CSRwire Press Releases, Events and Reports

Meet the Reinventor: Qian Lin Is Teaching Computers to “See”

03.30.2020 - 06:52PM

By Sarah Murry

Qian Lin can predict the future. Or, at least she can teach computers to see it.

Through her research at the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision, she is working on innovations that help printers correct flaws in images in real time and assist computers spot microscopic errors in a printhead rolling off the assembly line.

Qian joined HP as an intern in 1992, after completing her PhD at Stanford University in electrical engineering, where she developed specialized expertise in image processing while working on a project for NASA. During her nearly 30-year career she has been responsible for 45 filed patents and has 21 currently pending.

“There are so many things I’d like to see happen, and I have the privilege of leading people who share the same vision.”

— Dr. Qian Lin, HP Fellow, VP of AI and Emerging Compute

Lin has helped develop intelligent assistants for imaging services, vision systems for print quality and 3D-part identification, and machine learning and edge computing solutions. With partners, she invented HP’s adaptive halftoning technology that’s been incorporated into more than 200 million printers and has played a central role in advancing HP’s digital camera imaging pipeline. If you’ve ever had red eyes automatically fixed in a family photo or shared a panoramic vista from your vacation, thank Dr. Lin.

One of Lin’s early patent disclosures was inspired by a visit to a museum, where she was trying to take a photo of a painting she liked. “Digital cameras were not that advanced then,” she explains. “My photo of the painting came out blurry. I solved the problem by taking multiple low-light shots and then used image processing to boost up the quality. That became the foundation for a technology that’s become common in digital cameras.”

Deep learning at the center

The past decade has seen the democratization of photography through the smartphone revolution, with more pictures taken every two minutes than were taken throughout the entirety of the 1800s, according to some estimates. In fact, InfoTrends predicts more than a trillion images will be taken this year alone.

“Cameras generate so much data, and a lot of times you need immediate action and analysis from this data,” she says. “This research area is one that I’m very passionate about and its increasingly becoming more important to HP.”

Lin and her team were the creators of Pixel Intelligence, a powerful portfolio of computer vision algorithms that helps print service providers make sense of visual data. The algorithms can find faces within an image or find the same face in multiple images with great accuracy. They can also recognize specific objects (such as a specific logo), detect whether people are smiling or their eyes are shut, and sift through hundreds of images to make a collage of the best photos. Moreover, they work in real time, opening up new avenues for improvement in devices like smart home assistants that constantly monitor their surroundings.

The common language of Pixel Intelligence and Lin’s current research is an area known as computer vision, a branch of AI that helps computers to understand visual information. In recent years, computer vision tasks have become more accurate with machine learning models. “At HP, we’ve started using it to enhance our ability to understand images,” she says.

This creates potential commercial applications and new capabilities such as in social sharing. When you upload a photo on a social media site, the application downsizes the photo so it's faster to transmit, which reduces the quality of photos. Lin and her team have looked at using deep learning to scale up these photos for large-format printing. They’re also researching how to “recompose” photos, to create images that are more professional or creatively composed, even when shot on a smartphone.

The organization and retrieval of images, Lin says, also has huge opportunities. How do you make sure the photo and memories captured on smartphones are not lost when people replace them throughout their lives? Or how do you sort thousands of photos of your kids? Lin is curious about what kind of software could enable you to tell a photo story from babyhood to college. “We are thinking about how to use AI to tell stories with your photos,” she says. “It can mine through collections, events, and digital archives, too.”

Business opportunities for computer vision

Computer vision is a blue-sky area of research that many at HP and beyond see as ripe for innovation. At a basic level, it involves training computers with algorithms to replicate what human brains can do when they identify and interpret an image -- but to do it with the speed of a machine and on a massive scale.

Lin and her team are looking at several projects that apply computer vision to new business opportunities. One looks at how to build printers that can improve image quality. If you think about the printing process right now, it’s an open loop, explains Lin. Closing the loop would mean the printer itself can optimize images. “The printer can identify deviations, understand and ‘see’ what’s being printed, and make it perfect,” she says.

In the broader ecosystem of HP, computer vision can potentially be applied manufacturing printheads. Right now, it takes a small army of people to inspect each one. “This is tedious work being done by human operators with microscopes. It’s extremely repetitive,” Lin says. “So, how can we use deep learning computer vision algorithms to inspect those products as they are being made, and make sure the quality passes our criteria?”

Persistence and predictions

Lin’s ability to develop new technologies over her career and create new opportunities in AI and deep learning is among the many reasons she’s been named an HP Fellow. “A Fellow needs to work across organizations, champion ideas and push technology development,” she says.

Lin says in the next decade HP will bring new tools and technologies to the marketplace, and she is excited to be part of it. “I see a lot of opportunities to apply AI and machine learning in our products,” she says. “There are so many things I’d like to see happen, and I have the privilege of leading people who share the same vision.”

Learn how bias gets baked into AI, and what researchers are doing about it.

Schneider Electric is Supporting #EarthHour

03.30.2020 - 06:00PM

Sustainability at Schneider Electric

A short note on Earth Hour like this: In 2019, millions of people came together to support #EarthHour. But in light of the unprecedented challenges facing the world, #EarthHour2020 is going digital. How can you show your support for positive climate impact in a fun, creative and digital way?

Learn more about other sustaianblity initatives from Schneider Electric

IVECO Contributes to the Fight Against COVID-19 by Manufacturing Protective Face Screens on Its 3D Printers

03.30.2020 - 05:54PM

IVECO, the commercial vehicles brand of CNH Industrial N.V., factories in Madrid and Valladolid in Spain will manufacture protective face screens that will be donated to the health system in the cities of Madrid and Valladolid.

IVECO believes that because only together we are unstoppable, it is placing all its resources at the service of society, and is also donating medical supplies, at this time of great need.

Put simply, health personnel need our support, and it is for this reason, and in collaboration with the relevant local authorities, IVECO Valladolid has made a donation to the Government of Castilla y León of medical supplies, including masks and gloves, while IVECO Madrid has provided more than 200 masks to the Hospital de Henares.

The first protective masks have already been made available to the Madrid Agency for Social Care of the Community of Madrid and the Committee of Castilla y León.

Both factories will join their effort by using their 3D printers to produce approved protective face screens, as well as other types of mask and respirator parts with the aim of contributing to the healthcare materials which are currently needed so very much.

IVECO wants to use these initiatives to thank all of those who are doing great work on the front line in the face of the COVID-19 emergency.

Only together, we are unstoppable.

Fist Image: IVECO is putting the 3D printing capabilities of its Madrid and Valladolid factories at the service of medical personnel, by manufacturing face masks.

Second Image: IVECO is donating much needed medical supplies, including gloves and masks to the Government of Castilla y León, in Spain.

Smithfield Foods Supports Communities During COVID-19 Response With More Than $3 Million in Donations and Launch of “Good Food Challenge”

03.30.2020 - 05:25PM

Smithfield Foods, Inc. today announced more than $3 million in cash and in-kind donations, including four million servings of protein, to support communities across America during the country’s response to COVID-19 (coronavirus). As part of the donations, Smithfield and its family of brands have launched the "Good Food Challenge” to aid Feeding America and its nationwide network of food banks.

Smithfield’s “Good Food Challenge” welcomes the public to join the company and its brands in support of Feeding America and its nationwide network of more than 200 food banks that feed more than 46 million people. With a goal of $1 million in additional donations, this campaign will provide up to 10 million meals to aid the efforts of food banks across the country during this time of increased need. Amid school and business closures and the sharply rising unemployment rate, food banks are essential to feeding the millions of people that rely on food assistance programs every day.

“During these challenging times for our country and fellow Americans, Smithfield is taking a multipronged approach to respond to COVID-19. In addition to supporting our more than 40,000 U.S. employees on our farms and in our facilities, thousands of family farmers and other partners in our supply chain, we also have a responsibility to help our communities as we weather this health and economic storm together. No American should go without food, not ever, and certainly not now,” said Keira Lombardo, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Compliance for Smithfield Foods.

Smithfield will continue to work closely with Feeding America and the nationwide network of food banks to identify and address needs in the weeks and months ahead. Through the company’s Helping Hungry Homes® initiative, Smithfield has provided more than 150 million servings of protein to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs in all 50 states across the country since 2008.

About Smithfield Foods, Inc.
Headquartered in Smithfield, Va. since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is an American food company with agricultural roots and a global reach. Our 40,000 U.S. employees are dedicated to producing “Good food. Responsibly.®” and have made us one of the world’s leading vertically integrated protein companies. We have pioneered sustainability standards for more than two decades, including many industry firsts, such as our ambitious commitment to cut our carbon impact by 25 percent by 2025. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to our neighbors in need. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield®, Eckrich®, and Nathan’s Famous®, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

MWWPR for Smithfield Foods
Leah Weightman
202.415.5737
lweightman@mww.com

Buy-Backs: Pitchforks, Then a Rethink

03.30.2020 - 05:22PM

As originally posted on the CECP Insights blog

We’re going to want to reach for the pitchforks as we watch baggage-charging, space-squeezing airlines get a chunk of taxpayers’ money as part of the Covid-19 stimulus package, with very few strings attached. Particularly so after a decade of airlines shipping cash out the door in share buy-backs at an extraordinary scale. As a result, the debate on buy-backs may focus on the airline industry. But hopefully, the very concept of the buy-back will get a closer look (not just in the context of a bailout). In our work, we spend quite a bit of time thinking about long-term value creation; the concern being that incentives and short-term time horizons produce poor long-term outcomes, both for corporates, investors and citizens. Buy-backs aren’t intrinsically short-term or inherently suspect (and they can be an efficient means of recycling capital), but current practice and rationale seem laden with problems.

Buy-backs should be a tool for balance sheet management.
Buy-backs hapen at the wrong time and too much.
Buy-backs interact with incentives to create bad outcomes.
Buy-backs shouldn’t really be a tool to juice the stock.
Buy-backs do represent part of a distributional picture that has inflamed a crisis of confidence in capitalism.
Buy-backs should be accompanied by more rigorous disclosure.

Read the full post on the CECP Insights blog: https://cecp.me/2Ul8k0L

Keysight Technologies Celebrates Amy Niu, China District Manager for Semiconductor Solutions for Women's History Month

03.30.2020 - 04:53PM

In honor of Women’s History Month, Keysight Technologies celebrates its women leaders who do so much for our technology, our business, and our culture. We asked them the best advice they have received and that they would impart to the next generation of women entering the workforce. Read the sentiment above from Amy Niu, China district manager for semiconductor solutions.

How to Future-Proof a Career in Sustainability

03.30.2020 - 04:50PM

As a sustainability professional have you received that look of confusion when you tell somebody what you do? This is a common experience, however, as the profile of the issues we address becomes more visible, society is increasingly connecting with them, presenting the opportunity to more genuinely embed sustainability within a given organisation than ever before.

Whilst the sustainability profession has existed for more than two decades, right now there is an elevated significance of the role these people will play in the future of society, the environment and the economy.

Blue chip and SME executives, along with entrepreneurs and other key commercial decision makers are having to plan strategically to mitigate risk or derive opportunity from issues which are becoming ever more visible; plastics (particularly their visibility where the sea meets the land), the climate crisis – driven to an extent by the voices of a new generation who will inherit the burden that human consumption has created. Other issues also continue to gain visibility – corporates paying their fair share of tax back to the societies who use their products and how people who manufacture such products are treated within the supply chain.

On 26th November I joined the northern hub of the Institute of Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability (ICRS) to discuss the future of corporate sustainability and how the practitioner’s role is changing, and I share some advice and observations below.

1. Be an adaptable innovator

Sustainability can be complex and it’s easy to alienate people. A successful sustainability professional should be a chameleon capable of adapting their communications and understanding the drivers of a diverse set of stakeholders.

This means that success within the role has become increasingly reliant upon non-technical (soft) skills; the ability to convey complex messages in simple terms, the ability to communicate in the language of commerce, and the ability to adapt to a diverse range of stakeholders – perhaps more so than is required in any other profession.

Being adaptable also means being innovative – many of the issues that a sustainability professional will face requires novel thinking (because we are dealing with huge issues which require complex solutions). This means that an approach which may be unusual to other functions within an organisation may be required. A good example of this is the rise of Multi-Stakeholder-Initiatives (MSIs), where companies who compete for market share (often ferociously) come together to solve issues which can only be addressed with scale. Such action requires bold and innovative thought.

2. Opportunity to incentivise

Linking a reward system to key performance indicators (KPIs) for sustainability should, if possible, be rooted across the business to drive engagement and prioritise sustainability targets. This might be as simple as financial incentive, but we have seen several examples where recognition and celebration of employee contributions have helped to foster an organisational culture with sustainability and responsibility in its DNA.

3. Gaining multi-functional experience

While team size has remained reasonably static over the past decade sustainability budgets have increased within many companies who are considered pioneering in sustainability. As a result, a more diverse sustainability job ecosystem is emerging and there is an increased prevalence of sustainability combining with other core business functions; for example, sustainability marketing, sustainable finance and sustainable procurement.

Because they are addressing issues which impact the entire organisation, it is essential that a sustainability professional acquires a strong operational and commercial understanding of the business. This is impossible to achieve if they are primarily operating in a vacuum regardless of business training and qualifications.

With an increased frequency, we see sustainability leaders seconding their team members into other core functions of the business so that they can understand the commercial challenges and opportunities that others face.

By understanding what it is to walk in the shoes of those in other business functions, sustainability professionals can generate more suitable solutions, build trust and achieve better outcomes. By broadening their experience, they also achieve improved access to other career paths and increases the likelihood of their acceptance at ex-co level.

4. Horizon Scanning

The world is moving at a rapid pace. It isn’t enough for a sustainability professional to address issues and capitalise on opportunities that exist now. They must have an eye to the future – the success of their entire organisation may depend on it.

Environmental and social risks can seemingly rear-up quickly. For instance – the pace at which plastics has emerged as a key issue (and one for retailers that is being addressed at exco level) has been dramatic.

Companies who identify the key issues on the horizon are likely to gain a competitive advantage. Those who recognise issues too late may face so much disruption that they cease to trade.

The ability to horizon scan isn’t easy – it requires an understanding of technology, social psychology and a range of environmental and social risks that may yet to be a key agenda item. Sometimes brave decisions will be needed.

An organisations ability to recognise society as a key stakeholder is critical, for instance how will society use products and services in the future. What will society’s expectations be in relation to the ethics and values of companies who they interact with?

5. Be Curious and Courageous

Both qualities are critical. Being curious means understanding the ambitions of drivers of those around you – customers and the exco for instance.

Only when a CEO’s objectives are understood can a sustainability practitioner get full traction, and this may relate to their personal ethical stance as much as their commercial objectives.

This requires the ability to coach, consult and to ask questions before assuming a solution – a sustainability programme with no buy in will have little value.

On the flip side, sustainability professionals must be courageous – they must be able to challenge the outlook of executives in the business and sell more beneficial solutions. This is only possible if they understand the drivers of those in the business and it requires absolute integrity.

About Tanith Allen

Tanith leads Acre’s permanent and contract hiring across Infrastructure, Packaging and Professional Services.  Since joining the business, Tanith has developed Acre’s executive consultant platform the Acre Bench, providing flexible support to clients facing some of the most challenging materiality, reporting and supply chain issues in sustainability. Her track record includes placing influencers and decision-makers across the FTSE as well as with leading industry bodies and multi-stakeholder initiatives. Clients include: British Land, Shaftesbury, Bunzl, Ball Corporation and DLA Piper.

She is an experienced project manager and holds a Masters degree from the University of St Andrews.

T: +44 (0)20 7400 5852 | M: tanith.allen@acre.com

Dr. Lauren Neal: Forging a Path in Data Science and Encouraging Other Women at Booz Allen

03.30.2020 - 04:47PM

Dr. Lauren Neal has developed data solutions for medical imaging, electronic health records, wearable data, and tools to fight human trafficking. She has led engagements for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health, and military health organizations. She’s implemented data science strategies in areas like population health surveillance and precision medicine, and was also recently recognized at FedHealthIT’s Women Leading for Impact in Federal Technology awards.

But Neal almost didn’t pursue a career in data science. As a college student studying electrical engineering, she had never considered a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering until a professor encouraged her to take this next step.

Since then, “it’s been this great journey where one thing has followed another,” she said.

Applying data across complex challenges

“I didn’t think of myself as a data scientist at the time” when she joined Booz Allen, Neal said. She knew however that a career in consulting would give her “a new way to solve a lot of problems” across a variety of projects. “I really wanted to get my hands on the data,” she said.

Today as a principal with Booz Allen, Neal leads the firm’s health analytics work and internal investments in artificial intelligence (AI), helps federal health agencies build AI-enabled platforms, and oversees the development of human learning solutions for biomedical research and clinical care.

“Once I realized that I could take those skills—building models, solving complex challenges—and apply them to lots of different things, it became even more exciting,” she said.

Encouraging the next generation

In 2016, Neal looked at the data and discovered that more women were leaving STEM careers than entering them. In response, she founded Booz Allen’s Women in Data Science group. Its aim is to develop diversity in data science leaders and inspire the next generation of women data scientists through mutual teaching, learning and events like hackathons.

“When we talk about education, it’s not just about being smart and having all the skills you need,” Neal said. It’s about not being afraid to share your technical skills with others by attending conferences, teaching others, and increasing representation of women doing this kind of work.”

“At Booz Allen, my goal is to ensure we have a community of women who feel they have pathways to become leaders and to be successful, to give them a supportive environment. Women are so qualified. They may not be the first to volunteer for tougher challenges, and may need encouragement to get there but once there, they knock it out. Women need to see themselves as leaders.”

Learn more about data science and careers at Booz Allen.

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network Announces COVID-19 Initiative to Brighten Spirits of Residents, Patients and Team Members

03.30.2020 - 04:00PM

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, the largest aging services provider in western Pennsylvania, is calling on the community to help brighten the lives of its residents, patients and team members by delivering some #RaysOfSunshine during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

Members of the community are invited to send a note or a card, long or short, big or small, homemade or store-bought, that will be shared with residents, patients and team members.
“People are reaching out to us asking if they can send cards and notes,” says Paul Winkler, President and CEO, Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. “In response, we checked with our chief medical director and received clearance that greetings can be received. We are introducing #RaysOfSunshine as both a digital and U.S. mail effort to bring a smile to our residents and patients, as well as our team members who are on the front line of providing care. We know that parents are looking for projects to keep their children busy while they are home from school. This project teaches about acts of kindness and bringing joy to others.”

All precautions and guidelines will be followed when the greetings are shared with residents, patients and team members. Cards, notes and videos also can be received at the Presbyterian SeniorCare Network Facebook page. To send your greeting, visit SrCare.org/RaysOfSunshine<https://www.srcare.org/raysofsunshine> for details.

About Presbyterian SeniorCare Network

For more than 90 years, Presbyterian SeniorCare Network has been focused on Making Aging Easer ® for older adults and their families. As the western Pennsylvania region’s largest aging services provider, we provide a wide range of service and living options that meet people’s needs where ever they are in their aging journey. Today we are privileged to serve more than 6,500 older adults through in-home and community based programs that provide wellness and care management services as well as 56 communities across 10 Western Pennsylvania counties, including LifePlan and independent living campuses, personal care and assisted living communities, skilled nursing centers offering short-stay rehabilitation, and more than 30 supportive housing communities for income-eligible adults and persons with disabilities. We are known as a Center of Excellence in three areas – Dementia Care, Rehabilitation and End-of-Life Care -- as a result of our deep expertise and years of experience in caring for the geriatric population.

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is a not-for-profit that has achieved accreditation through CARF as a Network and in five other categories including Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), Assisted Living, Person-Centered Long-Term Care Communities, Home and Community Services, and Dementia Care Specialty Program. CARF is an international, not-for-profit organization that promotes quality, value, and optimal outcomes by conducting voluntary surveys for aging services providers to assure that quality standards are being met. To learn more, please visit www.SrCare.org.

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UPS Mobilizes Against Coronavirus in Collaboration With Global Customers and U.S. Agencies

03.30.2020 - 04:00PM

UPS Pressroom

UPS (NYSE:UPS) today announced an unprecedented increase in efforts in coordination with the President’s Coronavirus Taskforce, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and State health agencies. UPS Healthcare and UPS operations all over the world are working with many companies and agencies across the public and private sectors.

“UPS’s dedicated people, global network and public-private partnerships are creating a powerful combination for rapid deployment of protective equipment and test kits throughout the U.S., and around the world,” said UPS Chairman and CEO, David Abney. “UPS Healthcare has the expertise and experience to move vital, life-saving medicines, medical devices, diagnostic specimens and supplies everywhere they are needed.”

UPS today announced a stepped up collaboration with FEMA to provide supply chain services for the agency’s distribution of PPE and necessary materials throughout the U.S., including respirators, N95 masks, and gloves for use by healthcare workers across the country. As part of the collaboration, FEMA will gain access to UPS’s expansive Worldport® facilities in Louisville for temporary staging of critical shipments from overseas.

Additionally, UPS is working with an array of government agencies and companies to support swift transportation of test kits, PPE, supplies and medical devices, with particularly noteworthy examples including:

State Health Agencies: Helping U.S state health agencies, including California, Georgia and Kentucky, secure and set up testing sites at select locations. Offering to support to date to other states including Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Henry Schein is utilizing UPS to distribute and monitor personal protective equipment to medical professionals as well as drive-through testing facilities across the US.
UPS is assisting McKesson by delivering PPE shipments onto military bases where military members and civilians returning from overseas are required to quarantine. UPS has also shipped PPE to pop-up testing sites on behalf of McKesson.
DuPont: UPS Next Day Air® services and UPS® Ground shipping solutions to support the distribution of DuPont-manufactured supplies for drive-through testing centers throughout the U.S.
Pharmatech: UPS will ship the first 10,000 test kits today, with ongoing shipments ramping to 20,000 kits every Monday, Wednesday and Friday moving forward.
LetsGetChecked: UPS will provide distribution services for 50,000 test kits a day. LetsGetChecked is releasing a two-part test in the U.S. that offers an immediate indication, followed by a full CLIA-certified laboratory test. Frontline healthcare workers will be prioritized.
Everlywell: UPS is providing logistics expertise to assist Everlywell with distribution of test kits to hospitals, community clinics, nursing homes, and organizations with healthcare workers on the front lines. Test samples will be overnighted to CLIA-certified laboratories and digital results will be available in 48 hours.
AmerisourceBergen is utilizing UPS to support the distribution of critical, life-saving medications to physician offices, health systems and veterinary clinics so that patients can continue to receive the products – including chemotherapies, blood pressure medications and heart disease treatments – they depend on.

Read the full press release here.

Different Shades of Cocoa

03.30.2020 - 03:34PM

By Darrell High, Head of Nestlé Cocoa Plan

From the road, we could see some dead forest trees emerging above the cocoa canopy. With their branchless and barkless trunks, the dead trees cut an ominous figure, contrasting with the lush green of the surrounding forest.

While the dead forest trees were not located on cocoa farms in the Nestlé Cocoa Plan, they were symptomatic of the complex issue we have grappled with for years: deforestation in cocoa supply chains.

We were travelling through the cocoa producing area of Côte d’Ivoire, in the north west of the country, and heading for the Liberian border, where some Nestlé Cocoa Plan farmer cooperatives are located. The purpose of our trip: to assess the progress we have achieved under the Cocoa and Forests Initiative (CFI), a coalition bringing together chocolate producers and governments to end cocoa-related deforestation.

Shade trees

Our trip took us to a small village of cocoa producers. Flanked by a forest, the village was built less than 20 years ago from the ground up by people migrating from the center of the country, in search of a better life. Upon settling in the area, the villagers had cleared the forest to make way for land to grow food and products like cocoa. It wouldn’t be fair to blame them – the land has never been designated a national park or a preserved forest.

But with the dry season now getting longer – probably on account of climate change – many villagers realize that some forest trees providing shade to cocoa trees are a good thing. These taller trees protect the cocoa from too much sun, while improving soil health. And because these shade trees can be fruit trees, they can provide another source of income for farmers.

The Nestlé Cocoa Plan

Offering farmers a chance to diversify their revenue streams is one of the focus areas – among many others – of our Nestlé Cocoa Plan, which has been up and running for ten years.

We are growing forest and fruit trees in nurseries and making them available to our farmers to plant on the cocoa fields. This year, our distribution of forest and fruit trees increased ten-fold compared with last year – we distributed 420,000 trees to around 20,000 farmers across Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana.

Alleviating the strain on forests

Reducing the pressure on forests also implies that we make existing cocoa land more productive. To that end, we continue to train around 85,000 farmers a year, while continuing to innovate to help them produce more. Pruning cocoa trees is critical – but it’s hard to convince farmers to cut off branches of their trees – so we’ve set up and trained groups of farmers to carry out this task.

It’s equally important that we continue to raise awareness among cocoa communities about the forestry codes in force in their countries. We also need to sensitize communities to the importance of forests and trees in conserving biodiversity and tackling climate change. As a Nestlé Cocoa Plan farmer in Ghana, Dominic Oduro, said after the training and planting trees on his own farm: “Forest trees have helped to reduce the harsh effect of the sun. We were told that forest trees give life to our cocoa trees as it does to humans – I believe it now.”

We will soon start projects to help communities save their local forests. These don’t have protection at the national level but they are important to village life and are important islands of biodiversity.

Better lives

Improving livelihoods in cocoa farming communities is another critical aspect of the Nestlé Cocoa Plan. We have helped to finance a new generation of cookstoves. These cookstoves have several benefits: they use less wood and produce less smoke – meaning they are at once more economical, easier on the forests, and are better for health. So far, over 800 of these cookstoves have been distributed.

Addressing deforestation in cocoa is part of Nestlé’s broader undertaking to transform its agricultural supply chains – to make them more climate-friendly and more climate-resilient. This will help us to fulfill our ambition to achieve zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Read our full report (pdf, 17Mb)

Media contact:
mediarelations@nestle.com

CIT Announces Community Support for Those Affected by COVID-19

03.30.2020 - 03:15PM

CIT (NYSE: CIT) today outlined a $1 million community commitment to support those affected by COVID-19. These resources will provide some immediate relief to New York City and L.A. County, the respective headquarters for the company and its bank subsidiary. In addition, it will provide support for several community initiatives across the company's footprint that aim to provide relief to those impacted by the pandemic, with approximately half of the funding supporting nonprofits assisting small businesses in California.

"This is an unprecedented time and one that requires proactive action. We are committed to do our part to support our communities in delivering relief amid the ongoing effects of the pandemic," said Chairwoman and Chief Executive Officer Ellen R. Alemany.

CIT's COVID-19 community efforts include:

An immediate grant to the California Community Foundation's COVID-19 L.A. County Response Fund, supporting the impacts of school closures, the increased needs of health clinics and hardship assistance grants for individuals and families in L.A. County.
An immediate grant to The New York Community Trust's NYC COVID-19 Response & Impact Fund, supporting the essential healthcare and food insecurity needs in New York City, as well as assisting with protective equipment, cleaning supplies, technology assistance and support for financial hardship.
Support for a number of community partners across our footprint that are responding to the developing needs of those impacted by COVID-19, including organizations in California that are focused specifically on small business relief.

Commitment to Customers and Teammates
Over recent weeks, CIT has continued to provide ongoing support to customers amid this unsettling time.

In the OneWest Bank and CIT Bank (formerly Mutual of Omaha Bank) retail franchise, the company is waiving fees for ATMs, overdrafts and early withdrawals on CDs for those customers impacted by COVID-19. Branches remain open on a modified schedule, and the company has implemented advanced cleaning procedures in line with official guidance and social distancing protocols. Managing accounts online and via mobile is also available, and for additional guidance on financial matters, the company offers its free Personal Finance Empowered digital learning modules.

At its national direct bank, the company is waiving fees for ATMs, overdrafts and early withdrawals on CDs, as well as working to increase the daily ATM withdrawal limits for those needing access to funds as a result of COVID-19. Banking online and via mobile is also available.

Mortgage and small business customers that are impacted by COVID-19 and are in need of assistance are encouraged to reach out to the company to discuss options.

CIT has also taken a number of steps to prioritize the safety and well-being of its team such as enabling remote working for the vast majority of employees, implementing rotational and reduced density work plans when needed, and enacting social distancing practices. The company is also providing enhanced pay plans for teammates performing essential banking services in support of customers during this period.

About CIT
CIT is a leading national bank focused on empowering businesses and personal savers with the financial agility to navigate their goals. CIT Group Inc. (NYSE: CIT) is a financial holding company with over a century of experience and operates a principal bank subsidiary, CIT Bank, N.A. (Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender). The company's commercial banking segment includes commercial financing, community association banking, middle market banking, equipment and vendor financing, factoring, railcar financing, treasury and payments services, and capital markets and asset management. CIT's consumer banking segment includes a national direct bank and regional branch network. Discover more at cit.com/about.

Food Banks Get Donation Boost During COVID-19 Emergency Restrictions

03.30.2020 - 03:01PM

Edison International ENERGIZED blog

by Caroline Aoyagi-Stom

When Tammy Tran and her three sisters were growing up in Santa Ana, she recalls the food boxes they regularly received from the Orange County Food Bank filled with cheeses, cereal boxes and canned food.

“My parents are immigrants from Vietnam and were struggling. Growing up, I thought everyone got those boxes,” said Tran, a senior manager at Southern California Edison.

Tran started volunteering at the OC Food Bank in high school and today, she continues to volunteer each month with her husband and two young kids. But with the current COVID-19 emergency restrictions, she hasn’t been able to go in as much.

As food banks struggle with a drop in volunteers due to physical distancing and an increase in demand for distribution of meals, Edison International announced a $500,000 donation to five Southern California food banks, part of a larger $1 million commitment to various nonprofits.

“As an essential service provider and a member of the community, we remain committed to the health, safety and well-being of customers and employees, and will support those who need it the most during these unprecedented times,” said Pedro Pizarro, president and CEO of Edison International, SCE’s parent company.

These five nonprofits will receive $100,000 each to help customers facing food insecurity, a situation amplified by the current coronavirus emergency:

“Electricity is an essential service and so is food,” said Tran. “We are making this contribution so that the most vulnerable continue to have food. We are making a difference.”

In addition to the food banks, Edison International also donated $150,000 to the California Community Foundation's COVID-19 LA County Response Fund. The company's $1 million pledge to COVID-19 relief efforts will support its employee contributions by matching their donations up to $250,000. These donations are funded entirely by Edison International shareholders and not SCE customers’ utility bill payments.

The food banks continue to support the thousands of seniors who rely on the monthly donation of food boxes. They are also supporting families who have lost incomes due to COVID-19 emergency restrictions and children who need nutritional meals with so many schools now closed. In addition, the food banks also need more drivers and trucks to deliver the meals and supplies.

“We appreciate Edison International’s strong presence and commitment to the entire Southern California region,” said Gregory C. Scott, president and CEO of Community Action Partnership of Orange County. “Thanks to their generosity, we will be able to continue the life-changing work that will be needed in the months ahead to combat the devastating effects of COVID-19 and provide food assistance and more to those who are the most vulnerable.”

Tran stopped by the OC Food Bank about a week ago and saw numerous seniors picking up much-needed food boxes.

“They have no other choice, they can’t afford to go to the local markets,” she said. “These people need our help and we can all do our part.”

For more information on Edison International’s COVID-19 response, visit edison.com/covid19.

Black & Veatch’s Incubator Launches Campaign for Coronavirus Solutions

03.30.2020 - 02:18PM

From its prompting of citizens to socially distance themselves to its rising infection rates and economic devastation, the novel coronavirus pandemic has meant unprecedented, tragic disruption. It’s against that backdrop that a Black & Veatch initiative is leading a push to find and collaborate with startups and other innovators to expedite solutions that soften COVID-19’s impact on communities, with the hope that the future applications also extend beyond the pandemic itself.

As a virtual, remote effort, the “2020 Black & Veatch IgniteX COVID-19 Response Accelerator” is seeking emerging companies and entrepreneurs that have ideas about how to mitigate the coronavirus outbreak but who need help commercializing, rapidly deploying and scaling those concepts.

The range of possible solutions runs the gamut, from testing, screening and disinfection technologies to emergency medical facilities, autonomous delivery networks, biotech-related services, distance learning and training, and disease-tracking software.

Under the innovation-minded Growth Accelerator incubator within Black & Veatch – a global engineering, construction and consulting leader – the IgniteX COVID-19 Response Accelerator is committing at least $250,000 in grants or in-kind services. Those offerings will be used to support recruitment and collaboration as part of the campaign.

With more than 10,000 employees in over 100 offices around the globe, Black & Veatch has the breadth of resources to develop, distribute and scale solutions with greater speed and efficacy. Black & Veatch can also leverage its ability to create connections between mentors, customers and investors. The firm already has several civic, corporate, and academic partners and advisors on board to support the program, including LaunchKC; Advance Concepts® Studios, a Koch Industries incubator; and the University of Missouri.

“For all of the disruption it has wrought around the world, this pandemic also presents an important moment for outside-the-box thinkers to develop solutions for the greater good,” said Ryan Pletka, Vice President of Innovation & Strategy at Black & Veatch. “With our reach and intellectual capital, we stand ready to support innovators looking to make a difference now.”

Editor’s Note:

For more information about the “2020 Black & Veatch IgniteX COVID-19 Response Accelerator,” including an application form, visit BV.com/Ignite.
Through the Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Biological Threat Reduction Program, Black & Veatch already has been providing infectious disease surveillance and biological sample management to more than 20 countries around the globe.

About Black & Veatch
Black & Veatch is an employee-owned engineering, procurement, consulting and construction company with a more than 100-year track record of innovation in sustainable infrastructure. Since 1915, we have helped our clients improve the lives of people in over 100 countries by addressing the resilience and reliability of our world's most important infrastructure assets. Our revenues in 2019 were US$3.7 billion. Follow us on www.bv.com and on social media.

Media Contact Information:

JIM SUHR | +1 913-458-6995 P | +1 314-422-6927 M | SuhrJ@bv.com

24-HOUR MEDIA HOTLINE | +1 866-496-9149

FedEx Stands Up Special Operation to Help Fight COVID-19

03.30.2020 - 02:15PM

FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, has announced it stood up a special operation to help the U.S. government quickly move COVID-19 test specimens from more than 50 remote drive-thru testing centers at major retailers across 12 states. This critical mission, led by the White House, Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), was a collaborative effort among retailers and healthcare companies to enable quick processing of COVID-19 test specimens to help prevent spread of the virus.

To ensure weekend support of this mission, FedEx Express dedicated 28 flight legs, as well as specialized pick-up and delivery operations. FedEx used its patented SenseAware® technology and monitoring to help safely transport the test specimens collected in select U.S. markets to 10 labs operated by Quest Diagnostics and other commercial labs, helping to ensure maximum visibility of the shipments while in transit. The Department of Health and Human Services aided in collecting, packaging and sealing test sample boxes with the SenseAware® devices before they were shipped via FedEx Express First Overnight with Priority Alert monitoring for delivery by 8 a.m. the next day.

FedEx Express will continue to provide support seven days a week as more remote testing centers come available across the country.

“We have a great responsibility in these unprecedented times to do what we do best—mobilize our network quickly to help the communities where we live and work,” said Raj Subramaniam, president and chief operating officer, FedEx Corp. “As the world’s largest cargo airline, we have the ability to flex our operations in some of the most challenging of circumstances. By swiftly taking action to stand up this special operation, we are playing an important role in advancing the speed of delivery for these critical test samples.”

Since January, FedEx has worked with governments, nonprofits, suppliers and retail customers to proactively help with relief efforts, including:

Collaborated with HHS, the TN Air National Guard and other agencies to move over a million COVID-19 test kits to cities across the U.S.
Continued collaboration with humanitarian aid organizations, such as Direct Relief to deliver 250,000 N95 masks and other personal protective equipment to as many as 1,000 community health centers and free clinics as part of the FedEx Cares “Delivering for Good” initiative.
Expedited delivery of test kits from Indianapolis-based Roche Diagnostics to U.S. labs.
Worked with one of the largest medical device companies in the world to move more than 100 tons of respiratory life-saving equipment to China.
Shipped more than 200,000 surgical masks and protective equipment to Guangzhou, China hub for delivery to Wuhan Union Hospital.
Providing vital access points to the FedEx global network through FedEx Office retail locations as they serve as hold locations for redirected shipments and urgent printing support for government agencies and customers.

Keeping Team Members Safe

The safety of 475,000 FedEx team members is the company’s top priority. In addition to following guidance from public health organizations, we are:

Suspending signature requirements for most deliveries to help couriers and customers maintain a safe social distance.
Promoting social distancing on the job, including measures at security screening, on employee shuttles, and in common areas.
Educating team members about prevention, including hygiene and cleaning, via manager meetings, signage and digital monitors in facilities.
Disinfecting cockpits, jumpseat areas, and aircraft lavatories to keep pilots healthy.

“Our team members are moving commerce and other critical supplies around the globe. The work they do is an essential service, and we are grateful. It is in times of crisis that they truly step up and show the world who we are and what we do,” Subramaniam said.

For more information about FedEx relief efforts, visit https://www.fedex.com/en-us/coronavirus.html.

About FedEx Express

FedEx Express is the world’s largest express transportation company, providing fast and reliable delivery to more than 220 countries and territories. FedEx Express uses a global air and ground network to speed delivery of time-sensitive shipments, by a definite time and date with a money-back guarantee.

About FedEx Corp.

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services. With annual revenue of $70 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions through operating companies competing collectively and managed collaboratively, under the respected FedEx brand. Consistently ranked among the world’s most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 475,000 team members to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers and communities. To learn more about how FedEx connects people and possibilities around the world, please visit about.fedex.com.

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Alexion Highlights Brighter Futures in 2019 CSR Report

03.30.2020 - 02:00PM

COVID-19 Response Fund Tackles Immediate Needs of Most Vulnerable People With $10+ Million in Grants

03.30.2020 - 01:42PM

Over the last week, the COVID-19 Response Fund made $10.175 million in grants to community-based organizations responding to the immediate needs of vulnerable workers and families in the Puget Sound region. The grants were made to boost groups’ capabilities to provide disproportionately impacted communities with emergency assistance, such as rent support, food security, healthcare, and childcare. The full list of grantees can be found at www.seattlefoundation.org/COVIDGrants.

“We are very grateful to receive this generous support from the COVID-19 Response Fund. The American Indian and Alaska Native communities have been hit hard by this crisis and we have been overwhelmed with requests for assistance. This funding will allow Chief Seattle Club to deliver food to elders and provide immediate shelter to medically fragile relatives who are experiencing homelessness,” said Colleen Echohawk, Executive Director of Chief Seattle Club, one of the COVID-19 Response Fund grantees.

Hosted and administered by Seattle Foundation, the Fund’s first round of grants supports 128 organizations serving a wide range of residents. They include Asian Counseling and Referral Services, Byrd Barr Place, Casa Latina, Chief Seattle Club, Eastside Refugee & Immigrant Coalition, Seattle Indian Health Board, White Center CDA, and others.

Seattle Foundation worked with United Way of King County and King County’s Pandemic Community Advisory Group, which consists of more than 40 local leaders and experts, to identify this initial slate of grantees. This trio of organizations tapped into their deep community knowledge to elevate organizations that are closely aligned with the Fund’s priorities and criteria. They targeted frontline nonprofits that have the relationships and track record to deliver emergency assistance right now. Grants were dispersed last week, less than three weeks since the COVID-19 Response Fund was launched on March 9.

“With the novel coronavirus, we know there are communities that are most negatively impacted—including people of color, immigrants and refugees, low-wage workers and older people—both in terms of the virus itself as well as the economic impact. With broad representation from many sectors, we were able to focus the funding where the needs are greatest and support our strong, resilient communities,” said Matías Valenzuela, Equity Director of Public Health, Seattle & King County and Director of Community Mitigation for the County’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response.

The Fund prioritized supporting people who were affected first and hardest by the coronavirus crisis, such as low-income residents without health insurance and/or access to sick days, low-income workers in healthcare and the service industry, gig-economy workers, communities of color, people experiencing homelessness, as well as people with disabilities, greater health risks, limited English proficiency, and others.

"We are excited to share that the COVID-19 Response Fund has quickly deployed emergency assistance to our region’s most vulnerable people. But we know this is just the beginning," said Seattle Foundation President & CEO Tony Mestres. "The health and economic impacts of this virus will grow exponentially in the coming weeks and months. We must be prepared to tackle these increasing needs head-on. We hope that today's announcement inspires our community to continue with tremendous generosity so that we can all weather this terrible crisis together."

The COVID-19 Response Fund expects to make multiple rounds of grants as the pandemic unfolds. The Fund is supported by a broad coalition of 2,000+ online donors alongside more than 45 partners from philanthropy, business, and government, such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the City of Seattle, Connie and Steve Ballmer, King County, Macklemore, Microsoft, Pivotal Ventures, and Seattle Seahawks.

The Fund currently totals $15.7 million. Later rounds of grantmaking from the Fund will adapt to the evolving community needs as the situation continues to unfold. Individuals and organizations can donate and find additional information about the COVID-19 Response Fund via www.seattlefoundation.org/covid19.

ABOUT SEATTLE FOUNDATION

Seattle Foundation ignites powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all. As a community foundation, it works to advance equity, shared prosperity, and belonging throughout the region while strengthening the impact of the philanthropists it serves. Founded in 1946 and with more than $1.1 billion in assets, the Foundation pursues its mission with a combination of deep community insight, civic leadership, philanthropic advising, and judicious financial stewardship.

Earth Hour 2020 Emphasizes the Power of a Collective Pause

03.30.2020 - 12:55PM

On Saturday, March 28, Earth Hour, one of the world’s largest grassroots movements for the environment, will once again inspire individuals, businesses and organizations in over 180 countries and territories to renew their commitment to the planet.

In the midst of the global COVID-19 health crisis, Earth Hour marks a moment of solidarity as global communities unite for each other and for the planet. We advise participants to join Earth Hour at home or online following CDC guidelines. Given the unprecedented circumstances, the global health emergency we are facing today is an alarming signal that we need to urgently transform our relationship with nature and the ecosystems we live in.

Earth Hour 2020 draws attention to the immediate need for halting nature and biodiversity loss for our health and well-being. During these challenging times, it’s more important than ever that we take a collective pause to reflect, evolve and strengthen our relationship with ourselves, with each other and with nature.

Shauna Mahajan, social scientist at World Wildlife Fund, said, “Individual actions can add up to create a movement. As Americans are spending more time at home during these challenging and unprecedented times, we can take an hour to reflect on how we as individuals can make our planet safe and healthy for both people and nature. The best opportunities for creating change come when we align our passions with our actions – so this Earth Hour, let's pause to reflect on how our individual passions can be aligned with action to help us collectively create a green and fair future.”

We live in an interconnected world, and our way of life increasingly threatens all life on Earth. Our pressure on the climate and our increased demand for food, water, and energy come at a cost for nature and species around the world, including ourselves.

Greta Thunberg, climate and environmental activist, said, “Earth Hour for me is every hour of every day. The need to unite and protect our planet has never been greater. As we have been asked to avoid public gatherings to slow the spreading of the COVID-19 (coronavirus), I recommend everyone to come together virtually for #EarthHour to renew our commitment to the planet and use our voices to drive action online safely and responsibly.”

People-led initiatives around the world like Earth Hour are vital to continue to inspire awareness on the importance of nature and prompt action to help deliver a nature positive world by the end of the decade.

---ends---

Notes to Editors

Link to Earth Hour site

Link to Earth Hour 2020 For Media

Link to Social Graphics

About Earth Hour

Earth Hour is WWF's flagship global environmental movement. Born in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour has grown to become one of the world's largest grassroots movements for the environment, inspiring individuals, communities, businesses and organizations in more than 180 countries and territories to take tangible environmental action for over a decade. Historically, Earth Hour has focused on the climate crisis, but more recently, Earth Hour has strived to also bring the pressing issue of nature loss to the fore. The aim is to create an unstoppable movement for nature, as it did when the world came together to tackle climate change. The movement recognizes the role of individuals in creating solutions to the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges and harnesses the collective power of its millions of supporters to drive change.

About World Wildlife Fund (WWF)

WWF is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, working in nearly 100 countries for over half a century to help people and nature thrive. With the support of more than 5 million members worldwide, WWF is dedicated to delivering science-based solutions to preserve the diversity and abundance of life on Earth, halt the degradation of the environment and combat the climate crisis. Visit www.worldwildlife.org to learn more and keep up with the latest conservation news by following @WWFNews on Twitter and signing up for our newsletter and news alerts here.

CONTACT:

Brooke Hirsheimer

+1 (203) 313-5275

brooke.hirsheimer@wwfus.org

World Wildlife Fund

http://worldwildlife.org

Discovery Education and Afterschool Alliance Debut New App to Help Students Experience Social Distancing During the COVID-19 Pandemic

03.30.2020 - 12:05PM

Discovery Education news

To help students of all ages understand social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, Discovery Education and Afterschool Alliance today announced the launch of a new application for iOS products called Social Distancing Trainer. This new app, available now at no cost in the Apple App store here, brings important educational information about safe and healthy social distancing to students and teachers around the globe through the power of augmented reality. Discovery Education is the global leader in standards-aligned digital curriculum resources, engaging content, and professional learning for K-12 classrooms.

Developed by Discovery Education, creators of dynamic, award-winning K-12 digital resources such as Discovery Education Experience and the Discovery Education Techbook series, the Social Distancing Trainer offers educators a hands-on way to virtually engage students in the importance of social distancing. Complete with timely information about the health crisis, the Social Distancing Trainer empowers classroom discussions with real-time tools and provides a virtual understanding of what safe distance looks by leveraging augmented reality. While in the application, users can also access a wealth of resources about COVID-19 from trusted sources such as the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service, and more.

“The Social Distancing Trainer is another component of Discovery Education’s robust response to this global health emergency,” said Pete Weir, Chief Product Officer at Discovery Education. “Now, from the palms of their hands, students and teachers around the world can understand the power and benefits of social distancing and what it looks like.”

“Getting a true sense of safe social distancing can be challenging, especially for young students,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. “The Afterschool Alliance proudly partners with Discovery Education to provide students an effective and cool way to see what social distancing looks like, all from the safety of their homes.”

The Social Distancing Trainer by Discovery Education can be found in the App Store here and will soon be available for Android products via Google Play.

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, Discovery Education is offering schools and school systems not currently using the company’s digital services free access to Discovery Education Experience. Schools accepting this offer will have access to Discovery Education’s dynamic K-12 learning platform and its ready-to-use digital lesson plans, activities, and standards-aligned resources through the remainder of the school year. In addition, Discovery Education is offering a suite of no cost resources for parents and caregivers called Daily DE that can be used at home. For more information, visit Discovery Education’s comprehensive Virtual Learning resource website dedicated to helping educators adapt their instruction to meet today’s needs.

For more information about Discovery Education’s digital resources and professional learning services, visit DiscoveryEducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through Facebook, follow us on Twitter at @DiscoveryEd, or find us on Instagram and Pinterest.

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About Discovery Education

Discovery Education is the global leader in standards-aligned digital curriculum resources, engaging content, and professional learning for K-12 classrooms. Through its award-winning digital textbooks, multimedia resources, and the largest professional learning network of its kind, Discovery Education is transforming teaching and learning, creating immersive STEM experiences, and improving academic achievement around the globe. Discovery Education currently serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 140 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Discovery, Inc., Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and like-minded organizations to empower teachers with customized solutions that support the success of all learners. Explore the future of education at DiscoveryEducation.com.

Contacts

Stephen Wakefield
Email: swakefield@discoveryed.com
Phone: (202) 316-6615

Grace Maliska
Email: gmaliska@discoveryed.com
Phone: (202) 839-4239

Coronavirus and the Multifaceted Role of Measurement

03.30.2020 - 11:35AM

I have so much respect and gratitude for the medical professionals working on detection, treatment, and prevention of illness caused by the novel coronavirus that is disrupting the world today. From the front-line clinicians to the researchers behind the scenes, it is inspiring to see the work being done. The work extends into engineers and scientists in other disciplines too, including electrical engineers and computer scientists, as demonstrated in this video about coronavirus detection research at the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Thanks to my colleague Bill Schulze, a Missouri S&T graduate, for sharing this with me.

It’s long been said that scientific advancement depends on measurement (to gather the data that inform new hypotheses), and measurement advancement in turn depends on science (to enable new measurement technologies). What’s always been exciting for me is when electronic measurement contributes to the advancement of biological and life sciences. So seeing the network analyzer in the video in addition to the more expected mass spectrometer is wonderful. For those who might be curious, the network analyzer is measuring an impedance change in the sensor as a result of different airborne molecules coming into contact with it. The network analyzer really is a versatile instrument, for conventional circuit networks and much more.

Epidemiology also involves measurement, of a different sort – counts and statistics that help in creating and validating mathematical models. So whether it’s electronic measurement, chemical analysis, population statistics, or other facets I haven’t mentioned, measurement is playing a big role in attacking the virus and its effects.

Let’s keep working this challenge together, using all the disciplines and all the insights that we can.

Keys to Accelerating Your COVID-19 Drug Campaign

03.30.2020 - 11:15AM

Industry leaders are jousting with questions of how to quickly evaluate new and repurposed drugs while simultaneously readying their operations for rapid transformation. Novel partnerships between private R&D teams and public health agencies are emerging to address the “discovery” half of that equation, which leaves company leaders to grapple with the other half: how can they prepare their operations for commercial-scale manufacturing of a therapy that hasn’t yet been identified or approved?

The solution is a radically lean approach to capital project delivery. This approach relies on a multi-disciplinary team of industry experts, whose combined technical knowledge is rocket fuel for even the most complex projects. While your drug discovery activities continue, this team can get to work, quickly freeing potential throughput capacity in your existing operations and/or engaging trade partners in order to set a facility expansion initiative into motion. By initiating this lean delivery approach early in the process, you’re helping to ensure that when your COVID-19 therapy is ready for commercial manufacturing, your facility is ready, too.

Four key areas of priority

First and foremost, pharmaceutical manufacturers have four production priorities to help stop the spread, treat those affected and accelerate diagnosis.

Vaccine production

The moment a promising modality emerges, speed is everything. The fastest-moving vaccine manufacturers will be those who understand how to leverage their existing capabilities to get more done, faster. If you already produce monoclonal antibodies, for example, you may be able to reconfigure your production equipment in synergy with your process development efforts, dramatically shortening the distance from clinical to commercial-scale vaccine production. The same could be true of your existing sterile finishing platforms, or your viral vector production equipment. Knowing how to reconfigure what is available in your production arsenal and scale it safely while rapidly deploying it in a GMP compliant way takes a nimble and responsive team of experts.

Novel therapies

As the number of COVID-19 diagnoses skyrockets around the world, so does the demand for therapies that target its symptoms and protect those at high risk. Hyperimmune globulin (H-Ig), made from the donated blood plasma of patients who have completed their recovery, is a forerunner in this particular race. As in the case of vaccine production, the drug companies who’ll sprint across the finish line first have the foresight and agility necessary to repurpose what they already have.

Reformulated therapies

Developers are also investigating the possibility of pivoting existing therapies from their original indications to target symptoms of COVID-19. For example, Gilead’s remdesivir treatment, originally indicated for ebola, is now in two Phase 3 clinical studies to understand its potential in improving lung function for patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis. The challenge that drug companies with reformulated COVID-19 therapies face is one of supply; what type of scale-out or scale-up strategy should they deploy in order to meet the skyrocketing demands of an unforeseen target population? Again, the solution lies in reconfiguring existing platforms in order to move as quickly as possible into commercial production once an effective modality emerges.

Diagnostic testing kits

In order to limit the spread of COVID-19, we need to better understand its population dynamics, which comes down to having the right diagnostic tools at the ready. The labs and facilities on the front lines of the COVID-19 offensive need to operate as efficiently as possible to meet this demand. For some, this means evaluating existing capacity in order to eliminate redundancies and improve operational efficiency; for others, it means expanding according to a carefully planned strategy.

What pharmaceutical leaders need to know

How can you make faster decisions, based on incomplete information?

To scale out or up, and to what degree? To manufacture in-house, or contract to a CDMO? When you don’t have the luxury of time—when you’re trying to expand your throughput capacity even before your drug discovery process is complete—answering these mission-critical questions can be very difficult.

You don’t need to find those answers alone. You have two sources of relief available: a library of existing data related to your particular challenge, and a partner who knows how to turn that data into decisive action. Whatever your production platform—cell culture, vaccines, plasma fractionation, cell & gene therapy, aseptic filling—you can bet that our team of experts has already worked out how to rapidly expand it, based on existing mathematical models, process flow diagrams, piping and instrumentation drawings, and other templated material. If you invite those experts to your table, you can leapfrog a lengthy stage of capital project development and get right to the business of operational expansion.

How can you identify spare capacity and pivot to productive use?

The fastest way to increase your throughput is by taking better advantage of what you already have. If you can do that, then you’ll uncork yourself from the bottlenecks that cripple other industry players, like long construction schedules and long lead times from equipment manufacturers.

To get there, you need to assess your “real” throughput potential. That means analyzing your unit operations, using process simulation to uncover opportunities for better efficiency and less waste. Changing a facility modality in rapid response to this pandemic requires risks to be eliminated to ensure supply chain certainty. Utility capacities, cold storage warehouse, labor and GMP testing capabilities must not introduce unforeseen risks to patients receiving a therapy.

How can you collapse our therapeutic delivery process to move quicker?

If you plan to scale out or up, in order to reach your target commercial volume, lean project delivery will help you move fast.

This means integrating design, engineering and construction teams and working with trade partners from the start to enable collaborative and quality-driven problem-solving. While you focus on development, this team of experts can focus on translating detailed process and facility planning into long-lead equipment procurement packages, which they will use to initiate high-quality offsite fabrication activities even before your product has been fully defined. This team can also work on accelerating regulatory approval by assembling preliminary documentation in lockstep with your facility’s evolution.

How do you navigate a collaborative partnership with BARDA and other health agencies?

The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) is a key player in the offensive against COVID-19. Partnering with this agency and potentially leveraging existing BARDA sponsored facilities can be both an opportunity and a challenge for private drug companies. Test fitting a developed process into an existing facility and identifying potential capacity or compliance gaps requires world leading expertise.

These drug companies need a partner with the process expertise and BARDA experience necessary to quickly and effectively meet these demands, evaluate the facility fit and enable rapid product changeover in response to this pandemic.

WE'RE READY.

At CRB, we’ve helped numerous clients respond to escalating health threats and rapidly changing market conditions. Whether you’re on the verge of a breakthrough COVID-19 vaccine or a novel treatment for those suffering its symptoms, chances are we’ve stood in your footsteps before, and have already mapped the fastest possible route between where you are today and where you need to be tomorrow.

Grant Update: Round Two: Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta Announce Second Round of Grants for COVID-19 Response

03.30.2020 - 10:42AM

Last week, Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta announced the Greater Atlanta COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund to direct funding to nonprofits on the front lines helping our region weather this unprecedented health and economic crisis.

Today, our organizations announce the Fund’s second round of grants, totaling $2.665 million, to 14 organizations for emergency response. A total of $4.165 million from the Fund has been granted out to date. Initial grants were made to Atlanta Community Food Bank ($750,000), YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta ($500,000) and Open Hand Atlanta ($250,000). Today’s grant recipients, and grant amounts, are:

Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation ($150,000) Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation (AVLF) provides free, high-quality legal services for more than 5,000 people annually. This grant will provide emergency support for tenants facing eviction through the Housing Court Assistance Center and services for survivors of intimate partner abuse. It will also increase AVLF’s ability to bring on contract, temporary labor across all of its programs to help with the influx of cases expected when normal court operations resume.

Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative ($250,000) Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative addresses the on-going crisis of inequity confronting Atlanta, with a focus on promoting understanding of community wealth building models for Black-owned businesses and elevating the engagement, capacity and leadership necessary to shape a more inclusive economic narrative in Atlanta. The grant will contribute to rapid-response grants and loans supporting Black small business owners for lease assistance, payroll shortages, e-commerce conversion support, conversion of service businesses to on-line interactions and other needs.

Center for Pan Asian Community Services ($175,000) Center for Pan Asian Community Services (CPACS) began in 1980 and is the first, largest and longest standing service agency focused on Asian Americans in the southeast, serving over 70,000 people per year in their native language. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, CPACS has shifted its approach to a remote model. The grant will support the organization’s work with government agencies and partners to ensure people have access to information, and will support its community health center, food delivery for seniors, housing programs and domestic violence shelter, all of which have experienced an increase in referrals due to the added stress of this crisis.

CHRIS 180 ($200,000) Since 1981, CHRIS 180 has been providing services to children and addressing mental health needs for youth who are experiencing homelessness, in the foster care system or who may also be victims of sex trafficking or other forms of violence including LGBTQ+ discrimination as well as families living in poverty. Grant funds will provide food for youth and young families, behavioral health needs in this time of anxiety, and telehealth services which include providing electronic devices for individuals so they can continue participating in therapy in this time of social distancing.

Giving Kitchen ($250,000) Giving Kitchen provides emergency assistance to food service workers through financial assistance and a connection to community resources. Requests for assistance are currently 20 times higher due to the COVID-19 crisis and its direct impact on this industry. The grant will support increased requests for assistance for food service workers in crisis who are unemployed currently, many of whom are experiencing other personal, family or health crises while mitigating the ramifications of COVID-19.

Good Samaritan Health Center ($250,000) Since 1995, Good Samaritan Health Center has provided high-quality health care for residents of the region, regardless of their ability to pay. Serving as a frontline health facility, Good Samaritan is experiencing the combined burden of having to boost its capacity to care for more patients, while dealing with the added costs of mitigating increased health and safety risks to its staff. Grant funding will alleviate these added costs and provide additional support funding during reduced income streams.

Henry W. Grady Health System Foundation, Inc. ($315,000) Since 1994, the Grady Health Foundation has worked with philanthropists, corporate leaders and civic activists to raise critical dollars and secure in-kind (product) donations to benefit the Grady Health System. In response to the COVID-19 crisis Grady Health System will launch a text and phone campaign to enroll up to 10,700 patients in Grady’s mail order pharmacy program, at no cost to the individual, to reduce potential exposure for those most at risk and limit the spread of the coronavirus in the region. This grant will fill financial gaps to enable Grady to fully support this effort.

HOPE Atlanta ($150,000) HOPE Atlanta provides mental health services, family reunification, emergency hotel placement and permanent housing for people experiencing homelessness in the region. Due to the crisis, organizations providing homeless services are in dire need for additional shelter capacity through hotel and motel rooms. This grant will support efforts to provide safe and isolated locations for those that are high risk or have been exposed to COVID-19 with access to hygiene products, private bathrooms and food.

Inspiritus (formerly Lutheran Services of Georgia) ($150,000) Inspiritus serves families and individuals whose lives have been disrupted, a population that includes children and families, refugees and immigrants, people with developmental disabilities and individuals affected by natural disasters who are particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 crisis. The grant will support rent and utilities assistance and food, household, medical and sanitizing supplies to meet the urgent needs of the individuals and families they serve across Metro Atlanta.

Latino Community Fund ($125,000) Latino Community Fund supports Latino-serving nonprofits and individuals in Georgia with advocacy, program development, technical assistance and collective investments. This grant will support an Emergency Assistance Fund to support families in crisis in five counties through an expanded network of more than 10 partner organizations, and will enable the organization to be a clearinghouse for resources, materials and documents relevant to the Latinx community.

Meals On Wheels Atlanta ($150,000) Meals on Wheels Atlanta provides healthy meal delivery to elderly and health-challenged residents in Fulton County. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, it is tripling its production to over 35,000 meals per week, and preparing to deliver bulk supplies of emergency meals each week to seniors’ homes. This grant will be used to hire temporary staff, rent additional freezers, and purchase more cooking equipment, food and supplies.

MUST Ministries, Inc. ($150,000) MUST Ministries provides healthy food via 39 food pantries embedded in schools throughout the City of Marietta, Cobb County and Cherokee County. MUST Ministries also owns and operates a 72-bed shelter for individuals and families struggling with homelessness. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, MUST has significantly increased its food pantry operations from serving 400 families in a normal week to 3,500 families last week. This grant will support the increase in needed services.

PowerMyLearning ($200,000) PowerMyLearning helps students in low-income communities harness the power of digital learning to improve educational outcomes. The organization has already received local requests to support 4,745 students directly from schools representing $2.4 million. This grant will help the organization to meet requests from districts for devices, WiFi, content and support for students experiencing homelessness.

St. Vincent de Paul Georgia ($150,000) St. Vincent de Paul Georgia serves more than 100,000 families per year throughout the metro Atlanta region providing emergency financial assistance and food through its 36 pantries. The organization is seeing an enormous increase in requests for both financial assistance and food. Its ability to respond is being severely impaired by social distancing measures implemented throughout the region. This grant will help to provide direct financial assistance to people furloughed or unable to work in hourly positions and to purchase bulk food from retailers to stock food pantries.

Grants from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund focus on immediate and critical needs to support those most vulnerable. United Way and Community Foundation staff, with the guidance of a volunteer steering committee comprised of leading individuals from civic, corporate and nonprofit sectors across the region, are identifying additional organizations currently providing or receiving requests for support. This includes working closely with the State of Georgia’s Coronavirus Task Force Committee for Homeless and Displaced Persons, and other state and federal supports that are to be issued in the coming days and weeks.

The Fund was announced March 17 with Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta committing $1 million and United Way of Greater Atlanta contributing $500,000 to seed the Fund. As of today, commitments have been secured from the Coca-Cola Company, Robert W. Woodruff Foundation, and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, each donated $5 million to the Fund in support. Other current funders include the City of Atlanta, , Truist Foundation and The Goizueta Foundation contributing $1 million each, Wells Fargo and Global Payments contributing $250,000 each, The Primerica Foundation contributing $50,000, Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP and The Vasser Wooley Foundation, Inc. contributing $25,000, and $25,000 jointly from 11Alive and the TEGNA Foundation.

Individuals and families impacted and in need of support can contact United Way of Greater Atlanta’s 2-1-1 Contact Center. Due to high call volumes, texting is the quickest way to get in touch with United Way 2-1-1. Text 211od to 898-211 to get a list of resources by zip code. The 2-1-1 database is another quick way to find resources during this time of increased call volume. 2-1-1 is a valuable resource that is available 24-hours and 7 days-a-week.

The need continues to rise as stories accumulate from across our neighborhoods. To donate to the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, click here. The next round of grants will be announced early April.

The Community Foundation will continue to update details for donors and nonprofits through its blog and via social media via Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. To view updates from United Way of Greater Atlanta, click here or follow on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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Editor Note: The journey ahead

Support funds will be released on a rolling basis throughout the outbreak and recovery phases of the COVID crisis, making it possible to deploy resources quickly and adapt to evolving needs in subsequent funding phases. United Way will administer grants from the Fund. No later than April 6, 2020, the Community Foundation and United Way will announce the process for nonprofits to share additional insights and information, as well as a grant process specifically for arts organizations. The next round of grants will be announced early April.

About the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta

Since 1951, the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta has been leading and inspiring philanthropy to increase the vitality of our region and the well-being of all residents. With nearly 70 years serving the 23-county Atlanta region and a robust team of experts, the Community Foundation expands its philanthropic reach and impact by providing quality services to donors and bold, innovative community leadership. The Community Foundation is a top-20 community foundation among 750 nationally, with approximately $1.2 billion in current assets, and is Georgia’s second largest foundation. For more information, visit: cfgreateratlanta.org or connect with the Foundation via Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

About United Way of Greater Atlanta

United Way of Greater Atlanta, the largest United Way chapter in the nation, focuses on ensuring that every child in Atlanta has the opportunity to reach his or her full potential. The organization invests in more than 200 programs in 13 counties through the Child Well-Being Impact Fund and works to help children succeed in school, improve financial stability of families, provide affordable and accessible healthcare and end homelessness. For more information, visit: unitedwayatlanta.org or Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contacts:

For United Way United Way of Greater Atlanta

Chad Parker, 404.358.5055

For Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta

Louise Mulherin, 404.405.1070

TD Bank: "The Most Vulnerable in Our Communities Require Immediate Support"

03.30.2020 - 09:00AM

TD Bank: "The most vulnerable in our communities require immediate support"

The spread of COVID-19 is creating additional burden on some of our most vulnerable members of society. Through the TD Ready Commitment, TD Bank Group (TD) will support community health centres who are working closely with society's most vulnerable individuals affected by the outbreak.

In collaboration with the Canadian Association of Community Health Centres (Canada) and the National Association of Community Health Centers (U.S.), the TD Ready Commitment funding ($1MM CDN) will help front-line community health centers meet local needs. Integrated within the community, the centres are highly trusted and often the first point of contact for people seeking support.

"COVID-19 is a stark reminder that the most vulnerable people in our communities are at risk and require immediate support to help provide equitable access to care," says Andrea Barrack, Global Head, Sustainability and Corporate Citizenship, TD Bank Group. "We recognize it is early days, however as this outbreak continues to evolve, funding needs are likely to increase and we're proud to offer some immediate support for critical services our communities need right now."

Specifically, the TD Ready Commitment funds will support in three key areas:

Supporting services being delivered around COVID-19 such as screening, testing and referral efforts
Education and outreach to support preventative efforts, while ensuring patients are receiving the care they need
Social interventions and supports such as transportation, case management, and addressing health risks associated with social isolation

Both organizations will serve as an intermediary to grant funds to local community health centres where the need is the greatest across TD's North American footprint. Funding is intended to help alleviate the strain on community supports that are critical in offering local screening, care and support, which in turn will permit hospital capacity to be available for use by patients with more acute symptoms.

Impact Statements:

"As we work to contain the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate its impact, it's important to remember that different segments of the population face different risks. Many people we serve in Community Health Centres (CHCs) already face elevated health risks due to social isolation, food insecurity, poverty and other factors, and this pandemic now adds another strain on top of regular service. TD's support will really help vulnerable community members that might otherwise fall through the cracks over the critical weeks and months ahead." - Nicole Chammartin - Executive Director, Klinic Community Health, and Co-Chair, Canadian Association of Community Health Centres (Winnipeg, Manitoba)

"TD Bank's commitment will help the medically underserved in both the United States and Canada. We plan to work with community health centers throughout TD Bank's east coast service area to better prepare them to respond to the coronavirus." — Dr. Ron Yee, Chief Medical Officer, U.S. National Association of Community Health Centers

About the TD Ready Commitment: TD has a long-standing commitment to enriching the lives of its customers, colleagues and communities. As part of its corporate citizenship platform, the TD Ready Commitment, TD is targeting CDN $1 billion (US $775 million) in total by 2030 towards community giving in four areas critical to opening doors for a more inclusive and sustainable tomorrow – Financial Security, Vibrant Planet, Connected Communities and Better Health. Through the TD Ready Commitment, TD aspires to link its business, philanthropy and human capital to help people feel more confident - not just about their finances, but also in their ability to achieve their personal goals in a changing world. For further information, visit td.com/tdreadycommitment.

About the Canadian Association of Community Health Centres: The Canadian Association of Community Health Centres (CACHC) is the voice for Community Health Centres and community-oriented, people-centred primary health care across Canada.

About the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC): Established in 1971, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) serves as the national voice for America's Health Centers and as an advocate for health care access for the medically underserved and uninsured.

SOURCE TD Bank Group

For further information: CANADA: Heather Reinsborough; U.S.: Susan Leepson

International Paper Donates Boxes to Respond to COVID-19 Community Needs

03.30.2020 - 09:00AM

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is taking action to address hunger and meet critical community needs during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. The world’s leading producer of renewable, fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper has committed to donating hundreds of thousands of corrugated boxes to Feeding America and other regional community partners.

Through a donation of more than 300,000 boxes, International Paper is helping Feeding America and their network of food banks across the United States respond to families in need. During the pandemic, the organization is partnering with school districts and local government agencies to ensure that the 22 million children who rely on school meals have access to food outside of the classroom, among other actions. Boxes are critical to their ability to transport and store food. In the company headquarters’ backyard in Memphis, Feeding America network member Mid-South Food Bank will receive 50,000 International Paper boxes, supporting the organization’s ability to respond to food insecurity in its 31-county service region during the pandemic.

“Our products are a critical part of the supply chain required to produce and deliver food, pharmaceuticals, hygiene products and emergency supplies for consumers around the world,” said Dr. Alissa Campbell Shaw, senior manager, Community Engagement, and director, The IP Foundation, International Paper. “We recognized that our boxes are essential for the charities in our communities. They enable these organizations to cast a wider safety net for those in need.”

The company is working directly with numerous food banks and critical support charities across the world to get boxes into the communities with the greatest need.

About International Paper

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a leading global producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper products with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, Europe, North Africa and Russia. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods and enable worldwide commerce; pulp for diapers, tissue, and other personal hygiene products that promote health and wellness; and papers that facilitate education and communication. We are headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., employ more than 50,000 colleagues and serve more than 25,000 customers in 150 countries. Net sales for 2019 were $22 billion. For more information about International Paper, our products and global citizenship efforts, please visit internationalpaper.com.

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How We're Responding to COVID-19

03.30.2020 - 09:00AM

Cox’s people, customers and the communities we serve continue to feel the negative impacts from COVID-19. We want you to know that we’re here to help. The health and safety of our employees and customers is our top priority. Here are a few ways we’ve responded so far:

Our People

Our Cox Employee Relief Fund (CERF), which is funded by employees to help employees in a time of need, has expanded its scope to assist with unexpected financial hardships brought on by COVID-19.

In addition to supporting employees with increased food expenses and lost wages due to mandated curfews, lockdowns, layoffs or business closures, CERF will also help with travel and lodging for college-age children impacted by campus closings.

We’ve also expanded our healthcare benefits by including free and reduced cost access to virtual doctor visits and the ability to have prescriptions refilled early and delivered for free. Cox employees who can perform their jobs effectively from home are doing so at least until May 1, and all interviews for open positions are being conducted 100% virtually.

Our Customers

Our businesses are adjusting to safely serve our customers without disruption:

Cox Communications: We’ve waived late fees for customers and won’t disconnect residential and small business owners who can’t pay their bills due to the crisis. We’ve also upgraded internet speeds, waived overage charges for residential customers and are offering new plans like a low-income internet tier with no annual contract. Stay up to date with the latest on Cox Communications’ response to COVID-19.
Cox Automotive: We’ve announced the Cox Automotive Retail Solutions COVID-19 Assistance Program. During April and May, we’ll offer a 50% discount on subscriptions to products such as Autotrader Subscription Listings and Dealer.com Digital Retailing.
Manheim auto auctions has implemented a simulcast-only sales environment at all locations that remain open, based on state-mandated operations regulations. Sales will continue as scheduled, and cars will be staged on lots. However, no cars will run through the lanes and no clients will be permitted into the lanes to bid on cars. Read more updates from Cox Automotive and its businesses.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) and the Dayton Daily News: Both papers have expanded local, national and international coverage on the COVID-19 pandemic. The AJC is also providing complimentary access to the AJCePaper as a public service. Hear more from the AJC’s editor, Kevin Riley, about how the newsroom will continue to provide reliable, up-to-date information.

Our Communities

The James M. Cox Foundation is providing millions to purchase equipment to make COVID-19 diagnostic testing more readily available in our communities, while inside our customers’ homes, Cox Communications is helping families in need stay connected to the internet through our Connect2Compete program. We’ve fast-tracked qualifications and increased speeds for those who qualify.

Our Purpose

At Cox, our Purpose is to Empower People Today to Build a Better Future for the Next Generation. This has never been more important than now. And our vision — our greatest people working together to solve the most pressing problems of the time — has never been more relevant.

To stay up to date with all we're doing during the COVID-19 pandemic, please see our dedicated page.

COVID-19 Emergency Management Services

03.30.2020 - 08:00AM

COVID-19 Emergency Management Services

Tetra Tech is a leading provider of emergency management and community resilience services across the entire continuum of devastating impacts of man-made and natural events. We are providing support to our clients to prepare for and respond to COVID-19 impacts.

COVID-19 Emergency Preparedness and Response

As one of the foremost providers of response services in the wake of biological incidents and hazardous materials, Tetra Tech has responded to thousands of hazmat releases across North America and more than 100 suspected terrorist incidents with potential biological releases. We routinely provide hazmat services, including analysis of compliance issues and application of regulatory requirements, and our regulatory specialists and technical personnel actively maintain strong relationships with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies involved with potential biological incident emergency responses.

COVID-19 Water Agency Support

For more than 50 years Tetra Tech has helped provide safe, reliable water supplies and wastewater treatment. As the #1 ranked Water and Water Treatment/Supply engineering firm in the United States by Engineering News-Record, we offer comprehensive prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery of utility operations during critical incidents, and provide training and exercises that comply with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program requirements.

COVID-19 Modular Medical Systems

Tetra Tech assists public and private sector clients address preparedness, mitigation, response, and short- and long-term recovery needs and provides fast-tracked delivery of modular medical facilities. Our team has direct experience with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Joint and Contingency Engineering operations, planning and designing millions of square feet of treatment, living, working, and support facilities in the United States and abroad.

Tetra Tech can provide the following services for a COVID-19 response.

Assessments, Inspections, and Testing

Assessment: Evaluation of housekeeping/janitorial operations at public facilities to include:

Desktop inspections and document reviews of contracts/plans/staffing/standard operating procedures (SOPs)
On-site assessments/observations of housekeeping/janitorial operations
Report development and supplemental training on areas for improvement

Hygiene Inspections: Collection of swab samples assessing germ loads at heavy traffic areas to include common area/lobby, elevators/escalators, cafeteria, bathroom, and primary entrances/exits

COVID-19 Inspection/Testing: In addition to general hygiene testing as described above, higher-risk facilities (including mass transit facilities, nursing homes, schools, ports of entry, hospitals, clinics, and other state/local critical facilities) would be screened specifically for COVID-19

Swab sampling would focus on general viruses/germ counts to assess loads per location to provide an indication of housekeeping/janitorial performance (not presence of COVID-19)
Results for swab samples received within 72 hours
Pass/Fail issued with recommendations for improvement and mandatory hygiene/housekeeping training
Testing Protocols:
- Less than 30 employees: 5-10 samples
- 30-100 employees: 10-20 samples
- 100-500 employees: 25-50 samples
- 500 employees: TBD/case by case
Reinspection would occur within 2-3 weeks for poor performing/failing facilities

Asset Delivery Services

Delivery of home health and/or testing kits and other essential supplies that may be needed by disaster survivors should social distancing measures be put in place
Personnel support at Point of Distribution (POD) sites

Disinfection, Spraying, and Monitoring Services

Disinfection, spraying, and monitoring services at areas identified as known or suspected to have COVID-19, including mass transit facilities and vehicles (e.g. buses, subway cars, trains), public facilities and open spaces, utilities, and healthcare facilities.

Develop a disinfection plan based on critical infrastructure and facilities
Deploy staff to disinfect identified areas
Develop real-time cloud-based monitoring system to determine areas that have been disinfected and dashboards for reporting
Pre-and-post disinfection sampling
Monitoring of PPE use, completion of scope of work, and reconciliation of invoices

Dissemination of Informational Materials

Staff to be deployed within communities for the following activities:
- Distribution of flyers on COPID-19 transmission, prevention and self-reporting at ports of entry, public transit hubs, and other public areas by properly badged and credentialed staff
- COVID-19 Informational Personnel at Disaster Recovery Centers
Operation of call center(s) to distribute information to the general public

FEMA Public Assistance Data Collection

Collection of contractor and force account labor records to be submitted for FEMA reimbursement
Documentation creation, timesheet records, and equipment logs
Procurement reviews and assistance
Data entry into FEMA GrantsPortal system

Incident Action Plans

Incident action plan within 48 hours on how staff and contractors will be engaged to support the response efforts to include:

Staffing requirements
Timeline
Deliverables
Report and metrics
Mobilization within designated areas

Modular Medical Systems

Developing and applying technology to better inform clients about the wide array of hazards they face
Prioritizing, scoping, and implementing projects designed to mitigate risks
Planning, training, and exercising public safety professionals to enhance their readiness to respond
Augmenting staff and personnel
Facilitating and monitoring rapid infrastructure repair and debris management
Advising and guiding clients through comprehensive financial management, community resilience, and economic redevelopment phases of disaster recovery

Outreach, Inspections, Monitoring, and Testing

Operating 24/7 call center to perform desktop inspection information gathering on COVID-19 reports and distribute information to local health departments and other officials
COVID-19 Inspection: For private properties where the virus was identified as suspected of being present, including homes, hospitals, pharmacies, industrial, manufacturing, museums, retail, restaurants, and gaming casinos, inspection protocols as described above would be followed for COVID-19

State and Local Disaster Purchasing

GSA's Disaster Purchasing Program allows state and local governments to buy supplies and services directly from all GSA Schedules to facilitate disaster preparation, response, or major disaster recovery. Purchases made in support of recovery must be in response to a Stafford Act Presidential declaration. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) manages the list of declared disasters.
Browse Tetra Tech's GSA schedules by category or search for Tetra Tech on GSA's eLibrary website to order services online

Training on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Course instruction includes 4 staff – 2x lead instructor and 2x instructor model
On-site training for employees with 1:3 instructor-to-student ratio
Maximum of 12 students per class
Minimum of 3 classes per employee within week 1 of initiation and monthly refresher class every 30 days thereafter
Training courses are approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour

This training is also relevant to other health professionals in the medical field, including nurses, home health, clinical staff, pharmacists, and emergency care facility staff.

Water Agency Support

Comprehensive emergency preparedness, response, and recovery services for water utilities that include:

Developing and reviewing Pandemic Plans, Emergency Response Plans (ERPs), Contingency Plans, Continuity of Operations (COOP), and Crisis/Risk Communication Plans
Conducting risk, resilience, hazard vulnerability, and business impact needs, capability, and gap assessments
Ensuring that water utility emergency plans dovetail into plans developed by local Emergency Management Agencies, Emergency Planning Committees, Public Health Agencies, Emergency Medical Services, and local utility plan
Assisting with the development of mutual aid agreements/ memorandums of understanding with critical suppliers and community response partners
Conducting supply chain integrity assessments and PPE Hazard Assessments
Helping prepare critical and essential staff and their families for long-term isolation and/or quarantine
Providing documentation and reimbursement assistance
Assessing current operational capabilities of remote operations

Please Note: The information presented in this document reflects the latest information available at the time of publishing. For the most up-to-date information, please also refer to all local, state, and federal guidance.

Leading and Learning in a Time of Crisis: Free Webinar on the Corporate Response to COVID-19

03.25.2020 - 02:00PM

Leading and Learning in a Time of Crisis: Free Webinar on the Corporate Response to COVID-19

As COVID-19 puts governments and civil society to the test, corporations are emerging as leaders in the global response by:

Rapidly changing policies to better support their most vulnerable workers
Adapting products and services to meet emerging needs
Supporting communities, relief efforts, and scientific research
Contributing to public discourse and sharing expertise

FSG Co-CEO Greg Hills moderates a conversation with three social impact leaders to learn how they are approaching their companies’ responses, the challenges they are facing, and what they are learning.

Panelists:

Lynette Bell, President, Truist Foundation
Julie Gehrki, Vice President of Philanthropy, Walmart
Michael Stroik, Director, 3Mgives and Vice President, 3M Foundation

Monday, March 30 @ 1:00 pm ET

Learn more and register >

About FSG
FSG is a mission-driven consulting firm supporting leaders in creating large-scale, lasting social change. Through customized consulting services, innovative thought leadership, and support for learning communities, we help foundations, businesses, nonprofits, and governments around the world accelerate progress by reimagining social change. Learn more at www.fsg.org.

Behind the Masthead: TriplePundit 2020

03.25.2020 - 01:27PM

What makes TriplePundit different from other news organizations?

As the leading voice covering the triple bottom line, TriplePundit reports on companies that are implementing effective ESG practices to help stakeholders, communities and countries respond to crises around the world.

On April 1 from 2-3 p.m. EST, join TriplePundit editors Leon Kaye and Mary Mazzoni for “Behind the Masthead: TriplePundit 2020,” a webinar presented by 3BL Media, for a virtual tour inside the newsroom that’s been making the business case for sustainability since 2005.

Tune in from the comfort of your home to discover:

Best practices for authentic storytelling that doesn’t read like an advertorial.
How to pick up earned media coverage with the help of TriplePundit’s Sponsored Series.
The ESG trends to watch in 2020 and beyond.

Register

New CLP Reports: Building a Utility of the Future at a Time of Transition

03.17.2020 - 08:00AM

Teck Announces 33% Carbon Reduction Target and Updated Sustainability Strategy

03.12.2020 - 02:00PM

Newly Released: NN Group Published Integrated 2019 Annual Report

03.12.2020 - 08:00AM

SB'20 Long Beach

03.05.2020 - 11:05AM

The business case is clear. Purpose-led brands attract customers, fulfill employees, and outperform competitors.

At Sustainable Brands, we believe purpose is the driving force of a thriving business, and sustainable innovation separates leaders from the pack. Year after year, we bring together our global community of change agents to share the latest developments in sustainable business, to collaborate around solutions to difficult obstacles, and to inspire a new generation of business leaders.

For the past decade, we’ve laid the foundation for a regenerative future. Now, we’re moving forward with even greater conviction to restore ourselves, our brands, our businesses, and our planet.

Now is the time to move your brand toward becoming a positive force for a regenerative economy. Your business can do well AND do good. The Sustainable Brands community is the only place to find trusted leadership with a depth of understanding of the landscape, shared ambition to shape a new direction, and insightful tools to take action. Join the change agents who are co-creating the framework for a flourishing future at SB’20 Long Beach.

3BL community members receive an exclusive 20% off all pass types! Register using the code “ptr3bl” to take advantage of this special offer.

Location: Long Beach Convention Center
Dates: June 1 - 4, 2020 9:00am-5:00pm PT

Newly Released: Novo Nordisk Publishes Integrated 2019 Annual Report

02.18.2020 - 08:00AM

Championing Global Health: Walgreens Boots Alliance New Global Sustainability Report Details Support for People Living With Cancer and Efforts to Improve Child and Maternal Health

02.18.2020 - 04:00AM

Ørsted Launches Programme for a Carbon Neutral Supply Chain by 2040

02.06.2020 - 08:00AM

Just Released: 2019 Novartis in Society Report, Detailing Progress Made on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Topics

02.03.2020 - 08:00AM

New BCG Report: Sustainably Securing the Future of Agriculture

12.13.2019 - 08:00AM

Waters Corporation Announces 2025 Sustainability Goals

12.10.2019 - 08:00AM

GreenBiz 20

12.09.2019 - 08:15AM

The sustainability profession is evolving, with new concerns and concepts emerging faster than ever. GreenBiz 20 (Feb. 4-6, Phoenix) is the premier annual event for sustainable business leaders exploring the latest trends, tools and insights.

Attend GreenBiz 20 to network with and learn from this powerful community of more than 1,500 sustainability thought leaders and practitioners from business, government, academia and NGOs. Save 10% with our discount code GB203B. Learn more: http://bit.ly/352SlYc

New BCG Reports: Shrimp Farmers Worldwide Must Adopt Sustainable Practices—or Risk Falling Behind

12.06.2019 - 08:00AM

Schneider Electric's Sustainability Progress and 2020 Goals: Climate, Circular Economy, Health & Equity, Ethics, and Development

11.26.2019 - 08:00AM

ascena retail group, inc. Reports on Progress to Advance Its Commitment to Women and Girls

11.21.2019 - 08:00AM

Flowserve Publishes 2018 Sustainability Report

11.20.2019 - 02:00PM

Aurora Organic Dairy Commits to 100% Carbon-Neutral Energy in Its Fourth Sustainability Report

11.13.2019 - 08:00AM

Marsh & McLennan Releases 2017-2018 Corporate Citizenship Report

11.05.2019 - 08:00AM

Timken Issues CSR Report, Demonstrating Commitment to Move the World Forward, for Good

11.04.2019 - 08:00AM

Symantec Pushes for a Safer Tomorrow, Releases 2019 CR Report

10.23.2019 - 08:00AM

MSD Publishes 2018/2019 Corporate Responsibility Report

10.09.2019 - 02:00PM

Hormel Foods Achieves Nonrenewable Energy Use Reduction Goal and Has Record Year of Giving

10.08.2019 - 04:00AM

2019 Net Impact Conference

10.07.2019 - 06:00PM

When was the last time you gathered under one roof with 1,500 people who care just as deeply as you do about social impact?

At NI19, you will:

Connect to changemakers, innovators, sustainability leaders, activists, influencers, students and companies.
Be inspired to tackle today's biggest challenges.
Learn how to make an impact from where you are.

We're bringing together an inspiring lineup of keynote speakers, social change activists, corporate visionaries, authors and cutting-edge thinkers this year.

Global leaders like Microsoft, International Paper, and TerraCycle will be part of Career Central to talk shop about employment opportunities and the future of your career. Pioneer programs like REDF and Uncommon Schools will inspire you with their untraditional and innovative approaches to tackling social and environmental issues. Top leaders from companies like Intel, Lime, Campbell’s and The Coca-Cola Company will talk openly about CSR, sustainability, and what it’s like to be a woman growing an enterprise. And our fast-paced networking salons will give you the chance to connect with like-minded activists and leaders who care about the same topics you do.

We hope to see you in Detroit!

DXC Technology Announces New Global Environmental Targets in 2019 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Report

10.07.2019 - 08:00AM

Strengthening Connections. Fostering Success: PNC Shares CSR Achievements

10.07.2019 - 04:00AM

Visa Details Global Leadership in Latest Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Report

10.01.2019 - 08:00AM

SC Johnson on Track to Meet Goals in Tackling Plastic Waste Crisis, Announces Results in New Sustainability Report

09.25.2019 - 04:00AM

American Express Outlines Progress on Social Responsibility Goals, Commits to Further Reducing Environmental Impact in 2018-2019 Corporate Responsibility Report

09.23.2019 - 10:00AM

VERGE 2019

09.09.2019 - 12:55PM

The VERGE 19 conference and expo (October 22-24, Oakland) is the platform for accelerating the clean economy. The event convenes more than 3,000 leaders — from the private and public sectors, utilities, solution providers, NGOs and startups — to explore scalable, cross-cutting solutions and to collaborate more effectively to advance them. The event is framed around four key markets driving the transition: clean energy, transportation and mobility, the circular economy and carbon removal.

2019 Environmental, Health, Safety & Sustainability Management Forum

09.04.2019 - 01:31PM

The Forum is the largest annual gathering of Environmental, Health, Safety & Sustainability (EHS&S) managers, directors and vice presidents.

With four days of networking, peer-led interactive sessions and keynote presentations, this is the premier event dedicated to showcasing best practices in EHS & Sustainability management.

Corporate Philanthropy Conference: Measurement Metrics and Outcomes

08.16.2019 - 11:00AM

Join us as we take a deep dive on building and sustaining a philanthropy strategy that aligns with your organization’s business strategy, culture, and mission. This year’s event will examine the “business” of corporate philanthropy through case studies and real-world scenarios with perspectives from both corporations and beneficiary organizations.

Session topics will cover the decision-making process as it relates to corporate strategy, as well as metrics, measurement, impact, output versus outcome, employee engagement, portfolio analysis, and more. This conference is designed especially for executives with responsibilities in the following areas:

Corporate Philanthropy
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate Citizenship
Corporate Foundations
Community Affairs and Community Relations
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)
Board Service
Corporate Communications
Public Relations
Legal, Regulatory, and Financial Advisory
Cause Marketing

To Register, download the agenda or learn more, visit us at: www.conferenceboard.org/philanthropy SAVE $100 with Code: CSR100

Sixty Minutes with Hazel Henderson: Transitioning to Science-Based Investing (Security and Sustainability Forum)

08.09.2019 - 12:03PM

Join me and in a sixty minute webinar with Hazel Henderson, world renowned futurist, evolutionary economist, worldwide syndicated columnist, and leader in sustainable development. We will discuss science-based investing, which is the focus of the 2019/20 edition of her Green Transition Scoreboard Report.

Hazel is the founder of Ethical Markets Media, Certified B Corporation and the creator and co-executive Producer of its TV series. She is the author of The Axiom and Nautilus award-winning book Ethical Markets: Growing the Green Economy (2006) and eight other books. She co-edited, with Harlan Cleveland and Inge Kaul, The UN: Policy and Financing Alternatives, Elsevier Scientific, UK 1995 (US edition, 1996), and co-authored with Japanese Buddhist leader Daisaku Ikeda, Planetary Citizenship (2004).

Don't miss an opportunity to engage with one of the most transformational economic leaders of our time.

I hope you'll join this course.

Sincerely,

Edward Saltzberg, PhD
Managing Director
Security and Sustainability Forum
www.ssfonline.org
esaltzberg@securityandsustainabilityforum.org

Innovations in Social Impact Measurement Symposium

08.02.2019 - 08:00AM

Your company is dedicating time and resources to be a responsible corporate citizen. Are those efforts working? Are they having an impact? Does anyone care if they are or aren't? How do you communicate the importance of measurement to stakeholders who don't see the value, and how do you communicate your impact to those who do?

We're bringing together corporate social responsibility and social impact measurement experts to grapple with these questions and more at our upcoming Innovations in Social Impact Measurement Symposium in San Francisco. The symposium will consist of a keynote speaker, panel discussions, and a skills development workshop where we will explore simple and effective ways to improve impact measurement for your organization's CSR programming.

Register now to join the discussion and network with fellow corporate responsibility and social impact professionals. We're looking forward to seeing you there! Lunch and mingling provided.

Date and Time
Thu, September 19, 2019
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM PDT

Location
Marines' Memorial Club & Hotel
609 Sutter Street
San Francisco, CA 94102

Early-Bird Registration (available until Aug. 15^th): $95
Standard Registration: $130

Our Innovations in Social Impact Measurement Symposium will include:

Panel Discussions

Our panelists will tackle questions like:

How do you mainstream impact measurement into your business plan?
When in the project life cycle do you begin measurement planning?
What are the current trends in social impact measurement?
What does the future hold in terms of how we measure social impact?

Skills Development Workshop

You will be given tools and learn skills for:

Measuring Social Return on Investment
Pre-Design, Design, and Implementation of Social Impact Measurement
Adapting SIM tools/templates to your needs and projects

18th Annual Employee Engagement Summit

04.08.2019 - 12:09PM

This two-day peer-to-peer event brings together corporate citizenship and employee engagement professionals to learn and network, share promising practices, discuss the latest trends, and create greater social impact together.

Through interactive sessions and breakouts, the summit provides a forum for learning and effective practice exchange to engage the most pressing challenges facing today’s CSR professionals.

This year’s themes include how to align your corporate brand with social and employee activism, integrating business goals with CSR, measuring and demonstrating impact, the latest trends in employee engagement, the new frontiers of diversity and inclusion, and more.

Innovations in Social Impact Measurement for CSR Symposium

03.29.2019 - 03:43PM

Join us for a two-day symposium on the latest innovations in self-led social impact measurement for corporate social responsibility programs.

We will review how to develop a strategy for identifying and addressing non-technical risks (NTR), proving you’re having a meaningful impact, and learning how to improve. You will be introduced to easy-to-complete impact measurement tools that can be used across the company and allow for a uniform yet flexible approach across all initiatives, no matter the stage of development, type of investment/engagement, or geography.

The event will also review social return on investment (SROI) techniques, strategies for positioning CSR and social impact measurement in your organization, and getting the most out of your impact data.

Charities@Work

03.01.2019 - 02:25PM

“The Charities@Work Summit offers something that CSR professionals cannot find at any other gathering focused on CSR: the ability to connect the issues our companies face with practical, applicable solutions that will make a difference in supporting employees, brand and most importantly culture,” said Michael S. Carren, summit chair and head of corporate social responsibility at The Guardian Life Insurance Company.

“Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned professional, Charities@Work gives you the opportunity to interact with and learn from other leaders in the field. I am proud to have been affiliated with this event for over a decade and have taken so much of what I have learned through the conference back to my professional practice with great results.”

Through interactive sessions and breakouts, the summit provides a forum for learning and effective practice exchange to engage the most pressing challenges facing today’s CSR professionals.

2018 3BL Forum Brands Taking Stands — The Long View

10.03.2018 - 12:31PM

On October 23-25, 2018, 3BL Forum will once again convene a diverse group of business, policy and NGO leaders to share insights, advance best practices and workshop forward-thinking solutions to the most pressing sustainability challenges of our time.

3BL Forum 2018 will feature the same theme as 2017, 'Brands Taking Stands' with a focus on 'The Long View – The Role of the Corporate Responsibility Professional as Companies Build for the Future Amid Pressure to Prioritize Profit Today.'

Total Impact Boston: October 4 & 5

09.26.2018 - 01:30AM

Total Impact is a multi-city convening series providing practical impact education and execution strategies to advisors, investors, family offices, wealth managers, and HNW individuals interested in aligning their investments to their values and mission.

Total Impact travels to Boston on October 4 and 5. Total Impact Boston will feature actionable impact strategies and tools across asset classes for advisors and investors. In addition, in partnership with key Boston stakeholders, we will highlight place-based opportunities and the impact success stories of the greater Boston area.

Receive a $200 discount when you use this code at registration: TI_SUBSCRIBERS

Total Impact conference series is a Good Capital Project initiative.

2018 EHS & Sustainability Management Forum

09.04.2018 - 03:15PM

NAEM's EHS & Sustainability Management Forum is the largest annual gathering of environment, health and safety (EHS) and sustainability decision-makers. Attend this year’s Forum to find answers to some of your toughest EHS and sustainability challenges and network with the best in the industry. This year’s program will include 5 different tracks, over 25 sessions, and will be led by more than 90 EHS and sustainability leaders. Register today before it sells out!

Digital Empowers: Accelerating Innovation for Business and Social Good

04.18.2018 - 03:42PM

Innovative partnerships, where businesses can work with and leverage the assets of governments, NGOs, and civil society can help develop creative, sustainable, and scalable solutions that can create significant impact. The partnerships and the technologies that make this possible is the focus of Digital Empowers: Accelerating Innovation for Business and Social Good, a forum hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

This event will bring together business leaders, technical experts, and on-the-ground partners that are shaping the future of innovation and social impact. Participants will share how their organizations leverage new technologies and digital innovations, including blockchain, design thinking, virtual reality, robotics, data collaboratives, and cloud analytics to increase access and equity to individuals and communities.

Learn more and register here: https://goo.gl/osXZa9

The Future of Sustainability Reporting: Trends to Watch

04.13.2018 - 12:00PM

The Columbia Business School Alumni Club of New York (CBSACNY) is an alumni organization seeking to strengthen alumni networks, support services, professional development, and education opportunities. The Sustainable Business Committee produces events related to green businesses, the environment, sustainability, and pioneering new industry. Visit CBSACNY online at http://www.cbsacny.org.

Hear from expert panelists with diverse experience in CSR and Sustainability Reporting.
Understand key factors and motivations that guide a company’s reporting strategy.
Learn about different reporting methods, frameworks, and standards.
Explore trends in CSR and Sustainability Reporting in the US and around the world.
Get answers to your questions - unique opportunity for open audience Q & A.

As companies strive to protect their reputational assets and earn trust from stakeholders, sustainability reporting and disclosure are no longer reserved solely for “green” or mission-oriented companies. Demand for transparency and disclosure is increasing, and sustainability reporting is becoming mainstream. However, how reporting is done may vary depending on the target audience and purpose of those disclosures. Dominant frameworks such as GRI and SASB, and emerging methods such as Reporting 3.0, Trucost, and <IR>, are evolving to play different parts and complement each other. Our expert panel will discuss best practices employed by companies, and how such practices create value for shareholders and stakeholders. While sustainability reporting remains largely voluntary, our panel will explore legal trends and any potential movement to integrate sustainability and financial disclosures, from a US and global perspective.

Register and learn more: http://www.cbsacny.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1088046

For more information, please contact:
Leila Goldmark, LGoldmark10@gsb.columbia.edu (re event details)
CBSACNY, contactus@cbsacny.org (re event registration and ticketing issues)

Webinar: How to Craft a Winning Citizens Nomination

04.04.2018 - 09:34AM

Every year, hundreds of businesses apply to win a Corporate Citizenship Award, making it one of the most prestigious awards in the field. How can you ensure your nomination stands out from all the rest?

On May 3, join the Chamber Foundation for a webinar that will share tips and strategies for crafting a winning Citizens Awards nomination. The webinar will feature past judges and winners who will highlight ways to strengthen your nomination and best tell your story.

From now until June 29, the U.S. Chamber Foundation is accepting nominations for the 19th Annual Corporate Citizenship Awards. Since 2000, the Citizens Awards have honored the most strategic and innovative corporate citizenship programs from businesses and chambers of all sizes.

Trends in Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting

03.23.2018 - 10:25AM

During a recent ReportAlert webinar, an attendee asked about trends in corporate reporting around CR and sustainability.

To answer, we have invited reporting veteran Tim Woodall and training extraordinaire Nancy Mancilla to share their observations on how corporate reporters are gearing up for 2018 and beyond.

Hear whether integrated reporting continues gathering steam, how brands are incorporating the Sustainable Development Goals into their updates, and how the Brands Taking Stands movement is manifesting itself in ESG disclosures.

This presentation will also include a focus on two platforms designed for companies and NGOs to drive awareness of their corporate responsibility and sustainability initiatives – 3BL Media and ReportAlert. Dave Armon, CMO of 3BL Media, will moderate the discussion.

2018 Sustainability and Circular Economy Summit

03.19.2018 - 06:20PM

Join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation May 9—10 in Washington, D.C. for the fourth annual Sustainability and Circular Economy Summit, "Translating Value to Ignite Action."

Gain the practical knowledge, skills, and applications needed to most effectively implement circular economy communication strategies, both within and outside your organization.

Early Bird prices end in less than two weeks, so make sure to register now before it's too late!

For more information, visit: https://goo.gl/UVbR2y

2018 Sustainability Management Conference

03.15.2018 - 02:11PM

Are you responsible for implementing sustainability efforts, or tracking and reporting their results? Is the scope of your sustainability program expanding in all directions?

This conference will offer insights that will help you improve your company’s performance internally and more effectively manage your sustainability data at both ends of the supply chain.

Compliance Management Conference

02.26.2018 - 02:03PM

The basis of an effective EHS program is the strength of its management system and how thoroughly it is integrated into business practices. Focusing on the core of EHS responsibilities, this conference will bring together a diverse group of EHS professionals to discuss the most effective ways to ensure compliance, reduce risk and drive business results. Attend the EHS Compliance Management conference for case studies and interactive dialogue on emerging trends and issues in EHS management including EHS auditing, data management, risk management, and staffing challenges.

Certified Sustainability Practitioner Program, Advanced Edition 2018

01.11.2018 - 09:00AM

This challenging two-day training offered by CSE aims to give you all the latest practical tools and resources required to implement or upscale corporate sustainability in order to drive your initiatives to the next level by generating value and creating effective strategies.

What you will get from the program:

Two days of instruction Become a CMI member for free (Membership cost 200$).
Certified Learning materials (hard copy) and training guide (electronic copy)
Updated case studies from companies such as Apple, Ikea, Unilever and more.
Informative videos from leading sustainable organizations
Sustainability reports related to your sector Sustainability (CSR) Practitioner Certification

Leveraging Technology for Financial Wellness

01.10.2018 - 11:08AM

Join us for a webinar hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and supported by JPMorgan Chase & Co., where representatives from University of North Carolina Center for Community Capital and nonprofit Leaders in Financial Technology (nLIFT) will discuss the potential for technology innovation in the financial services sector – fintech – to increase financial inclusion in the United States.

"Leveraging Technology for Financial Wellness" will explore key trends in fintech investment and adoption – including barriers to adoption – among low- and moderate-income consumers, and the roles that financial institutions, fintech companies, and non-profit intermediaries can play in meeting the needs of underserved consumers.

The webinar will also feature new work from nLIFT around nonprofits leadership in fintech innovations to help facilitate financial inclusion. Register for the webinar today!

CSRwire Press Releases, Events and Reports

Meet the Reinventor: Qian Lin Is Teaching Computers to “See”

Schneider Electric is Supporting #EarthHour

IVECO Contributes to the Fight Against COVID-19 by Manufacturing Protective Face Screens on Its 3D Printers

Smithfield Foods Supports Communities During COVID-19 Response With More Than $3 Million in Donations and Launch of “Good Food Challenge”

Buy-Backs: Pitchforks, Then a Rethink

Keysight Technologies Celebrates Amy Niu, China District Manager for Semiconductor Solutions for Women's History Month

How to Future-Proof a Career in Sustainability

Dr. Lauren Neal: Forging a Path in Data Science and Encouraging Other Women at Booz Allen

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network Announces COVID-19 Initiative to Brighten Spirits of Residents, Patients and Team Members

UPS Mobilizes Against Coronavirus in Collaboration With Global Customers and U.S. Agencies

Different Shades of Cocoa

CIT Announces Community Support for Those Affected by COVID-19

Food Banks Get Donation Boost During COVID-19 Emergency Restrictions

Black & Veatch’s Incubator Launches Campaign for Coronavirus Solutions

FedEx Stands Up Special Operation to Help Fight COVID-19

Alexion Highlights Brighter Futures in 2019 CSR Report

COVID-19 Response Fund Tackles Immediate Needs of Most Vulnerable People With $10+ Million in Grants

Earth Hour 2020 Emphasizes the Power of a Collective Pause

Discovery Education and Afterschool Alliance Debut New App to Help Students Experience Social Distancing During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Coronavirus and the Multifaceted Role of Measurement

Keys to Accelerating Your COVID-19 Drug Campaign

Grant Update: Round Two: Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta Announce Second Round of Grants for COVID-19 Response

TD Bank: "The Most Vulnerable in Our Communities Require Immediate Support"

Related Links

International Paper Donates Boxes to Respond to COVID-19 Community Needs

How We're Responding to COVID-19

COVID-19 Emergency Management Services

Leading and Learning in a Time of Crisis: Free Webinar on the Corporate Response to COVID-19

Behind the Masthead: TriplePundit 2020

New CLP Reports: Building a Utility of the Future at a Time of Transition

Teck Announces 33% Carbon Reduction Target and Updated Sustainability Strategy

Newly Released: NN Group Published Integrated 2019 Annual Report

SB'20 Long Beach

Newly Released: Novo Nordisk Publishes Integrated 2019 Annual Report

Championing Global Health: Walgreens Boots Alliance New Global Sustainability Report Details Support for People Living With Cancer and Efforts to Improve Child and Maternal Health

Ørsted Launches Programme for a Carbon Neutral Supply Chain by 2040

Just Released: 2019 Novartis in Society Report, Detailing Progress Made on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Topics

New BCG Report: Sustainably Securing the Future of Agriculture

Waters Corporation Announces 2025 Sustainability Goals

GreenBiz 20

New BCG Reports: Shrimp Farmers Worldwide Must Adopt Sustainable Practices—or Risk Falling Behind

Schneider Electric's Sustainability Progress and 2020 Goals: Climate, Circular Economy, Health & Equity, Ethics, and Development

ascena retail group, inc. Reports on Progress to Advance Its Commitment to Women and Girls

Flowserve Publishes 2018 Sustainability Report

Aurora Organic Dairy Commits to 100% Carbon-Neutral Energy in Its Fourth Sustainability Report

Marsh & McLennan Releases 2017-2018 Corporate Citizenship Report

Timken Issues CSR Report, Demonstrating Commitment to Move the World Forward, for Good

Symantec Pushes for a Safer Tomorrow, Releases 2019 CR Report

MSD Publishes 2018/2019 Corporate Responsibility Report

Hormel Foods Achieves Nonrenewable Energy Use Reduction Goal and Has Record Year of Giving

2019 Net Impact Conference

DXC Technology Announces New Global Environmental Targets in 2019 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Report

Strengthening Connections. Fostering Success: PNC Shares CSR Achievements

Visa Details Global Leadership in Latest Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Report

SC Johnson on Track to Meet Goals in Tackling Plastic Waste Crisis, Announces Results in New Sustainability Report

American Express Outlines Progress on Social Responsibility Goals, Commits to Further Reducing Environmental Impact in 2018-2019 Corporate Responsibility Report

VERGE 2019

2019 Environmental, Health, Safety & Sustainability Management Forum

Corporate Philanthropy Conference: Measurement Metrics and Outcomes

Sixty Minutes with Hazel Henderson: Transitioning to Science-Based Investing (Security and Sustainability Forum)

Innovations in Social Impact Measurement Symposium

18th Annual Employee Engagement Summit

Innovations in Social Impact Measurement for CSR Symposium

Charities@Work

2018 3BL Forum Brands Taking Stands — The Long View

Total Impact Boston: October 4 & 5

2018 EHS & Sustainability Management Forum

Digital Empowers: Accelerating Innovation for Business and Social Good

The Future of Sustainability Reporting: Trends to Watch

Webinar: How to Craft a Winning Citizens Nomination

Trends in Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting

2018 Sustainability and Circular Economy Summit

2018 Sustainability Management Conference

Compliance Management Conference

Certified Sustainability Practitioner Program, Advanced Edition 2018

Leveraging Technology for Financial Wellness