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Tag: sustainability

  • Neutral Secures $133.3 Million in Construction Financing for the Edison in Milwaukee, WI

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    Neutral announced that it has secured $133.3 million in construction financing for its development project, The Edison, a 378-unit, mass timber, luxury apartment project in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

    Bank OZK provided senior financing, and Pearlmark delivered the mezzanine financing, with JLL Capital Markets working on behalf of Neutral to facilitate the transaction.


    MADISON, Wis., January 13, 2025 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Neutral announced that it has secured $133.3 million in construction financing for its development project, The Edison, from Bank OZK and Pearlmark.

    The Edison, located at 1005 North Edison Street in Milwaukee, WI., will provide 378 market-rate rental units and approximately 7,200 square feet of retail space. At 31 stories, The Edison is on track to be the tallest mass timber building in North America.

    The project will feature best-in-class amenities focused on residents’ wellness, including a fitness center, spa, pool, sauna, cafe, demo kitchen, dog park, movie room, community garden, entertainment deck with kitchens, and a top-floor sky lounge.

    The Edison project has already secured over 62% of the required equity funding. It will commence construction this spring through an equity bridge loan from a Neutral affiliate while the remaining 38% of equity is being finalized. Neutral offers accredited investors two convenient ways to invest: through Charles Schwab using the registered SSID/CUSIP number or via Neutral’s online investor portal.

    With the $133.3 million in new financing, the project is slated to start construction in Q1 2025 and welcome tenants by Q3 2027.

    The Neutral development team is led by co-founder and CEO Nate Helbach, co-founder Matt Frazer, and CPO Daniel Glaessl.

    “We’re grateful to partner with Bank OZK and Pearlmark and for JLL Capital Markets’ leadership in facilitating this milestone financing. Successfully securing funding in today’s challenging financial market environment underscores the strength of the project’s fundamentals and our exceptional project team. In an era of higher interest rates, institutional buyers will increasingly seek quality opportunities like The Edison which combine superior environmental performance with lower operating costs. We invite equity investors to join us in delivering this transformative project.” said Helbach.

    “Edison stands apart through its innovative mass timber construction and pursuit of both Passive House and Living Building Challenge certifications, creating a differentiated product that we believe will attract premium valuations in future years.” said Glaessl.

    “Having founded Tribute Technology with just $100 and growing it into a successful exit exceeding $1 billion, I’m excited to bring that same entrepreneurial drive and technological expertise to Neutral. Neutral represents a similar opportunity to transform an industry through innovation by combining mass timber construction with the highest sustainability certifications to create truly differentiated real estate assets. I invite accredited investors to join me in this journey by investing in The Edison as we work to revolutionize urban multifamily living.” said Frazer.

    About Neutral

    Neutral, founded in 2020, is a vertically-integrated real estate development company that crafts financially responsible, sustainable living spaces. In addition to The Edison, Neutral is currently building two mass-timber mixed-use projects in downtown Madison, WI. The company is headquartered in Madison, WI, and San Jose, CA. Neutral’s projects use environmentally friendly materials like mass timber to foster healthy lifestyles and well-being in their communities. For more information, visit us at https://www.neutral.us/

    Media kit with images: https://tinyurl.com/edison-financing

    Contact Information

    Daniel Glaessl
    Partner and Chief Product Officer
    dg@neutral.us
    4084420689

    Source: Neutral

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  • Securitas Technology is Pioneering Sustainability Within the Security Sector

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    Leading by example on climate action


    UNIONTOWN, Ohio, December 4, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    Securitas Technology, a division of Securitas AB, has made remarkable strides in its sustainability initiatives, solidifying its position as a leading force in the security, health, and safety technology sectors. Recently, Securitas AB was recognized as one of the top climate leaders among the 200 largest suppliers to the U.S. government, highlighting its dedication to creating a safer and more environmentally conscious future.

    The U.S. government has introduced a new federal supplier climate scorecard designed to highlight organizations that excel in climate action. Securitas is proud to be one of only 40 suppliers to meet all four climate action benchmarks set by this initiative. This recognition reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and underscores the proactive steps Securitas is taking to mitigate our climate impact and drive meaningful progress.

    “As the world’s second-largest commercial electronic security company, we take our leadership role in seeing a different world seriously, and this is just the start of our journey,” said Tony Byerly, Global President and CEO, Securitas Technology. “This recognition is a key milestone in our sustainability journey to innovate solutions that serve to protect our clients and the environment alike.”

    In December 2023, Securitas marked a historic achievement by becoming the first global security solutions company to have its climate targets validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). This validation confirms the company’s leading commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2030, in line with the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

    Notably, Securitas Technology unveiled its groundbreaking Sustainability Initiative at this year’s Global Security Exchange (GSX), setting a new standard within the electronic security industry. This initiative demonstrates the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while continuing to deliver world-class security solutions to its clients.

    Securitas Technology is pioneering sustainable practices within the security and safety sectors, encouraging businesses and communities around the globe to see a different world and join the effort.

    “Achieving a more sustainable future requires collective action, and sustainability is increasingly at the forefront of our clients’ priorities,” declared Byerly. “We are proud to step out and lead the industry to be more environmentally responsible, alongside our committed technology partners who have provided essential data for this important endeavor.”

    About Securitas Technology

    Securitas Technology, part of Securitas, is a world-leading provider of integrated security solutions that protect, connect, and optimize businesses of all types and sizes. More than 13,000 colleagues in 40 countries are focused daily on our purpose to help make your world a safer place and our commitment to deliver an unparalleled client experience. With clients at the heart of all we do, our people, knowledge, and technology power our connected ecosystem of health, safety, and security solutions.

    About Securitas

    Securitas is a world-leading safety and security solutions partner that helps make your world a safer place. Nine decades of deep experience means we see what others miss. By leveraging technology in partnership with our clients, ­combined with an innovative, holistic approach, we’re transforming the security ­industry. With approximately 341,000 employees in 44 markets, we see a ­different world and ­create sustainable value for our clients by protecting what matters most – their people and assets.

    Source: Securitas Technology

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  • dlivrd Teams Up With Villanova Athletics to Grow a Greener Future

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    Every 3-Pointer Made Helps Plant a Grove of Trees


    HORSHAM, PA, December 4, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    dlivrd a leader in tech-driven delivery management is thrilled to announce a meaningful partnership with the Villanova Wildcats that combines the excitement of basketball with a commitment to sustainability. Through the “Nova 3’s for Grove Of Trees” campaign, every three-pointer made by Villanova’s men’s and women’s teams during home games this season will result in dlivrd planting a grove of trees, creating a lasting impact beyond the court.

    “At dlivrd, we believe in delivering more than just food or packages-we deliver change,” said Chris Heffernan, CEO. “Teaming up with Villanova lets us take that mission even further-making every shot count not just for the Wildcats, but for our planet too.”

    The “Nova 3’s for Groves of Trees” initiative showcases dlivrd’s commitment to sustainability-a core principle of the dlivrd difference. Whether it’s organizing frequent corporate volunteer days, offsetting the carbon emissions of more than 10,000 drivers on the platform across 164 markets, or promoting innovative campaigns like this, dlivrd strives to balance rapid growth with responsible practices.

    “Villanova Basketball has always been about bringing people together,” said Nino Vanin, General Manager, Villanova Sports Properties . “This partnership with dlivrd is an incredible way to unite our fans and players around something bigger – a greener tomorrow.”

    Campaign at a Glance

    About dlivrd

    dlivrd is a tech-driven delivery management company committed to innovation and community impact. Sustainability is one of its core values, reflected in efforts like “Three for Trees.” By connecting businesses, drivers, and communities, dlivrd delivers solutions that make a difference. Learn more at www.dlivrd.io.

    Contact Information

    Ashley Campos
    Chief Strategy Officer, dlivrd
    ashley@dlivrd.io

    Source: dlivrd

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  • The Dirty Truth About Reusable Water Bottles in 2024

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    New survey reveals the stinking reasons inside why we regularly replace our bottles


    SACRAMENTO, Calif., November 1, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Ever Vessel, a reusable water bottle start-up, commissioned a survey of over 3,000 Americans aged 21-60 on reusable water bottle habits. The survey was conducted by Statista® in September. The results shine a light on how widely reusable bottles have been adopted, why people are frequently replacing them, and the ongoing struggle to keep them clean.

    Reusable water bottles are meant to be the sustainable, eco-friendly answer to reducing single-use plastic waste, but a new survey reveals we are replacing them at a concerning rate. The majority of us (85%) are now using reusable water bottles. However, the difficulty in keeping them clean and odor-free is the main reason more than half of us replace them within the first year.

    Our Love Affair with Reusable Bottles

    First, the good news: 85% of us own and use a reusable water bottle, which shows just how far sustainability awareness has come. We also own an average of four reusable bottles each. In fact, 36% own five or more showing that a single bottle isn’t enough for most people. This suggests that people want different features or styles to suit their lifestyle or keep up with fashion trends.

    Bottles Are Replaced Frequently—But Why?

    While we clearly value reusable bottles, we’re not holding onto them for long. Over 51% of users replace their bottle within a year, and 32% replace them within just six months. Despite being marketed as reusable and sustainable, bottles aren’t sticking around for long. The reason? Hygiene. A notable 40% of users say they’ve replaced their bottle due to odor and hygiene concerns. If you’ve ever scrubbed a reusable water bottle and still felt uncertain about how clean it was, you’re not alone.

    Cleaning Bottles is a Real Pain for Most People

    Many of us watched the viral videos showing the shocking side of reusable bottles too—think mold hidden in straws and lids. When it comes to the root cause of these odors and hygiene concerns, cleaning them is the primary issue. 56% of users stated that cleaning their bottles is difficult and time-consuming. 

    Owner and head of product development at water bottle startup Ever Vessel, Tim Bligh, believes good design and quality material like 18/8 stainless-steel are important factors in extending the life of reusable bottles.

    “Keeping your bottle clean and odor free shouldn’t be that hard. Whilst many households use a dishwasher regularly, many water bottles are not dishwasher safe and have crevices that are extremely difficult to clean,” said Tim.

    “Focussing on designs that facilitate safe and reliable cleaning is really important to reducing the replacement rate,” Tim stated.

    The effort and frustration in keeping reusable bottles clean is limiting the potential lifetime of these products.

    https://evervessel.com/

    Source: Ever Vessel

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  • Fallen Leaves: What to Do With the Leaves on Your Property

    Fallen Leaves: What to Do With the Leaves on Your Property

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    3. Create an out-of-sight leaf pile.

    If you have prying neighbors or an HOA to worry about, move leaves to less visible areas, for example from front to rear, suggests Fell. “Make a pile in the corner of your yard, let it rot, and use the leaf compost later to feed your flowers,” says Camu. “Leaf compost is absolute gold, and it’s literally that easy to make: Just let it rot in a pile.”

    4. Mulch some of the leaves into your lawn.

    You’ll see a lot of advice to just mow leaves right into the lawn, but Chris Hardy, a senior associate at Sasaki, an interdisciplinary design firm based in Boston, cautions against doing this. “When fall leaf drop happens, the density of the leaves is more than lawns can handle,” he says. “If you have a lot of leaves in your lawn, I would capture that in a bag and then spread it in your perennial areas instead.” Hardy also notes that he skips mowing even a light layer of leaves into grass because he likes to let grass grow long in the fall so it can maximize its storage of sugars over the winter. In other seasons, go ahead and mow right over a light leaf litter, but be sure you have a mulching mower (sometimes you need to buy a special blade.)

    5. Rake selectively.

    Above: Paths should be cleared of leaves, which turn slick and slippery in wet weather.

    To ensure your yard looks cared for, rake the leaves from the most visible or used lawn areas, like the front yard, says Fell, adding. “It’s also important to move leaves from entryways and paths for safety as the weather worsens.”

    6. Then put the leaves into garden beds.

    You can use the whole leaves in some of your beds as mulch. Hardy suggests, “Any place where you’re putting down mulch as a weed suppressant is a great candidate to leave your leaves whole in place; for instance, under hedges, underneath shrubby landscapes, or in tree pits.” That said, do not lay whole leaves over places where you’re trying to get a perennial understory going.

    7. Use caution when covering perennial beds.

    In spring, Fell says she tries to remember where new plants or spring ephemerals are and moves leaves aside, so as not to inhibit their growth. Further north, Hardy says he avoids using whole leaves in perennial beds altogether, because when snow presses down on leaves, it can create a tightly-knit layer that can smother smaller perennials and groundcovers. Instead, he shreds leaves and scatters them amongst perennials. 

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  • The New York City Biodiversity Task Force on How We Can Help Better Support Our Ecosystem

    The New York City Biodiversity Task Force on How We Can Help Better Support Our Ecosystem

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    This is part of a series with Perfect Earth Project, a nonprofit dedicated to toxic-free, nature-based gardening, on how you can be more sustainable in your landscapes at home.

    “New York City has a secret,” says urban ecologist and founder of NYC Wildflower Week Marielle Anzelone. “The Big Apple boasts more open space than any major city in the United States; more than Los Angeles, Chicago, and Philadelphia combined. Even Manhattan, known for its taxi cabs and towering skyscrapers, has rare beetles and 150-year-old tulip trees. The five boroughs collectively host over 40 percent of the state’s rare and endangered plant species.”

    And yet New York City, along with most of the developed world, is in the midst of a biodiversity emergency. In response, a number of major international metropolises—San Francisco, Paris, Singapore, Freetown, Sydney, São Paulo, to name just a few—have adopted biodiversity plans to devote resources to address the problem, but New York City has not. “It’s the only major global city without a comprehensive biodiversity plan,” says urban forester and founder of Local Nature Lab Georgia Silvera Seamans, PhD., who along with Anzelone, is on a mission to get the city’s government to change that. With the goal of “increasing access to nature and protecting and restoring biodiversity and natural habitats,” they launched the New York City Biodiversity Task Force earlier this year. This coalition includes field biologists, environmental justice organizations, civic institutions, and nonprofits, including Perfect Earth Project, representing all five boroughs. “To be truly resilient, New York City needs a clear ecological mandate,” says Anzelone. 

    Silvera Seamans and Anzelone believe that ecology is an underutilized urban resource. They want to see “biodiversity elevated to match the scale and urgency of climate concerns in the city,” arguing that investments in biodiversity can “beautify and cool neighborhoods, support pollinators, boost mental health, advance environmental justice, and deliver nature-based solutions for climate action.” Healthy, functioning ecosystems are essential to the air we breathe and the food we eat. I spoke with them to learn five simple things we can all do in our communities to help protect biodiversity. 

    1. Take a walk in nature.

    A Rusty Blackbird takes a splash in Central Park. Sadly, this bird
    Above: A Rusty Blackbird takes a splash in Central Park. Sadly, this bird’s population has declined by 75 percent from 1966 to 2019, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, due in part to mercury contamination and habitat loss. To address the global extinction crisis, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, a multinational treaty, has been ratified by nearly all UN members, except the United States. Later this month, countries around the world will meet for CBD’s COP16 in Colombia. Photograph by Eric Ozawa.

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  • Tama Matsuoka Wong: An Interview with the Forager Extraordinaire

    Tama Matsuoka Wong: An Interview with the Forager Extraordinaire

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    We’ve been writing about Tama Matsuoka Wong for more than a decade—first in 2013 when we joined her for a foraging (and eating) adventure on her 28-acre property in Hunterdon County, NJ, then again in 2017 when she co-authored the cookbook Scraps, Wilt + Weeds with Danish chef Mads Refslund (of Noma fame). And more recently, earlier this year, we were swept up by her new book, Into the Weeds, which lays out her “wild and visionary way of gardening.”

    All of which is to say, we are unabashed fans—of her forage-focused recipes, of her let-nature-take-the-wheel gardening philosophy, of her passion for plants that are often misunderstood and loathed. “Some are ecologically invasive plants, some are just ordinary garden weeds, and some are native plants that aren’t on the list of showy ornamentals but are part of a vibrant natural plant community,” she says.

    Below, the self-described “garden contrarian” shares why she thinks planting doesn’t have to be a part of gardening, which tool she uses to maintain her meadow, and why she always has crates in her garden.

    Photography courtesy of Tama Matsuoka Wong.

    Above: The “ecologically minded forager, meadow doctor, and lecturer” has written three books. Her first, Foraged Flavor, was nominated for a James Beard award; her second, Scraps, Wilt + Weeds, received the IACP “Food Matters” award. Read about her latest, Into the Weeds, here. Photograph by Colin Clark.

    Your first garden memory:

    In New Jersey, mucking about in the garden dirt with my mother, and picking wild berries. My mother grew up in Hawaii, climbing coconut trees and she always told me she loved the feel of the earth in her hands.

    Garden-related book you return to time and again:

    It’s an oldie but goodie: Bill Cullina’s Native Trees, Shrubs & Vines: A Guide to Using, Growing, and Propagating American Woody Plants. I still have my dog-eared version of Weeds of the Northeast by Richard Uva. I’ve also read multiple times H is for Hawk by British author Helen Macdonald and My Wild Garden: Notes from a Writer’s Eden by Israeli writer Meir Shalev. They inspire me. And, of course, Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer.

    Instagram account that inspires you:

    @andrew_the_arborist. @minh_ngoc.

    Describe in three words your garden aesthetic.

    Above: Outdoor dining on her property, surrounded by “weeds.” Photograph by Ngoc Minh Ngo.

    Wild, wonder-filled, wabi-sabi.

    Plant that makes you swoon:

    A survivor plant in its natural habitat and community: whether desert, chaparrel, bog, pine barrens, highlands, low country.

    Plant that makes you want to run the other way:

    Callery pear tree (bradford pear tree).

    Favorite go-to plant:

    Tama likes to forage staghorn sumac fruit to cook with. See her recipe for Sparkling Sumac Lemonade Recipe. Photograph by Tama Matsuoka Wong.
    Above: Tama likes to forage staghorn sumac fruit to cook with. See her recipe for Sparkling Sumac Lemonade Recipe. Photograph by Tama Matsuoka Wong.

    Rhus typhina (staghorn sumac).

    Hardest gardening lesson you’ve learned:

    Nothing is forever. Plants thrive when and where the conditions are uniquely suited. We can’t over-think, over-design, and over-control these conditions, especially now with changing and unexpected weather conditions. Just be grateful when a plant has an amazing year.

    Unpopular gardening opinion:

    My mission is not popular: Weeds, by definition are not popular.

    Gardening or design trend that needs to go:

    The idea that everything in a garden needs to be planted, that we need to “install” a landscape.

    Favorite gardening hack:

    Above: “These crates are covering newly planted turkey tangle frogfruit, an unnoticed, weedy native plant that likes to grow ‘in wet ditches.’ ” Photograph by Tama Matsuoka Wong.

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  • This Man Found 1,650 Ways to Turn a Profit While Decarbonizing

    This Man Found 1,650 Ways to Turn a Profit While Decarbonizing

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    Bertrand Piccard says sustainability doesn’t have to come at a cost—and that reframing attempts to hit net zero as a way of generating profit could be key to hitting targets.

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    Rob Reddick

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  • In Vermont, regulators are worried about the cannabis industry getting too high – Cannabis Business Executive – Cannabis and Marijuana industry news

    In Vermont, regulators are worried about the cannabis industry getting too high – Cannabis Business Executive – Cannabis and Marijuana industry news

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    In Vermont, regulators are worried about the cannabis industry getting too high – Cannabis Business Executive – Cannabis and Marijuana industry news






























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  • Ecological Horticulture: Native Plant Trust’s Tim Johnson Explains Why You Should Embrace Your Inner Ethical Radical

    Ecological Horticulture: Native Plant Trust’s Tim Johnson Explains Why You Should Embrace Your Inner Ethical Radical

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    This is part of a series with Perfect Earth Project, a nonprofit dedicated to toxic-free, nature-based gardening, on how you can be more sustainable in your landscapes at home.

    We all know our choices matter. What we buy, where we shop, whom we vote for—and how we garden. But how do we know what to choose? “We typically think of gardening as a neutral activity,” says Tim Johnson, the CEO of Native Plant Trust. “But over the years, I’ve come to realize that gardening can be a radical activity. It anchors our attention and connects us to a place, making us keenly aware of where we are.” As more gardeners are interested in following sustainable practices, it’s helpful to understand why these practices are important and how they impact our greater community. Perfect Earth Project talked with Johnson recently about what ethical horticulture means, what you can do to “put the landscape back together,” and how to embrace your inner garden radical. 

    Photography courtesy of Native Plant Trust.

    The interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. 

    Above: “Although Native Plant Trust is known as a scientific-minded organization, I think in reality, our work is about helping people connect their hearts to the natural world,”  says Johnson. The plantings in the Curtis Woodland at the Native Plant Trust’s Garden in the Woods, does just that—showcasing a romantic combination of native blooms in spring that’s sure to captivate the hearts of visitors. Photograph by Ngoc Minh Ngo.

    Q: How can you be an ethical gardener?

    A: We can approach gardening at two ends of a spectrum. We can treat it like an engineering activity, where we’re sort of installing a thing and then trying to hold the thing static. Or we can see it as an extension of our community and self. If we think about what’s important to us, there are opportunities within the garden to live our personal ethics.

    I am hopeful that gardeners as a collective are working towards what’s intrinsically better for the environment—moving away from synthetic fertilizers towards soil management or skipping high maintenance cultivars for lower maintenance native plants, for example. The choices I make in the garden are an extension of the choices I make as a consumer, as an omnivore, as a citizen.

    Q: How should you go about choosing plants? 

    A: I first ask myself, what am I looking for a plant to do in the landscape? And generally, this means how attractive is it, what is its shape, and what is its form? But I’m also thinking about the ecological function that a specific plant brings. For example, I have minimal shade, really sandy soil at my home, and really terrible grass. Part of the reason I have really terrible grass is because I refuse to do the traditional thing of keeping it a monoculture by fertilizing and applying herbicides to it and watering it constantly. And so that means that crabgrass moves in and things get challenging. Instead of moving backwards towards chemical-based turf science in the landscape, I am asking, what does my landscape need to thrive? 

    I’m thinking about three things. For one, adding strategic shade throughout my landscape because more shade means less watering. Two, what are the plants that are going to survive in my sandy soil? Instead of trying to fertilize, I can find plants that work well in a low-resource environment, like prairie dropseed. And lastly I’m thinking about lawn removal. I’ve been planting micro clover, which is a nitrogen fixer, and is also more drought-tolerant than turf grass. Plus, it looks fantastic. 

    The ethics behind this is I want to reduce resources, mainly the amount of water that’s going into my landscape. I also don’t want to use chemical fertilizers. I want to stick with primarily compost-based ones. In the long run, I’m thinking about the places where I need fertility, how to use plants to develop that fertility over time, and plan for a succession in the garden.

    In the summer, Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis) attracts butterflies, like this skipper. In the fall, birds will feast on its seeds. “We see huge improvements in the ability of gardens to support wildlife and pollinators in a landscape that is at least 70 percent composed of natives. That number allows me to have, say, Itoh peonies, while I add nitrogen fixing native honey locusts or red buds in my yard,” says Johnson. “I can have the benefit of all these native plant species, which are supporting our native fauna and the region’s ecological processes, and also get all the showiness that I want from a landscape.” Photograph by Uli Lorimer.
    Above: In the summer, Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis) attracts butterflies, like this skipper. In the fall, birds will feast on its seeds. “We see huge improvements in the ability of gardens to support wildlife and pollinators in a landscape that is at least 70 percent composed of natives. That number allows me to have, say, Itoh peonies, while I add nitrogen fixing native honey locusts or red buds in my yard,” says Johnson. “I can have the benefit of all these native plant species, which are supporting our native fauna and the region’s ecological processes, and also get all the showiness that I want from a landscape.” Photograph by Uli Lorimer.

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  • Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr. Named to Forbes’ Inaugural Sustainability Leaders List

    Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr. Named to Forbes’ Inaugural Sustainability Leaders List

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    WASHINGTON, September 23, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Hip Hop Caucus is proud to announce that President & CEO Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr. has been named to Forbes’ first ever “Sustainability Leaders” list. This prestigious recognition highlights 50 entrepreneurs, scientists, funders, policymakers, and activists who are at the forefront of addressing the global climate crisis through innovative, impactful solutions.

    Forbes’ decision to launch this list for the first time underscores the urgency of the climate and environmental challenges we face. Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr.’s inclusion is a testament to his lifelong commitment to climate justice and the significant strides he has made in connecting climate change to racial justice and social equity.

    “It is an honor to be recognized by Forbes among this group of incredible leaders who share a passion and dedication for solving our climate crisis,” said Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr.. “Hip Hop Caucus is committed to making the world more sustainable, equitable, and just, and this moment is a reminder that we must collectively continue pushing forward.”

    Through his leadership of Hip Hop Caucus, Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr. has mobilized young people, artists, communities of color and other marginalized groups to become active in the climate movement, advocating for policies and solutions that address both the climate crisis and systemic inequalities. His work aims to ensure that those most affected by environmental injustices are not just heard, but are leading the fight for change.

    “This recognition is a reflection of Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr.’s unwavering commitment to serving communities who are first and worst impacted by climate and environmental injustice, and creating a liveable planet for everyone. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping Hip Hop Caucus’ leadership in linking climate justice and racial justice solutions, and this honor reinforces the vital role he plays in the global movement for clean air, clean water and true community-based prosperity,” said Hip Hop Caucus’ Managing Director and COO Liz Havstad. 

    Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr. is the host of the award-winning climate and environmental justice podcast ‘The Coolest Show,’ chair of Bloomberg Philanthropies Beyond Petrochemicals Campaign, and has been recognized by the Obama White House for his climate and sustainability leadership as a Champion of Change.

    The Forbes “Sustainability Leaders” list features global climate and environmental justice leaders including the mayor of Sierra Leone’s capital Freetown Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Whole Foods Market CEO Jason Buechel, Washington State Governor Jay Inslee, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan.

    Earlier this month, Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr. delivered a keynote speech at the University of Maryland’s  Center for Community Engagement, Environmental Justice, and Health (CEEJH) 10th Annual Environmental Justice Symposium. CEEJH uses data and training to empower communities.

    For more information on Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr.’s work and Hip Hop Caucus, visit www.hiphopcaucus.org.

    ### 

    About Hip Hop Caucus 

    Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, Hip Hop Caucus addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. Hip Hop Caucus programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

    Source: Hip Hop Caucus

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  • Alchemy Farm: Stephanie Rausser and Lawrence Cowell’s Bali-Inspired Outdoor Space in Petaluma, CA

    Alchemy Farm: Stephanie Rausser and Lawrence Cowell’s Bali-Inspired Outdoor Space in Petaluma, CA

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    On a quiet side street dotted with older homes and industrial buildings in downtown Petaluma, California, is a secret garden: the unexpected Balinese-inspired “backyard” (you’ll understand why this is in quotes as you read on) of commercial photographers Stephanie Rausser and Lawrence Cowell. The space is thoughtfully named “Alchemy,” for the way it seamlessly combines gardening, cooking, and design. “Each element enhances the others to create something greater than the sum of its parts,” explains Lawrence.

    Join me as we take a tour of this magical space:

    Photography by Stephanie Rausser and Lawrence Cowell.

    Above: Lawrence, Stephanie, and their rescue dogs, Stan Lee (smuggled in from Bali) and Chicqui, in front of Alchemy. Their actual home is just a block away.

    Alchemy’s slender 34-by-100-foot lot was weed-infested and bordered by droopy fences when Stephanie and Lawrence purchased it in 2005. Originally, the couple intended to build an office there for their photography business, but life and work and kids have a way of slowing—and altering—plans. Not to mention, the space lacked basic essentials like electricity, sewage connection, and water hookup. So, instead of building their office, the couple bought a two-story townhouse a block away that is now both their home and office. “It was a big decision as the townhouse has no outdoor space, but we convinced ourselves it could work if we could make Alchemy work as our ‘backyard’,” remembers Stephanie.

    Stephanie and Lawrence remodeled a 1966 Airstream so that friends and family can stay here during visits. It also serves as the property’s restroom, as there is no other bathroom on the property.
    Above: Stephanie and Lawrence remodeled a 1966 Airstream so that friends and family can stay here during visits. It also serves as the property’s restroom, as there is no other bathroom on the property.

    Over the past three years, the once neglected space has evolved into more than just a yard. Today it exudes a thoughtful combination of beauty, productivity, and sustainability.

    Lawrence feeding the chickens in the homemade coop, complete with a festive disco ball.
    Above: Lawrence feeding the chickens in the homemade coop, complete with a festive disco ball.

    Alchemy has become a place to harvest fruits and veggies, collect eggs—and do some serious barbecuing with friends and family. “Our neighbors often see us carrying eggs, flowers, and vegetables from Alchemy to our home down the street,” says Stephanie.

    The meandering pathway, according to Lawrence, is a metaphor for life: Things get rocky, life is a bit unpredictable, and you don
    Above: The meandering pathway, according to Lawrence, is a metaphor for life: Things get rocky, life is a bit unpredictable, and you don’t always know what’s around the bend. At the end of it is the gladak he and Stephanie had custom-made in Bali. The pieces were numbered so that the couple would be able to easily assemble it according to the artisan’s instructions. A large patch of comfrey grows on the left and towering sunflowers skirted with California native white yarrow borders the right.

    The Javanese design accents were inspired by the couple’s three-year sabbatical in Bali. They, along with their two children, moved to the island in 2017 and promptly fell in love with the region’s unique design elements that are now peppered throughout Alchemy. “We had furniture built in Bali and in October 2o2o, our 20-foot container from Bali arrived. Several of the pieces in the container were especially made for Alchemy, the most important being the gladak [a traditional Javanese wood house] and pergola,” shares Stephanie. The gladak stores all of their utensils, cups, plates, and tools so that they don’t have to haul items all the way over from their home kitchen when they want to dine outdoors. “We have an actual kitchen at Alchemy, with a sink with running water and a propane stove, and the lights run on solar power.”

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  • Fonroche Street Lights Selected for Clark County’s Las Vegas Neighborhoods

    Fonroche Street Lights Selected for Clark County’s Las Vegas Neighborhoods

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    LAS VEGAS, September 16, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Though some have called Las Vegas “The City of Light,” it is not that for many area residents. Government officials, residents, and businesses were tired of being left in the dark because of wire theft. Looking for solutions, the county’s task force connected with Fonroche Lighting America, a Texas-based company with over 270 municipal customers. After learning about the benefits of the SmartLight solar lighting system, the county partnered with Fonroche Lighting America to install new advanced autonomous solar lighting systems near Palm and E. Louis Street. 

    Why Solar Street Lights?

    Solar lighting offers local governments an elegantly simple solution to a host of lighting challenges. Not only is there no copper wiring to steal, but the systems give municipalities a new level of independence and flexibility.

    Solar Lights don’t require trenching and underground wiring, saving taxpayer dollars right from the start. Then, the county will save on maintenance and electricity. 

    Better yet, solar lighting is a sustainable option that doesn’t tax the overburdened grid. In fact, they stay on during planned and emergency power outages.

    Solar Lighting Technology

    The new streetlights from Fonroche contain a specially formulated battery chemistry that ensures performance and long life in the extreme temperatures of the valley and winter climates too. Fonroche uses calculations that they validate in their unique climate testing labs to determine a configuration that will guarantee all-night lighting all year long. Finally, the onboard anti-blackout controls will accommodate weather events that fall out of the area’s historical norms. 

    Though theft is unlikely, Fonroche has even created an internal tracker to locate Power 365 assemblies if they are removed from the pole.

    Community Impact

    Streetlighting impacts many aspects of a community. Lighting can provide residents with the confidence to use public transportation, promote healthy activity, and improve walkability and by extension, property values. Most importantly, it can prevent traffic accidents, trips and falls, and criminal activity. 

    Too often, disadvantaged neighborhoods have little or no lighting. In the past, adding lighting was complicated and costly. Now, easy-to-install solar streetlights make equitable lighting attainable.

    A community where residents feel comfortable on the street is a safer, healthier and more connected community. 

    Upon installation in Las Vegas, one resident exclaimed, “I am dreaming right now … Whatever government official, whoever did this, thank you.”   

    Next Steps

    Clark County officials will closely monitor the streetlights and develop recommendations for further deployment across the county. 

    Hundreds of other communities are turning to Fonroche for street lighting projects that will end outages from wire theft, overburdened utilities, and weather events. Many innovations can be complex and expensive to implement – this one is simple and cost-effective.

    Source: Fonroche Lighting America

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  • My town became environmentally conscious and so did I

    My town became environmentally conscious and so did I

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    Growing up, I realized that children are a product of their environment, so let me tell you a little bit about mine: I grew up in Secaucus, N.J., a town called “the Jewel of the Meadowlands.” My suburban hometown exists within a large ecosystem of wetlands, the Meadowlands, through which the Hackensack River flows. But with post-agricultural pig farm effluent and debris from New York’s train station decay being dumped into the area, the Meadowlands became a jewel in need of polishing.

    Secaucus is working to recover the natural marshes by designating them as protected so fewer apartment complexes can be built and begin to sink a few years down the road, which has happened in the past. The town became environmentally conscious, and existing within that environment, I did the same.

    In high school, I worked with the Secaucus Environmental Department for over three years as part of the Next Generation Community Leaders, or NGCL, program created by the Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute. Little did I know just how much this experience would influence my life. Throughout that time, I learned about climate change, the planet’s environmental challenges, and the actions we need to take to reduce our footprint. I helped implement a plastic bag and Styrofoam ban, designed a food waste composting system at my high school and local gardens and created eco-friendly living PSAs. I canvassed to promote eco-friendly living and educated residents on how to compost at home.

    I also certified local businesses as “green,” depending on whether they followed practices set by the Sustainable Jersey network. These practices included recycling, reducing food waste, not using Styrofoam, etc. My contributions to the environmental department helped Secaucus to earn recognition from Sustainable Jersey as a Silver Certified Community.

    That experience showed me how local actions can create change. By educating residents in Secaucus, we altered their behaviors, if even slightly, to be more environmentally conscious. Residents began to grow produce in the community gardens, compost at home and reduce their plastic bag usage. I witnessed how humans responsible for harming the planet have the potential to make changes to fix it and make it better for future generations. From that day forward, I carried that responsibility with me.

    I will be honest: I don’t know the current status of those projects I worked on in Secaucus. I hope that residents are still composting at home and that those businesses continue their green practices.

    I began my journey into learning about sustainability at USC with a major in industrial and systems engineering and a minor in law and public policy. Although these are not fields directly tied to the climate ecosphere, my advocacy in Secaucus made me realize that a systematic mindset and policy knowledge would be strong tools with which I can effect change within both the government and private sector in advocating for larger-scale sustainability solutions. With the opportunities provided by USC, I knew I could get involved in environmentalism and sustainability without having to be an environmental science major.

    A view of a smoke-spewing refinery at sunset

    “We have canvassed [local] youth … and discovered that their top environmental priorities are cleaner air, green spaces and green buildings,” says Alyssa Jaipersaud, a member of the L.A. County Youth Climate Commission.

    (Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times)

    If you asked freshman Alyssa what her ultimate career goal was, she would have said, “Facilitate systemic change within the bureaucracy through ecological and climate-preservation policies to make society more sustainably conscious.” I wrote this on an index card and kept it in my backpack throughout college to constantly remind me of the goal because being an environmentalist can be discouraging, given the current climate.

    Since then, I think I would have made freshman Alyssa proud. I was accepted into the USC Student Sustainability Committee and became a mentor to new members. The SSC acts as a representative for the student body within the Presidential Working Group for Sustainability. We work on projects such as getting reusable takeout containers in dining halls, ensuring ongoing campus construction is adhering to green practices, and creating a central physical space where sustainability-minded students can gather.

    As a member of the SSC, I ensured that sustainability would become a standard educational practice at USC and change student behaviors toward respecting their environment. I continued my education at USC by pursuing a master’s in sustainable engineering, and I have earned the distinction of a National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenges Scholar by focusing on sustainability.

    Alyssa Jaipersaud in a rose garden.

    Alyssa Jaipersaud poses for a portrait at Exposition Park Rose Garden.

    (Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times)

    My environmental pursuits have culminated in my becoming a Los Angeles County Youth Climate commissioner in the world’s first such organization. We have canvassed the youth in L.A. County and discovered that their top environmental priorities are cleaner air, green spaces and green buildings.

    Now, as a member of the legislative committee, I track all federal and state measures that relate to these priorities and bring them to the attention of the county Board of Supervisors so that they can weigh in on whether the legislation should be amended, supported or rejected. We are working actively to support legislation currently going through the U.S. Senate that would call for establishing opportunities for youths to be involved in policy development so they can ensure a healthy environment for their future and those to come.

    Since children are a product of their environment, we should help future generations have a good environment to live in. With the environment constantly changing due to global warming, future generations will have a chance only if we work to make the world sustainable starting today. Instead of forcing future generations to learn how to survive to fix the environmental mistakes we are making today, they should have the opportunity to live without the repercussions of the past.

    I witnessed the negative effects of a mistreated environment in my hometown, and I want to make sure future generations aren’t suffering from the consequences of what we are doing. With a sustainability mindset, local changes can influence the politicians and create the systemic change needed to get the biggest offenders under control. One of the significant steps is behavioral changes, which can begin locally and be brought by people not even studying in the environmental field, just like me.

    Alyssa Jaipersaud earned a bachelor of science in industrial and systems engineering with a minor in law and public policy at USC and is also completing a master’s of science in sustainable engineering. She is setting her sights on a full-time role in the sustainability industry either as a consultant or practicing engineer.

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  • Rebecca McMackin: An Interview With the Ecological Horticulturalist and Garden Designer

    Rebecca McMackin: An Interview With the Ecological Horticulturalist and Garden Designer

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    Rebecca McMackin is an “ecologically obsessed horticulturist and garden designer” (her description) and an incredibly engaging, deeply knowledgeable plant nerd (ours). (Just check out her Ted Talk entitled “Let Your Garden Grow Wild” from earlier this year.) As Arboretum Curator for Woodlawn Cemetery, she manages one of the best tree collections in New York State. And as a garden designer, she creates inspired landscapes that make both people and pollinators happy. In fact, her garden for the Brooklyn Museum, a collaboration with Quick Takes alum Brook Klausing, just won the Perennial Plant Association’s Award of Excellence, in part because of its use of native plants to create habitats for the birds and bees.

    We’ve interviewed Rebecca before (see 9 Radical Ways to Face Climate Change), and today, we’re thrilled to be able to share her perspective again, Below, the biodiversity crusader talks about her love for spying on bugs (“so much drama”), her admiration for dead wood (“so hip, so helpful”), and her disdain for orange Rudbeckia (agreed!). 

    Photography courtesy of Rebecca McMackin.

    Above: Rebecca hails from Connecticut—and still lives there. “I feel like the state motto should be “Connecticut: we NEVER don’t have Aerosmith on the radio.” Photograph by Caitlin Atkinson.

    Your first garden memory:

    I had my first garden when I was 6. I grew up on a small farm in Connecticut, where we gardened as a way of life. I grew carrots and Celosia. I remember how sweet the carrots were. You just can’t buy carrots as good as you can grow them.

    Garden-related book you return to time and again:

    Carol Gracie was a mentor to me. I had read Spring Wildflowers of the Northeast, had my mind completely blown, and promptly began a respectful stalking mission that resulted in years of friendship. Carol was a marvelous observer and her books taught me to see flowers differently. They weren’t about plants in the traditional sense. They were written from the plant’s perspective. Carol explored what flowers were doing with their lives. She shared not only how they were shaped but why, who they were trying to attract, and how the plants communicated. I’ve read her books countless times and use them as references often. Truly the best ever.

    Instagram account that inspires you:

    I love Adrian Smith’s account: @dradriansmith. He does the simplest thing—taking slow-motion videos of insects taking off from a table—and it’s just glorious. There’s so much drama. The clumsiness of beetles, the leap of a moth, the absolute miracle that something like an oak treehopper can actually get airborne after spinning around three times. It’s hilariously entertaining, but also helps people understand that these animals live full lives, with struggles and victories.

    Describe in three words your garden aesthetic.

    Coreopsis, milkweed, and other pollinator-friendly plants at the Brooklyn Museum. Photograph by Douglas Lyle Thompson, from 8 Ideas to Steal from the Brooklyn Museum
    Above: Coreopsis, milkweed, and other pollinator-friendly plants at the Brooklyn Museum. Photograph by Douglas Lyle Thompson, from 8 Ideas to Steal from the Brooklyn Museum’s Lawn-Turned-Meadow.

    Wild. Beautiful. Butterflies.

    Plant that makes you swoon:

    Southern magnolia. Nobody does it better.

    Plant that makes you want to run the other way:

    Euonymus alatus. Why is it legal to sell this plant? How broken is horticulture that we can’t phase out plants causing actual harm. Get this guy out of the trade already.

    Favorite go-to plant:

    Aquilegia canadensis. Adorable. functional. Adaptable. and charismatic.

    Hardest gardening lesson you’ve learned:

    Tiarella cordifolia and Viola sororia, both native plants, at the Brooklyn Bridge Park, where Rebecca spent a decade as Director of Horticulture. Photograph by Rebecca McMackin.
    Above: Tiarella cordifolia and Viola sororia, both native plants, at the Brooklyn Bridge Park, where Rebecca spent a decade as Director of Horticulture. Photograph by Rebecca McMackin.

    Less is more. I hate this one. I want all the plants in every garden. But they really speak to people much more when there are only a few flowers blooming at a time.

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  • ELECOM’s Commitment to Sustainability and the Award-Winning NESTOUT Brand

    ELECOM’s Commitment to Sustainability and the Award-Winning NESTOUT Brand

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    NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., September 10, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    ELECOM, a leading innovator in the field of personal computer peripherals, digital accessories, and eco-friendly technology solutions, proudly announces its latest sustainability and social responsibility initiatives, featuring the NESTOUT series of products.

    Pioneering Sustainability at ELECOM 

    Under the leadership of Koichi Iwami, Chairman of Sustainability Committee, ELECOM has undergone a significant transformation in its approach to sustainability management. The company has made substantial strides in strengthening governance, managing risks, and engaging with employees to ensure business continuity and sustainable growth. These initiatives are vital for ELECOM’s mission to remain essential to society, its employees, and stakeholders. 

    NESTOUT Series: Eco-Friendly Energy Solutions 

    At the heart of ELECOM’s sustainability efforts is the NESTOUT series, a line of eco-friendly products designed to work seamlessly together to capture, store, and utilize energy efficiently. The NESTOUT series embodies the concept of a sustainable energy cycle: 

    • Capturing Energy: NESTOUT solar panels harness the power of the sun, providing a renewable and clean energy source. These panels are designed to be highly efficient and portable, making them ideal for outdoor activities and off-grid adventures. 
    • Storing Energy: The captured solar energy is stored in NESTOUT power banks, available in various capacities, including the newly launched 5000mAh version. These power banks are compact, lightweight, and perfect for travel, ensuring you have access to energy whenever and wherever you need it. 
    • Using Energy: The stored energy can then be used through NESTOUT light accessories, which provide reliable and sustainable lighting solutions for any situation. From camping trips to emergency scenarios, NESTOUT lights ensure you are never left in the dark. 

    Commitment to a Decarbonized Society 

    ELECOM is committed to realizing a decarbonized society by reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-conscious products. The company has endorsed the United Nations Global Compact and the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), aligning its efforts with global sustainability standards. Initiatives such as reducing CO2 emissions, managing waste, and promoting biodiversity are integral to ELECOM’s environmental strategy. 

    Social Responsibility and Community Engagement 

    ELECOM’s sustainability management extends beyond environmental concerns. The company is dedicated to supporting human rights, diversity, and inclusion within its workforce. ELECOM’s efforts in human resources development, occupational health and safety, and community engagement reflect its commitment to social responsibility. The company’s support for various local initiatives, such as tree planting and sports sponsorships, demonstrates its dedication to giving back to the community. 

    Looking Forward 

    ELECOM will continue to integrate sustainability into its business operations, aiming for long-term growth and societal contributions. The NESTOUT series represents a significant step towards achieving these goals by providing innovative, eco-friendly solutions that cater to modern energy needs. 

    For more information about ELECOM’s sustainability initiatives, please view the ELECOM 2023 Sustainability Report. 

    About ELECOM USA 

    Since 1986, ELECOM has been at the forefront of innovation in consumer electronics, earning a global reputation for its modern design and exceptional quality. The brand boasts over 150 Good Design Awards and 66 IF Design Awards, underscoring its dedication to excellence and innovation in the tech accessories market.

    Source: ELECOM

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  • Chef Ann Foundation Awards 29 Grants to 15 School Districts Across U.S. to Transition to Bulk Milk

    Chef Ann Foundation Awards 29 Grants to 15 School Districts Across U.S. to Transition to Bulk Milk

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    Serving milk in bulk instead of single-serve containers eliminates a top source of school food waste


    BOULDER, Colo., September 6, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    The Chef Ann Foundation announced today that it awarded 29 grants to 15 K–12 school districts across the U.S. as part of its Bulk Milk program’s second consecutive year. Grantees will receive the necessary equipment, materials, and training resources to implement a bulk milk serving system. 

    Bulk Milk grants have been awarded to the following districts: Petersburg School District, AK; Willows Unified School District, CA; Ocean View School District, CA; San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District, CA; Shady Creek Outdoor School, CA; Santa Clara Unified School District, CA; Weld County School District, CO; Colorado Charter School Institute, CO; Cannon Falls Independent School District, MN;  Minneapolis Public School District, MN; Explore Academy Charter School, NM; Ithaca School District, NY; Groton Central School District, NY; Franklin Special School District, TN; Suffolk Public School District, VA.

    USDA guidelines for the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs require schools to offer milk with every lunch or breakfast they serve. Because most schools serve milk in either a single-use carton or plastic bottle, milk is one of the most significant sources of food and packaging waste at schools nationwide.

    With a bulk dispenser, students can pour themselves precisely the amount of milk they want. This cuts down on a major source of waste — an estimated 45 million gallons of liquid milk are discarded annually in schools. That wasted milk represents all the resources that went into producing it. By using a bulk milk dispenser, schools can save approximately 30 pounds of carbon dioxide per student — the equivalent of taking 145,000 gas-powered cars off the road.

    Early adopters of bulk milk dispensers have seen impressive results in reducing packaging waste, too. “We had more than 360,000 fewer cartons go into the landfill last year,” said Beth Brewster, Supervisor of Food Services at Caroline County School in Maryland. “There has been less [liquid milk] waste as well since the students only take the amount they want and actually drink it, ” she added. 

    However, the benefits of bulk milk go beyond reducing waste. It’s also more cost-effective for schools. Purchasing milk in bulk is, over time, less expensive than individual cartons or bottles. There are also savings on packaging and disposal costs. Additionally, schools can take those savings and invest in higher-quality milk, like organic milk. 

    “We want schools to see bulk milk as an opportunity, not just a waste reduction measure,” said Laura Smith, Executive Director of Programs at the Chef Ann Foundation. “It’s a chance to serve fresher, more sustainable milk while saving money. That’s a win-win-win for students, schools, and the planet.”

    Chef Ann Foundation’s Bulk Milk Equipment granting program is made possible this year through the generous support of Elevance Health Foundation and the Posner Foundation.

    Source: Chef Ann Foundation

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  • SK tes Achieves EcoVadis Gold Rating in Record Time

    SK tes Achieves EcoVadis Gold Rating in Record Time

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    SINGAPORE, September 3, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    SK tes, a global leader in IT asset disposition (ITAD), e-waste and battery recycling solutions, is proud to announce that we have achieved a prestigious EcoVadis Gold rating in just our second year of participation. This remarkable advancement from our Bronze rating in 2023 places us in the top fifth percentile of the 130,000+ companies assessed worldwide by EcoVadis. This accolade underscores our unwavering commitment to sustainability, security, and innovation in IT Asset Disposition (ITAD), e-waste recycling, and electric vehicle battery recycling. 

    EcoVadis, a global leader in business sustainability ratings, helps companies manage ESG risk and compliance, meet corporate sustainability goals, and drive impact at scale. The platform’s comprehensive assessment evaluates companies across four key areas: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. Our significant improvement is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our Sustainability, Compliance, and HR teams. 

    Alvin Piadasa, Group Sustainability Director at SK tes, has been instrumental in driving progress, particularly in the areas of labor, human rights, and ethics. “This achievement is a reflection of our team’s dedication to embedding sustainable practices across all facets of our operations,” Alvin remarked. “Our commitment to continuous improvement in ESG performance not only meets client demands but also positions SK tes as a trusted partner in driving global sustainability.” 

    Terence Ng, CEO of SK tes, echoed these sentiments, stating, “Reaching the EcoVadis Gold rating is a significant milestone for us. It validates our efforts and enhances our credibility with Fortune 500 companies, OEMs, and automotive clients. We are committed to further strengthening our sustainable procurement policies to achieve operational efficiencies and better governance.” 

    This recognition sets us apart as one of only a handful of ITAD companies globally to reach this level, reinforcing our position as an industry leader who prioritizes secure data erasure, reducing emissions through advanced technology repurposing, and building a responsible supply chain. Our dedication to excellence ensures that your sustainability goals are met with unparalleled expertise and confidence. 

    Our commitment to enhancing our sustainability ratings is a testament to our belief that the future of our business is intricately linked to the success of people and the health of our planet. By embedding a sustainable mindset into every facet of our operations, we ensure that all decisions are made with economic, environmental and social responsibility in mind.  

    Independent assessments of our sustainability performance offer additional reassurance to our clients that they are partnering with a provider deeply committed to sustainability. These evaluations underscore our dedication to responsible practices and reinforce our role as a leader in sustainable technology repurposing and secure data erasure. 

    Operating with the utmost integrity, compliance, and transparency, our commitment to sustainability begins at the highest levels and permeates through every tier of the SK tes organization. From rigorous governance procedures to collaborative partnerships with clients and stakeholders, we uphold the highest standards to drive positive change across the industry. 

    By partnering with SK tes, corporations align with a trusted leader in ITAD, e-waste recycling, and electric vehicle battery recycling, dedicated to sustainability, security, and innovation. We extend our deepest gratitude to the entire SK tes team for their unwavering dedication and hard work. Together, we are leading the way towards sustaining tomorrow. 

    For more information about SK tes and global capabilities, please visit our website www.sktes.com. 

    About SK tes: 
    Since our formation in 2005, SK tes, a subsidiary of SK ecoplant, has grown to become a global leader in sustainable technology services and bespoke solutions that help clients manage the commissioning, deployment, and retirement of technology devices and components. We provide comprehensive services for technology devices throughout their lifecycle – from deployment to decommissioning to disposition – all the way through to recycling and end-of-life repurposing. This includes innovating new processes to leverage the value locked in assets if they are to be recycled, such as our proprietary lithium battery recycling process, which extracts scarce materials from used batteries at purity rates high enough that they can be reused in the manufacturing supply chain.  

    We have made it our mission to make a decade of difference by securely, safely, and sustainably transforming and repurposing one billion kgs of assets by 2030. SK tes has over 40 owned facilities across 22 countries offering unmatched service-level consistency, consistent commercials, lower logistics costs, local compliance experts in-region, support in local time zones and languages, and a deep understanding of transboundary movement globally.  

    Source: SK tes

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