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<img alt="3M scientists working in a lab." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fbb49342-5e04-47ca-845f-4b6ec8424f33" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/3M%20Innovation_3M_6.23.25A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="859" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://news.3m.com/Moving-from-now-to-next-How-3Ms-technology-is-shaping-tomorrow" target="_blank">Originally published on 3M News Center</a>

From technological advances to globalization and economic uncertainty, the pace of change has never been faster.

3M recently completed an in-depth study to understand what technologies will most influence the future of how we live, work, and interact within our communities.

Six major technology themes rose to the top: AI and computational technology; immersive technology; nanotechnology; energy technology; environmental technology; and electronics technology. These technologies will fundamentally help drive future material and digital science advancements, moving us from what’s here today, to what comes next.

“Out of 80 anonymized proposals, through ranking and rating, 30 prominent technologies were identified and clustered under these six technology themes” explained Ben Watson, R&amp;D strategy leader, Corporate Research Labs, who led the ‘Technologies for the Future’ team effort.

3M's innovations align with the six major technology themes and are expected to drive future material and digital science advancements, moving us from innovations for today to what’s next. 

"3M's pursuit of creative ingenuity and our culture of global collaboration allows us to constantly redefine the boundaries of materials science," says John Banovetz, executive vice president and chief technology officer at 3M. "Our deep expertise enables us to tackle current challenges in mobility, safety, workforce dynamics, and energy, and to envision a future shaped by groundbreaking innovations."

AI, computational technology and nanotechnology: A new age of innovation is coming to shape the Future of Mobility 

With 1.3 billion vehicles on the road, mobility and how we get around is a constant driver for change and innovation. The steady growth of the EV market has been a key driver for materials innovation across the automotive industry, influencing everything from batteries and interiors.

What the world needs now

3M is addressing challenges in the automotive industry through innovations in thermal management and battery materials, adhesives, and display technologies. For instance, 3M Glass Bubbles make composite materials lighter, 3M battery solutions include thermal management materials that help dissipate heat and insulate components and 3M adhesives enable efficient disassembly of EV battery packs, reducing waste and facilitating recycling. Additionally, 3M optical films improve in-cabin displays and vehicle connectivity, boosting efficiency and safety.

AI will make finding materials, like new nanocomposites, even easier. We expect these new materials to help drive efficiency, reducing overall vehicle costs while improving usability and performance.

Tomorrow's possibilities 

“AI-enabled material discovery can help to identify high-performance materials with new applications for battery efficiency and longevity, that can address range concerns by improving the overall performance of EV batteries and power,” says Tom Clausen, Global Lab Director, Computer Science at 3M.

Additionally, we can expect to see the development of ultra-high refractive index nanocomposites, that can help to improve display efficiency, while new passive thermal management materials will reduce the weight and cost of active cooling systems for passenger comfort.

Electronics and environmental technology: Connecting safe work habits with future innovations 

Health and safety are essential for businesses, workers and communities to thrive and safety concerns span multiple environments. In manufacturing and industrial settings, worker safety experts are increasingly turning to technology for new solutions to long-standing risks, like hazard detection and prevention on the job.

What the world needs now

3M has a legacy of developing safety solutions, such as the 3M N95 respirator, which became vital during the COVID-19 pandemic. 3M also offers virtual reality modules for safety training and high-performance reflective road materials to enhance visibility and safety.

Tomorrow's possibilities

“Advances in AI are enabling smarter factory systems that optimize production, boost efficiency, and enhance safety by monitoring conditions and adapting operations in real-time,” says Brian Brooks, Senior Staff Scientist at 3M.

“Factories will increasingly integrate cyberphysical materials — smart materials that detect changes in temperature, pressure, light, or stress and respond automatically.”

With embedded sensors, microchips, or wireless links, these materials will interact digitally with factory systems, helping ensure workplace safety, efficiency, and security.

“Advanced materials will also be developed for use in extreme environments, to enable durable and reliable components in advanced transportation and energy applications, helping to reduce the risk of failures and helping to keep workers in those environments safe,” says Matt Frey, Senior Staff Scientist in 3M’s Corporate Research Materials Lab.

Energy technology: Advancing tomorrow’s energy economy 

As global demand for reliable and affordable energy surges, countries are accelerating investments in power generation, grid modernization and energy efficiency to meet their energy goals. Accelerated demand is driving an interest in new materials and scalable, efficient solutions for challenges including grid stability and reducing energy loss in the built environment.

What the world needs now

3M is at the forefront of developing materials science innovations that enhance energy security and grid resilience. For example, 3M's advancements in electrical infrastructure, such as 3M ACCR (Aluminum Conductor Composite Reinforced) technology, enable the transmission of more electricity over longer distances without the need for new transmission towers. Additionally, 3M's hydrogen catalyzer technology plays a crucial role in the production of green hydrogen, a clean energy source.

Tomorrow's possibilities

“We anticipate the continued and accelerated integration of solar energy technologies directly into building surfaces, transforming structures into power generators and significantly reducing the carbon footprint of urban areas,” says Bill Weber, Director of Business Development, 3M Ventures.

Moreover, Silicon Photonics technology can optimize resource use by enabling efficient data transmission with lower power consumption, supporting edge-based AI deployments, and reducing energy demands in data centers and communication networks.

Immersive technology: Bridging skills gaps with technology

The National Association of Manufacturers reports that the skills gap could result in 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030. This gap is driven by changing workforce attitudes, with 75% from <a href="https://news.3m.com/3M-2025-State-of-Science-Insights-reveals-optimism-for-the-future" target="_blank">a recent global survey</a> viewing manufacturing jobs positively and 74% recognizing the need for enhanced technology skills, but nearly that same amount 70% in the U.S. are concerned that automation will replace those jobs. To combat the labor shortage and challenge concerns around automation, companies are turning to technology like integrated robotics, immersive technology, and AI.

What the world needs now

As a leading global manufacturer and science company, 3M is committed to advancing economic development by supporting job creation and inspiring the next generation of STEM talent through careers in manufacturing. 3M addresses workforce needs directly through our many partnerships and through initiatives like its Manufacturing and Academic Partnerships (MAP) program and its partnerships with SkillsUSA and WorldSkills.

Tomorrow's possibilities 

“Immersive technologies such as Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) can generate 3D scenes from regular photos and videos. These technologies could greatly improve how we train employees to operate in a physical environment, like a factory setting,” says Kevin Gotrik, Research Specialist, with 3M’s Corporate Research lab

Special materials that can be read by Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) systems can also help create digital versions of real-world objects, track their movements, and display virtual objects, blending physical and digital workspaces for efficiency and safety.

Moving beyond the expected

Jayshree Seth, 3M's chief science advocate and corporate scientist, emphasizes that while 3M's analysis targets future technologies, unforeseen breakthroughs can reshape our perception of possibilities. These “wildcards” might involve advances in quantum computing, the convergence of biological and digital technologies, or surprising material discoveries.

By embracing six major technology themes, 3M is not only advancing current progress but also preparing for future innovations. With a focus on collaboration and creativity, 3M is dedicated to making a positive impact and building a better world for all.

Moving From Now to Next: How 3M’s Technology Is Shaping Tomorrow

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/esg-report-showcasing-measurable-progress_Lenovo_062625.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

Lenovo released its FY 2024/25 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report, detailing the company’s progress toward its 2030 emissions reduction targets and reaffirming its long-term ambition to achieve <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/campaign/lenovo-journey-to-net-zero/" target="_blank">net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050</a>, aligned to the Science Based Targets initiative. As the first generation of ESG key performance indicators approaches completion, Lenovo remains on track across many key objectives, making this year a pivotal moment in its sustainability journey.

The report outlines how Lenovo is accelerating environmental progress through its participation in the circular economy, including the continued use of closed-loop recycled materials in its products. Lenovo also continues to empower customers with sustainability services that facilitate repair, recycling, and reuse, helping extend product lifecycles and keeping materials in circulation.

This year’s report reflects a growing recognition of Lenovo’s efforts, with the company earning <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/platinum-medal-ecovadis-top-rated-globally/" target="_blank">Platinum Recognition from EcoVadis</a>, an <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/lenovo-achieves-aaa-score-msci-esg-ratings-third-consecutive-year/" target="_blank">AAA rating</a> from MSCI ESG Ratings, and the <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/lenovo-honored-with-prestigious-corporate-governance-and-esg-awards/" target="_blank">Gold Award</a> from the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) for Best Corporate Governance and ESG. Additionally, Lenovo was recently <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/lenovo-ranks-8th-in-the-gartner-supply-chain-top-25-for-2025/" target="_blank">ranked #8 in Gartner’s Top 25 Global Supply Chain</a>, with an ESG Score of 9/10. These achievements underscore Lenovo’s commitment to transparent, credible progress.

Lenovo’s social impact continues to scale globally. In 2024, it was again named a Best Workplace for People with Disabilities by Disability:IN in the United States, while expanding this recognition to the United Kingdom and Brazil through the global application of best practices. The company’s commitment to community engagement was also evident during its annual <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/lenovo-volunteers-give-back-record-breaking-200-impact-month-service/" target="_blank">Love on Month of Service</a>, which saw a record-breaking 44% increase in people reached through volunteerism by Lenovo employees around the world.

“This year marks a significant milestone for Lenovo’s ESG journey,” said Dave Carroll, Lenovo SVP, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Responsibility Officer, who <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/lenovo-cfo-waiming-wong-and-clo-laura-quatela-to-retire-appointed-non-executive-directors/" target="_blank">succeeded Laura Quatela in March 2025</a>. “With our first generation of key performance indicators nearing completion, we’re proud of the progress we’ve made and are focused on building the foundation for our next chapter of ESG leadership.”

In governance, Lenovo continues to reinforce its Smarter AI for All vision through a strengthened internal policy framework. In 2024, the company introduced a comprehensive AI governance policy aligned with commitments made to the <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/canadian-government-voluntary-commitment-ethical-generative-ai/" target="_blank">Canadian Government</a>, <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/lenovo-joins-unesco-commitment-responsible-ai/" target="_blank">UNESCO</a>, <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/lenovo-joins-commitment-to-responsible-and-gender-equitable-artificial-intelligence-with-cercle-interelles/" target="_blank">Cercle InterL</a>, and most recently <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/european-commissions-ai-pact-responsible-ai-innovation/" target="_blank">the European Commission</a>. This follows the <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/chief-security-ai-officer/" target="_blank">appointment of Doug Fisher</a> who added Chief AI Officer to his Chief Security Officer role, further embedding responsible innovation across the business.

Looking ahead, Lenovo remains committed to a collaborative and credible approach to ESG. Through <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/earth-day-2025/" target="_blank">partnerships with customers and suppliers</a>—such as those engaged through <a href="https://news.lenovo.com/qa-building-a-more-sustainable-future-through-the-channel-with-lenovo-360-circle/" target="_blank">the Lenovo 360 Circle</a>—the company is advancing a shared vision for a more sustainable and inclusive future.

To read the full Lenovo FY 2024/25 ESG Report,<a href="https://investor.lenovo.com//en/sustainability/sustainability_reports.php" target="_blank"> visit this website.</a>
<img alt="abstract image of bridge over water lined with lights" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c53c1b90-0c21-4a7f-a964-9d48a8f89872" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/esg-report-showcasing-measurable-progress2_Lenovo_062625.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="1336" loading="lazy" />About Lenovo 

Lenovo is a US$69 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #248 in the Fortune Global 500, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s largest PC company with a full-stack portfolio of AI-enabled, AI-ready, and AI-optimized devices (PCs, workstations, smartphones, tablets), infrastructure (server, storage, edge, high performance computing and software defined infrastructure), software, solutions, and services. Lenovo’s continued investment in world-changing innovation is building a more equitable, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY). To find out more visit <a href="https://www.lenovo.com/" target="_blank">https://www.lenovo.com</a>, and read about the latest news via our <a href="http://storyhub.lenovo.com/" target="_blank">StoryHub</a>.

Lenovo Releases FY 2024/25 ESG Report, Showcasing Measurable Progress and Industry Leadership

<img alt="Healthy Lives Mission 2024 Report" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6adce0fd-3224-47a3-8d5a-dcfdd3b1305b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Healthy%20Lives_Kenvue_6.25.25A.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="694" loading="lazy" /><ul><li>Company reports reduction of operational emissions by 37%, expanded use of renewable electricity to 72% and launch of multiple packaging innovations across portfolio</li>
</ul>Kenvue Inc. (NYSE: KVUE), maker of iconic brands such as Neutrogena®, Listerine®, Aveeno®, and Tylenol®, today released its second Healthy Lives Mission Report. The report shares how Kenvue has helped advance the well-being of both people and planet in 2024, with progress noted across three pillars: Healthy People, Healthy Planet, and Healthy Practice.

“Having some of the most recognizable consumer brands in the world gives us a tremendous opportunity to create a positive impact for the millions of people we touch every day,” said Thibaut Mongon, Chief Executive Officer, Kenvue. “Whether improving our packaging to be more sustainable, advancing the decarbonization of our operations, or giving back to our communities, our sustainability strategy is helping meet customer and consumer expectations, and deliver everyday care for generations to come.”

Since becoming an independent company in 2023, Kenvue has invested in research and development, hired experts in areas like packaging, embedded sustainability into key functions and designed a sustainability strategy purposefully built to meet critical commitments and deliver superior consumer experiences and products.

Highlights from the report include:

Healthy People:

<ul><li>Nicorette® QuickMist became the first nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in the U.K. to be licensed to help vapers quit, with this vaping cessation indication now included across the whole Nicorette® range in the U.K.</li>
	<li>Helped train health care professionals (HCPs) in Malaysia on the use of NRT solutions like Nicorette® and worked with the Health Minister of Malaysia to launch its Cik Era (Miss Era) AI chatbot on the JomQuit (Come On, Quit), which offers smokers personalized support and advice on quitting smoking.</li>
	<li>Trained more than 7,000 Walgreen’s pharmacists and 12,000 beauty consultants since 2020 through a collaboration between Neutrogena® and the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) on the importance of recommending sunscreen to consumers.</li>
	<li>Addressed women’s health by destigmatizing conversations about menstruation in India led by Stayfree®, and menopause in the U.S with the launch of Versalie™, a digital platform dedicated to menopause and women’s hormonal wellness.</li>
	<li>Launched health initiative in India to help reduce diarrhoea-related mortality and improve healthcare outcomes with an aim to reach approximately 5 million children under the age of five over the next two years.</li>
	<li>Kenvue donated more than $56 million to support communities in need.</li>
</ul>Healthy Planet:

<ul><li>Reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions1,2,3 by 37% from a 2020 base year, toward a 42% reduction goal by 20304.</li>
	<li>Expanded the use of renewable electricity5 to 72% across global operations, with Latin America maintaining 100% renewable electricity5 since 2023.</li>
	<li>Transitioned 69% of packaging6 across portfolios to be recyclable7 or refillable8, with a goal of 100% by 20254.</li>
	<li>Reduced the use of virgin plastic9 in packaging6 by more than 21.4% from a 2020 base year, with goals of 25% by 20254 and 50% by 20304.</li>
	<li>Several Kenvue brands have contributed to this progress with redesigned packaging:
	<ul><li>Zyrtec® switched from plastic blister packs to paper, saving more than 1,520,000 pounds of plastic annually.</li>
		<li>Johnson’s® Baby in Latin America launched shampoo and bath products in refillable, recycle-ready pouches.</li>
		<li>Dabao® in China made their plastic bottles lighter, saving over 264,000 pounds of plastic.</li>
	</ul></li>
</ul>Healthy Practice:

<ul><li>Integrated sustainability into research and development with the launch of the Sustainable Innovation Profiler, a patent-pending tool designed to measure a product’s environmental performance and enable developers to make real-time choices to design solutions that benefit both people and the planet. This tool is now embedded in Kenvue’s product development process across R&amp;D. The tool, already operational, helped inform design solutions to improve the packaging performance for several products including:</li>
	<li>OGX® Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner bottles: Redesigned to address consumer feedback, including improved “squeezability”, a reduced product environmental impact and total carbon footprint, and improved green chemistry and packaging with a fully recyclable, 100% Post-Consumer Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (PCR HDPE) bottle.</li>
	<li>Nicorette® Icy Mint Lozenge: Revamped its primary packaging, reducing plastic waste by 85% and reducing the product’s total carbon footprint by 17%, compared to the previous version.</li>
</ul>To read Kenvue’s 2024 Healthy Lives Mission Report, visit <a href="https://www.kenvue.com/hlmreport" target="_blank">kenvue.com/hlmreport</a>.
<img alt="Kenvue's 2024 Healthy Lives Mission Report." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb7e1109-4b7e-4838-8494-3238db0fa44a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Healthy%20Lives_Kenvue_6.25.25B.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="681" loading="lazy" />About Kenvue  
Kenvue Inc. is the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue. Built on more than a century of heritage, our iconic brands, including Aveeno®, BAND-AID® Brand, Johnson’s®, Listerine®, Neutrogena® and Tylenol®, are science-backed and recommended by healthcare professionals around the world. At Kenvue, we realize the extraordinary power of everyday care. Our teams work every day to put that power in consumers’ hands and earn a place in their hearts and homes. Learn more at <a href="https://www.kenvue.com/" target="_blank">www.kenvue.com</a>.

Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This media alert contains “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including forward-looking statements related to the Healthy Lives Mission and its related goals and commitments. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “plans, “expects,” “may,” “will,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “intends,” “goal,” “target,” “commitment,” and other words of similar meaning. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Kenvue Inc. and its affiliates.

A list and descriptions of risks, uncertainties, and other factors can be found in Kenvue Inc.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2024, and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings, available at www.kenvue.com or on request from Kenvue Inc. Kenvue Inc. and its affiliates undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or developments or otherwise.

# # #

Footnotes: 1 Applies to all Kenvue-owned facilities where Kenvue has operational control, regardless of building type; all leased facilities used for manufacturing and/or research and development; and leased, non-manufacturing and/or non-research and development facilities where the facility is greater than 50,000 square feet and where Kenvue has operational control. The 2020 base year and all subsequent reporting years include all facilities aligned to Kenvue’s structure upon separation from Johnson &amp; Johnson in 2023 and do not include any operational or organizational exclusions.

2 The target boundary includes land-related emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks.

3 The inventory was compiled in accordance with the World Resources Institute (WRI)/World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) (GHG) Protocol – A Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (Revised Edition 2013) including the amendment to this protocol, GHG Protocol Scope 2 Guidance (2015).

4 We aim to meet the goal by end of fiscal year and publish the year after.

5 Renewable energy source is an energy source that is capable of being replenished in a short time through ecological cycles or agricultural processes (e.g., biomass, geothermal, hydro, solar, wind). Renewable electricity targets are achieved through a combination of actions, including on-site solar, virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs), direct power purchase agreements (PPAs), energy attribute certificates (EACs), also known as renewable electricity certificates (RECs), and green retail contracts.

6 Packaging for direct purchases may not include all externally manufactured products. Total weight of plastics packaging is calculated utilizing 2025 Business Plan volume and is not trued up to actual sales. Manual adjustments of &lt;10% were made to 2025 Business Plan volume based on SME judgment to remove materials not assumed to contain plastics.

7 Recyclable, also defined as recycle-ready, is when packaging is designed for collection, sorting, and recycling using end of-life processes, but where collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure may not yet be in place for the packaging to actually be recycled. Best practices of "designing for recyclability" guidance for plastic-based packaging include the Association of Plastics Recyclers in the U.S. Note: "Designed for recycling," "designed for recyclability," and "recycle ready" are also used interchangeably and reflect the same meaning. Recyclability % was assessed using Ellen MacArthur Foundation recycling rate guidelines and Consumer Goods Forum golden design rules guidelines. For pure buy, data assumptions were made on recyclability at brand level.

8 Kenvue defines refillable or reusable packaging as packaging that is designed for either the business or the consumer to put the same type of purchased product back into the original packaging, is designed to be returnable and/or refillable, and accomplishes a minimum number of reuses by being part of a system that enables reuse.

9 Virgin plastic means newly manufactured resin produced from petrochemical feedstock used as the raw material for the manufacture of plastic products and which has never been used or processed before.

Kenvue Releases Second Annual Healthy Lives Mission Report Highlighting Progress in Reducing Emissions and Advancing More Sustainable Product Innovation

<img alt="Group photo in front of sign that reads &quot;Better Basics READS TODAY&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="67b6e9bb-b053-4ffe-ad9a-85847a5f6da7" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Schools-Out_Regions_6625.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="854" loading="lazy" />By Candace Higginbotham

Final exams are complete, the last bell has rung and students and teachers are ready for a fun and relaxing summer break. Regions teams across the footprint are joining in on the celebrations but the bank’s commitment and support doesn’t stop when the books are closed.

Education and workforce development are key priorities and a strategic pillar for both Regions Bank and the Regions Foundation®. The Regions Foundation is a nonprofit funded primarily by Regions Bank. Along with funding related to education and workforce development in areas served by Regions Bank, the foundation delivers grants and investments to organizations that enhance economic and community development, financial wellness and more.

The bank and foundation champion education programs and initiatives in a variety of ways, through grants, investments and financial wellness. And Regions Bank associates always raise their hands for classroom volunteer opportunities.
<img alt="Collage of students and teachers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92107724-de78-4543-ad28-9539edeba2c7" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/2Schools-Out_Better-Basics_3.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="854" loading="lazy" />‘Lighting a Flame’

Regions Bank’s Finance division recently took part in an end-of-school year blowout for students hosted by <a href="https://www.betterbasics.org/" id="modal-toggler--2080376267-3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Better Basics</a>, a Birmingham nonprofit whose mission is to eradicate illiteracy among children in central Alabama.

Better Basics Reads 2025, the organization’s largest annual volunteer event, brought in hundreds of community members who read to more than 14,000 pre-K through 5th-grade students across the Birmingham area. As a bonus, the students get to take a book home.

<a href="https://doingmoretoday.com/in-the-limelight-amanda-saint/" target="_blank">Amanda Saint</a>, Business Unit Controller at Regions, is an active board member at Better Basics and organized a team that read to K-5th grade students in 18 classrooms at i3 Academy. She said the day was impactful for not just the students but also the teachers and the Regions Finance team.

“The students loved the books!” Saint said. “They were engaged, asking questions and giving answers to questions we had. And they were so excited to get to take the book home with them. The teachers were amazing and very appreciative of Better Basics and Regions.”

The experience was fun, but Saint also acknowledged the long-term value of this activity.

“Ensuring students have books at home and hopefully lighting a flame to love reading is very important. Without reading, learning becomes exponentially tougher. Stats show that students who are reading below grade level by 3rd grade are more likely to drop out of high school and fail to become college and career ready. And 60 percent of low-income families do not have a single children’s book in their homes. Having a time to interact with students and share my love for reading with them is the best.”
<img alt="Collage of students and teachers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e33d8d70-7a4f-4535-9463-42b3d40b822f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/3Schools-Out_Better-Basics_2.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="854" loading="lazy" />Education-Focused Grants

Better Basics also received good news from the Regions Foundation, which announced a grant that will go toward the Reading Intervention Program for underserved K-4th grade students. The program focuses on teacher training, high quality tutoring, early reading intervention and enrichment activities.

The Regions Foundation continued the end-of -school year celebration with the announcement of additional education-focused grants, including a $250,000 commitment to three affiliates of the <a href="https://doingmoretoday.com/building-knowledge-to-last-a-lifetime/" target="_blank">Council for Economic Education</a>. The CEE’s mission is to equip K-12 students with the tools and knowledge of personal finance and economics so that they can make better decisions for themselves, their families, and their communities. It does this by providing programs for teachers, students and families through a network of 200 affiliates across the country.

The Mississippi Council on Economic Education received funding to support the Get2College Teacher Training and Certification Program. The Georgia council grant supports the Advancing Financial Literacy Project, and the Alabama affiliate grant will fund their Never Too Early Project.

“The Regions Foundation is proud to support programs and initiatives that empower educators with the knowledge and tools in financial literacy” said Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation. “These training programs enable teachers and families to take charge of their own financial wellness, and in turn, help their students start building a strong financial foundation for their future.”
<img alt="Five people standing together next to sign, &quot;Nacho Average Teacher&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8bb956e-09ab-4f04-b894-b2e01a72f94f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/4Knoxville-teacher-event-edit.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="854" loading="lazy" />Regions Bank and Regions Foundation have a long history with another education-focused organization, <a href="https://aplusala.org/" id="modal-toggler-5144632-4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">A+ Education Partnership in Alabama</a>. For the last six years, the Regions Foundation has funded two professional development programs, Powerful Learning Networks and Instructional Partners Network, part of the A+ Best Practices Center. Regions Chairman, President and CEO John Turner serves as a board member.

<blockquote>
"The Regions Foundation is proud to support programs and initiatives that empower educators with the knowledge and tools in financial literacy." Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation
</blockquote>

“We are incredibly grateful for the investment and long-term collaboration Regions Bank and the Regions Foundation have provided for A+’s work through the years,” said Stirling Hutchins, senior director of development at A+ Education Partnership.

A+ works to promote policies and directly support public schools to improve outcomes for all students, particularly those with greater needs, and they are especially excited about an end-of-school-year win that will benefit students across the state when they return in the fall. The organization served a major role in the passage of Renewing Alabama’s Investment in Student Excellence (RAISE) Act, which was signed into law in early May.

The RAISE Act creates a new funding mechanism for public schools in Alabama that allocates additional resources based on specific student characteristics. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, a RAISE Fund will provide weighted allocations for students in various categories, including those experiencing poverty, students with special needs, English Language Learners, charter school students and gifted students. This means that districts will receive additional funding based on the number of students in these specific categories, which they can then use to address those students’ needs.

Supporting Teachers, Students and Parents

As exciting as this time of year is for students, it’s really the teachers who deserve the high five. In Knoxville, Regions Bank associates hosted a much-deserved end-of-school year celebration for more than 100 teachers at <a href="https://www.knoxschools.org/Domain/1069" id="modal-toggler--1990451154-5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hardin Valley Middle School</a>.

Regions Baton Rouge associates and local families kicked off summer in a big way with the Summer FUN BASH hosted by the <a href="https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/baton-rouge/" id="modal-toggler--2105111936-6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Salvation Army</a> Pathway of Hope Program. Parents and children 12 and under enjoyed games, crafts, snacks and live entertainment.

Summer is clearly off to a great start. While everyone enjoys beach vacations, pool parties and popsicles, back at Regions HQ our teams will be busy planning fall Back to School celebrations!

School’s Out for Summer!

<img alt="Demystifying Energy Series" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34f3a66d-29d3-4b60-b1d5-b407ee80502a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Demystifying%20Energy_NRG%20Energy_3.6.25A1.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="722" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.nrg.com/insights/energy-education/understanding-virtual-power-plants--a-guide-to-vpps.html" target="_blank">Originally published on NRG Energy Insights</a>

By <a href="https://www.nrg.com/authors/nrg-editorial-voices.html" target="_blank">NRG Editorial Voices</a>

Have you ever thought about where your electricity comes from? Maybe you picture massive generators or big spinning turbines. That’s been the norm for over a century. But what if your home, your neighbor’s home, and even the electric car in someone’s driveway could work together to provide power to an entire neighborhood?

That’s the idea behind Virtual Power Plants, or VPPs. They’re changing the way we think about energy use and power generation. However, many people are still unfamiliar with this type of energy network. From how they work to the many benefits they provide, we’ve gathered the most common questions asked about VPPs.

1. What exactly is a VPP?

A VPP is a network of decentralized energy sources — like solar panels, home batteries, and smart devices — that work together to generate, store, and manage electricity.

Think of it like this: a single large power plant can supply energy to thousands of homes. When thousands of smaller devices are aggregated, they work together and function much like a power plant, supplying electricity when it’s needed most and helping ease demand on the grid.
<img alt="UNDERSTANDING VPP: VIRTUAL POWER PLANT TRADITIONAL POWER: TRADITIONAL POWER: Energy from the power plant is distributed to communities. POWER USE: Energy use varies by time of day, weather, occupancy, and lifestyle. PEAK USAGE: Energy grids experience stress during times of high use, increasing cost and limiting power availability." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b14ba4-44fd-4a6e-ab32-09cc146a4916" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Understanding%20VPP_NRG_3.6.25A1.png" width="340" class="align-center" height="600" loading="lazy" />2. How do VPPs work?

Let’s say your neighborhood has many homes with rooftop solar panels and backup batteries. On any exceptionally sunny day, those solar panels can generate more electricity than people use. The excess energy is then stored in battery storage systems or sent back to the grid.

Now imagine it’s a sweltering summer evening (Houston, we’re looking at you), and everyone’s cranking their air conditioning to stay cool. As the sun goes down, the grid may be under stress. That’s where the VPP steps in. It can tap into all those connected devices — batteries, smart thermostats, and even electric vehicles (EVs) — and either reduce energy use or send stored energy to the power grid.

In a way, a VPP turns your home into both an energy producer and a smart energy user.

3. Why do we need VPPs?

One challenge with traditionally generated electricity is that it must be used as soon as it is generated — battery storage does not currently have the capacity to store the large amounts of electricity needed to power our lives. That’s not a big deal for traditional power plants. But as we shift to renewable energy sources like wind and solar, it gets trickier.

Why? Because we can’t control the wind and the sun.

That’s where VPPs come in. They add flexibility to the grid, allowing us to reduce demand or supplement traditional energy generation when needed and viable. Instead of firing up a peaker plant (which are quick-response power plants used during intense electricity demand that are high in cost and greenhouse gas emissions), VPPs can fill the gap.
<img alt="VIRTUAL POWER PLANT ALTERNATIVE POWER GENERATION Sustainable solutions, such as roof-top solar, can increase energy availability, decreasing reliance on the traditional grid. POWER STORAGE Battery storage serves both as back-up and supplemental power when necessary. SMART TECH &amp; ENERGY OPTIMIZATION With thermostats, sensors, lighting, and EV charging, smart tech optimizes power usage during peak periods and when occupants are away. SO, WHY IS VPP IMPORTANT? Sustainable generation, battery storage." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0989872f-0923-4c0d-a1cf-5b760c00fe10" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Understanding%20VPP_NRG_3.6.25B2.png" width="340" class="align-center" height="600" loading="lazy" />4. What’s in a VPP?

The magic of VPPs lies in the devices that power them. These are called Distributed Energy Resources (DERs). You might already have one in your home! Some examples include:

<ul><li>If you have a smart thermostat, it might slightly raise or lower the temperature in your home to save energy (and money).</li>
	<li>If you have a home battery, it can be deployed to power your home when grid energy is limited or renewables are not available.</li>
	<li>If you have an electric vehicle, you could earn money for charging your electric car overnight instead of during the day.</li>
</ul>Small changes, when done together, can have a large impact — on the grid and on your wallet.

5. How do VPPs benefit you?

You may be wondering what VPPs can do for you. First, there’s the potential to save money. Many energy companies offer programs rewarding customers for participating in a VPP. For example, you could get credits on your bill for allowing your battery or thermostat to be turned on or adjusted during peak load times.

Beyond financial savings, joining a VPP means you’re helping create a more resilient grid. VPPs manage how electricity is used rather than how it’s produced. They adjust energy use from smart devices, batteries, and commercial buildings to reduce stress on the grid. This means that simply by participating, you’re contributing to a more reliable energy system.

6. What role does technology play?

Today, phone apps are used to manage so much of our lives. From paying your bills to turning on your car, you can control so much from the palm of your hand, and that includes your energy usage. Through our app, you will gain more control over your home and your energy use than ever before.

From your doorbell camera to your smart thermostat, imagine being able to manage the needs of your home — and help the grid — in real time. That’s where automated demand response comes in.

7. Are VPPs really worth it?

Yes, VPPs are absolutely worth it, as they provide real benefits for both your wallet and the power grid. In fact, research from the Rocky Mountain Institute suggests that VPPs can reduce electricity costs by $140 per household annually. Some energy providers even offer bill credits and other incentives for enrolling in VPP programs.

Beyond savings, VPPs also help improve grid reliability and sustainability, helping lower emissions and reduce the load on traditional power plants.

With smarter energy management, cost savings, and environmental benefits, VPPs are a win-win for homeowners.

8. Why are VPPs the next big thing in energy?

Energy systems are evolving fast, and as renewable energy sources become more and more common, VPPs will become more important.

In fact, the future of VPPs is already unfolding. NRG, in partnership with Renew Home and Google Cloud, is developing a 1 GW AI-powered VPP in Texas, which will use smart thermostats and other connected devices to help customers optimize energy use, lower costs, and enhance grid resilience.

Additionally, more homeowners are upgrading to smart-enabled appliances. Devices like heat pumps and water heaters are being designed with connectivity in mind, allowing them to adjust energy use in real time. This growing network of smart devices will make VPPs more flexible, scalable, and effective at integrating renewable energy into the grid.

By giving homeowners greater control over their energy use and helping transition to a more sustainable grid, VPPs represent the future of energy — smarter, cleaner, and more resilient.

The takeaway

Virtual Power Plants are more than a novel energy concept — they’re a practical, people-first solution to some of our biggest energy challenges. And they’re already transforming our energy landscape.

Virtual Power Plant FAQs: What Is a VPP and How Does It Work?

<img alt="Asian woman shopping in the grocery store." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d2ce42db-acd5-41cd-a3f8-d9d77fb34f43" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Asian%20Millennials_Nielsen_3.21.25A.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="681" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.nielsen.com/insights/2025/asian-millennial-women-use-buying-power-protect-environment/" target="_blank">Originally published on Nielsen Insights</a>

This year’s International Women’s Day theme <a href="https://www.internationalwomensday.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">#accelerateaction</a> puts the spotlight on how women are driving change around the world. With 2024 being the <a href="https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/news/national-climate-202413#:~:text=Hurricane%20Helene%20was%20the%20costliest,this%20disaster%20was%20$78.7%20billion." rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">warmest year on record</a> for the U.S., climate change and sustainability is a big concern—and definitely for women who are 7% more likely to feel that our society should do much more to protect the environment/planet. For Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) millennial women in particular, that number is even more pronounced, with 25% of them more likely to feel that way1.

For AANHPI millennial women, it’s not just a feeling, they are also acting by putting their money where their heart is: they are twice as likely to pay more for eco-friendly products and services compared to the total population1. And brands are taking note. For example, K-Beauty company Innis Free doubled down on its eco-friendly, cruelty free ingredients and packaging for the U.S. market and opened its flagship store in New York City with the Millennial and Gen Z consumer in mind. Asian millennial women are also more likely than Asian millennial men to perform eco-friendly activities from recycling to donating to environmental causes: See chart above.

AANHPI millennial women don’t just influence brands—they also influence their peers. In fact, 36% of AANHPI women agree that they are considered the leader in trends by their friend/peer group². This influence extends to purchasing power, as their choices around sustainability and eco-consciousness shape what their peers buy. Brands that align with these values can tap into a powerful network of consumers who actively share and promote the products they believe in.
<img alt="Chart showing the buying power of Asian Millennial shoppers." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2675d59-68b5-45f9-a6d5-ff87571f3bb9" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Asian%20Millennials_Nielsen_3.21.25B.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="600" loading="lazy" />When it comes to protecting the environment, the influence of Asian women to #accelerateaction goes back to earlier generations. Miya Yoshitani, Executive Director of the <a href="https://apen4ej.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Asian Pacific Environmental Network</a> has been a leader of the environmental justice movement since the 1990s. Through organizing in Asian-American communities, she fights for healthy communities and also paved the way for today’s social media activists. AANHPI women millennials have dedicated platforms for doing good, enabling them to reach audiences 18+ who spend almost eight hours a week on social media (Q3 2024). Jewish-Filipina Kristi Drutman of <a href="https://www.browngirlgreen.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">browngirlgreen</a> is a self-described “environmental educator passionate about working at the intersections between media, diversity, and environmentalism”. South Asian <a href="https://aditimayer.com/about-aditi-mayer/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Aditi Mayer</a> blends the “worlds of art, industry, and education— all with a socially conscious slant”.

These platforms offer a way for brands to create meaningful connections with Asian female millennials who are early in their consumer lifecycle. They have the buying power: average monthly earnings of Asian women ($1,331) are higher than those of their counterparts, according to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2024/median-weekly-earnings-1227-for-men-1021-for-women-first-quarter-2024.htm" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>. They have expectations: 56% of AANHPI women expect the brands they buy to support the causes they care about2. Brands looking to grow their business can’t afford to ignore eco-conscious Asian female millennials.

Data sources:

1Scarborough USA+ 2024 Release 1 Total (Jan 2023-Apr 2024)

2Nielsen Attitudes on Representation Study, 2023

Asian Millennial Women Use Their Buying Power To Protect the Environment

3M recently completed an in-depth study to understand what technologies will most influence the future of how we live, work, and interact within our communities.   

<img alt="Two workers looking out at a project wearing protective gear." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e621d3c5-4b1e-43f6-8ba7-8e88eb750c2e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Access%20Capital_U.S.%20Bank_6.12.25A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.usbank.com/about-us-bank/company-blog/article-library/us-bancorp-impact-finance-requesting-access-capital-proposals.html" target="_blank">Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog</a>

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance is once again seeking proposals from nonprofits and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) as part of its Access Capital program to invest in emerging developers.

The Access Capital program provides financial contributions to nonprofit organizations that are focused on developing, maintaining or expanding their technical assistance or training to better support developers.  

Recipients will be selected through an application process where nonprofits submit proposals describing how they could use additional capital for technical assistance or a training program with the goal of building capacity for developers. Once proposals are submitted, Impact Finance will select three to five recipients. Organizations with both existing and new programs are encouraged to apply.  

“Capacity-building and technical assistance programs are a vital first step for emerging developers,” said U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance senior vice president Torrence Moore. “The Access Capital program supports organizations that are providing these opportunities for developers, helping them learn, network and gain skills as they grow their businesses and ultimately get ready to take on capital.”

This will be the fifth year of the program. From 2021 to 2024, Impact Finance awarded $1.2 million to 19 organizations. 

The deadline to apply is July 31, 2025, and the next round of financial contributions will be distributed in the fourth quarter of 2025.  

For more information or to obtain a copy of the request for proposals, email <a href="mailto:BusinessImpactGroup@usbank.com" target="_blank">BusinessImpactGroup@usbank.com</a>.

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance is once again seeking proposals from nonprofits and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) as part of its Access Capital program to invest in emerging developers.

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance Requesting Access Capital Proposals

<img alt="Weathering the storm: episode 1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7caead0-b55c-421f-97a4-d3927300ec1c" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Weathering%20the%20Storm_NRG%20Energy_6.13.25A1.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="722" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.nrg.com/insights/energy-education/defining-extreme-weather-with-our-nrg-load-forecasting-team.html" target="_blank">Originally published on NRG Energy Insights</a>

From potential power loss to property damage, extreme weather events can often stir up a lot of challenges and cause feelings of concern, stress, and uncertainty. However, despite its seemingly unpredictable nature, our teams work year-round to prepare for all kinds of severe climate – with the ultimate goal of protecting and supporting our customers. In this series, we will provide a comprehensive look at NRG’s extreme weather strategy, kicking things off with an introductory breakdown from Jon deJong, Manager, Load Analytics &amp; Meteorologist.

Jon, what is load forecasting?

In its simplest sense, load forecasting is used to predict how much electricity and natural gas gets used based on different types of weather and customer characteristics. This can be for an entire region, like ERCOT, or for a group of customers, like our residential customers in Houston. We use historical data to help predict what the future may look like.

This is important because what we do supports system reliability and helps ensure that NRG’s supply meets the demands of our customers through typical and extreme weather conditions.

How do we define an extreme weather event?

NRG services customers across the U.S. and Canada, so we understand our customers are exposed to unique weather patterns, transmission systems, and structural differences specific to their respective regions. In other words, what constitutes as an extreme weather event in one location, may not have the same impact in a different location.

During Winter Storm Uri in 2021, the extremely cold temperatures across Texas may not have been seen as significant compared to the winter weather typically seen in colder regions. However, the bitter cold and wintry precipitation that Texas received impacted generation, natural gas, and transmission facilities, resulting in an unprecedented disruption of electric service.

The load forecasting team is constantly monitoring weather patterns and paying close attention to situations that show signs of impacting a large geographical area over a long period of time with difficult conditions. Heat waves or winter storms that affect multiple cities over the course of several days are a good example of this. There are exceptions (like hurricanes, which tend to severely affect a small area over a short window), but, in general, these events place prolonged strain on the grid, making them particularly important to watch.

How does extreme weather impact energy systems?

Each region is structurally prepared for the type of extreme weather they typically face. Plants in northern regions, for example, are built to withstand extremely low temperatures. These guidelines have been set in place by regulators and influenced by past events. While there is still a chance that a weather event can have an unprecedented effect, NRG works hard to ensure our facilities abide by standards that help us deliver reliable power to our customers.

It's important to note that the impact of severe weather, though, is not limited to NRG and our domain.

When rough weather blows into town, it can also affect pipelines, meters, power lines, and other types of transmission and distribution infrastructure, disrupting the energy system’s ability to deliver power to customers. While suppliers, like NRG, do not have an active role in preparing these areas of the energy system for extreme weather, we coordinate with grid operators to make sure they have information about our facilities so that they get an accurate picture of how the overall grid is holding up.

In short, our load forecasting team is continuously watching weather, monitoring demand patterns, and working with our colleagues at the plants to help them deliver reliable power to the grid. Especially, as extreme weather is becoming an increasingly frequent phenomena and energy demand continues to grow, understanding severe climate events is crucial.

Along with load forecasting, NRG takes proactive efforts to assess risks and develop strategies to mitigate the impacts of weather events. In our next installment of Weathering the Storm, we will explore the innovative approaches our teams are implementing to ensure the reliability of energy supply in the face of an unpredictable climate. Stay tuned!

From potential power loss to property damage, extreme weather events can often stir up a lot of challenges and cause feelings of concern, stress, and uncertainty.

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