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Lab Week 2024 - Javarus Smith

<img alt="&quot;Net Zero Readiness Report 2023&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e7df35f-9a5d-48c3-b74e-0c22c5b42e2f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-17%20at%209.27.49%20AM.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="591" loading="lazy" />KPMG published the Net Zero Readiness Index in 2021,1 a few weeks before the COP26 UN climate change conference in Glasgow. The event resulted in 153 countries putting forward new emissions targets for 2030 and more than 90 percent of world economic output and global emissions being covered by net zero agreements. Attempts to phase out the use of coal, the single biggest contributor to climate change, failed with weaker language to ‘phase down’ its use in the final agreement. COP26’s chairman Alok Sharma said that the conference had kept alive the hope of keeping global temperature increases within 1.5 degrees Celsius this century but added “its pulse is weak.”

The last two years have seen many countries taking steps in the right direction towards net zero, even if most have a long way to go. Some have announced significant new policies to support decarbonization, including the REPowerEU in Europe. Emissions trading schemes are expanding in several countries and the EU is phasing in its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, an idea that other countries look likely to adopt. The bloc is also introducing regulations to block the import of products linked to deforestation, showing how some jurisdictions plan to go further faster to meet net zero pledges.

Next year will see companies in many countries starting to report on their climate change risks and plans.

Renewable energy production continues to expand rapidly around the world, investment is rising fast and there are indications that it is becoming harder to raise funding for some fossil fuel projects. Renewable production and the reshaped electricity grids it requires will inevitably impact on some local environments, their biodiversity and communities. We are going to see more conflicts between the local and the global, but if we want to reach net zero while keeping the lights on, we have to build new power infrastructure somewhere.

These issues are among those discussed in this Net Zero Readiness Report. It explores the readiness of 24 countries based on interviews with local KPMG specialists. This report also examines global trends in sectors that are key to tackling climate change: the economy, electricity, transport, manufacturing, buildings, infrastructure, oil and gas, agriculture and the blue economy.

Across these countries and sectors we can see plenty of examples of progress on decarbonization including growth in electric vehicle sales, although from a low level in most countries. On behalf of all the KPMG specialists involved, we hope this report can contribute to helping organizations quicken their pace on the long walk towards net zero.

<a href="https://kpmg.com/xx/en/home/insights/2023/09/net-zero-readiness-report-2023.html" target="_blank">Click here to download the full Net Zero Readiness Report 2023.</a>

Net Zero Readiness Report

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<a href="https://www.northwesternmutual.com/who-we-are/sustainability-report/" target="_blank">Originally published in Northwestern Mutual 2023 Sustainability and Social Impact Report</a>

Through the <a href="https://www.northwesternmutual.com/who-we-are/sustainability-social-impact/communities/" target="_blank">Northwestern Mutua</a><a href="https://www.northwesternmutual.com/who-we-are/sustainability-social-impact/" target="_blank">l</a> Foundation, we invest in the future—allocating $23.5 million in 2023 to drive transformational and sustainable community outcomes. Our support includes not only financial contributions but also community partnerships, advocacy and volunteerism in the areas where our employees, financial advisors and representatives, and policyowners live and work. 

As a company, we’re committed to accelerating the search for better treatments and cures for childhood cancer. We work nationally to fund clinical research and support families during and after treatment, helping advance better quality-of-life outcomes. 

In our hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, we’re helping to expand access to quality education, revitalize underserved neighborhoods, increase opportunities for homeownership and support premier cultural attractions—investing in a healthy, economically vibrant city, for today and tomorrow.

CHILDHOOD CANCER: ADVANCING RESEARCH, SUPPORTING FAMILIES

Every day, more than 1,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with childhood cancer. It’s the number one cause of death by disease for children under the age of 15 in the U.S., yet it receives only 4% of the federal government’s annual cancer research budget1. What’s more, studies show that 60% of families lose significant household income and are hit with financial hardship following a cancer diagnosis2. Since 2012, Northwestern Mutual has been committed to accelerating the search for better treatments and cures for childhood cancer, while supporting families undergoing treatment and survivors living with long-term effects.

Accelerating the search for better treatments, cures and quality of life 

Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations and clinical researchers, we seek to accelerate the search for better treatments and cures for childhood cancer while supporting families and survivors. 

Since 2012, we’ve partnered with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, whose mission is to change the lives of children by empowering everyone to help find a cure for childhood cancer. Our funding includes: 

<ul><li>Young Investigators grants, up to $50,000 a year for three years, providing vital startup funds for the best and brightest early-career researchers </li>
	<li>Innovation grants, providing seed funding for researchers with a novel approach to pediatric oncology scientific investigation </li>
	<li>The Crazy 8 initiative, detailing roadmaps toward cures for specific hard-to-treat childhood cancers </li>
	<li>The Childhood Cancer Data Lab, empowering researchers and scientists worldwide to collaborate, share and develop resources to accelerate new treatment and cure discovery </li>
	<li>The Pediatric Oncology Student Training (POST) program, for undergraduate, graduate and medical students from underrepresented populations, encouraging careers in pediatric oncology research</li>
</ul>Scholarships to fulfill dreams 

We understand the unexpected costs and financial burden cancer treatment can place on a family. Our annual Childhood Cancer Scholarship Program gives survivors and siblings affected by childhood cancer the opportunity to pursue their dreams of higher education. In 2023, we awarded $500,000 in combined scholarships to 50 students. Since 2017, we’ve awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships to more than 260 scholars.
<img alt="large group of volunteers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="602a172e-9530-4c91-a0b9-21b9af1d097a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/volunteers_northwesternmutual_041524.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="799" loading="lazy" />BUILDING EDUCATION AND OPPORTUNITY PATHWAYS FROM EARLY CHILDHOOD TO EMPLOYMENT

Supporting education for Milwaukee’s youth has been a Northwestern Mutual priority for more than 25 years. As one of the Milwaukee area’s largest employers, we believe in creating access to quality education for all students, from all backgrounds. By investing in students, we’re creating the foundation for Milwaukee’s future leaders and professionals. When everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential, we all succeed.

Strengthening the K-12 pipeline 

Research shows that quality preschool education has a long-term positive effect, especially when combined with support for families3. We support early childhood organizations to ensure students arrive at school ready to learn and succeed. And we invest in initiatives for systemic change as well as targeted, smaller-scale projects to meet evolving needs of students and educators. 

Our 22 Milwaukee-area K-12 partner schools demonstrate high performance—and we want to help build on what’s working. Most of these schools serve more than 80% economically disadvantaged students, and many serve more than 90%. 

This year we committed an additional $5.8 million to support 40 Milwaukee-based nonprofits and schools, which includes a bridge loan to Notre Dame School of Milwaukee and two capital grants to St. Marcus School and St. Augustine Prep. This will help these schools expand and add about 1,500 quality seats to classrooms over the next few years.

Cultivating talent through college completion 

Since 2018, we’ve partnered with All-In Milwaukee, a college completion and career placement program that supports students through financial aid and advising. Northwestern Mutual has been proud to fund 81 scholars to date. This year we announced a $2 million, four-year grant that will enable another 100 students—many of them first-generation college attendees—to receive comprehensive support toward graduation. 

In 2023, 16 All-In Milwaukee scholars interned with us. We also hosted development days for more than 300 students at our corporate headquarters. In 2023, Northwestern Mutual also expanded our commitment to providing students from underserved neighborhoods access to quality education. Over the next five years, we’ll issue more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships to a total of 136 students from local pipeline schools to pursue higher education through our new HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Connection Scholarship program and continuing partnership with All-In Milwaukee. Our inaugural cohort of nine recipients will receive $7,500 in both their freshman and sophomore years and have the opportunity to participate in paid summer internships after their junior and senior years.

Fostering tech talent and innovation 

Technology enables Northwestern Mutual’s client, field and service experiences and accelerates our business outcomes. Developing regional technology talent is essential to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and we partner with local organizations to amplify our impact. 

<ul><li>The Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute (NMDSI) was created in 2018 by Northwestern Mutual, Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to establish Wisconsin as a technology hub. In 2023, the three institutions committed $35 million to NMDSI over the next five years, building on the nearly $40 million invested to date. </li>
	<li>Our technology outreach program, hi, Tech, introduces K-12 students to the possibilities of achievement through tech. </li>
	<li>Our high school Tech Minicamp &amp; Internship immerses students from our partner schools in a tech skills development program. More than 50 employees volunteer as instructors and mentors. </li>
	<li>We hosted 60 middle school girls from Golda Meir and Hmong American Peace Academy at our downtown campus for hands-on tech activities and career guidance from our women leaders. </li>
	<li>In 2023, we kicked off a mentoring program with Ronald Reagan High School in Milwaukee that brings together 40 high school girls with 20 Northwestern Mutual women every month to develop tech and professional skills. </li>
	<li>As a founder of the nonprofit MKE Tech Hub Coalition, which seeks to build a vibrant, inclusive tech ecosystem, we hosted 2023’s 4-year anniversary event for 300 community members.</li>
</ul>Revitalizing underserved neighborhoods 

Financial inequities in housing and income add to the racial wealth gap across the United States. We believe a long-term, resident-engaged approach is critical to reversing the root causes of these challenges. Working alongside residents and community partners in three Milwaukee neighborhoods, we’re supporting development of the tools and skills to achieve community goals. In 2023, we also focused on expanding opportunities for affordable homeownership, which can be an important path to building financial security and generational wealth.

Expanding opportunities for homeownership 

According to the Wisconsin Policy Forum, Milwaukee has the lowest homeownership rate among its peer cities for African American/Black residents—just over 25%4. To address this gap, Northwestern Mutual dedicated $3.5 million in 2023 to help residents in Milwaukee’s underserved communities achieve homeowner status. The initiative includes: 

<ul><li>A $500,000 grant from the Northwestern Mutual Foundation to the Acts Housing’s Homeownership Acquisition Fund, which will purchase, remodel and sell homes to first-time buyers </li>
	<li>A $2.5 million investment from the Northwestern Mutual Impact Investment fund in the Milwaukee Community Land Trust to help drive affordable housing and ensure homeownership affordability over time </li>
	<li>Additional funds up to $500,000 for services such as homebuyer training, which prepares people for the financial and other obligations of homeownership</li>
</ul>Partnering with neighborhoods 

We believe neighborhood revitalization starts with the development of strong community leaders who become champions for the residents and their shared goals. For more than a decade, we’ve partnered with Milwaukee’s Amani, Metcalfe Park, and Muskego Way neighborhoods to create long-term impact, investing more than $15 million toward sustainable transformation and economic empowerment. Those investments support resident-led revitalization plans, thriving neighborhood associations, deeper collaboration among nonprofit partners, and the development of a citywide shared housing strategy.

MAKING OUR HOMETOWN EVEN MORE ATTRACTIVE AND INCLUSIVE

Milwaukee is home to iconic cultural destinations and leading organizations that give our citizens opportunities to engage and connect with each other. This year, Northwestern Mutual gave nearly $3 million to community partners, along with funding community giving campaigns, to increase access and help make Milwaukee a great place to live and visit.

Learn more about Northwestern Mutual’s commitment to investing in our communities in the <a href="https://www.northwesternmutual.com/who-we-are/sustainability-social-impact/communities/" target="_blank">2023 Sustainability and Social Impact Report</a>.

 

1National Cancer Institute, <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/types/childhood-cancers" target="_blank">Types of Cancer in Children</a>, September 29, 2023, and <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-nci/budget#:~:text=NCI%20Budget%20Process-,Current%20Fiscal%20Year%20(FY%202020)%20Budget,regular%20and%20Cancer%20Moonshot%20appropriations." target="_blank">NCI Budget and Appropriations</a>, January 24, 2024 

2Family Reach, “<a href="https://familyreach.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/16-FamilyReach-Survival-at-all-costs.pdf" target="_blank">Survival at All Costs</a>,” 2015

3Sarah Sparks, “<a href="https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/early-education-pays-off-a-new-study-shows-how/2022/03" target="_blank">Early Education Pays Off. A New Study Shows How,</a>” Education Week, March 29, 2022

4<a href="https://wispolicyforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Racial-Equity-in-Homeownership-Media-Release.pdf" target="_blank">“On Racial Equity in Homeownership, Milwaukee Ranks Last Among Peers,”</a> Wisconsin Policy Forum, July 22, 2022

Northwestern Mutual Sustainability and Social Impact: Investing in Our Communities

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FORT WORTH, Texas, May 15, 2024 /CSRwire/ - American Airlines proudly announces a historic endeavor to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France. On May 31, American will fly 70 World War II veterans to France on a donated charter flight to honor them for their service and sacrifice.

"We’re honored to play a part in helping this group of heroic veterans return to Normandy," said David Seymour, American’s Chief Operating Officer and a veteran of the U.S. Army. “This special journey is not only an expression of our gratitude for these heroes and the sacrifices they made for our freedom, but we hope to help shine a light on their extraordinary stories and preserve their legacies for generations to come."

D-Day marks a pivotal moment in history, and this trip reaffirms American’s commitment to supporting veterans and preserving their stories 80 years later.

Among the many heroes who will return to Normandy with American is U.S. Navy veteran Felix Maurizio, who was on a landing craft that deployed troops onto Omaha Beach on D-Day. One of the soldiers he dropped off was his brother, Sal, who served in an Army medical unit.
<img alt="Frank Perry Holding a box of displayed awards." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="67f02a57-f4c6-41db-a420-22a3b76c3098" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/FelixDDay_AmericanAirlines_050824.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />Also taking the trip is Frank Perry, who served in the Army Air Corps as a turret gunner in central Europe in March 1945, and recalls staying on high alert for enemy fighter aircraft. After being discharged from service, he pursued his dream of a career in aviation with nearly 40 years of service at Piedmont Airlines. Piedmont is one of the many heritage airlines that came together to form today’s American Airlines.

The journey will begin with a kickoff dinner at the American Airlines headquarters in Fort Worth the night before, followed by a send-off parade at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport before the group boards a chartered flight to Paris.

The veterans will spend two days in Paris before traveling to the Normandy region for commemorative events. The trip will include visits to key historical sites, concerts and special ceremonies to honor the courage and sacrifice of all who served during World War II. The trip will culminate with a June 6 ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery, where more than 9,000 U.S. service members have been laid to rest.

American has a long history of supporting those who have sacrificed to serve our nation and has formed partnerships with many organizations to support their mission. This historic trip includes partners like TriWest Healthcare Alliance, Gary Sinise Foundation, Robert Irvine Foundation and Old Glory Honor Flight.

Bookmark <a href="https://www.aa.com/dday80" target="_blank">www.aa.com/dday80</a> for updates surrounding the trip.

[Photos and interviews with veterans participating in the journey are available upon request. Please contact <a href="mailto:mediarelations@aa.com" target="_blank">mediarelations@aa.com</a> for further information.]

About American Airlines Group 
To Care for People on Life's Journey®. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL and the company's stock is included in the S&amp;P 500. Learn more about what's happening at American by visiting <a href="http://news.aa.com/" target="_blank">news.aa.com</a> and connect with American <a href="https://twitter.com/AmericanAir" target="_blank">@AmericanAir</a> and at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AmericanAirlines" target="_blank">Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines</a>.

American Airlines Honors Veterans With Special Journey to Normandy for the 80th Anniversary of D-Day

Blackbaud, the leading provider of software for powering social impact, has published its <a href="https://csr.blackbaud.com/?utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_source=3bl&amp;utm_campaign=CB-2024-1A-RP-2023IMPACTREPORT" target="_blank">2023 Impact Report</a>, sharing how the company has advanced its environmental, social and governance priorities in the past year.

“At Blackbaud, we’re committed to fueling impact and unleashing generosity – not only through our software, but by taking action on the issues that matter most to our people, our community and our planet.” said Mike Gianoni, president, CEO and vice chairman of the board. “This report gives a detailed look into the standards we hold ourselves to as corporate citizens and the positive changes we’re committed to making in the world. I am proud of the progress we have made and energized by all we have ahead of us.”

Achievements across Blackbaud’s key priorities in 2023 included:

People and Culture/HR: Blackbaud is committed to creating a great place to work, with a focus on employee engagement, development, well-being, inclusion and a long history of commitment to philanthropic work.

<ul><li>Philanthropy: 70% of Blackbaud employees volunteered in 2023.</li>
	<li>Employee Engagement: 91% participation in annual employee engagement survey, with 86% of employees saying they feel the work they do at Blackbaud is important.</li>
	<li>Inclusion: 43% of Blackbaud employees belonged to an affinity group—a 10% increase in 2023.</li>
</ul>Fueling Social Impact: Blackbaud fuels the impact of its customers with software and resources that enable organizations to drive change and power vital learning that transforms lives and communities.

<ul><li>Individual Changemakers: Over one million fundraising pages were created, and 19 million donations were made on Blackbaud’s JustGiving® platform alone.</li>
	<li>Nonprofits and Charities: Organizations using Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT® and analytics saw a 21% increase in average gift size over a two-year period – growing funds used to support their social impact goals.</li>
	<li>Education Institutions: Over 3.2 million students participated in critical skills education through EVERFI® from Blackbaud®, totaling 8.8 million hours of learning across the globe.</li>
	<li>Companies: 2023 saw a 65% increase in employee volunteer hours powered by YourCause® from Blackbaud®, and 1.9M learners completed a workplace training powered by EVERFI from Blackbaud.</li>
</ul>Driving Climate Solutions: Blackbaud is committed to reducing its environmental impact and supporting customers in their sustainability efforts. Blackbaud participates in CDP’s public disclosure and aligns its reporting with TCFD recommendations.

<ul><li>Decarbonization: 100% carbon neutrality for 2023 emissions and a 92% reduction in global GHG emissions since 2019.</li>
	<li>Responsible Operations: 23% energy reduction and 45% water reduction in Blackbaud’s global headquarters office since 2019 with the transition to remote-first workforce approach.</li>
	<li>Strategic Partnership: Blackbaud is a proud, multi-year philanthropic sponsor of Project Drawdown, a nonprofit focused on solutions to climate change.</li>
</ul>Governance and Data Responsibility: Customer trust is a top priority and embedded in everything Blackbaud does.

<ul><li>Expertise: Blackbaud was named Governance Team of the Year in Governance Intelligence’s Annual Corporate Governance Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in governance, risk, and compliance.</li>
	<li>Process: Blackbaud’s board of directors amended tenure limits for independent directors within its Corporate Governance Guidelines to assure that fresh ideas and viewpoints are represented on the board.</li>
	<li>Talent: The company appointed a Chief Privacy Officer to oversee data privacy and manage risks related to privacy compliance and privacy laws.</li>
	<li>Technology: Blackbaud increased the specialization of its cybersecurity team in incident response, vulnerability management, enterprise architecture and data protection, and enhanced its cloud-based security posture technology and on-premise encryption capabilities designed to protect against ransomware and malware.</li>
</ul>To learn more about how the company is fueling change through its practices, commitments and technology, view the full 2023 Blackbaud Impact Report <a href="https://csr.blackbaud.com/?utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_source=3bl&amp;utm_campaign=CB-2024-1A-RP-2023IMPACTREPORT" target="_blank">here</a>.

About Blackbaud 
Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB) is the leading software provider exclusively dedicated to powering social impact. Serving the nonprofit and education sectors, companies committed to social responsibility and individual change makers, Blackbaud’s essential software is built to accelerate impact in fundraising, nonprofit financial management, digital giving, grantmaking, corporate social responsibility and education management. With millions of users and over $100 billion raised, granted or managed through Blackbaud platforms every year, Blackbaud’s solutions are unleashing the potential of the people and organizations who change the world. Blackbaud has been named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Most Responsible Companies, Quartz’s list of Best Companies for Remote Workers, and Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers. A remote-first company, Blackbaud has operations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica and the United Kingdom, supporting users in 100+ countries. Learn more at <a href="https://www.blackbaud.com/" target="_blank">www.blackbaud.com</a> or follow us on X/Twitter, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/blackbaud/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/blackbaud/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/blackbaud/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.

Media Contact <a href="mailto:media@blackbaud.com" target="_blank">media@blackbaud.com</a>

Blackbaud’s 2023 Impact Report Shows How the Company Is Fueling Change

<img alt="vehicles driving down a highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78e5b006-a14e-4212-a5d4-c69360120c06" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/1-key-takeaways-stringent-standards-set-epas-new-emissions-rule_CUMMINS-INC_050924.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="620" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.cummins.com/news/2024/04/15/key-takeaways-stringent-standards-set-epas-new-emissions-rule" target="_blank">Cummins</a>

The Environmental Protection Agency has announced <a aria-label="the final rule for Phase 3 - open in a new tab" href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-04-22/pdf/2024-06809.pdf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">the final rule for Phase 3</a> of its Greenhouse Gas Emissions for heavy-duty vehicles. Since issuing Phase 1 of its GHG regulations in 2011, EPA emissions rules for all vehicle classes have become increasingly rigorous. The latest Phase 3 rule continues to address heavy-duty vehicles which the EPA separates into five categories: light heavy-duty vocational; medium heavy-duty vocational; heavy heavy-duty vocational; short-haul (day cab) tractors; and long-haul (sleeper cab) tractors.

In its introduction for GHG Phase 3, EPA pointed out that its latest phase sets new carbon dioxide (CO2) emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles through model year 2032 “with more stringent CO2 standards phasing in as early as MY 2027 for certain vehicle categories.” Prior to finalizing GHG standards, EPA considers comments from various stakeholders like manufacturers, fleets, owner-operators, trucking associations, environmental interest groups and private citizens. The standards are technology-neutral and performance-based, allowing each manufacturer to choose what set of emissions control technologies is best suited to meet the standards and the needs of their customers.

“We have assessed and demonstrated that these standards are appropriate and feasible considering cost, lead time, and other relevant factors,” EPA noted in its executive summary.
<img alt="Table ES-3: Example 1 Projected Percent Mix of Vehicle Technologies that Support the Feasability of the Phase 3 Standards" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c809f46c-0e41-4915-bcda-d6a1e1e5255a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/2-key-takeaways-stringent-standards-set-epas-new-emissions-rule_CUMMINS-INC_050924.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="358" loading="lazy" />While there is plenty to read in all 392 pages of GHG Phase 3, let’s look at five major takeaways:

<ul><li>The initial rollout for Phase 3 GHG impacts only MY 2027 light heavy-duty and medium heavy-duty on-highway vocational vehicles such as commercial chassis cabs, panel vans and box trucks (complete pickups not included) ranging from Class 2b to 3, or 8,500 to 14,000 lb. gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Though EPA does not endorse any particular technology and does not mandate the use of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), they do project a possible path of compliance for MY 2027 light heavy-duty vocational with 17% ZEVs and 83% powered by internal combustion engines (ICE). MY 2027 medium heavy-duty vocational could be a mix of 13% zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) and 87% ICE.</li>
	<li>Lower Phase 3 standards come next for MY 2028 short-haul (day cab) tractors which the EPA anticipates will be a combination of 8% ZEV and 92% ICE. MY 2029 heavy heavy-duty vehicles follow with a projected mix of 13% ZEV and 87% ICE. MY 2030 long-haul (sleeper cab) bring up the rear with an anticipated adoption rate of 6% ZEV and 94% ICE. Check the EPA’s table below for other projected rates of adoption for subsequent model years through 2032.</li>
	<li>EPA set its GHG Phase 3 timeline based on current and projected advances to prevent and control GHG emissions. The EPA makes clear that it does not pick and choose when it comes to emissions reduction. The agency recognizes that fleets and owner-operators will continue to adopt emerging technologies. Options such as all-electric, fuel cell and internal combustion will continue to play a vital role. A range of technologies can meet the demanding heavy-duty power requirements while continuing to reduce emissions along the way. For example, the Biden administration recently acknowledged the importance of emissions reduction through support of <a href="https://www.cummins.com/news/2024/03/15/multi-million-dollar-award-signals-strong-support-cummins-hydrogen-engines?utm_source=advocacy&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=corp-all-advocacy" target="_blank">research and development of hydrogen internal combustion engines</a>, including Cummins’ X15H. EPA states in GHG Phase 3 that hydrogen engines have essentially a 100% reduction in CO2 emissions.</li>
	<li>The EPA also announced that it is adding warranty requirements for batteries and other components of zero-emission vehicles and requiring customer-facing battery state-of-health monitors for plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles.</li>
	<li>EPA notes it has improved its analysis of infrastructure readiness for heavy-duty all-electric, hydrogen fuel cell and hydrogen combustion trucks. Citing growing public and private funding sources, the agency states, “there are significant efforts already underway to develop and expand heavy-duty vehicle electric charging and hydrogen refueling infrastructure.”</li>
</ul>Through Cummins’ multi-solutions approach, the company can offer customers the industry’s broadest portfolio of low- and zero-emissions, allowing customers to meet emissions regulations in a way that also best meets their business needs.

Key Takeaways From Stringent Standards Set by EPA's New Emissions Rule

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NEWARK, Del., May 10, 2024 /CSRwire/ - At Delmarva Power, the dedication to empowering communities extends far beyond delivering safe and reliable energy service. In 2023, Delmarva Power proudly contributed more than $2.3 million to local nonprofits and 631 employees devoted more than 17,200 hours – the equivalent of 2,150 workdays – to volunteer with hundreds of organizations across Delaware and Maryland.

As National Volunteer Month is commemorated this month, Delmarva Power and its employees remain committed to making a positive difference in the communities it serves. Throughout the month, a series of volunteer events have occurred and will continue to take place across its service territory, further demonstrating Delmarva Power’s unwavering support for local communities and organizations.

“We are thankful each and every day for our employees who dedicate their time supporting nonprofits and organizations throughout Delaware and Maryland,” said Rodney Oddoye, senior vice president of Governmental, Regulatory and External Affairs at Pepco Holdings, which includes Delmarva Power. “From employee volunteering to our nonprofit and community partnerships, we are working to deliver more than energy to our customers and neighbors and our employees play a huge role in that.”
<img alt=" group of volunteers posed outside a building &quot;Humane Society&quot;." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5210fbe2-e97b-40a1-ac11-aad54f6a25f3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/humanesociety_delmarvapower_050724.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="892" loading="lazy" />The interconnection of community outreach and engagement, corporate philanthropy and volunteerism, and economic development efforts is a key component of Delmarva Power’s broad support for local communities. In 2023, Delmarva Power:

<ul><li>Partnered on several workforce development programs across Delaware and Maryland providing 12 graduates a pathway to a career in energy.</li>
	<li>Reinforced its commitment to the future energy workforce by awarding $1.35 million to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, community colleges and other major anchor institutions and partners across Delaware and Maryland.</li>
	<li>Supported local nonprofits with $90,000 for open space preservation, parks and recreation resource improvements, environmental conservation and innovative community resiliency projects.</li>
	<li>Connected more than 22,000 customers facing challenges paying their energy bill with more than $35 million in electric and gas assistance.</li>
</ul><img alt="Volunteers walking two dogs." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33ce102e-f2f4-44b8-8bc5-2f12090a4c85" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/dogwalking_delmarvapower_050724.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1073" loading="lazy" />Delmarva Power directs its community giving towards organizations that advocate for equal access to arts and culture, as well as those that educate customers about the energy industry and science. Additionally, Delmarva Power’s community impacts extends to supporting organizations that enhance community vibrancy, promote sustainability, drive environmental open space initiatives, and cultivate the energy workforce of the future.

To learn more about Delmarva Power, visit <a href="https://thesource.pepcoholdings.com/opco/delmarva-power/" target="_blank">The Source,</a> Delmarva Power’s online newsroom. Find additional information by visiting <a href="https://www.delmarva.com/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">delmarva.com</a>, on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DelmarvaPower" target="_blank">facebook.com/DelmarvaPower</a> and on X, formerly known as Twitter, at <a href="https://twitter.com/delmarvaconnect" target="_blank">twitter.com/DelmarvaConnect</a>. Delmarva Power’s mobile app is available at <a href="https://www.delmarva.com/MyAccount/CustomerSupport/Pages/MobileApp.aspx" target="_blank">delmarva.com/MobileApp</a>.

Delmarva Power is a unit of Exelon (Nasdaq: EXC), a Fortune 250 company and the nation’s largest utility company, serving more than 10 million customers. Delmarva Power provides safe and reliable energy service to approximately 561,500 electric customers in Delaware and Maryland and approximately 140,000 natural gas customers in northern Delaware.
<img alt="Volunteer walking a dog." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1cb610b-6747-4c95-ad4b-11f6e2c5a854" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/dogwalker_delmarvapower_050724.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1620" loading="lazy" /> 
<img alt="Volunteer sitting with a cat on their lap." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e097cc26-f761-4477-8dac-74b48cb04d4a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/catsit_delmarvapower_050724.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1599" loading="lazy" /> 
<img alt="A group of volunteers posed in front of an indoor sign &quot;Gods Kitchen&quot;." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8c3019ee-eae5-4099-a79e-c08bb0ee53f7" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/godskitchen_delmarvapower_050724.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="600" loading="lazy" />

Delivering More Than Energy: Delmarva Power’s Community Impact Shines During National Volunteer Month

<img alt="A person leant against a solar panel in a solar farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c7aba68c-caf7-4a82-8403-df5294229713" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Solar-farm_Schneider-Electric_051524.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="799" loading="lazy" />BOSTON, May 17, 2024 /CSRwire/ - Today, <a href="https://www.se.com/us/en/" target="_blank">Schneider Electric</a>, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, announced a collaboration with <a href="https://www.cruxclimate.com/" target="_blank">Crux</a>, a sustainable finance technology company, to procure Section 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credits from <a href="https://silfabsolar.com/" target="_blank">Silfab Solar</a>, a North American leader in the design, development, and manufacture of premium solar PV modules.

Schneider Electric’s purchase of these tax credits generated supplemental investment funds for Silfab to accelerate its expansion plans for American manufacturing of solar energy for commercial and residential utilization.

“We are excited to announce a tax credit transfer agreement with Crux and Silfab Solar to accelerate the growth and expansion of American domestic manufacturing of solar energy,” said Aamir Paul, President of North America Operations for Schneider Electric. “By leveraging the Inflation Reduction Act’s new tax credit transfer provisions, we can foster the development of renewable energy infrastructure and contribute to a more sustainable planet."

Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the new transferable tax credit market allows clean energy developers and manufacturers to sell their tax credits to third parties for cash — creating a powerful market mechanism to channel private sector investments into energy infrastructure, innovative technologies, and advanced manufacturing.

The purchase of Silfab’s tax credits represents one of the transactions that the Schneider Sustainability Business has facilitated on behalf of its parent company. The Sustainability Business is similarly advising many other corporations on tax credit purchase opportunities, representing dozens of investors and billions in annual corporate tax liability.

“We are delighted to announce this transaction with Silfab and deeply appreciate the collaboration with Crux. Crux’s platform adds transparency and visibility into market opportunities, adding to our robust process for sourcing for tax credits in the market for Schneider and our corporate clients. Our role is to help our clients know where to access the best possible tax credits, including with partners like Silfab and Crux, all while mitigating buyer risk; this transaction is a testament to that successful process,” said Hans Royal, Senior Director, Renewable Energy &amp; Cleantech, Schneider Electric’s Sustainability Business.

Crux played a significant role in facilitating and streamlining the successful transaction of these tax credits, including by initially connecting Silfab Solar and Schneider Electric through its transferable tax credit ecosystem.

Launched in January 2023, Crux is changing the way clean energy and decarbonization projects are financed in the United States, starting with transactions of the new transferable clean energy tax credits created by the IRA.

“Domestic manufacturing of key energy components is booming and Silfab Solar is a leader in the space,” said Alfred Johnson, CEO and co-founder of Crux. “We were thrilled to help Silfab successfully navigate their first 45X tax credits sale to Schneider Electric, a global leader in the energy transition. This deal exemplifies how the transferability of tax credits is win-win: providing simple, efficient access to capital to support Silfab’s expansion while allowing Schneider to make additional investments in the growth of the clean energy industry.”

“Silfab was pleased to partner with Schneider to unlock the value of our advanced manufacturing tax credits,” said Paolo Maccario, CEO and President of Silfab Solar, Inc. “As a result, we were able to monetize our 45X tax credits, providing us access to additional capital that is beneficial in expanding our US solar manufacturing capacity. Silfab is deeply committed to US energy independence and buyers like Schneider Electric allow us to further accelerate our growth. Crux was also an important partner to this transaction, helping connect us to Schneider via their intuitive and accessible platform.”

Crux’s first inaugural <a href="https://www.cruxclimate.com/2023-market-report" target="_blank">Transferable Tax Credit Market Intelligence Report</a>, released in January 2024, estimated the new transferable tax equity market would reach $7-9 billion in size within its first year of activity. Crux has already emerged as a pivotal technology player in the successful transactions of the market.

###

About Schneider Electric 

Schneider’s purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency.

We drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies, end-point to cloud connecting products, controls, software and services, across the entire lifecycle, enabling integrated company management, for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure and industries.

We are the most local of global companies. We are advocates of open standards and partnership ecosystems that are passionate about our shared Meaningful Purpose, Inclusive and Empowered values.

<a href="http://www.se.com" target="_blank">www.se.com</a>

Discover the newest perspectives shaping sustainability, electricity 4.0, and next-generation automation on <a href="https://www.se.com/ww/en/insights/" target="_blank">Schneider Electric Insights</a>.

About Crux

Crux is a sustainable finance technology company changing the way clean energy and decarbonization projects are financed in the U.S. The company’s first offering is the ecosystem for buyers, sellers, and intermediaries to transact and manage transferable tax credits. Crux is co-founded by Alfred Johnson and Allen Kramer, who previously founded and exited a successful marketplace software company, Mobilize. Rob Parker serves as Chief Commercial Officer and brings 20+ years of experience in the power industry, most recently serving as CFO at REV Renewables. Since its launch in 2023, Crux has raised over $27 million in funding from venture capital and strategic investors and built a world-class team that merges expertise from energy, finance, government, and technology to power the clean energy transition. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.cruxclimate.com/" target="_blank">https://www.cruxclimate.com/</a>.

About Silfab Solar

Silfab Solar is the North American leader in the design, development and manufacture of high-efficiency, premium quality PV modules. Silfab leverages more than 40 years of solar experience and best-in-class technologies to produce the highest- rated solar modules. Silfab operates state-of-the-art facilities in the state of Washington and Toronto, Canada and will soon be manufacturing solar cells and PV modules in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Each facility features multiple automated production lines, an ISO 9001:2015-accredited Quality Management System, and just-in-time manufacturing to deliver Buy American approved PV modules specifically designed for and dedicated to the North American market.<a href="https://silfabsolar.com/" target="_blank"> www.silfabsolar.com</a>

Media Contact  <a href="mailto:press@cruxclimate.com" target="_blank">press@cruxclimate.com</a>

Media Contact  
Geoff Atkins  <a href="mailto:g.atkins@silfabsolar.com" target="_blank">g.atkins@silfabsolar.com</a>  
Tel: +1-905-255-2501 Ext.737

Media Contact  
Luis Davila  <a href="mailto:luis.davila@se.com" target="_blank">luis.davila@se.com</a>  
206-619-9397

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, announced a collaboration with Crux, a sustainable finance technology company, to procure Section 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credits from Silfab Solar.

Schneider Electric Collaborates With Crux To Facilitate Purchase of 45X Tax Credits From Silfab Solar

<img alt="HanesBrands Progress through 2023: People, Planet &amp; Product." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="66b9dc9e-4a37-44c5-8aff-3d90a11fd0a0" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/HBI%20Sustainability%20Report_HanesBrands_5.15.24A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="551" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://hbisustains.com/hanesbrands-announces-substantial-progress-toward-reaching-sustainability-goals-around-people-planet-and-product/" target="_blank">Originally published on HBI Sustains</a>

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., May 17, 2024 /CSRwire/ - HanesBrands Inc., a global leader in iconic apparel brands, announces progress toward sustainability goals in its <a href="https://hbisustains.com/our-2030-goals/" target="_blank">2023 Sustainability Summary Report</a>. The report highlights significant strides toward reaching 2025/2030 goals around the pillars of People, Planet and Product, encompassing its brands including Hanes, Champion, Bonds, Maidenform and Bali.

HanesBrands made impressive headway in 2023, receiving approval on its near-term science-based targets from the Science Based Targets initiative. Since 2019, the company has achieved a 53% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions and a 41% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 intensity, along with making notable reductions in both water use and packaging weight. The company is well on its way to achieving zero waste across its operations by 2025 and using 100% renewable electricity by 2030. HanesBrands also continued to create comfort in communities around the world by contributing to improving the lives of 3.4 million people since the company began tracking this effort in 2021. HanesBrands’ investments in sustainability have yielded $23 million in savings since establishing goals in 2020, including more than $10 million in savings in 2023.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work we have done over the years to drive us closer to reaching our aggressive goals around People, Planet and Product,” said Steve Bratspies, CEO of HanesBrands. “Our consumers expect quality, comfortable products from our iconic brands at a great value that are manufactured with the planet and people in mind. Thanks to our associates who are passionate about doing what’s right, we’re able to deliver on those expectations while making sustainability accessible for all.”

HanesBrands also announces thousands of its products are now in Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly program, which helps consumers identify products with sustainability features in Amazon’s store. In order to qualify for the program, select HanesBrands products were GreenCircle Certified, meaning the products have been manufactured in facilities that have significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions and use renewable energy. Consumers looking to purchase these products will find a “sustainability features” label near the product’s name in the Amazon store or by visiting the<a href="https://www.amazon.com/b?node=121191123011&amp;linkCode=sl2&amp;tag=earth-month-apr2024-20&amp;linkId=b72436a058a221882373668b2bd5fea3&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl" target="_blank"> Climate Pledge Friendly shop.</a>
<img alt="HanesBrands Infographic." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a945655-84ec-44dd-9cfd-33029c4c80d3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/HBI-Sustains-2024-Infographic_HanesBrands_5.15.24B.jpg" width="400" class="align-center" height="500" loading="lazy" />Sustainability Progress Through 2023

People Goal: Contribute to improving at least 10 million lives through diversity and inclusion, workplace quality, health and wellness, education and community-improvement philanthropy.

Progress:

<ul><li>4 million lives impacted since 2021 by HanesBrands’ philanthropic initiatives and associate and community programs</li>
	<li>Green for Good program, funded by savings from plant recycling efforts, provided thousands with access to medical services and more than 1,500 life changing surgeries since the program started in 2007</li>
	<li>52% of senior manager and above positions are held by women in the U.S.</li>
</ul>Planet Goals: Set science-based targets to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce energy and water use by 25%, move to 100% renewable electricity and take landfill waste to zero.

Progress:

<ul><li>53% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions and 41% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 intensity (kgCO2e per finished textile pound) since 2019; science-based targets approved by SBTi</li>
	<li>94% of waste from owned operations diverted from landfills</li>
	<li>Nearly 60% of the electricity consumed is from renewable sources</li>
</ul>Product Goals: Use 100% recycled/degradable polyester and sustainably grown cotton, eliminate single use plastics and reduce packaging weight by 25%.

Progress:

<ul><li>75% of cotton used is sustainably grown in the U.S. and Australia</li>
	<li>Projects implemented to reduce single-use plastic by 50% from a 2019 baseline</li>
	<li>Projects implemented to reduce packaging weight by 16% from a 2019 baseline</li>
</ul>HanesBrands has taken the company’s commitment a step further by launching a global associate campaign called “I’M IN,” which encourages associates to do simple things to create major change. From saving energy by washing clothes in cold water, to reducing emissions by carpooling, HanesBrands associates made 90,000 commitments to sustainable activities that will have a positive impact on the planet and our communities.

For 14 years in a row, HanesBrands has been awarded the Energy Star Sustained Excellence Award or Partner of the Year Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For the second straight year, HanesBrands is proud to have earned an A- in both climate change and water security from CDP, making the company a leader among industry peers and thousands of companies evaluated.

To learn more about HanesBrands’ 2025 and 2030 goals and progress, visit <a href="https://hbisustains.com/" target="_blank">hbisustains.com</a>.

About HanesBrands

HanesBrands (NYSE: HBI) makes everyday apparel that is known and loved by consumers around the world for comfort, quality and value. Among the company’s iconic brands are Hanes, the leading basic apparel brand in the United States; Champion, an innovator at the intersection of lifestyle and athletic apparel; Bonds, which is setting new standards for design and sustainability; Maidenform, America’s number one shapewear brand; and Bali, America’s number one national bra brand. HBI employs 48,000 associates in approximately 30 countries and has built a strong reputation for workplace quality and ethical business practices. The company, a longtime leader in sustainability, has set <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fhbisustains.com%2F&amp;esheet=53907648&amp;newsitemid=20240311602028&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=aggressive+2030+goals&amp;index=1&amp;md5=51037ebca5bd34d5f765d4edebf7c362" target="_blank">aggressive 2030 goals</a> to improve the lives of people, protect the planet and produce sustainable products. HBI is building on its unmatched strengths to unlock its Full Potential and deliver long-term growth that benefits all of its stakeholders.

HanesBrands announces progress toward sustainability goals in its 2023 Sustainability Summary Report. The report highlights significant strides toward reaching 2025/2030 goals around the pillars of People, Planet and Product, encompassing its brands.

HanesBrands Announces Substantial Progress Toward Reaching Sustainability Goals Around People, Planet and Product

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e072a2a-e2e4-4ffc-ae40-6842da4587e7" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/harnessing-energy-generating-potential-underground-mine_ROCKWELL-AUTOMATION_051424.jpg" width="640" height="604" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Energy storage solution, built on PowerFlex® Drives, at the RUC mining site in Australia.</figcaption></figure>For mining companies, enhancing sustainability can mean undertaking net-new projects. But more often, it means rethinking existing processes.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE:ROK), RUC Mining, and Energy Power Systems Australia (EPSA) have introduced an innovative regenerative energy storage solution for mine hoists which operate much like industrial elevators that lower equipment into a mine shaft and lift minerals out.

It takes little energy to lower a mine hoist. However, raising it up requires a lot of energy. RUC Mining used Rockwell regenerative drives to develop a solution that collects energy as the mine hoist lowers and then reuses that energy to power the trip back up. The hoists run solely on their own stored energy.

Sustainability benefits

Over 24 months, sustainability savings are predicted to be:

<ul><li>Approximately 1,427 kilolitres of diesel</li>
	<li>A reduction of 3.85 tonnes of CO2 output</li>
	<li>A 42% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from power generation</li>
</ul>“In addition to these strong sustainability benefits, the regenerative energy storage solution also reduces daily operating costs, reduces plant operating hours and maintenance requirements, and provides an additional level of redundancy to the power system that was not available in passive components such as load banks,” said Greg Bell, RUC electrical manager.

<a href="https://www.rockwellautomation.com/en-us/company/news/case-studies/mine-hoist-energy.html" target="_blank">Learn more</a> about the world’s first regenerative energy storage solution for underground mine winders—allowing these machines to run totally on their own stored energy.

For mining companies, enhancing sustainability can mean undertaking net-new projects. But more often, it means rethinking existing processes.

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