Month: July 2023

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, July 27, 2023 /3BL/ — LyondellBasell announced it has acquired a 50% stake in Stiphout Industries B.V. (“Stiphout”). Stiphout is involved in the sourcing and processing of post-consumer plastic packaging waste. The company operates a facility located in Montfort, the Netherlands, with an annual processing capacity equivalent to the amount of plastic packaging waste generated by over 500,000 Dutch citizens per year.

“Investing in Stiphout aligns with our strategy to invest in recycling and plastic waste processing companies that support our existing assets in the Netherlands and Germany and fits with our integrated hub model,” says Yvonne van der Laan, LyondellBasell Executive Vice President, Circular and Low Carbon Solutions. “Through this collaboration, we can leverage local synergies with our Quality Circular Polymers business in terms of logistics and operations. It also unlocks possibilities to further expand our CirculenRecover portfolio, creating solutions for customers and brand owners in support of their circular and low-carbon targets”.

Stiphout was founded in 2015 and has over time built up experience in the processing of plastic household waste into clean flakes of recycled polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) materials, establishing itself as an innovative player in the Netherlands.

“Partnering with an experienced polymer producer will provide possibilities to further step-up commercial and operational excellence of our operations,” says Eline Stiphout, founder and CEO of the Stiphout group. “We are excited to team up with LyondellBasell since we share that circularity is critical to helping end plastic waste”.

About LyondellBasell 
We are LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) – a leader in the global chemical industry creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Through advanced technology and focused investments, we are enabling a circular and low carbon economy. Across all we do, we aim to unlock value for our customers, investors and society. As one of the world’s largest producers of polymers and a leader in polyolefin technologies, we develop, manufacture and market high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. For more information, please visit www.lyondellbasell.com or follow @LyondellBasell on LinkedIn.

About Stiphout Industries 
Stiphout Industries was founded by Eline Stiphout in 2015 with the aim of recycling post-consumer waste into high quality flakes. The company expanded quickly, and soon became a specialist in recycling Dutch household waste.

It developed its own processing lines and has positioned itself as a sustainable, innovative recycler. Stiphout is proud to contribute to a more circular use of plastics.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 
The statements in this release relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management of LyondellBasell which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially based on factors including, but not limited to, our ability to meet our sustainability goals, including the ability to increase production of recycled and renewable-based polymers; the successful implementation of growth plans; and the successful operation of the facilities described in this release. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, which can be found at www.LyondellBasell.com on the Investor Relations page and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.

Originally published on Rayonier.com

Article written by Karie Kermath, Safety Manager, Western Operations

When Tracie Gibbs was five years old, her dad introduced her to the thrill of professional racing and gave her the first glimpse of the direction her life would take. As she watched the action on the track, she was captivated by the National Hot Rod Association’s Safety Safari team, who wore bright yellow hi-vis suits and ran to help anyone in need. This was the job she wanted to do.

Today, as Rayonier’s Director of Safety, instead of racing hazards, Tracie’s attention and efforts are focused on the hazards that come with working in the woods.

At its core, safety is about people. Fortunately, Tracie is passionate about forging relationships. When she first stepped into safety, she encouraged open and honest communication both internally within Rayonier and externally with contractors. Safety quickly became a company-wide focus. In fact, it is now one of the company’s core values.

What started as a team of one has expanded to a safety department with five employees reporting to Tracie. In six years, she has taken Rayonier’s safety program from one that had only a few measurable goals to one that is applying for OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) — the highest safety certification available.

Under her leadership, Rayonier has launched a myriad of new reporting and training tools, including a safety app that can be used in the woods without access to cell service. In 2022, the company hosted safety training events in 8 states, helping the logging companies Rayonier works with to begin developing safety programs of their own and educating more than 650 contractors on OSHA’s safety standards. You can learn more and watch a video about the logger safety training events here.

Not like other safety professionals

No one goes into safety because it’s glamorous or an easy way to punch a timeclock, especially when it comes to the timber industry, which consistently ranks in the top three of the most dangerous industries in the U.S. Safety professionals are often thought of like police, but Tracie is not like other safety professionals. She doesn’t want to police her coworkers and contractors, she wants to help them think differently about safety. Her philosophy is that, if they understand why certain policies and procedures are in place, they will be more likely to adopt safer behaviors.

Loggers and foresters report some of the highest job satisfaction rates of any profession, but missteps in safety can quickly become a matter of life and death.

“I have three rocks on my desk from the first fatality I investigated. I wanted something to remind me of how I was feeling in that moment because it was the exact situation I wanted to help prevent.

“Seeing a tragedy like this firsthand and knowing there are things we can do—through education, training and maintenance—to help prevent this type of emotional, physical and financial mess from happening to others helped me see the disconnect and wonder what I could do about it. The experience personally changed me.”

Helping others understand why

Convincing folks in the timber industry to think differently about safety can be a challenge. Tracie’s mission is fueled by her passion for helping others and by a deep personal understanding of loss.

She also understands the types of “what-if” questions that pop up in the aftermath of a tragedy. Tracie’s father had a heart attack at work and his coworker, who wasn’t trained in CPR, was unable to save him. Since then, Tracie, who is a certified CPR and first aid instructor, has personally trained all of Rayonier’s U.S. employees.

“When I’m talking to people, they understand my passion is genuine. Safety conversations are often about telling others what to do, but if you focus instead on what it means to experience a loss or feel a sense of fear about what might happen if you don’t behave in a safe manner, it helps them understand why they need to adopt safer behaviors.”

Day in the life

In Tracie’s world, no two days are the same, but there are some tasks that remain consistent from one day to the next. She begins each day by skimming her email and new near-miss reports to get an idea of what’s happening at Rayonier locations across the country. She finds out if there are any major issues or fires to put out — sometimes this even includes actual wildfires.

While many of the tasks on Tracie’s to-do list are obvious, such as refining policies, working on new initiatives, reviewing safety communications prior to publication, preparing reports for Rayonier’s Board of Directors and keeping up with OSHA changes, she also handles things that most people don’t ever think about. On any given day, she may help a department create a job hazard analysis (JHA) for the top four hazards facing their employees; determine how many straps need to go on a load before a truck leaves a landing and how far they can travel before they finish strapping; or work with Rayonier’s safety mentors to help prepare for the upcoming VPP audits.

Tracie enjoys interacting with others and says, “When you know the people, you really connect.” Because of this, she goes into the woods at least once a week and is often on the road, visiting Rayonier locations from coast-to-coast. As the main safety resource for Rayonier’s U.S. employees and contractors, she likens her role to “keeping a ship going in the right direction all the time.” The rapport she works so hard to build is essential for making course corrections as safety issues arise.

Safety as a way of life

A commitment to safety doesn’t end when her workday is done. When Tracie is tempted to look at her phone while driving or do something else that isn’t safe, she asks herself if it’s truly worth the risk. She reminds herself and family and friends of their own value, so that everyone understands what’s at risk if they don’t practice safe behaviors.

“Safety doesn’t have to be painful. It doesn’t have to be intimidating. There are a lot of resources out there that make it accessible to everyone.”

A steadfast dedication to protecting others and Tracie’s willingness to challenge the way things have always been done have inspired her to extend her focus beyond the walls of Rayonier’s safety program. She truly wants to show everyone that Rayonier is passionate about safety and unafraid of sharing what they’ve learned.

“People in the timber industry take a lot of pride in what they do and how well they do it. I’d like to see them adopt that same level of pride in doing their jobs safely. To do the work we do should not cost a life.”

Tracie’s goal is to challenge safety practices industry-wide. She is convinced that the only way forward is for the entire timber industry to come together and raise the bar. Strong safety cultures are fostered when expectations and accountability pertain to everyone from the CEO or owner to the new hire breaking in that first pair of boots. It will take an industry-wide effort to improve safety statistics and get off the list of the most dangerous occupations. Everyone must get on board.

“Safety is unique because we all have the right to it. It doesn’t matter what job we have, how much money we make in a year or how we’re different from anyone else. We all deserve to be safe.”

To learn more about safety efforts at Rayonier, click here.

Toothpaste, shampoo, shaving gel, body wash — they’re everyday items we may take for granted. But for those serving in the United States Armed Forces overseas, it can bring them comfort from home. So, when the United Services Organizations (USO) needed help packing more than 10,000 hygiene kits, our Memphis-based summer interns (and hopeful future FedEx talent!) were thrilled to lend a hand and give back at the event, sponsored by FedEx Cares.

The USO relies on the generosity of people, organizations, and corporations to accomplish their mission of strengthening America’s military service members by keeping connections to family, home, and country. We’re proud to say for the past 20 years and counting, they’ve been able to rely on us!

“Through events like this, interns can learn more about how we give back globally and locally. It also provides them opportunities to network with executives and other interns, spending time together for one common goal: to serve and enhance our communities globally through volunteering,” said Rachel Kesselman, a communications advisor on the FedEx Cares team.

For some FedEx team members, there’s a personal connection to events like this. Mike Lauderdale the vice president of human resources at FedEx Services says, “I have a nephew who has served overseas. Just knowing that troops look forward to receiving the kits hopefully shows them how much we appreciate their sacrifice and service.”

In addition to working with non-profits like the USO, FedEx Cares sponsors volunteer events throughout the year, and gives volunteers the option to do rotations so they can work on different projects and with a variety of non-profits. 130 summer interns who are not located in Memphis – but eager to help – virtually participated in volunteer projects, from creating quizzes and games for students to recording audiobooks for hospitalized children. Here is what Emma McCreave, an intern in marketing and communications, says about her volunteering experience, “It’s a great reminder that FedEx thinks about the bigger picture. Not only do we get to fill our own buckets through volunteering but just knowing it makes a difference in other peoples’ lives is inspiring.”

Hooray to our interns for making a difference within FedEx and their community!

CINCINNATI, July 27, 2023 /3BL/ – Since its founding in 1948, the Fifth Third Foundation has made education programs a key priority. In 2005, Fifth Third established its Scholarship Program to award one-time, $2,500 scholarships annually to children of Fifth Third employees for study at a college or university. This year’s scholarships total $62,500. Nearly 450 students have merited scholarships since 2005. 

Chosen and administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corp., the Fifth Third Scholarship Program recognizes the academic achievements of the following students, listed with their employee parent or parents and their work location:  

Jennifer C. An*, child of Feila Zhang, Buffalo Grove, Illinois. Shyla R. Aggarwal, child of Shephali Aggarwal, Mason, Ohio.Nikki L. Bakhmutsky, child of Yael Eisenberg, Farmington Hills, Michigan.Wesley Blalock*, child of Brian Blalock, Newburgh, Indiana. Courtney R. Crawford, child of Randy Crawford, Toledo, Ohio.Daniel J. Dreyer, III, child of Kim Dreyer, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Gabrielle H. Frischer, child of Lori Frischer, Cincinnati, Ohio.Mary J. Giffen*, child of Michael Giffen, Liberty Township, Ohio. Ty J. Harter, child of Shawn Harter, Loveland, Ohio.Alexandra F. Johnson, child of Margie Johnson, Cincinnati, Ohio. Lucia M. Johnson, child of Margie Johnson, Cincinnati, Ohio.Leah M. Kallmeyer, child of Victoria Kallmeyer, Cincinnati, Ohio. Emily K. Kim, child of Jinah Kim, Rochester Hills, Michigan.Caitlyn M. Laws, child of Ted Laws, Springboro, Ohio. Domenico Lepore, child of Evangelina Lepore, Tinley Park, Illinois. Paige D. Mahon, child of Sara Mahon, Fairfield, Ohio. Avery E. Martin, child of Donnie Martin, Rockwall, Texas. Broderick V. Merz*, child of Jamie Merz, Loveland, Ohio. Campbell L. Robinson, child of Brian Robinson, Milford, Ohio.Nawra A. Roya*, child of Sohana Syeda, New Hill, North Carolina. Ian G.C. Scholes, child of Nathan Scholes, Marion, Illinois.Dhruti Shah*, child of Jinkal Shah, Columbus, Ohio.Owen V. Summers*, child of Kevin Summers, Mason, Ohio.Selma H. Yousif, child of Susan Yousif, Chicago, Illinois. 

 “The Fifth Third Foundation commends these deserving students,” said Heidi Jark, senior vice president and managing director of the Foundation Office at Fifth Third Bank. “Since 2005, the Foundation has enthusiastically supported the scholastic goals of the children of Fifth Third employees. Our goal is to support them as they expand their horizons through the pursuit of higher education.”      

The National Merit Scholarship Corp. is an independent nonprofit organization. The National Merit Scholarship Program was designed to identify and honor exceptionally able high school students, and to provide a system of services for corporations, foundations and other organizations that wish to sponsor college undergraduate scholarships to students who interest them. All aspects of the selection of winners and the administration of their awards are handled by the NMSC.

Established in 1948, the Fifth Third Foundation was the first charitable foundation created by a financial institution. The Foundation supports worthy causes in the areas of health and human services, education, community development and the arts in the states where Fifth Third Bank operates.

*National Merit Scholarship finalist

CONTACTS

Adrienne Gutbier (Media Relations)
adrienne.gutbier@53.com | 513-534-8038

Chris Doll (Investor Relations)
chris.doll@53.com | 513-534-2345

The Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) is excited to announce the election of two new board members and the re-election of an incumbent board member to serve on the SAC Board of Directors. These esteemed individuals will be seated on the Board in September 2023. The Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in guiding the SAC’s strategic plan, and driving industry transformation, advancing our organization’s mission of sustainability and positive impact.

The SAC is pleased to welcome:

Affiliate Category: Harsh Saini, Board Director, Global Fashion Agenda; Independent Consultant (newly elected)Brand/Retailer Category: Amanda Tucker, Vice President Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability, Target (newly elected)Manufacturer Category: Dr. Delman Lee, Vice Chair, TAL Apparel (incumbent)

These individuals bring a wide breadth of knowledge and valuable insights, each contributing a unique perspective critical to advancing our vision for a more equitable and restorative industry.

Harsh Saini brings over 25 years of global experience in sustainability, manufacturing, compliance, communication, brand and crisis management, and trade relations. She has also been an influential figure on multiple boards and committees, including Global Compact, Better Work, FLA, Bangladesh safety programs, OECD, The Fashion Pact, AAFA, ETI, SAC, and GFA.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve on the SAC Board of Directors representing the Affiliate member category,” said Harsh. “I look forward to collaborating with fellow members and industry players to support SAC’s vision and strategic initiatives for an even greater impact in our industry.”

Amanda Tucker, with 25 years of experience in building coalitions to deliver change, possesses extensive expertise in sustainability, sourcing, labor rights, and governance across three continents. Her innovative approaches will be invaluable as we strive for a more sustainable future.

Grateful for her election to the Brand/Retailer seat, Amanda stated, “In order to make significant strides towards sustainability, I believe that we must work together and commit to learning and adapting with our partners to reach our shared goals. I am excited and honored to bring my expertise to the board with a goal to deliver meaningful change and impact at scale.”

Dr. Delman Lee will return to the board, representing the Manufacturer member category. He has been a key advocate since the SAC’s inception, actively supporting equal partnership and providing invaluable expertise and insight on the challenges facing manufacturers, and opportunities to deepen collaboration to ensure every voice throughout the supply chain is heard.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to continue representing the SAC manufacturer member category on the Board of Directors,” said Delman. “It is a privilege to work alongside such dedicated and passionate individuals in driving our mission and shared vision forward. I remain committed to leveraging my experience and expertise to amplify the voices of my fellow manufacturer members and contribute to the collective efforts in achieving our sustainability goals. Together, we will make a lasting impact and create a more sustainable future for our industry.”

The SAC CEO, Amina Razvi said, “We are thrilled to welcome our newly elected and re-elected Board members. The combination of their unique perspectives and wealth of experience will be instrumental in accelerating the SAC’s efforts toward a more equitable and restorative industry. Only by working together will we achieve the necessary transformation within the consumer goods industry and steer it towards a more sustainable and responsible future.”

The SAC is deeply grateful to outgoing Board members Rüdiger Fox, CEO/Chief Environmental Activist at Sympatex, and Jonas Eder-Hansen, COO at Global Fashion Agenda, whose dedicated service and invaluable contributions have guided the organization’s strategic direction and initiatives throughout their tenure.

Learn more about SAC’s governance and view the current Board of Directors on our website today.

Originally published on Built From Scratch

ATLANTA, July 27, 2023 /3BL/ – Today, The Home Depot released its 2023 ESG Report. The report provides details on the company’s progress on its environmental, social and governance (ESG) pillars: Focus on our People, Operate Sustainably and Strengthen our Communities. This year, the company achieved several of its ESG goals and set new ones to benefit its associates, customers, communities and the planet.

“Since the company’s inception, we have invested in running a responsible, sustainable company because it makes our business stronger, more agile, and more resilient,” said Ted Decker, chair, president and CEO of The Home Depot. “That has always encouraged good business practices and enabled us to consistently deliver industry-leading results.”

In 2022, the company reduced its Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by approximately 92,000 metric tons, equivalent to taking more than 20,000 cars off the road for a year. Recently, the company submitted new carbon reduction goals to the Science Based Target initiative for Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 “Use of Products Sold” emissions.

The Home Depot’s greatest environmental impact comes from the products it sells. By the end of fiscal year 2028, the company expects more than 85% of U.S. and Canadian sales in outdoor power equipment, specifically push lawn mowers and handheld outdoor equipment like leaf blowers and trimmers, will run on rechargeable battery technology instead of gas. Additionally, The Home Depot announced new goals related to helping customers save energy costs and reducing water usage through its products sold by 2026.

In a continued effort to create the best associate experience in retail, the company focuses on associate engagement, compensation, safety and training. Continuing its commitment to associate development, the company plans to provide 10 million hours to frontline associates for skill development and 2.5 million hours of training to leaders by 2028.

Since 2011, The Home Depot Foundation has contributed more than $450 million to veteran causes, and Team Depot has volunteered 1.4 million service hours to veteran causes. In 2022, The Home Depot Foundation granted $82 million, continuing to prioritize taking care of the communities where it operates, focusing on veteran causes, skilled trades training and disaster relief. By 2028, The Home Depot Foundation plans to invest $50 million to train skilled tradespeople, including veterans, to help close the skilled labor gap.

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