning “20 Easy Ways to #cleanYOURblock.”

Every year, with the support of Keep America Beautiful affiliates, volunteers, corporate partners, social and civic service organizations, municipalities and government officials, Keep America Beautiful, on average:

• Cleans, improves and beautifies more than 100,000 miles of roads, parks, shorelines and waterways;
• Plants hundreds of thousands of trees, plants and community gardens;
• Collects tens of millions of pounds of litter and debris for proper disposal;
• Collects hundreds of millions of pounds of items for recycling or reusing;
• Educates and activates millions of youth (K-12 and College) to inspire the next generation of community and environmental stewards; and
• Delivers more than $200 million in measurable economic benefits to communities across the country.

National sponsors of the 2018 Great American Cleanup include Altria, Dow, The Glad Products Company, Lowe's, McDonald’s and Niagara Bottling.

Learn more.

Tweet me:It's the first day of #spring! Make sure to #volunteer in @kabtweet's Great American Cleanup, officially kicking off today! Make this a national #cleanYOURblock Party! http://bit.ly/2u2xCpr #DoBeautifulThings

Contact Info:

Mike Rosen
Keep America Beautiful
+1 (203) 659-3008
mrosen@kab.org
http://www.twitter.com/kabtweet
http://www.facebook.com/keepamericabeautiful
http://www.instagram.com/keepamericabeautiful
http://www.youtube.com/kabnetwork

Janessa Rivera
Keep America Beautiful
+1 (203) 659-3064
jrivera@kab.org

KEYWORDS: Keep America Beautiful, Great American Cleanup

Participe en la fiesta nacional #cleanYOURblock durante Great American Cleanup, el programa de mejora de la comunidad más grande de la nación

SOURCE:Keep America Beautiful

DESCRIPTION:

Keep America Beautiful inaugura oficialmente el vigésimo aniversario de Great American Cleanup, el programa de mejora de la comunidad más grande de la nación, hoy, primer día de la primavera, con miles de eventos de limpieza, ecologización y embellecimiento en toda América durante la primavera, verano y otoño.

El tema social Great American Cleanup 2018 - #cleanYOURblock - es un llamado a la acción para involucrar a más voluntarios y participantes en eventos de limpieza, embellecimiento y reciclaje de espacios públicos realizados por los afiliados de Keep America Beautiful en todo el país. Una vez que un individuo se convierte en voluntario de Great American Cleanup con su afiliado o socio local Keep America Beautiful, la meta nacional de la organización sin fines de lucro es que se inspire para llevar esa experiencia a casa y organizar eventos similares a menor escala en su propio vecindario, justo en su bloque propio - con vecinos, familiares y amigos, creando una fiesta #cleanYOURblock nacional! Comienza aprendiendo "20 maneras fáciles de #cleanYOURblock.”

Cada año, con el apoyo de Keep America Beautiful, afiliados, voluntarios, socios corporativos, organizaciones de servicios sociales y cívicos, municipalidades y funcionarios gubernamentales, Keep America Beautiful, en promedio:

• Limpia, mejora y embellece más de 100,000 millas de carreteras, parques, costas y canales;
• Plantas cientos de miles de árboles, plantas y jardines comunitarios;
• Recoge decenas de millones de libras de basura y desechos para su eliminación adecuada;
• Recoge cientos de millones de libras de artículos para reciclar o reutilizar;
• Educa y activa a millones de jóvenes (K-12 y la universidad) para inspirar a la próxima generación de administradores comunitarios y ambientales; y
• Ofrece más de $200 millones en beneficios económicos mensurables a las comunidades en todo el país.

Los patrocinadores nacionales de Great American Cleanup de 2018 incluyen Altria, Dow, The Glad Products Company, Lowe's, McDonald's y Niagara Bottling.

Aprende más.

Tweet me:¡Es el primer día de #primavera! ¡Asegúrese de #voluntario en Great American Cleanup de @kabtweet, oficialmente comenzando hoy! ¡Vamos a hacer esto una fiesta nacional #cleanYOURblock! http://bit.ly/2G5u9uS #DoBeautifulThings

Contact Info:

Mike Rosen
Keep America Beautiful
+1 (203) 659-3008
mrosen@kab.org
http://www.twitter.com/kabtweet
http://www.facebook.com/keepamericabeautiful
http://www.instagram.com/keepamericabeautiful
http://www.youtube.com/kabnetwork

Janessa Rivera
Keep America Beautiful
+1 (203) 659-3064
jrivera@kab.org

KEYWORDS: Keep America Beautiful, Great American Cleanup, Altria, Dow, The Glad Products Company, Lowe's, McDonald's, Niagara Bottling

SOURCE:Ceres

DESCRIPTION:

LONDON, March 20, 2018 /3BL Media/ - In opening remarks to a global green bonds conference, international climate leader Christiana Figueres has called on cities, governments and corporations to commit to the use of green bonds for infrastructure investment programs.

Speaking to participants from over 55 nations at the Climate Bonds Initiative annual conference in London, the former UN Climate Chief & Convenor of Mission 2020 unveiled a new campaign have public and corporate capital expenditure programs increasingly aligned with climate and emissions goals.

The Green Bond Pledge seeks to have cities, public authorities and world’s largest corporates commit to increased use of green bond finance to ensure new infrastructure meets the challenges of climate change and contributes to the accelerated transformation of the economy that is necessary and achievable by 2020. 

Developed by international climate finance and sustainability groups, the Green Bond Pledge is a declaration that reinforces the goals of the Paris Agreement. It is based on the premise that public and private sector bonds financing long-term infrastructure and capital projects need to address and incorporate climate risk and impacts. Green bonds contribute to environmental and climate outcomes and their use signals that these factors have been deliberately incorporated into the financing planning and deployment of new projects and developments.

More than a dozen organizations from around the globe have helped to develop the pledge, including the Climate Bonds Initiative, Mission2020, Ceres, CDP, Citizens Climate Lobby, California Governor’s Office, California Treasurer’s Office, Global Optimism, NRDC and The Climate Group.

Signatories will be widely sought from cities, municipal authorities and corporations. The initial aim is to gather significant momentum in the run up to the September 2018 Global Climate Action Summit in San Francisco, with the campaign continuing into 2019.

The groups also released today an invitation to institutional investors to be signatories supporting the proposition that climate-related risk will increasingly exert pressure on infrastructure and capital project integrity, which bond issuers and investors must pay attention to when committing public resources and investment capital.  The international green bond market, along with other green investments, not only provides a useful mechanism to finance solutions to climate change, but also represents an investment.

Christiana Figueres, Former UN Climate Chief & Convenor of Mission 2020:

“When green investments move from business plans into budgets and balance sheets a wealth of opportunity will be unlocked across the value chain. Organizations committing to the Green Bond Pledge will benefit from these opportunities and help the necessary acceleration of capital flows - before 2020 - to deliver a sustainable future for everyone.”

Patricia Espinosa, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) and a Global Climate Action Summit co-chair:

"Financing the transition to a low carbon, resilient economy will be a key to ever more ambitious national climate action plans and realizing the Paris Climate Change Agreement goals."

"Green bonds are among an array of exciting and rapidly growing, new financial instruments that are going to help us get there. I warmly welcome the Pledge as one among many inspiring new initiatives that will launch climate action in 2018 to the next level of ambition.”

Sean Kidney, CEO Climate Bonds Initiative:

“Recognition of climate risks must transition to adoption of climate realities for infrastructure design, resilience and adaptation.”

“The Green Bond Pledge will become the basis for cities and corporates to reorient the long term investment and capital expenditure decisions on their balance sheets to address the unavoidable environmental and climate conditions of tomorrow.”

Anand Mahindra, Indian business leader and a Co-Chair Global Climate Action Summit:

"The Green Bond Pledge is an important, supportive initiative to the Global Climate Action Summit. Greening financial flows now, and over the years and decades to come, can help take climate planning to the next level and in doing so, make a powerful and practical difference to people’s lives."

Mindy Lubber, CEO and President, Ceres:

"Today, we sent a clear message that infrastructure and capital projects of all kinds must address environmental issues and climate risk and that green bonds are an ideal financing vehicle when such projects need to be financed in the debt market. By delivering on this simple ask, we will continue to develop a critical market that will support investors and other capital market leaders in mitigating the impacts of climate change." 

Lance Pierce, President, CDP North America:

“As a rapidly mainstreaming financing vehicle, green bonds are now essential for investors to explore.  In 2017 alone, CDP has seen over 500 cities from around the world reporting on 1,000+ infrastructure projects, worth over US$52 billion. These projects are potential candidates for financing via green bonds and increasingly, we're seeing a renewed appetite for the stability green bond instruments can provide.”

“Supply, demand and robust risk management come together under the Green Bond Pledge to further drive the mainstreaming of sustainable finance. This is an important step in reaching a tipping point for climate action and the creation of a sustainable economy.”

Doug Sims, Director of NRDC’s Center for Market Innovation:

“Cities, states and regions are directly responsible for delivering low carbon, resilient and equitable growth to their citizens. The Green Bond Pledge brings together climate science, responsive government and engaged investors in a collective commitment to build, finance and maintain the infrastructure we need.”

###

Notes for journalists

About the Green Bond Pledge: The Pledge is a joint initiative developed and designed by international climate finance and environmental groups including the Climate Bonds Initiative, Mission 2020, CDP, Ceres, Citizens Climate Lobby, California Governor's Office, California Treasurer's Office, Global Optimism, NRDC & The Climate Group.

https://www.greenbondpledge.com/

About the Global Climate Action Summit: It will take place 12-14 September 2018 in San Francisco, California. More information here.

Tweet me:Today at the @ClimateBonds annual conference in London, @CFigueres announced the Green Bonds Pledge -- with Ceres as one of the coordinating organizations. https://www.greenbondpledge.com/newsroom

Contact Info:

Andrew Whiley
Head of Communications and Media - Climate Bonds Initiative, London
+44 7914159838
andrew.whiley@climatebonds.net

KEYWORDS: climate risk and impacts, Global Climate Action Summit, Green Bonds Pledge, Christiana Figueres, CERES

SOURCE:Republic Services

DESCRIPTION:

In most parts of the country, the sun is finally peeking out from behind the clouds, the air is warmer yet still offers a sweet breeze or calming chill, and homeowners eagerly open up windows and begin packing away signs of winter. It is the wonderful time of the year when spring cleaning occurs. More than 70 percent of American households say they engage in spring cleaning. It can be both overwhelming and refreshing.

Here are some tips to ensure it’s more of the latter. 

1. Take it Room by Room

Do not try to tackle the entire house at one time. Prioritize which rooms need your attention the most and clean them out one at a time. Even separate the pantry room from the kitchen. Also, give yourself a couple hours for each room. Thoughtful decluttering takes time.

2. Organize As You Go

Before you engage in the Spring Cleaning process, have four different colored boxes to use as aids when sorting and organizing the items in your room. We prefer different shades of blue, of course, but you can use any colors you wish (or just label them according to the sorting category, see below). Any items that don’t belong in the room you’re working on should go into one of the four boxes.

Sorting Categories:

1. Move: Anything that should be stored or kept in another area of the home (e.g., toys in the playroom or kids’ bedrooms; items that can be reused through craft projects).
2. Giving: Gently used items to donate to a local charity or sell.
3. Recycling: Items that can be recycled
4. Trash: These are broken items that cannot be recycled, sold or donated. 

3. Recycling Items

What can be recycled? Paper, cardboard and aluminum can be recycled. What about plastics? Most plastics, such as water bottles, can be recycled. However, those flimsy plastic grocery bags are not recyclable. In fact, they often contaminate other recyclables. Try reusing your grocery bags and when ready to discard them, put plastic bags in the trash or they can be returned to your local grocery store.

The most common contaminants that we see in the everyday recycling stream are diapers, yard waste, old clothes or shoes and food. None of these items are recyclable and should never be put into your recycling container. 

Other items, such as glass, depend on your location so make sure to confirm with your local recycling provider. All recyclables need to be empty, clean and dry before putting them in the recycling container. This reduces contamination and ensures that your recyclables are ultimately repurposed as intended.   

For a list of recyclable and non-recyclable items, visit our online recycling guide. This also includes information on items that require special handling, such as light bulbs, paint and electronics. 

4. Repeat

The same four-box approach can be used to declutter each room. Make sure to appropriately recycle and discard any items and empty all the boxes before moving to the next room where you can reuse the four boxes and repeat the spring cleaning activity.

Tweet me:More than 70% of American households say they engage in #springcleaning. Need some tips? @RepublicService has you covered: http://bit.ly/2pgjEeE #recycling

KEYWORDS: Republic Services, Beyond the Blue, spring cleaning, Recycling, decluttering, minimalism, donating, repurposing

SOURCE:Business Call to Action (BCtA)

DESCRIPTION:

OSLO, Norway, March 20,2017 /3BL Media/ –  Edgar Montenegro, Founder and CEO of Corpocampo, is one of the 2018 winners of the Oslo Business for Peace award, Business for Peace announced today. The other winners are Lori Blaker, President and CEO of TTi Global, and Martin Naughton, Founder of Glen Dimplex Group. All three winners have made exceptional contributions to peacebuilding through business.
 
The Oslo Business for Peace Award is given out annually to exemplary business leaders who apply their business energy ethically and responsibly, creating economic and societal value. The 2018 winners were selected by an independent committee of Nobel Laureates and join the ranks of past award recipients including Sir Richard Branson (Virgin Group), Paul Polman (Unilever), Jennifer Riria (Kenya Women Holding), Dureen Shahnaz (Impact Investment Exchange), and Elon Musk (Tesla).
 
Edgar Montenegro (Colombia) founded Corpocampo in 2003 with the aim of using food production to build sustainable communities. The Colombian Pacific Coast region has long been affected by the country’s internal conflict, leading to widespread poverty, violence, and illegal coca crop production. Montenegro wanted to improve peoples’ lives by providing a legal and reliable source of income. His company specialises in the production and distribution of acai berries and palm hearts, with all products deriving from sustainable farming practices. Operating in several locations in Colombia, including Cauca, Nariño, Valle del Cauca and Putumayo escarpments, Montenegro works closely with local Afro-Colombian communities and indigenous people. Corpocampo has provided jobs for over 240 female- headed households, impacting over 1,300 families. Montenegro is recognized for his courageous achievements proving how the private sector can build peace by identifying business opportunities that help marginalised groups become more resilient.
 
As a way of scaling their inclusive business, in 2017 Corpocampo joined Business Call to Action, a global platform led by the United Nations Development Programme that aims to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals by challenging companies to develop inclusive business models. As part of its social commitment, Corpocampo has pledged to integrate 600 new families into its açaí palm value chain by 2020, providing smallholder suppliers and local plant employees with sustainable livelihoods through the production of its wild-harvested natural products.

Lori Blaker (United States) champions inclusion and gender equality as core values at TTi Global, a staffing, recruiting, and consulting firm operating on five continents with over 2000 employees. Blaker is recognized for her business performance not only in the United States but in developing economies such as India and Afghanistan. In 2016, Blaker opened a retail Automotive Service Center and Training Center in Kabul, creating much-needed job opportunities in a challenging environment. Notably, the facility employs both men and women. Blaker developed a special training program for local women to learn management skills in a culture and industry they would traditionally be barred from, which is just one example of her commitment to making positive change through business.

Martin Naughton, KBE (Ireland) has grown Glen Dimplex Group from seven employees in 1973 to becoming Ireland’s largest privately-owned manufacturing business and one of the world’s leading manufacturers of domestic appliances. During the turbulent years of the Northern Ireland conflict, Naughton promoted and supported business on both sides of the border, including negotiating cross-border trade. Naughton also played a significant role in establishing a corporate department on renewable and low-carbon solutions for heating, cooling, and ventilation, taking an active role in tackling climate change. Naughton receives the Award for his inspiring efforts to promote the role of the private sector in contributing to peace and environmental sustainability.

The selection process
Winners are selected annually by an independent committee of Nobel Prize winners in Peace and in Economics after a global nomination process through the International Chamber of Commerce, United Nations Global Compact, United Nations Development Programme, and Principles for Responsible Investment. The Award Committee consists of Shirin Ebadi (Iran), Leymah Gbowee (Liberia), Finn Kydland (Norway), Ouided Bouchamaoui (Tunisia), and Eric Maskin (USA). The committee evaluated the nominees on the criteria of being a role model to society and their peers, having earned trust by stakeholders, and standing out as an advocate.

Upcoming award ceremony
The three winners will receive the Award in a ceremony at Oslo City Hall on May 16, as part of the annual Business for Peace Summit. The theme for this year’s Summit is Building Trust: Accelerating Climate Leadership. Chef and business leader Jamie Oliver as well as Christiana Figueres, one of the key architects of the Paris Agreement and former Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, have been announced as speakers for the Summit.

Media Relations:
For interview requests or more information about Business for Peace and the Oslo Business for Peace Award, please contact: Alison Uttley, alison@businessforpeace.org or +47 48 68 46 30

ABOUT BUSINESS FOR PEACE
Business for Peace is an international foundation based in Oslo that aims to support, inspire, and recognise global business leaders who are positively changing the face of business. At the centre of the Foundation’s activities is the annual Oslo Business for Peace Award, conferred to exceptional individuals who exemplify the Foundation’s concept of being businessworthy: ethically and responsibly creating value both for both business and society. An independent Award Committee, consisting of Nobel Laureates in peace and economics, selects the Award Honourees each year. The Foundation also hosts an annual Summit bringing together business leaders, investors, leaders of NGOs, politicians, academics, and civil society from all over the world to discuss the practical actions needed in order to make substantial and sustainable business contributions to society.

ABOUT BUSINESS CALL TO ACTION (BCtA)
Launched at the United Nations in 2008, BCtA aims to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by challenging companies to develop inclusive business models that offer the potential for both commercial success and development impact. BCtA is a unique multilateral alliance between key donor governments including the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, UK Department for International Development, US Agency for International Development, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Finland, and the United Nations Development Programme — which hosts the secretariat.

Tweet me:.@BCtAInitiative member Edgar Montenegro of @corpocampo_col wins International 2018 Oslo Business for Peace Award http://bit.ly/2DG2E63 @Businessworthy #BfP #Colombia

KEYWORDS: Edgar Montenegro, Corpocampo, Oslo Business for Peace award, Business for Peace, business call to action (bcta)

SOURCE:Smithfield Foods

DESCRIPTION:

Emma Lasco works for Smithfield Foods Hog Production in north-central Iowa. Working with roughly 30 contract farmers who grow pigs with Smithfield, Emma ensures that the pigs are healthy and getting the attention and care they need: having an ample supply of feed and water, good ventilation, and that all of the equipment is functioning. Her work helps to create stronger relationships between Smithfield and its farmers.

Click here to read the full interview

About Smithfield Foods

Smithfield Foods is a $15 billion global food company and the world's largest pork processor and hog producer. In the United States, the company is also the leader in numerous packaged meats categories with popular brands including Smithfield^®, Eckrich^®, Nathan's Famous^®, Farmland^®, Armour^®, Farmer John^®, Kretschmar^®, John Morrell^®, Cook's^®, Gwaltney^®, Carando^®, Margherita^®, Curly's^®, Healthy Ones^®, Morliny^®, Krakus^® and Berlinki^®. Smithfield Foods is committed to providing good food in a responsible way and maintains robust animal care, community involvement, employee safety, environmental and food safety and quality programs. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com.

Tweet me:Meet Emma, a Pig Farmer of Tomorrow. Learn how she works with @SmithfieldFoods to maintain responsible pig farms: http://bit.ly/2HOFDAa

KEYWORDS: Smithfield Foods, Emma Lasco, Smithfield Foods Hog Production, pork supply chain, Pig Farmer of Tomorrow