CSRWire News

Meet the People Behind GM’s All-Electric Future PART 1: 1:1 With Chief Engineer Jesse Ortega

This National Engineers Week, GM celebrates the employees who continue to innovate and push the company closer toward its vision of Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion.

“One of the things that draws you to engineering is a desire to learn and to be fascinated by the new,” said Jesse Ortega, chief engineer at General Motors.

Ortega has worked at GM for more than 38 years, designing and engineering vehicles around the globe across multiple vehicle segments. His experience spans chassis systems, vehicle architecture, vehicle performance and product design. In 2016, after leading the vehicle architecture on all mid-size passenger cars, Ortega was deciding what to do next and knew it had to be something that would fascinate him.

“The concept of electric vehicles – plugging in a vehicle and never having to go to a gas station – is captivating,” said Ortega. “It’s like when we put people in a capsule and sent them to the moon…how did they do that? How did that work? That was my draw to working on electric vehicles.”

Similar to the strategy for traditional combustion engine vehicles, bridging design and engineering is vital to delivering new EV products. There is an incredible amount of freedom when designing an EV because there is no engine, transmission, drivelines, exhaust or fuel tank – creating much more space and flexibility for styling and design.

“As engineers, it’s our job to take what is in the designers’ heads and turn it into reality,” said Ortega. “It’s all about striking a balance between engineering and design and pushing each other so we get phenomenal-looking vehicles that are fun to drive.”

Designing EVs that people want to drive is another critical component in growing the number of EVs on the road. “Our goal isn’t just to make one of these. It’s to make thousands of them, so we need to make sure they meet the demands of all our customers, and that the approach is scalable for mass production,” said Ortega.

Using insights from their flagship electric product, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, the GM engineering team understands the value of its spaciousness, quiet performance and power as critical factors for future product development. These same qualities are revered not only by U.S. customers, but by Chevrolet Bolt EV owners in Canada, Mexico, Brazil and the Middle East.

“EVs pull people together around the world,” said Ortega. “A world with zero emissions is something I think everyone can get behind.”

“When thinking about our vision for a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion, it really energizes me because I know I’m working toward a vision that is truly resonating with a lot of people here at GM, in the industry, and around the globe,” said Ortega.

Perfecting the design and engineering of EVs to meet customer demand is just one step in achieving widespread EV adoption. Improving battery range and capability, and constructing a viable charging infrastructure are other areas the company is addressing on the journey to an all-electric future.

Visit GM.com for the full story.

Read PART 2 Read PART 3

(GlobeNewswire) – Heineken N.V. today published its combined financial and sustainability annual report on its new company website www.theheinekencompany.com  

Key highlights from its Annual Report 2019 include:

• 2019 detailed business review and financial statements.

• Insights about the Heineken® brand, low- and no-alcohol drinks, international brands portfolio, craft and cider brands.

• Connect in a digital world, a new business priority for the company, using the opportunities provided by digitalisation to connect with consumers and customers.

• A detailed update on Brewing a Better World, the company’s global sustainability strategy which is part of HEINEKEN’s five business priorities, including 2019 progress, targets and more than 20 case studies:

  • 49% decrease in carbon emissions from production since 2008.

  • 33% decrease in water consumption in our breweries since 2008.

  • 39% reduction in accident frequency since 2015.

  • 95% of markets where the company sells and advertises Heineken® allocated 10%, or more, of Heineken® media spend to responsible consumption campaigns.

The Annual Report 2019 is published on the company’s new global website. It incorporates the latest technologies and design, enabling data-driven communications, and better connecting with stakeholders.

Press enquiries                                             
Tim van der Zanden / Michael Fuchs                                                                  
E-mail: pressoffice@heineken.com
Tel: +31-20-5239-355                                               
                       
Investor and analyst enquiries
Federico Castillo Martinez/ Janine Ackermann / Robin Achten
E-mail: investors@heineken.com
Tel: +31-20-5239-590

About HEINEKEN
HEINEKEN is the world's most international brewer. It is the leading developer and marketer of premium beer and cider brands. Led by the Heineken® brand, the Group has a portfolio of more than 300 international, regional, local and specialty beers and ciders. HEINEKEN is committed to innovation, long-term brand investment, disciplined sales execution and focused cost management. Through "Brewing a Better World", sustainability is embedded in the business. HEINEKEN has a well-balanced geographic footprint with leadership positions in both developed and developing markets. It employs over 85,000 employees and operates breweries, malteries, cider plants and other production facilities in more than 70 countries. Heineken N.V. and Heineken Holding N.V. shares trade on the Euronext in Amsterdam. Prices for the ordinary shares may be accessed on Bloomberg under the symbols HEIA NA and HEIO NA and on Reuters under HEIN.AS and HEIO.AS. HEINEKEN has two sponsored level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) programmes: Heineken N.V. (OTCQX: HEINY) and Heineken Holding N.V. (OTCQX: HKHHY). Most recent information is available on HEINEKEN's website: www.theHEINEKENcompany.com and follow us on Twitter via @HEINEKENCorp.

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(GlobeNewswire) – Nilfisk acknowledges the importance of making a serious effort to reduce its climate footprint and is ready to take the next step toward doing so by joining the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The SBTi is the only global initiative that directly links a company’s carbon-emission targets to the Paris Agreement and associated global efforts, in order to keep the rise in global temperature below 1.5°C. Nilfisk is committed to reducing its carbon footprint resulting from direct emissions, as well as emissions from purchased electricity, by at least 35% before 2030, compared to its 2018 baseline.

Hans Henrik Lund, CEO of Nilfisk, comments:

“Part of being a responsible company, with employees in more than 40 countries worldwide and solutions being used in over 100 countries, is to acknowledge the impact we have on our planet. We have taken on a commitment that is scientifically based and binding, because it is important to us that we approach this in a responsible way. One step at a time, we want to do our part in making a change for the better.”

The SBTi supports companies in establishing greenhouse-gas reduction targets, based on the latest climate-science knowledge and the goals of the Paris Agreement. As such, Nilfisk’s climate targets are aligned with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s mitigation pathway and science-based calculation methods.

Specific initiatives
Nilfisk has worked intensively to collect data from its markets and supply chain, in order to establish a climate-footprint baseline. Based on the data collected, Nilfisk has set global targets for greenhouse-gas emissions in accordance with SBTi guidelines.

“For Nilfisk a 35% reduction by 2030 is ambitious, and it will have a great impact on how we run our company. We believe our commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative can drive our efforts to turn climate risks into business opportunities. Examples include pushing innovation within our product portfolio and engaging with suppliers on their climate performance in the coming years,” Hans Henrik Lund says.

For ten years, Nilfisk has been a signatory member of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). This support continues, and throughout 2019, Nilfisk widened its commitment to the UN´s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by adding SDG 13 to its updated CSR strategy.

Nilfisk now works strategically with SDG 3, “Good Health and Well-being”; SDG 12, “Responsible Consumption and Production”; and SDG 13, “Climate Action”. Nilfisk will release its 2019 CSR Report on February 25th, which will provide more information on the company’s CSR strategy and commitments.

About Nilfisk: Nilfisk is a leading global player within the professional cleaning industry. With more than 110 years of innovation experience, Nilfisk is dedicated to delivering reliable solutions and products of high quality that pave the way for a safer, more productive, and cleaner day for millions of companies and private homes around the world. Nilfisk has sales companies in more than 40 countries, and its products are sold in +100 countries. Read more at www.nilfisk.com.

Contact:  Nilfisk Media Relations - T: +45 2067 0833 - louise.klinge@nilfisk.com

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In 2019, the Wells Fargo Foundation launched a new philanthropic strategy anchored around unlocking economic opportunity for people and communities by addressing housing affordability, small business growth and financial health. The Foundation invested $455 million in grants in the last year, funding national organizations to deliver programs at scale and nonprofits that specifically address the needs of local markets. 

“Wells Fargo is on a journey to create greater community impact through its business and philanthropy,” said Bill Daley, vice chairman of Public Affairs at Wells Fargo. “Economic mobility is a critical issue, particularly for low-to-moderate income communities where people lack access to the resources necessary for a sustainable livelihood:  adequate housing, stable jobs, or financial health services. In the year ahead, we will streamline our grant-making around these important areas and focus on addressing systemic barriers to success. This is the time to collaborate, be bold and think like social entrepreneurs.”

“We commend Wells Fargo for their willingness to step up on issues facing our constituents and commit resources and expertise to look at community challenges at the local, state and national levels,” said Derrick Johnson, president and chief executive officer of NAACP. “We have a long way to go to achieve economic equality in this country, and it’s going to take highly focused efforts and unparalleled conviction to get us there. We were glad to see Wells Fargo further their commitment to housing, small business and financial health in its philanthropic approach; as these issues affect everyday life, particularly in low-income communities, and will create a pathway for more people to attain financial mobility.”

Making an Impact: Recap of 2019 Philanthropy

Overall, Wells Fargo’s philanthropy in 2019 helped more people find a place to call home, grow small businesses offering meaningful local jobs and increase financial health and wellness. Results include:

Housing affordability: Wells Fargo’s NeighborhoodLIFT® program assisted 3,376 homeowners by offering homebuyer education plus down payments assistance grants across a dozen communities including Los Angeles; Washington, D.C. and Prince George’s County; Houston; Sacramento; Omaha, Neb.; Baltimore; the state of Alaska; Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas; Newark and Essex County, NJ; the state of Montana; Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, Penn.; and Portland, Ore.

In addition, Wells Fargo made more than 2,800 grants to nonprofits in response to the housing affordability crisis and unique local challenges in communities across the U.S.  From Anchorage, Alaska to Atlanta, Wells Fargo supported organizations that are developing new affordable rental homes, expanding homeownership opportunities for ethnically diverse households, creating long-term affordability by investing in community land trusts, and stopping the devastating flow of families into homelessness. For example, Wells Fargo provided funding for the renovation of apartments at Hope Gardens Family Center in Los Angeles, where the Union Rescue Mission helps women and children move from the streets into stable homes.

• Small business growth: small businesses are an important driving force in job creation and thriving communities. In 2019, philanthropic capital for Community Development Financial Institutions supported more than 107,000 loans. Through Wells Fargo’s Diverse Community Capital (DCC) program, small businesses owned by people of color, immigrants, women, veterans, the LGBTQ community, among others, empowered diverse entrepreneurs to create or sustain more than 79,000 jobs and to rebuild small businesses in places like Puerto Rico, California, Florida and North Carolina after natural disasters and wildfires. Since 2015, DCC has propelled small business growth with $1.4 billion in financing and 183,000 jobs across the United States.

The Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2), a collaboration with the National Renewable Energy Lab that speeds the path to market for promising clean-technology startups, is another example of momentum in the small business community. In 2019, IN2 expanded into sustainable agriculture and residential housing, adding 15 new startups. To date, 40 portfolio companies have gone on to raise more than $282 million in follow-on funding and six have successfully exited the program through mergers and acquisitions.

• Financial health:  Financial health tools and coaching gives families the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to save money, reduce debt and build financial stability. The ability for individuals and families to succeed on their own is critical to the long-term stability of vulnerable populations and communities. In 2019, Wells Fargo launched a new program with UnidosUS that integrates free, bilingual, financial coaching into the delivery of healthcare and wellness services. Overall, the support from Wells Fargo is expected to create an opportunity for more than 25,000 Latinos in six markets to receive individualized financial coaching services and pursue financial goals.

With tax-time approaching, the Wells Fargo Foundation and the AARP Foundation are reaching seniors with free tax preparation services, helping them access critical tax credits and refunds that many depend on for household necessities, debt repayment, or savings. The funding will enable AARP Foundation to expand Tax-Aide, the largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation service in the U.S., to 24 additional neighborhood locations while more than doubling the number of taxpayers who receive a refund from 34,000 to over 70,000.

• Local Market Giving: in addition to funding against the strategic pillars, local markets address priority community needs working in concert with local leaders in the U.S., Europe and Asia. Wells Fargo employees also volunteered 1.9 million hours to strengthen their communities in 2019, including at more than 900 projects worldwide during the company’s Dedicated Day of Service.

About Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.9 trillion in assets. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through 7,400 locations, more than 13,000 ATMs, the internet (wellsfargo.com) and mobile banking, and has offices in 32 countries and territories to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 260,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 29 on Fortune’s 2019 rankings of America’s largest corporations. News, insights and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories.

CONTACT:

Jennifer Dunn +1 (202) 303-2966 Jennifer.dunn@wellsfargo.com Wells Fargo

Benevity, Inc., the global leader in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and employee engagement software, today announced a new strategic partnership with Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose (CECP), a CEO-led coalition of more than 200 of the world’s largest companies. Through the partnership, Benevity will automate delivery of giving and volunteering data for companies that participate in CECP’s annual Giving in Numbers survey and its resulting industry trends report, widely recognized for its role in providing data-backed insight into corporate purpose programs.

Companies who use Benevity will be able to access data in a format that directly corresponds to the Giving in Numbers survey questions. Using the Benevity Reporting platform, which currently provides Benevity clients self-serve access to over 30 stock reports, they will now have access to the new CECP Giving in Numbers Support report which includes data on total social investment, matching gifts, employee volunteer program hours and more.

“As we are both important partners to some of the world’s largest companies, this is an important collaboration for us to help meet companies’ needs and elevate their work,” said, Daryl Brewster, CEO, CECP. “By automating the data download for Giving in Numbers survey participants, Benevity is helping to ensure that the data from their growing customer base is timely, accurate and most importantly, available for benchmarking social investment trends.”

"We are delighted to partner with CECP on their annual Giving in Numbers survey,” said Bryan de Lottinville, Benevity Founder and CEO. “We’ve seen tremendous progress in recent years of companies expanding their definition of and approach to social impact. CECP’s Giving in Numbers benchmarking not only celebrates our collective progress, but it also helps to inspire those who wish to rise to the occasion.”

The 2019 Giving in Numbers survey is open until March 31, 2020. A first-look of results of the survey will be available at the CECP Summit, May 18-20, 2020. Giving in Numbers: 2020 Edition will be released in October 2020. Companies using Benevity can access the CECP Giving in Numbers Support report as of today.

About Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose (CECP)
CECP is a CEO-led coalition that believes that a company’s social strategy — how it engages with key stakeholders including employees, communities, investors, and customers —determines company success. Founded in 1999 by actor and philanthropist Paul Newman and other business leaders to create a better world through business, CECP has grown to a movement of more than 200 of the world’s largest companies that represent $6.6 trillion in revenues, $21.2 billion in social investment, 14 million employees, 23 million hours of employee engagement, and $15 trillion in assets under management. CECP helps companies transform their social strategy by providing customized connections and networking, counsel and support, benchmarking and trends, and awareness building and recognition.

About Benevity
Benevity, Inc., a certified B Corporation, is the global leader in corporate social responsibility and employee engagement software, including online giving, matching, volunteering, community investment and purpose driven actions. Many of the world’s most iconic brands rely on Benevity’s award-winning cloud solutions to power corporate “Goodness” programs that attract, retain and engage today’s diverse workforce by connecting people to the causes that matter to them. With software that is available in 17 languages, to an employee base of 12 million users around the world, Benevity has processed almost 4 billion dollars in donations and 23 million hours of volunteering time to almost 200,000 charities worldwide.

Media Contact
Amanda Orr
Kickstart for Benevity
1.323.601.5734
press@benevity.com

International Paper (NYSE: IP), a leading producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper, has named its first-ever chief sustainability officer as it prepares to advance its contributions to the circular economy. Sophie Beckham will lead the company’s recently announced Vision 2030, which demonstrates its commitment to building a better future for people, the planet and the company.

“Customers, investors and employees depend on us to be leaders in environmental stewardship and to strengthen our people and communities; appointing a chief sustainability officer is the next step in our continuing progress,” said Mark Sutton, chairman and chief executive officer. “Sophie is uniquely qualified to lead the pursuit of our Vision 2030 goals and drive sustainability efforts that create value for all of our stakeholders.”

Beckham will lead the development and execution of the company’s sustainability strategy, including efforts to integrate the Vision 2030 goals into the strategic, operating, people and financial plans across the company’s global businesses. Through these goals, International Paper will advance its contributions to the circular, low-carbon economy while building on its commitments to its people and communities.

“For more than 120 years, forest stewardship has been at the core of how we have operated our company,” said Beckham. “Today, we recognize the broader role we can play in advancing sustainable outcomes–both environmental and social. This is an important time for International Paper, and I’m extremely excited to amplify our ambition to be among the most successful, sustainable and responsible companies in the world.”

Beckham joined International Paper in 2013 to manage the company’s forest stewardship and sustainability efforts.

To learn more about the company’s approach to sustainability, visit renewablefuture.internationalpaper.com.

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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Contacts:

Media: Thomas J. Ryan, 901-419-4333; Investors: Guillermo Gutierrez, 901-419-1731 and Michele Vargas, 901-419-7287.

Bechtel, the top-ranked engineering and construction company in the U.S., has opened a new office in New York City to support local leaders in solving the region’s infrastructure challenges.

On Thursday, Bechtel held a reception marking its new presence in Manhattan on Broadway. Bechtel Chairman and CEO Brendan Bechtel discussed the company’s commitment to the region before an audience of more than 100:

“Big cities around the world are coping with congestion, the effects of climate change, and aging infrastructure, and nowhere are these challenges more complex than in New York. Our goal is to be a partner in helping New York realize its vision of reducing carbon emissions, improving transportation, expanding its digital technology and ensuring equal access to safe, reliable infrastructure.

“We look forward to matching our global expertise with the skills and talents of New Yorkers to help customers deliver the equity, sustainability, and resiliency that improve people’s lives.”

Bechtel’s New York team is led by Keith Sibley, who has led many infrastructure projects in big cities in North American and Europe.

Keith recently managed a major subway extension in Toronto, Canada. Prior to that, Keith worked in England on a new 62 miles-plus railway beneath London, and a series of station upgrades across the London’s historic underground “tube” network. He previously managed a large-scale expansion at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, and tunnels, bridges, and rail projects in Boston.

“Bechtel has significant experience supporting New York with new insight, technology, and solutions for connecting the region. We look forward to collaborating with the local community to address the needs of the next generation of infrastructure,” said Sibley.   

Over Bechtel's 122-year history, the company has been a trusted partner in delivering some of America's signature infrastructure, such as the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit system (BART), Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System in the Mojave Desert, and Washington, D.C.’s Metrorail system and phase one of its Silver Line.

ABOUT BECHTEL

Bechtel is a trusted engineering, construction and project management partner to industry and government. Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers’ objectives to create a lasting positive impact. Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.  

Bechtel serves the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Oil, Gas & Chemicals; and Mining & Metals markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations. www.bechtel.com

Following the completion of annual third-party verification, Dow (NYSE: DOW) announced the reduction of 655,000 tonnes carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the equivalent emissions of 139,026 vehicles driven for one year , achieved in 2019 through the Company’s carbon program with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). To date, the cumulative GHG reductions from Dow’s three carbon programs, which include Sochi 2014, Rio 2016 and the IOC programs, have reached more than 5 million tonnes of CO2e. This compares to an amount of CO2 sequestered by 6.5 million acres of U.S. forests in one year . By 2026 – the end of the monitoring period agreed to by the IOC – the carbon benefits are expected to reach more than 7 million tonnes of CO2e.

“With the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere rising to alarming levels, we need a wider adoption of locally relevant solutions to accelerate the reduction of GHG emissions globally and transition to a more sustainable society,” said Nicoletta Piccolrovazzi, global technology & sustainability director, Dow Olympic & Sports Solutions. “Our 2019 program results speak to Dow’s commitment to delivering solutions that help reduce carbon emissions. The Carbon Partnership with the IOC has allowed us to provide customers and value chain partners with the opportunity to advance their sustainability knowledge, make their operations more efficient and to showcase leading technologies.”

As a part of the carbon partnership program with the IOC, Dow announced several new projects in 2019 with collaborators, including PETRONAS Chemicals Group, the U.S. Green Building Council, the AIA International Region, Firestone Building Products and Restore the Earth Foundation. These greenhouse gas reduction projects are part of Dow’s Sustainable Future Program, which harnesses the power of sport and science to accelerate the adoption of more sustainable technologies across value chains and upgrade business-as-usual practices locally. The project portfolio has been developed to address a wide range of applications, such as high performance buildings and infrastructure, reforestation, improvements in packaging and industrial efficiency.

“In line with our strong commitment to sustainability, the IOC measures its annual carbon footprint and implements various measures to reduce them. Thanks to our Official Carbon Partnership with Dow we have also been able to offset our unavoidable emissions for the period between 2017 and 2020,” said Marie Sallois, IOC director of corporate & sustainable development. “The results that Dow continues to deliver are now exceeding our operational emissions, creating a tangible, positive legacy.”

Dow selected Environmental Resources Management (ERM) to provide third-party verification of projects against the Dow Climate Solutions Framework and to verify the GHG emissions reductions resulting from the projects and assigned to specific footprint owners.

"Our extensive process, which combines validation of project documentation with verifying actual implementation evidence, determined that the project portfolio generated more than 5 million tonnes of climate benefits in CO2e, with 2.8, 1.4 and 0.8 million tonnes respectively from Dow's separate programs with Sochi 2014, Rio 2016 and the IOC," explained Braulio Pikman, technical director at ERM.

With a joint vision of accelerating climate action across the Olympic Movement, Dow and the IOC also announced in 2019 a new program to encourage and incentivize International Sports Federations (IFs) and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to measure, reduce and mitigate the carbon emissions related to their operations and events. As part of the program, carbon offsets are offered to IFs and NOCs that have joined the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s Sports for Climate Action Framework and implemented tangible action to reduce GHG emissions within their respective operations and events. Ten IFs benefitted from the program in 2019. In 2020, the initiative will be expanded to include submissions from NOCs in addition to IFs.

For more information about Dow’s more than 35 years of support of the Olympic Movement and commitment to sustainability through sports, visit https://www.dow.com/en-us/sports/partnerships/olympics.

About Dow

Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation and leading business positions to achieve profitable growth. The Company’s ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company. Dow’s portfolio of plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated science-based products and solutions for its customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure and consumer care. Dow operates 109 manufacturing sites in 31 countries and employs approximately 36,500 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $43 billion in 2019. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.

For further information, please contact:

Linda Lim
+65.9626.7662
llim2@dow.com

Ashley Eisner
+1 212.697.2600
aeisner@gscommunications.com

 USHLI is pleased to announce that FedEx will receive the CORPORATE VISIONARY AWARD at our 38th National Conference, which will be held February 20-23, 2020. The award will be presented at the Sheraton Grand Chicago, 301 E. North Water Street, at 7:00pm, Saturday, February 22 during our Hispanic Legends Award Dinner. 

This prestigious award is being presented to FedEx because of its extraordinary commitment to Diversity and Inclusion. At FedEx, over 50% of its U.S. workforce and 35.5% of its management team are minorities. Almost 25% of its diverse supplier spend went to minority-owned and women-owned businesses in 2018. It’s generally accepted that Diversity and Inclusion is smart business practice. At FedEx, it’s simply “the right thing to do.”  

Dr. Juan Andrade, USHLI President, said “We are exceedingly pleased to have this opportunity to showcase FedEx’s strong commitment to Diversity and Inclusion. Most corporations only talk the talk, if they say anything at all, about the importance of Diversity and Inclusion. FedEx does much more than talk the talk, but walks the walk as well. We are proud to honor FedEx with our Corporate Visionary Award and join the legion of organizations paying tribute to this corporation that is setting the standard for commitment to Diversity and Inclusion – for the right reason.”

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation today unveiled CARE’s PowerUp program as one of the highest-scoring proposals, designated as the Top 100, in its 100&Change competition for a single $100 million grant to help solve one of the world's most critical social challenges.

Progress toward gender equality remains painfully slow. Worldwide, it’s estimated that one in three women will be sexually or physically abused in her lifetime. CARE’s PowerUp program has the proven potential to change this. After cutting rates of domestic violence in half in Rwanda, CARE’s top-scoring proposal aims to expand PowerUp across Africa’s Great Lakes region – Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda – where women face some of the highest rates of domestic violence in the world. Experiencing gender-based violence has lifelong consequences and prevents women and girls from reaching their full potential in life.

The Top 100 represent the top 21 percent of competition submissions. The proposals were rigorously vetted, undergoing MacArthur’s initial administrative review, a Peer-to-Peer review, an evaluation by an external panel of judges, and a technical review by specialists whose expertise was matched to the project.

By combining economic empowerment with community and household engagement, CARE’s PowerUp approach drives change at every level of society. Working with world-class partners including the Grameen Foundation, Search for Common Ground and Raising Voices, PowerUp will mobilize CARE’s existing network of two million savings group members across the region and partner networks reaching thousands of communities, if selected as the $100 million winner.

“CARE and our partners have shown that lasting, transformational change is possible,” said Michelle Nunn, President and CEO of CARE. “Significant research has proven that by engaging individuals, households and communities, we can dramatically reduce violence against women and girls. And so, the challenge today is no longer determining what works, but focusing on how to take proven practices to scale. With support from the MacArthur Foundation we hope to do just that.”

Each proposal was evaluated using four criteria: impactful, evidence-based, feasible, and durable. MacArthur’s Board of Directors will select up to 10 finalists from among these high-scoring proposals this spring.

“MacArthur seeks to generate increased recognition, exposure, and support for the high-impact ideas designated as the Top 100,” said Cecilia Conrad, CEO of Lever for Change and MacArthur Managing Director, 100&Change. “Based on our experience in the first round of 100&Change, we know the competition will produce multiple compelling and fundable ideas. We are committed to matching philanthropists with powerful solutions and problem solvers to accelerate social change.” 

Since the inaugural competition, other funders and philanthropists have committed an additional $419 million to date to support bold solutions by 100&Change applicants. Building on the success of 100&Change, MacArthur created Lever for Change to unlock significant philanthropic capital by helping donors find and fund vetted, high-impact opportunities through the design and management of customized competitions. In addition to 100&Change, Lever for Change is managing the Chicago Prize, the Economic Opportunity Challenge, and the Larsen Lam ICONIQ Impact Award. 

Bold Solutions Network Launches

The Bold Solutions Network launched today, featuring CARE as one of the Top 100 from100&Change. The searchable online collection of submissions contains a project overview, 90-second video, and two-page factsheet for each proposal. Visitors can sort by subject, location, Sustainable Development Goal, or beneficiary population to view proposals based on area of interest. 

The Bold Solutions Network will showcase the highest-rated proposals that emerge from the competitions Lever for Change manages. Proposals in the Bold Solutions Network undergo extensive evaluation and due diligence to ensure each solution promises real and measurable progress to accelerate social change. 

The Bold Solutions Network was designed to provide an innovative approach to identifying the most effective, enduring solutions aligned with donors’ philanthropic goals and to help top applicants gain visibility and funding from a wide array of funders. Organizations that are part of the network will have continued access to a variety of technical support and learning opportunities focused on strengthening their proposals and increasing the impact of their work.

More About 100&Change 

100&Change is a distinctive competition that is open to organizations and collaborations working in any field, anywhere in the world. Proposals must identify a problem and offer a solution that promises significant and durable change.

The second round of the competition had a promising start: 3,690 competition registrants submitted 755 proposals. Of those, 475 passed an initial administrative review.100&Change was designed to be fair, open, and transparent. The identity of the judges and the methodology used to assess initial proposals are public. Applicants received comments and feedback from the peers, judges, and technical reviewers. Key issues in the competition are discussed in a blog on MacArthur's website.

Media Contact:

Vanessa Parra, vanessa.parra@care.org, +1 917-525-0590 (NYC)

For the sixth consecutive year, Aramark earned a 100 percent rating and the designation of being a “Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality,” from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2020 Corporate Equality Index (CEI).

This recognition validates our efforts to maintain an open and inclusive workplace environment for our LGBTQ+ employees and allies -- an environment where everyone can succeed.

But what does it mean to our LGBTQ+ employees to work in an inclusive workplace? We decided to ask the co-chairs of Pride, our LGBTQ+ employee resource group, what it means to them. Read our blog.

The Wichita Falls Arts Council will be hosting a dedication ceremony as part of the Arts Alive! Home & Garden Festival to celebrate the switch from its legacy lighting to energy-efficient LED lighting of its two historic buildings: The Kemp and The Forum. The Arts Council received more than $17,000 from Green Mountain Energy Sun Club to replace all incandescent lights in the two campuses, which will result in lowering heat output and reducing maintenance costs.

The LED lighting retrofit contributes significantly to the sustainability goals by the Arts Council. Nearly 300 incandescent lights were replaced with more energy efficient, higher performing LED lights. The project is expected to reap a $7,000 savings in annual energy usage at both campuses, which makes this project pay for itself in less than 2.5 years.

“The Arts Council has been proud to serve our community for the past 25 years, not only in supporting the arts but in restoring and preserving two historic landmark buildings for public use.  Working with 100-year-old buildings often means a need to update energy-inefficient systems.”  said Carol Sales, chief executive officer for the Wichita Falls Arts Council. “We are pleased to partner with Sun Club to update all our lighting to high-efficiency LED fixtures. This not only provides much-needed utility cost savings but helps us meet our goals for sustainability.”

For the past 23 years, the Arts Council of Wichita Falls has hosted the Home and Garden Festival to welcome in the new year and kickoff spring. The festival is a gathering of businesses from the Wichita Falls regional community, member organizations of the Arts Council, and local artists.  The Arts Council will open its doors to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 22 and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 23. Between 10,000 to 15,000 guests are expected to make their way to the Wichita Falls MPEC complex in the Ray Clymer Exhibit Hall.

The Arts Council will celebrate the LED lighting retrofit during the Home & Garden Festival because the event features sustainability throughout its programming. From vendors with recycled products, backyard farming and waste water reclamation, the festival offers information and real-world applications for everyday improvements people can make in their own homes.

“The mission of Sun Club is to empower nonprofits with sustainability solutions, and the LED lighting retrofit will not only serve to reduce annual costs but also reduce the Arts Council carbon footprint,” said Mark Parsons, vice president and general manager for Green Mountain Energy. “We are excited to celebrate the sustainability improvements with the Wichita Falls community at the Home and Garden Festival.”

A standard incandescent light burns through 50 watts of electricity per hour, while a LED light bulb uses only 6 watts per hour. Replacing one single incandescent bulb with an LED bulb can save 6 tons of household emissions per year, which is the same as reducing gas consumption by nearly 700 gallons annually. The long life of an LED light bulb reduces one’s carbon footprint even further.  LEDs have an extremely long lifespan relative to every other lighting technology. Each LED light bulb will provide approximately 50,000 hours of service, which is equivalent to a life expectancy of 10 years of service. The typical lifespan for an incandescent bulb, by comparison, is about 1,200 hours or less than one year.

Green Mountain Energy founded the Sun Club in 2002 as a way to advance their sustainability agenda. Sun Club is funded by Green Mountain Energy, its customers and employees. This one-of-a-kind model intrinsically ties community engagement to Green Mountain employees and customers, allowing each to be a part of a community that supports projects in renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

About Wichita Falls Arts Council

The mission of the Arts Council is to nurture and strengthen the artistic, cultural, and educational quality of the community and surrounding area. We are dedicated to raising awareness in the region through our community art events and venues. Comprised of two historic landmark buildings, The Kemp and The Forum, The Arts Council has renovated and repurposed each to create viable arts and cultural centers for generations to come.  The Arts Council Wichita Falls is a 501(c)(3) organization.

About Green Mountain Energy Sun Club
The Green Mountain Energy Sun Club is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing sustainable communities. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Sun Club® invests in nonprofits and focuses on projects related to renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation and environmental stewardship. Since the program’s founding in 2002, the Sun Club has donated $8.9 million to more than 122 projects from nonprofit organizations across Texas and the Northeast. To learn more about the Sun Club or to apply for a Sun Club grant, visit gmesunclub.org.

CONTACT Diana Maddock +1 (713) 703-4989 diana.maddock@greenmountain.com Green Mountain Energy Sun Club Kristen Conrady +1 (940) 766-3347 Facilities@artscouncilwf.org Arts Council Wichita Falls

U.S. Gain, a leader in development, procurement and distribution of renewable natural gas (RNG) announces the completion of a new onsite natural gas fueling station for Moreno Valley Unified School District, supplied with RNG, providing the district strong environmental and economic returns.

Moreno Valley USD, located in Moreno Valley, California, is home to over 34,000 students, 3,700 employees, 23 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, 4 high schools and 9 specialized schools and programs. They’ve won 8 Golden Bell awards, 15 models of excellence and have been named one of only 20 “Schools to Watch” across the nation. Aside from these outstanding accomplishments, Moreno Valley USD is also known for their fleet of natural gas school buses.

To support continued success with natural gas vehicles, Moreno Valley USD decided to upgrade their existing fueling station. Thanks to a partnership with U.S. Gain and funding from the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee (MSRC), Moreno Valley USD is celebrating a new, reliable, onsite fueling station that features three times the capacity of their previous station.  Mike Bolin, business development manager with U.S. Gain was instrumental to put the project together.

The station’s compact design avoids interruption to onsite traffic flow and more importantly, the time-fill option allows buses to refuel overnight, saving driver time that otherwise would have been spent fueling. This time savings translated to approximately $1.00 per gallon in fuel savings, further justifying the case for a new onsite system. The station was constructed with expansion in mind, allowing for future fleet growth with minimal future infrastructure spend.

“Compact, modular fueling systems are perfect for school districts, refuse companies and other applications with return-to-base routes. Further, backed by U.S. Gain’s station operation and maintenance program, Moreno Valley USD’s station will feature best-in-class uptime – just like our network of GAIN Clean Fuel® stations,” noted Mike Bolin, business development manager for U.S Gain. 

Additionally, Moreno Valley USD busses are now running on clean, RNG supplied by U.S. Gain – amplifying greenhouse gas emission reductions.

“We’re excited to provide another customer with RNG, especially in Southern California, said Bryan Nudelbacher, director of RNG business development for U.S. Gain. “Air quality continues to be a significant problem for this area and we’ll continue to supply RNG to fleets like Moreno Valley USD that want to make a positive change – both in emission reductions and fuel savings. Thanks to the LCFS program, we’re investing in more RNG development projects to produce the cleanest fuel for areas that need it most.” 

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About U.S. Gain

U.S. Gain is a leader in development, procurement and distribution of renewable and compressed natural gas for the transportation and energy segments. 

Over the course of 10 years U.S. Gain has diversified throughout the fuel supply chain – investing and managing renewable natural gas development projects at dairies, landfills and wastewater treatment plants; generating, trading and monetizing clean fuel credits; designing, building and operating natural gas fueling stations – both private and a public GAIN Clean Fuel® network. This vertical integration allows companies access to the cleanest fuel and energy at the best value. 

As a part of U.S. Venture, Inc., a family-owned, Wisconsin-based company, U.S. Gain is committed to finding a better way for companies to succeed – both economically and environmentally. With experience you need and ethics you value, U.S. Gain is the partner you’ll be proud to work with. Learn more at https://www.usgain.com/. 

 CITGO Petroleum Corporation, the official fuel sponsor of the 124th Boston Marathon, is sending 10 first responders from its operational areas to run the historic race on April 20, 2020. 

Four Houston Police Department Officers, three Corpus Christi Firefighters, two Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Officers and one Sulphur Firefighter were selected based on their responses to the question, "What does running the Boston Marathon mean to you?"

Christopher Kunkle, from the Gang Division of the Houston Police Department, recently found out he was selected and said, “Boston Marathon is the pinnacle of running. I always had the goal to go to Boston. It's what running is all about. I always wished I could go and now I am going. It's such an honor. I'm nervous, excited…it's like Christmas in February!”

JC Padilla from the FBI Public Corruption Unit of the Houston Police Department thanked CITGO for considering First Responders for participation. “We have unique jobs. We are on-call 24 hours a day, and sometimes we don't get enough sleep, and that is reflected in our training and the possibility to qualify to an elite race like Boston, so having a sponsor that gets us an entry into one of the most recognized, highly-respected marathons is quite an honor. Boston Marathon has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I'm very grateful to CITGO for giving us the fuel to fulfill that dream.”

This is the second year CITGO conducted an open call for runners interested in participating in the athletic event. In 2019, eight teachers from school districts in the Company's footprint ran the marathon proudly wearing the CITGO Trimark.

“Our CITGO sign in Kenmore Square has stood watch over this historic race since 1965,” said Carlos Jordá, CITGO President and CEO, “and we are happy to support the world’s oldest annual marathon and the thousands of runners who participate.  We are especially honored to recognize our own first responders for the difficult job they do, putting their lives on the line for our communities every day.”

The CITGO presence within the event also includes the digital campaign titled "The Road to Boston" that provides year-long event information to race participants and a "cheer zone" strategically located beneath the CITGO sign, where company representatives and spectators gather to cheer and encourage participants as they take their final steps toward the Boylston Street finish line.

About CITGO:
Headquartered in Houston, Texas, CITGO Petroleum Corporation is a recognized leader in the refining industry with a well-known brand. CITGO operates three refineries located in Corpus Christi, Texas; Lake Charles, La.; and Lemont, Ill., and wholly and/or jointly owns 48 terminals, nine pipelines and three lubricants blending and packaging plants. With approximately 3,400 employees and a combined crude capacity of approximately 769,000 barrels-per-day (bpd), CITGO is ranked as the fifth-largest, and one of the most complex independent refiners in the United States. CITGO transports and markets transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and other industrial products and supplies a network of approximately 4,700 locally owned and operated branded retail outlets in 30 states and the District of Columbia. CITGO Petroleum Corporation is owned by CITGO Holding, Inc. For more information, visitwww.CITGO.com.

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Geronimo Energy (Geronimo), a National Grid company, and Basin Electric Power Cooperative (Basin Electric) announced today the execution of a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the Wild Springs Solar Project (Wild Springs). Wild Springs is a 128 megawatt (MW) clean solar energy project located in Pennington County, South Dakota, approximately 20 miles east of Rapid City. Wild Springs is anticipated to begin operations in 2022. Using the EPA’s greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator, the project is estimated to offset carbon dioxide emissions by 190,000 metric tons annually.

Once operational, Wild Springs will be the largest solar project in South Dakota. It will be located in the service area of West River Electric Association, Inc. (West River Electric), which is a distribution electric cooperative member of Basin Electric. In total, Basin Electric is a not-for-profit wholesale power provider to 141 member cooperative systems in nine states. In South Dakota, Basin Electric transmits its power supply to two generation and transmission (G&T) cooperatives, Rushmore Electric Power Cooperative (Rushmore Electric) and East River Electric Power Cooperative. Those two G&T cooperatives then transmit the power supply to their respective distribution cooperatives, with Rushmore Electric being the G&T provider to West River Electric. West River Electric and the state’s 27 other distribution co-ops power the homes, farms and businesses within their service areas.

“For the first time in its history, Basin Electric will buy solar generation on a large scale to serve our members. The board’s decision to add solar generation to our resource portfolio is to continue with our all-of-the-above strategy, as well as solar generation becoming a more economic energy source. We are excited about adding solar to our already diverse generation mix,” stated Paul Sukut, CEO and General Manager of Basin Electric Power Cooperative.

“Our cooperative network is always looking to ensure we have a mix of power resources to meet the needs of our membership and renewable energy is an important part of that strategy,” said Rushmore Electric General Manager, Vic Simmons. “This project with Geronimo Energy is an important strategic step as we look to the future in continuing our strong history of providing safe, affordable and reliable power.”

“We’re excited that West River’s service area will be home to the Wild Springs Solar Project,” said West River Electric Association CEO/General Manager, Dick Johnson. “This solar energy project will benefit our cooperative family, as well as our local communities. As not-for-profit co-ops that are owned by our members, everything we do goes back to the people we serve.”

The project has been supported by local and state community members and will bring significant economic benefits to the local area. Current estimations for the project’s economic benefits total over
$17 million throughout the first 20 years of operation, including positive impacts in new tax revenue, construction jobs, new full-time jobs, and charitable funds through the project’s Education Fund. The Wild Springs Education Fund alone will offer approximately $500,000 in donations to the local school districts connected to the project above and beyond all tax revenue and local spending benefits.

“Historically, there has been a misconception that solar in the northern regions of the United States wasn’t feasible,” stated David Reamer, President for Geronimo Energy. “Both Geronimo and Basin Electric recognized that the addition of solar to its overall generation fleet not only offers customers a clean, economic option for their electricity, but it also diversifies a utility’s portfolio.”

Geronimo’s South Dakota operating project portfolio includes the recently completed Crocker Wind Farm, a 200 MW wind project located in Clark County, South Dakota. Geronimo also successfully developed the operational Pierre Solar Project, a joint effort with the City of Pierre and Missouri River Energy Services, located on City property in Hughes County, South Dakota.

About Geronimo Energy

Geronimo Energy, a National Grid (NYSE: NGG) company, is a leading North American renewable energy development company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with satellite offices located throughout multiple states in the regions where it develops, constructs, and operates. As a farmer-friendly and community driven company, Geronimo develops projects for corporations and utilities that seek to repower America’s grid by reigniting local economies and reinvesting in a sustainable future. Geronimo has developed over 2,400 megawatts of wind and solar projects that are either operational or currently under construction, resulting in an investment of over $4 billion in critical energy infrastructure and the revitalization of rural economies. Geronimo has a vast development pipeline of wind and solar projects in various stages of development throughout the United States. Please visit www.geronimoenergy.com to learn more.

About Basin Electric Power Cooperative

Basin Electric is a consumer-owned, regional cooperative headquartered in Bismarck, North Dakota. It generates and transmits electricity to 141 member rural electric systems in nine states: Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. These member systems distribute electricity to about 3 million consumers. Find out more at www.basinelectric.com.

American Express has been ranked ninth on the 2020 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list in the U.S., a recognition of the company’s continuous focus on enhancing the colleague experience. The ranking, which was determined based on feedback from employees, demonstrates our deep commitment to creating a culture of inclusion and diversity, and providing engaging and meaningful experiences that enable all colleagues to reach their full potential.

The rankings were determined based on an analysis of employee survey responses by Great Place to Work® on factors including employees’ trust in their leaders, the respect with which people are treated, the fairness of workplace decisions and team camaraderie. This is the 20th year that American Express has been included on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list, earning the company the distinction of being a “Great Place to Work Legend.”

American Express’ vision is to provide the world’s best customer experience every day, and our colleagues are instrumental in making that happen. We provide an array of talent and leadership development opportunities, policies and benefits, and other resources that enable our colleagues to achieve success in their professional and personal lives:

• Through a new signature initiative called The Ambition Project, we are raising awareness about the important role that ambition plays in women’s professional and personal success with targeted programming, candid discussions and insightful research.

• We believe in rewarding the contributions of all our colleagues, and in 2019, we expanded our annual performance bonus program to include colleagues at all levels of the company.

• To support our colleagues in work and in life, we provide world class benefits and services, including 20 weeks of gender-neutral paid parental leave in the U.S., plus an additional six to eight weeks of paid, medically necessary leave for birthing mothers.

• We take a holistic approach to the wellbeing of our colleagues and their families, with resources including a Mental Health Awareness Training launched in 2019, on-site Healthy Living Wellness Centers, and Health Advocate telephone concierge that can help colleagues locate doctors, schedule appointments and assist with eldercare.

• Our colleagues play an active role in supporting the communities we serve. Each year, thousands of American Express colleagues roll up their sleeves and join company-sponsored community projects. In 2019, our colleagues pledged over $5 million in donations to charities and organizations of importance to them, which we matched dollar-for-dollar.

• Colleagues have opportunities to learn and grow as leaders through the American Express Leadership Academy, which provides training and development experiences tailored to individuals at all levels of the company.

• We have rolled out inclusive leadership and unconscious bias training to all colleagues globally, because we believe each of us plays a role in helping shape the inclusive and diverse culture we want to have. Our 16 Colleague Networks have more than 100 chapters globally that provide an outlet for colleagues to meet others with shared backgrounds and interests.

To learn more about careers at American Express, visit https://careers.americanexpress.com/. For more information about our focus on inclusion and diversity, visit https://www.americanexpress.com/us/company/global-diversity-and-inclusion.html.

ABOUT AMERICAN EXPRESS

American Express is a globally integrated payments company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success.  Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, instagram.com/americanexpress, linkedin.com/company/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress.

Key links to products, services and corporate responsibility information: charge and credit cards, business credit cards, travel services, gift cards, prepaid cards, merchant services, Accertify, InAuth, corporate card, business travel, and corporate responsibility.

CONTACT
Andrew Johnson +1 (212) 640-8610 andrew.r.johnson@aexp.com American Express Rohan Ramsay +1 (212) 640-7034 rohan.ramsay@aexp.com American Express

Today, the global headquarters of Bacardi, located in Bermuda, welcomes new tenants – honeybees who are moving in as part of the ABERFELDY Barrels and Bees program and the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. ABERFELDY single malt whisky, in collaboration with Wild Island Farms, will install four beehives at the iconic Bacardi building.

ABERFELDY, also known as ‘The Golden Dram’ after its water source – the Pitilie Burn – is famed for honeyed notes which are conjured as the whisky is crafted. As a result, the highland dram pairs very well with honey in mixed drinks.

Ongoing trends show that consumers and bartenders increasingly care about sustainable sourcing and the quality of ingredients – the spirits, bitters, tinctures and ice that go into every drink – but often honey gets overlooked and what’s purchased is often the cheapest/bulk honey possible. But, just like whisky, shouldn’t the source of honey matter?

“Honey has provenance, it has terroir, it can change from hive to hive, and as a result it can be a very exciting ingredient to mix with, especially alongside whisky,” says Georgie Bell, Global Brand Ambassador, Malts. “The global ABERFELDY Barrels and Bees platform educates people about the plight of bees and the state of our wildlife, while advocating provenance and the use of quality ingredients, that don’t cost the earth.”

There is a global epidemic surrounding honey. Across the world, honeybees have experienced a dramatic decline in the last 100 years and wild bees are experiencing an even steeper decline.

Bell adds: “We as a community need to help by supporting our local, urban beekeepers, by planting for honeybees, and buying local. It all has a knock-on effect.”

“At Bacardi, our vision is to be the most environmentally responsible global spirits company. At every step of the journey, from field to bottle to cocktail, our brands respect and care for the environment,” says Douglas Mello, Managing Director of the Bermuda office. “The installation of beehives by ABERFELDY at our global headquarters is one of the many ways we give back to the environment and help drive greater awareness of the role we can each play in protecting wildlife and natural resources.”

A Golden Union of ABERFELDY Single Malt and Local Honey, ABERFELDY’s Barrels and Bees is a global project which can be adapted regionally in markets to dial-in the with the local bar scene, terrain and local beekeepers.

The installation in Bermuda marks the second beehive installation at a Bacardi site with the inaugural set at the Bacardi North America offices in Coral Gables, Florida in 2019. Across the world ABERFELDY is bringing together bartenders, whisky drinkers and beekeepers – from the USA to Thailand, Germany to Bermuda, and everywhere in between to educate, inform, inspire and drink some honey cocktails with ABERFELDY.

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Issued by Quercus Communications on behalf of John Dewar & Sons.

Notes for Editors:

About ABERFELDY Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABERFELDY distillery was founded in 1898 by the dynamic Dewar brothers, John Alexander and Tommy. They built on a site just a stone’s throw from the birthplace of their father, the pioneering blender John Dewar.

Alongside the distillery, and known to contain deposits of alluvial gold, flows the Pitilie Burn; the perfect water source for the Golden Dram. While inside, time-honoured techniques like long fermentation, which conjures rare honeyed notes, safeguard the whisky’s flavour profile, renowned for its rich, sweet, smooth taste.

The brand’s core portfolio is comprised of ABERFELDY 12 Years Old, ABERFELDY 16 Years and ABERFELDY 21 Years Old.

The single malt brand of ABERFELDY is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.

About Bacardi Limited
Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world, produces and markets internationally recognized spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited brand portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, GREY GOOSE® vodka, PATRÓN® tequila, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur, and ERISTOFF® vodka. Founded more than 157 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs more than 7,000, operates more than 20 production facilities in 11 countries, and sells its brands in more than 170 countries. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram.

Media Contact:

High-resolution photographs are available upon request via Sophie Donovan, sophie@qcltd.co.uk +44 1603 631 223.

ENJOY ABERFELDY RESPONSIBLY

©2020

ABERFELDY IS A TRADEMARK

Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX) today announced it has joined the Hydrogen Council, a global advisory body providing a long-term vision for the role of hydrogen in the energy transition.

Chevron’s knowledge and experience with hydrogen complements the collaborative strength of the Council. Hydrogen is used at Chevron refineries to refine crude and in other chemical processes. From 2005 to 2010, Chevron operated five hydrogen filling stations at fleet operator sites using multiple technologies for on-site generation, storage and dispensing as part of a U.S. Department of Energy hydrogen demonstration project that included AC Transit in Northern California. Since that time, new regulations, automaker commitments, and technology advancements have enhanced the potential of hydrogen.

“Chevron has solved some of the world’s most complex energy challenges of the past. And, we continue to explore ever-cleaner energy solutions for the future,” said Michael Wirth, Chevron's chairman and CEO. “Our support for the Hydrogen Council reflects our view that hydrogen can play a role in a lower carbon future as a transportation fuel, an industrial feedstock and an energy storage medium.”

Hydrogen Council membership supports Chevron’s approach to the energy transition and is an example of the company’s ongoing commitment to innovate and to pursue ever-cleaner energy sources. In addition to joining the Hydrogen Council, Chevron plans to conduct hydrogen fueling station “test-and-learn” pilots at locations in California. The company also recently contributed to a report developed by the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association entitled Road Map to a US Hydrogen Economy. The report stresses the versatility of hydrogen in a lower-carbon future.

To learn more about the Hydrogen Council: https://hydrogencouncil.com/en/. To read the Road Map to US Hydrogen Economy: www.ushydrogenstudy.org. For more about Chevron’s approach to climate change and the energy transition: www.chevron.com/climate.

Chevron Corporation is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. Through its subsidiaries that conduct business worldwide, the company is involved in virtually every facet of the energy industry. Chevron explores for, produces and transports crude oil and natural gas; refines, markets and distributes transportation fuels and lubricants; manufactures and sells petrochemicals and additives; generates power; and develops and deploys technologies that enhance business value in every aspect of the company’s operations. Chevron is based in San Ramon, Calif. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

Uniting business to respond to COVID-19 outbreak

The outbreak of COVID-19, commonly known as coronavirus, is not only a global health crisis, it is also affecting trade and the global economy.  Its impact is growing and will be felt in both the short and the long term. All sectors of society have been affected by the outbreak — including the international business community.

As the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, the United Nations Global Compact is calling on business leaders everywhere to unite to support communities and companies affected by the outbreak.

The UN Global Compact expresses concern at the situation unfolding in China and other affected countries. We stand in solidarity with our participants, colleagues and the Chinese people at this difficult time, and hope for a swift end to this crisis. 

A coordinated international plan involving the business sector will be critical in efforts to support countries affected and limit further disruption.

In the spirit of responsibility, solidarity and international cooperation, the UN Global Compact is encouraging businesses everywhere to take immediate action to support affected communities and businesses in their time of need.

Suggested actions include but are not limited to:

• Financial support: Contribute funds to the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan (SPRP) which outlines activities and resources needed by international health organizations globally, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to implement priority public health measures in support of countries to prepare and respond to the outbreak. Companies wishing to support the response in China directed by the Red Cross Society can visit www.redcross.org.cn.

• Raise awareness: Share information from the WHO on precautions and other preventive measures.

• Be flexible: For personnel who are returning from China and other affected countries, exercise flexibility in terms of using remote working arrangements for staff who would like to limit their contact with others and work from home. Support companies and suppliers affected by the outbreak by adopting a flexible and understanding approach to your business dealings. Be flexible on delivery times and pay invoices promptly.

• Be compassionate: Reach out to friends and colleagues and wish them well. Ask them what they need most and offer support.

• Provide aid and support: Explore how your company can support including by leveraging your global supply chain to increase the supply of essential items to respond to the needs in China. Companies can also offer assets, resources and financial support to provide medical supplies and increased support for aid relief efforts.

We continue to monitor the situation and follow updates from the WHO. 

CONTACT
Sofina Mirza-Reid +1 (908) 540-1075 media@unglobalcompact.org United Nations Global Compact https://www.unglobalcompact.org/

Announcing the latest contributor under Dow’s Official Carbon Partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Dow (NYSE: DOW) is teaming up with PPG (NYSE: PPG) to reduce the carbon impact of anti-corrosion coatings for steel commercial infrastructure.

The collaboration between Dow and PPG, a global supplier of paints, coatings and specialty materials, aims to deliver reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions though improved coatings for commercial and industrial buildings, infrastructure such as bridges and marine vessels, while helping to lessen costs associated with structural metal corrosion. As an alternative to traditional coating solutions, PPG’s two-coat PSX system, based on Dow polysiloxane technology, requires fewer coats to achieve the same level of protection than a competitive three-coat system. This results in less energy-intensive production and application, and therefore, a potential reduction of GHG emissions.

“From the skyscrapers that shape our skylines, to the bridges that connect our roads in the transportation networks, to marine vessels that transport goods and people, steel is the backbone of modern society,” said Dr. Nicoletta Piccolrovazzi, circular economy market director for Dow and global technology & sustainability director for Dow Olympic & Sports Solutions. “As a leading materials science company, we can offer solutions that help extend the life span of infrastructure and reduce the environmental impact of steel manufacturing and maintenance over the long-term. Together with PPG, supported by the Dow-IOC Official Carbon Partnership, we are providing paint and coating formulators with the ability to offer architects and property developers a next-generation steel coating solution that encourages partners across the value chain to adopt technologies with a lower carbon impact.”

Compared to alternative systems, PPG PSX technology can deliver better long-term adhesion, toughness, corrosion and chemical resistance under even the most aggressive exposure conditions. Whereas other coating technology often requires three coats, including a primer, an intermediate layer and a topcoat, PSX is a simple two-coat system with a zinc primer and polysiloxane topcoat. Polysiloxane requires fewer re-coats over time compared to traditional topcoat technologies, resulting in lower maintenance costs for the building owner and a lower associated environmental impact. The estimated reduction in carbon impact from this technology has been validated through a life cycle assessment.

“Through this collaboration, we’re combining PPG and Dow expertise to drive measurable change through carbon mitigation projects,” said Christopher Welch, PPG global business development director, protective and marine coatings. “Together, we have the common goal of protecting one of the world’s strongest building materials, while contributing to a more sustainably built environment for the future.”

Within Dow’s Sustainable Future Program, this agreement is one of several projects under the Official Carbon Partnership with the IOC. Initiated in 2017 to balance the operational carbon footprint of the IOC and beyond, the partnership encourages organizations outside the Olympic movement to adopt programs for reducing carbon emissions while catalyzing change across value chains.

For more information on Dow’s sustainability programs and the Dow-IOC Carbon Partnership, visit www.dow.com/en-us/sports/sustainability. For more information about PPG, visit www.ppg.com.

About Dow

Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation and leading business positions to achieve profitable growth. The Company’s ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company. Dow’s portfolio of plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated science-based products and solutions for its customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure and consumer care. Dow operates 109 manufacturing sites in 31 countries and employs approximately 36,500 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $43 billion in 2019. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.

PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™

At PPG (NYSE:PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and specialty materials that our customers have trusted for more than 135 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers’ biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $15.4 billion in 2018. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com.

For further information, please contact:

Linda Lim
+65.9626.7662
llim2@dow.com

Ashley Eisner
+1.212.697.2600
aeisner@gscommunications.com