Northern Trust Releases Latest Philanthropic Impact Report

CHICAGO, April 17, 2025 /3BL/ – Northern Trust (Nasdaq: NTRS) donated more than $14 million last year to non-profit organizations around the world that are working to provide food and housing security, healthcare access and educational opportunities.

Additionally in 2024, Northern Trust contributed $70 million to the Northern Trust Foundation for future charitable gifts, and employees gave nearly 120,000 hours of their time to support charitable organizations globally. Over the past decade, Northern Trust has donated $240 million to nonprofits worldwide.

These key data points – and some of the stories behind the numbers – are detailed in Northern Trust’s 2024 Philanthropic Impact Report.

“This report outlines important work done by Northern Trust and our employees in all corners of the globe, supporting individuals with food and housing security, healthcare access and educational opportunities,” Chief Social Impact Officer Shana Hayes said. “Studies show that when essential human needs are met, benchmarks of long-term financial success—career opportunities, savings and home ownership—rise substantially, and paths to improved opportunity become more accessible. In support of those paths, Northern Trust continues to deploy our long-term community investment strategy designed to drive individual advancement and broader wealth creation.”

“I’m also thrilled that our employees set a new record for volunteerism in 2024, dedicating time during our global month of service and throughout the year to benefit 2,000 organizations and countless individuals.”

In all, Northern Trust’s Philanthropic Impact in 2024 included:

  • Food Security: 4,255,935 meals provided
  • Affordable Housing: 252,189 nights of safe shelter
  • Quality Education: 47,871 students received guidance and education
  • Accessible Healthcare: 158,326 individuals received healthcare services

Northern Trust offers staff two paid days annually to volunteer with charitable organizations and awards grants for eligible charitable organizations where our employees volunteer. During “Achieving Greater Together,” our signature month of service in October, employees hosted blood donation drives in India, walked shelter dogs in Luxembourg, packed hygiene kits for the unhoused in the Philippines, assisted with food donations in the United Kingdom and prepared meals at local Ronald McDonald Houses in the U.S.

In all, staff contributed a record 61,000 hours of service during the month for more than 1,600 nonprofit organizations in 20 countries. Northern Trust also donates 50 meals for every hour employees volunteered during the month of October through The Global FoodBanking Network, European Food Banks Federation and Feeding America. This year, Northern Trust contributed more than 3 million meals.

Examples of work Northern Trust has helped fund, as highlighted in the report, include:

Food Security
Citymeals on Wheels, New York City

In New York City, many housebound seniors suffer from hunger and loneliness. Citymeals on Wheels steps in to ensure older people have continuous access to food every day of the week, backed by donors like Northern Trust. Because Citymeals’ staff and volunteers deliver door-to-door, they provide a lifeline of vital human contact. Last year, they delivered over 2 million meals.

“Volunteers don’t just deliver nourishment but compassion to our neighbors, too many of whom live alone,” said Northern Trust Wealth Management Northeast President Carlos Arrizurieta, who serves on Citymeal’s board.

Housing
Raphael House, San Francisco, California

Raphael House helps low-income and unhoused families build better lives through stable housing and financial independence. Raphael House assists each family to search for a permanent home, while providing them with a private room, meals and clothing. Families also participate in a variety of ongoing supportive programs, such as financial literacy and career development, so they can work toward self-sufficiency. The Adopt-a-Family program gave 165 families essential resources and holiday assistance in 2024, with funding from Northern Trust and others. Northern Trust Wealth Strategist Richard Toft is part of the Raphael House executive leadership council.

“I can’t express in words how much Raphael House has saved each of us when we were in our darkest moments,” said one Raphael House client. “Thanks so much again a million, zillion times over.”

Education
Circle Collective, London

Circle Collective supports young people facing barriers to permanent, life-changing work. It gives them the tools to achieve financial independence for the longer term as well as on-the-job experience to boost skills and self-belief. In the past year, its training assisted 67 young people, including two corporate insight sessions in which Northern Trust employees gave interactive workshops on presentation skills and career paths. Circle Collective also took part in a recruitment session at Northern Trust’s London office where varied teams described potential job opportunities. These live sessions with seasoned professionals are key to building young people’s confidence and set them on the path to success.

“The insights from Northern Trust gave me a clearer perspective and the confidence to make better decisions,” said one Circle Collective participant. “The presentation part especially helped me feel more confident for my interviews and in speaking with professionals.”

Healthcare
Suhrud Mandal, Pune, India

Every year, 25,000 babies in India are born with hearing impairments, leading to huge learning, social and development challenges. Early intervention—hearing aids, language training and tailored education—can change their future and Suhrud Mandal in Pune has been dedicated to supporting such children since 1973. Four special schools for 450 students provide not just basic reading, writing and math but also sports, arts and vocational skills, helping pupils gain confidence and independence. Northern Trust’s support in the past year has allowed the schools to upgrade classrooms, add new computers and enhance training facilities. Funding has also provided essential equipment and meals, ensuring the continuity of the school.

“Hearing aids are precious for deaf children, and these are digital and tailormade to take into consideration the hearing impairment of each child,” said one teacher at Suhrud Mandal. “Hearing-impaired students are now able to have conversations with others, making them feel happier and more connected.”

About Northern Trust

Northern Trust Corporation (Nasdaq: NTRS) is a leading provider of wealth management, asset servicing, asset management and banking to corporations, institutions, affluent families and individuals. Founded in Chicago in 1889, Northern Trust has a global presence with offices in 24 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., and across 22 locations in Canada, Europe, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region. As of December 31, 2024, Northern Trust had assets under custody/administration of US$16.8 trillion, and assets under management of US$1.6 trillion. For more than 135 years, Northern Trust has earned distinction as an industry leader for exceptional service, financial expertise, integrity and innovation. Visit us on northerntrust.com. Follow us on Instagram @northerntrustcompany or Northern Trust on LinkedIn.

Northern Trust Corporation, Head Office: 50 South La Salle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603 U.S.A., incorporated with limited liability in the U.S. Global legal and regulatory information can be found at https://www.northerntrust.com/terms-and-conditions.

Contacts

Media Contact:
Doug Holt
Northern Trust
(312) 557-1571
Doug.Holt@ntrs.com

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Once Upon a Coconut Becomes The Official Coconut Water of Major League Pickleball

ORLANDO, Fla., April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Once Upon a Coconut, a premium coconut water brand renowned for its refreshing taste and electrolyte-packed beverages, has signed on as the official coconut water of Major League Pickleball (MLP) in a multi-year deal. This exciting new partnership will bring the brand’s clean, healthy hydration to pickleball fans and athletes across MLP’s 10 regular season events, mid-season tournament, playoffs, and the MLP Cup in November.

The 2025 MLP season will kick off in Orlando, Florida, from April 24-27, and will run through August—with the season champion-crowning 2025 MLP Finals NYC—in addition to the standalone MLP Cup in November. Throughout these events, Once Upon a Coconut will hydrate athletes and fans while raising awareness of the brand’s commitment to delivering better-for-you hydration and making a positive impact in communities.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Major League Pickleball, a league that reflects energy, competition, and excellence—values that Once Upon a Coconut shares,” said John Chiorando, CEO of Once Upon a Coconut. “We’re excited to bring our coconut water to an even broader audience, offering a healthy, delicious alternative to sugary sports drinks.”

Once Upon a Coconut, known for its premium coconut water sourced from young green coconuts in Vietnam, provides a natural hydration option with no added sugars. The brand offers a variety of refreshing coconut water flavors, including Premium, Pineapple, Chocolate, Watermelon, Blueberry, and Energy. Beyond great taste, Once Upon a Coconut is committed to sustainability and community impact. The brand packages its coconut water in eco-friendly aluminum cans and plants a tree for every case sold through its Greenspark partnership. Additionally, Once Upon a Coconut donates 10% of its profits to nonprofit organizations such as the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida and NAMI, furthering its mission to support both the environment and communities in need.

About Major League Pickleball (MLP presented by DoorDash)

Founded in 2021, Major League Pickleball (MLP presented by DoorDash) is the preeminent, coed, team-based professional pickleball league, featuring over 100 of the best athletes across 22 teams, iconic team owners, and the most electric live events and fan experience in the sport. In 2024, MLP and the PPA Tour merged under the newly-formed United Pickleball Association (UPA), bringing together the leading professional pickleball organizations under a single entity.

Visit the official website and follow MLP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for more.

About Once Upon a Coconut

Once Upon a Coconut is a premium coconut water brand dedicated to delivering refreshing, natural hydration while making a positive community impact. Launched in 2020, the brand sources young green coconuts from Vietnam, packaging them in eco-friendly slim aluminum cans to promote sustainability. Available in six delicious flavors—Premium, Pineapple, Chocolate, Watermelon, Blueberry, and Energy—Once Upon a Coconut can be found in over 6,000 retail stores nationwide, on Amazon, and through its official website.

As a mission-driven company, Once Upon a Coconut donates 10% of profits from each case sold to nonprofits such as the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Through its Greenspark partnership, the brand plants a tree for every case sold, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Once Upon a Coconut is backed by prominent investors, including Shark Tank’s Daymond John; NFL stars Rob Gronkowski and Ronnie Stanley; St. Louis Cardinals Manager Oliver Marmol; and Health & Wellness Board members Gary Brecka and Ben Greenfield.

For more information, visit www.onceuponacoconut.com and follow @onceuponacoconut on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

Media Contact:
Destiny John
919-605-2116
393579@email4pr.com

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SOURCE Once Upon A Coconut

IOC Welcomes Recognition of Sport as a Tool for Gender Equality and Empowerment in Declaration Adopted by the Commission on the Status of Women

International Olympic Committee news

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has welcomed the Political Declaration adopted unanimously by the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) in New York, reaffirming the importance of sport as a vehicle for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.

As stated in paragraph 11 of the declaration, UN Member States “also recognize the contributions of all women and girls, including adolescent girls, to their societies, and the opportunities to strengthen these contributions in decision making processes, and as agents of change as well as ensuring their equal access to safe, accessible and affordable digital technology and to inclusive and equitable quality education, including physical education and sports, and promote life-long learning as well as access to health-care services and to empower them and fulfill all their human rights and fundamental freedoms, and end all forms of violence and discrimination against them.”

This acknowledgment builds upon a strong history of the CSW consistently recognising the contribution of sport to gender equality.

The transformative power of sport in accelerating gender equality

Speaking at a high-level ministerial roundtable organised by the Mission of Qatar, IOC Member Laura Chinchilla underlined the transformative power of sport in accelerating gender equality and social development. She urged Member States to engage more strongly with the sports sector for the advancement of social development of women and girls.

Participating in sports helps women and girls complete education, gain skills, and boost their economic contribution. Since 1995, sport has been repeatedly recognised by UN Member States as a powerful enabler of gender equality. This was reaffirmed yesterday, in the CSW69 Political Declaration.

Laura Chinchilla
IOC Member

Highlighting the efforts of the IOC and the Olympic Movement to close gender gaps on and off the field of play, her address also reaffirmed ongoing collaboration with public authorities, the UN, development banks, the private sector and civil society to promote the social development of women by enhancing safe and inclusive access to sport.

Chinchilla also highlighted the economic potential of sport, noting that the sector has grown by over 5 per cent annually for the past two decades and is projected to continue expanding. Chinchilla noted that despite these proven benefits, sport remains an underutilised tool in many government policies.

She called upon policymakers to collaborate with the sports movement to invest in safe, equal and inclusive sporting opportunities for women and girls, and emphasised that governments have a unique opportunity to leverage sport as a cost-effective tool for the development of women and girls, supported by development financing institutions.

Recognising the role of sport in advancing sustainable development

Since 1995, sport has been referenced in multiple policy documents pertaining to the rights of women and girls, notably the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, Beijing+5, and past Agreed Conclusions of the CSW. These documents have repeatedly emphasised the role of sport in fostering leadership, economic empowerment and social inclusion for women and girls.

The inclusion of sport in the CSW69 Political Declaration marks another milestone in the ongoing recognition of its role in sustainable development. As governments, international organisations and stakeholders continue to advance gender equality, sport remains a powerful catalyst for positive change worldwide.

Gathered at the UN Headquarters from 10 to 21 March, participants in this year’s CSW will take part in a series of meetings and discussions looking back on the developments since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration in 1995, and looking forward to the Second World Summit on Social Development – due to be held in Doha from 4 to 6 November 2025.

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Latest Study Confirms Shift in ESG for Private Market Investors, However, the Imperative of Sustainability as a Value Driver Remains Strong

April 17, 2025 /3BL/ – The latest research from the third ‘State of ESG’ report by Malk Partners (Malk), a company of SLR, surveying Portfolio Companies and General Partners (GP) representing $2.6T in total Assets Under Management (AUM) found sentiment remains strong around delivering on sustainability ambitions, however there is reserved hesitation on ESG given political volatility.

Adoption of foundational ESG programming by portfolio companies and GPs maintains strong momentum, with 99% of survey respondents sharing that they integrate ESG into the investment process with some combination of firm-level ESG accountability, investment ESG diligence, and portfolio stewardship. Nonetheless, the findings reveal a shift in ESG engagement due to political pressure, particularly in the U.S. where a quarter (25%) of GPs may look to scale back their ESG integration efforts, while almost a third (30%) are planning to reduce ESG communication, highlighting the continued influence of anti-ESG sentiment in the political climate.

Despite the retraction of external-facing initiatives, ESG demand by Limited Partners (LP) continue to be a key driver of GP ESG programming (87%). Additionally, many GPs recognize the significant business benefits that can be realized through thoughtful ESG integration, with 41% of GPs citing value creation as a primary motivation for their ESG efforts, while 60% of portfolio companies believe there is potential to capture financial value through ESG.

This notion is further supported by GPs and portfolio companies in their approaches to prioritizing and addressing the challenges of climate and decarbonization. Notably, 58% of GPs and 42% of portfolio companies are now tracking emissions, marking an increase of 9% and 12% from 2023, respectively. While the journey toward achieving ESG-driven value is still evolving, it is evident that underlying sustainability factors are an essential component of success in today’s market.

Anastassia Bougakova, Senior Vice President, Head of Multi-Strategy Advisory & Solutions at Malk says: “Our research indicate that while ESG terminology may continue to shift – with 41% of respondents rebranding away from the ESG acronym – there is significant alignment between LPs, GPs, and portfolio companies on many underlying sustainability value drivers, such as climate resilience, employee wellbeing, and supply chain transparency. GPs continue to integrate ESG data and performance management into their fund-level programming, often at the request of LPs. Meanwhile, private market companies are increasingly seeing sustainability disclosure requests not just from their investors, but from customers, regulators, and employees. No matter what we call it in public discourse, sustainability is becoming synonymous with business resilience and is here to stay.” 

For a more detailed analysis of the research, download the full report: https://malk.com/esg-report/

ENDS

Notes to editors:

About Malk Partners

Malk Partners (Malk) is the leading advisor to private market investors for creating and protecting value through environmental, social, and governance (ESG) management and impact investing. Founded in 2009, Malk has supported many of the world’s top alternatives managers – including those in private equity, growth equity, venture capital, and private credit – by helping define ESG goals, achieve meaningful results, and guide portfolio companies in driving value creation and mitigating risks.

In October 2024, Malk was acquired by SLR, a global sustainability consultancy with over 4,500 technical consulting and strategic advisory professionals across Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Canada, North America and Latin America. Combining this global footprint with rich technical expertise and deep strategic knowledge, Malk can leverage expanded capabilities and resources to deliver world-class ESG strategies for its clients. Together, we bring a shared purpose of ‘Making Sustainability Happen,’ supporting businesses and investors across diverse industries and project life cycles.

For more information, please visit: www.malk.com

About SLR

SLR is a leading global environmental and advisory consultancy, with a team of over 4,400 talented professionals operating from a network of offices in Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Africa. With the purpose of ‘Making Sustainability Happen’, SLR’s ‘One Team’ of environmental and business consultants, engineers and scientists partner with clients throughout their project life-cycle, from strategy and design, through compliance and operations, to end-of-life and remediation.

Working on diverse and challenging projects, SLR specialises in the built environment, finance, industry, infrastructure, mining & minerals, and power & renewables sectors. Operating across more than 45 technical disciplines, SLR staff help a growing base of business, regulatory and government clients navigate the ever-shifting context of sustainable business.

Find out more about SLR: www.slrconsulting.com

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FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS AND MAKE-A-WISH HOST FIRST-EVER BAKE-A-WISH CHALLENGE IN HONOR OF WORLD WISH DAY

The event brought together top Fairmont chefs and wish alumni to create new signature confections, which will debut on Fairmont menus worldwide

NEW YORK, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Leading luxury hospitality brand Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is continuing its global partnership with Make-A-Wish, collaborating to host the first-ever Bake-A-Wish challenge. The event brought together young Make-A-Wish alumni, former wish recipients with a passion for food and cooking, with three of Fairmont’s top chefs for a friendly culinary showdown at Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle.

The bake-off, hosted by content creator and on-camera personality, Melanie Sutrathada, challenged both Make-A-Wish alumni – Roux (18), Theo (9), and Jacqueline (16) – and Fairmont chefs – Chef Nancy Guerrero from Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, Chef Isabel Chung from Fairmont Empress in Victoria, and Chef Eraj Jayawickreme from Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle – to create the world’s most ‘wish worthy’ dessert. Each ‘wish alum’ was paired with a chef to collaborate and share ideas for their dream dessert. From there, the chefs were tasked to create an ultimate sweet treat inspired by their partner, and based off their preferred flavors, textures, colors and toppings. The final three creations will be added to select menus across the global network of 92 Fairmont hotels, giving guests a taste of the dreamy desserts and benefiting Make-A-Wish.

“For more than 115 years, we have been turning moments into special memories for our guests, celebrating their most significant occasions, both big and small. It is incredibly meaningful to us to carry this forward and help make dreams a reality for children facing critical illnesses around the globe, through our partnership with Make-A-Wish,” said Omer Acar, CEO of Fairmont. “Now we are excited to bring a little bit of that magic to Fairmont hotels worldwide. This is just one small way we are honoring the amazing things Make-A-Wish does, and the inspiring legacy of World Wish Day. We hope you love these dream-inspired desserts as much as we do!”

The three Make-A-Wish alumni were given a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity and passion for food alongside three of the brand’s most talented chefs. The chefs participating in this special event brought their wealth of knowledge and diverse culinary backgrounds to add a rich flavor and depth to the experience. Each pairing was encouraged to dream big to inspire a truly one-of-a-kind dessert.

S’mores Cake

Roux’s love for cooking, special fondness for chocolate and marshmallows, and recent wish trip to New York City inspired Chef Eraj’s special dessert. This creation was about more than just flavor – it was about connection. The graham cracker cake featured decadent, rich chocolate, complemented by a graham cracker-infused crème anglaise and topped with fresh marshmallows made from scratch that were delicately piped and torched tableside, filling the air with a smoky aroma, evoking the treasured moments of sharing s’mores with loved ones under the stars. Chef Eraj crafted this dessert to celebrate both the joy of the moment with Roux and the cherished memories they will carry from the experience.

Coconut Tres Leches with Caramelized Pineapple

Theo found inspiration for his dessert from a cherished family tradition of baking a pineapple upside-down cake with his grandfather, combined with his love for piña colada mocktails, which he enjoyed during a recent trip to Hawaii – part of his wish granted by Make-A-Wish. Chef Nancy crafted a Coconut Tres Leches with Caramelized Pineapple, blending those beloved flavors to create a dessert that would transport Theo back to those joyful memories.

Passionfruit Strawberry Yogurt Cake

Jacqueline’s deep love for strawberries became the heart of Chef Isabel’s creation – a dessert that intertwines flavors inspired by Jacqueline’s Guatemalan heritage. Infused with passionfruit, lychee, and the rich essence of her family’s chocolate production in Guatemala, the result is a Passionfruit Strawberry Yogurt Cake. To add a personal touch, delicate pink and white edible flower petals adorn the cake, a tribute to the colors Jacqueline chose for her Quinceañera, her wish granted by Make-A-Wish. As a heartfelt finishing detail, the dessert is plated on a black dish, symbolizing Jacqueline’s six-month-old Labradoodle. 

During the Bake-A-Wish event, Chef Isabel’s Strawberry Yogurt Cake received the highest marks from the host and judges, earning her the winning title of the competition. Though the original intent was to feature only the winning dessert, Fairmont was so wowed by all three creations, and the wish alumni and the stories that inspired them, that the hotels will have the option of featuring any of the three desserts. Launching on World Wish Day, April 29th, Fairmont hotels will select one of the three Bake-A-Wish creations to be offered for a limited time with proceeds donated back to Make-A-Wish. World Wish Day is the anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish, a day focused on raising awareness and support for granting wishes to children with critical illnesses.

“We are excited to announce our latest partnership with Fairmont, a brand that shares our dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for families,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “It takes an entire community of WishMakers to grant wishes that can be life-changing for everyone involved, and we’re extremely grateful for Fairmont’s support of our mission.”

“Wishes have the power to transform lives, bringing much-needed hope and joy to children facing critical illnesses and their families,” said Luciano Manzo, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish International. “Our partnership with Fairmont enables us to reach more children worldwide, allowing them to experience the lasting impact of a wish.”

Fairmont’s World Wish Day programming is a continuation of the ‘Wishes Start Here‘ program, a global partnership between Fairmont and Make-A-Wish, which made its debut in 2022. The legacy of the partnership extends much longer, however, with more than 20 years of bringing hope, strength, and joy to children around the world by granting wishes together.

Supporting images can be found HERE.

About Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is renowned for the international luxury hospitality brand’s unrivalled portfolio of more than 92 extraordinary hotels where grand moments of life, heartfelt pleasures and personal milestones are celebrated and remembered long after any visit. From grand hotels to urban retreats, since 1907 Fairmont has created magnificent, meaningful and unforgettable hotels, rich with character and deeply connected to the history, culture and community of its destinations – renowned addresses such as The Plaza in New York City, The Savoy in London, Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Banff Springs in Canada, Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, Fairmont Doha and Fairmont The Palm in Dubai. Fairmont hotels are the social epicenters of their cities—iconic gathering places where people, culture, and ideas converge. Famous for its engaging service, awe-inspiring public spaces, locally inspired cuisine, and iconic bars and lounges, Fairmont also takes great pride in its pioneering approach to hospitality and leadership in sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Fairmont is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,600 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL, a loyalty program and booking platform providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

fairmont.com | all.accor.com | group.accor.com 

About Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Founded in 1980, Make-A-Wish is the world’s leading children’s wish-granting organization, having granted more than 615,000 wishes in nearly 50 countries worldwide. Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and more than 27,000 volunteers around the globe, Make-A-Wish delivers hope and joy to children and their families when they need it most. Make-A-Wish aims to bring the power of wishing to every child with a critical illness because wish experiences can help improve emotional and physical health. For more information about Make-A-Wish International, visit worldwish.org and for more information about Make-A-Wish America, visit wish.org

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SOURCE Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Williams Employees to Volunteer and Complete More Than 100 Projects in Communities Nationwide

TULSA, Okla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Williams Employees to Volunteer and Complete More Than 100 Projects in Communities Nationwide

Driving Business Value: Embracing Circularity

This article is authored by Jenelle Shapiro, Sustainability and Circularity Leader, Trane Technologies.

We live in an era where finite materials and critical resources are being depleted at an alarming rate. To ensure the long-term health of our business and a thriving planet, we need to rethink how we leverage our limited resources while reducing our emissions. But how do we achieve that goal? Enter circularity – a system designed to maximize the functional life and value of products and materials while tackling climate change and biodiversity loss.

At Trane Technologies, we’ve embarked on a pioneering journey to build circularity into the core of our business, implementing circular systems throughout our value chain to drive innovation and impact at all levels.

By rethinking traditional design and production processes, we’ll spark the development of new materials and technologies. By expanding our internal systems and external supplier processes for material repurpose and repair, we’ll safeguard the environment and our supply chain. And by integrating circular systems throughout our operations, we’ll create improved business models that deliver long-term value.

A circularity definition

At its highest level, circularity is a system that maintains the value and usability of products, materials and resources for as long as possible while minimizing waste. To achieve this goal, we source products, equipment and materials efficiently and preserve their value to the fullest extent by reusing, redistributing, remanufacturing or recycling.

By embracing circularity, we’re creating a business ecosystem that is both more resilient and less carbon-intensive. The result? A future where the full transition to a circular economy helps scale profitability.

Six key circularity pillars

Our circularity strategy focuses on six key pillars that touch every stage of our value chain, from initial product design to end-of-life.

  • Sustainable & circular design: We plan for the full equipment lifecycle during the product design stage, creating systems that are easily repaired, refurbished or recycled.
  • Material selection: As we select materials, we prioritize those with low environmental impact, incentivizing a circular and sustainable supply chain.
  • Maintain, prolong, share: We keep products and materials in use by maintaining them to extend their useful life while minimizing upgrades and unnecessary replacements.
  • Reuse, redistribute: We use products and components multiple times for their intended purpose without significant modification, conserving valuable resources.
  • Remanufacture, repair: Instead of disposal, we return our products or components into good working order by prioritizing upgrades, repairs, refurbishments or replacements of disassembled parts.
  • Recycle: Whenever possible, we transform our scrap and end-of-life products back into their base materials to reprocess them into new products, minimizing waste and maximizing material quality and value.

Measuring impact: our circularity goals and key performance indicators 

Our primary goal is to increase our circularity capabilities throughout the business and reduce embodied carbon in our products and operations. Achieving this will help us reduce waste, conserve resources and create shared value with our customers and suppliers.

These circularity approaches will help us achieve our bold 2030 Sustainability Commitments – specifically our targets to reduce embodied carbon in our products by 40%, increase circularity in our systems design and send zero waste to landfills.

We’ve created several key performance indicators (KPIs) that will help us stay on target, including measuring the use of circular materials, tracking circular services and solutions and quantifying our greenhouse gas emissions impact. These high-level indicators are designed to help teams across our business set their own specific circularity targets to drive a circular transition at deeper levels of the organization.

Walking the walk: our circularity strategies, tools and resources

From design concept to end-of-life, our circularity strategies touch every facet of our value chain. Our core strategies include:

  • Increasing our ability to integrate circularity considerations during the product design phase, integrating repairability, ability to remanufacture and recyclability from day one
  • Reducing use of virgin, primary material while increasing and optimizing use of secondary, recycled or renewable alternatives
  • Incentivizing suppliers and third-party organizations throughout our value chain to reuse, repair and remanufacture whenever possible

To implement these strategies, we’re facilitating cross-functional collaborations within our organization and outside collaborators. Internally, 19 leaders representing every Trane Technologies business and region serve on our Circularity Council, working to align our sustainability goals with our business strategies. Many more participate in our circularity working groups, breaking down silos and barriers across our organization to implement the most impactful activities and business models.

Externally, we’re working with key suppliers to create reverse logistics models and extend their remanufacturing capabilities. In addition, we’re collaborating with industry alliances like the REMADE Institute and the Remanufacturing Industries Council, and engaging with coalitions that facilitate stakeholder and policy engagement, like the Circular Economy Coalition, the World Economic Forum and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development.

We’re also giving teams across our business concrete tools and resources to make progress and measure their impact. In 2024, we conducted a groundbreaking circularity maturity assessment, evaluating our entire business to assess what we are doing well today and where we want to scale tomorrow. This resource will serve as our baseline, helping us measure our progress.

Innovative new tools, like our Design for Sustainability and Circularity (DfSC) module, will help us leverage design as a mechanism for change. By utilizing the DfSC tool, business teams – including product management, engineering and operations – are expected to make design decisions reflective of both quantifiable and actionable product-level decisions.

Circularity outcomes: reducing emissions for our business and our customers 

The circularity work we do around resource efficiency, waste reduction and product life reduces our upstream and downstream Scope 3 emissions as we transition our business to a circular economy. For example, rethinking our product design may reduce our raw material needs. Using scrap waste at our facilities or integrating remanufactured or repaired components into our products decreases reliance on virgin inputs.

Our circularity work also helps our customers reduce their Scope 3 emissions by addressing the indirect emissions throughout the lifecycle of the products they use. For example, equipment containing recycled content, recovered components or remanufactured parts decreases these emissions. Design for durability and repairability helps reduce new material needs. Our support with asset recovery at end-of-life helps minimize disposal emissions.

Implementing these innovative circular systems will require hard work, investment and shifts in both our way of thinking and our business processes. But this hard work will create value in multiple ways. The beauty of circularity is that it’s not an “either/or” proposition: integrating these practices into our core business operations will achieve better environmental and better business outcomes.

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MEXC Ventures Launches IgniteX: A $30 Million Initiative to Foster Web3 Talent and Innovation

VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MEXC Ventures, the investment arm of the globally leading cryptocurrency exchange MEXC, has announced a $30 million allocation to support Web3 talent and accelerate innovation across the decentralized ecosystem. The investment initiative foresees a 5-year span and is part of the broader Corporate Social Responsibility effort by MEXC Ventures, “IgniteX,” in line with its global strategy of fostering sustainable blockchains through support and empowerment of young talents.

The purpose of the initiative undertaken by MEXC Ventures is to create a launchpad program that will serve as a hotbed for talent nurturing and idea development. The collaboration with Korea University’s Blockchain Research Institute will mark the beginning of the “IgniteX” initiative, with more details to be unveiled in an upcoming official announcement. MEXC will work closely with the institute on blockchain development, academic exchanges, and talent cultivation. MEXC Ventures encourages submissions from early-stage Web3 startups, research initiatives, developer communities, and academic institutions working on decentralized infrastructure, AI-integrated blockchain solutions, stablecoins, and fintech tools. MEXC Ventures aims to include mentorship, educational efforts, and funding as part of the program to create a future-ready blockchain ecosystem, thus ensuring a smooth transition for the next generation of users into Web3 and preparing a willing, enthusiastic, and well-trained pool of leaders to develop it further.

The impact-driven campaign will entail a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach that includes several key elements. The foundation will be the $30 million pledge, which will serve to fund education, project support, and development initiatives. The second part of the campaign will focus on organizing hackathons and developer engagement programs in the form of global events to identify and support emerging talents.

Education will form a major part of the campaign, with university scholarships and blockchain courses offered through partnerships with academic institutions. This step is crucial to making blockchain technologies and the underlying coding and programming languages more accessible to a greater number of potential developers and IT students. Mentorship programs will be launched in tandem to make sure talents have access to adequate training, event participation, and the experience of current Web3 leaders.

Lastly, strategic sector support will be implemented to ensure that funding is provided to promising projects. Special focus will be placed on initiatives developing stablecoins, AI-based solutions, and blockchain infrastructure elements.

As a CSR initiative, “IgniteX” adheres to achieving strategic objectives, which are based on building a pipeline of high-potential Web3 startups with early MEXC involvement for future cultivation and capitalization. This will have a positive impact on brand recognition for MEXC and position it as a strategic and valuable contributor to the development of Web3 space. The campaign will also help foster cross-border collaboration among all participants of the blockchain sector and promote diversity and inclusion based on shared blockchain values.

Through “IgniteX”, MEXC Ventures aims to create an impact on the global Web3 ecosystem by empowering potential future leaders and developers through education and responsible mentorship.

About MEXC Ventures

MEXC Ventures is a comprehensive fund under MEXC dedicated to driving innovation in the cryptocurrency sector through investments in L1/L2 ecosystems, strategic investments, M&A, and incubation. Upholding the principle of “Empowering Growth Through Synergy,” MEXC Ventures is committed to supporting innovative ideas and active builders in crypto.

MEXC Ventures is an investor and supporter of TON and Aptos, and looks forward to staying at the forefront of TON and Aptos innovations while actively engaging with builders to drive ecosystem growth.

For more information, visit: MEXC Ventures Website

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SOURCE MEXC

TAILG Shines at the 137th Canton Fair with a Diverse Lineup of Electric Vehicles

GUANGZHOU, China, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On April 15, the 137th Canton Fair opened in Guangzhou, attracting over 31,000 exhibitors and more than 60,000 overseas buyers attending in person. As a leader in electric two- and three-wheelers, TAILG has the largest booth in the industry, featuring 19 innovative models that captured international attention.

At the fair, TAILG showcases models including the Laser Armor Series, Feminine Series, high-speed electric motorcycles, cross-riders, and three-wheelers.

The Laser Armor Series, featuring a dual-headlamp mech design, captures attention with its striking mech aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. Notably, the F52 2025 model is equipped with the industry’s first V6 flat-wire wheel hub motor, integrating new energy technology for stronger power and extended range.

The Feminine Series, represented by the R53, addresses female riders’ daily mobility needs, while the step-through Series (T80PRO, T61L,T72L) offers long-range urban solutions. High-speed models S91PRO and S92PRO, with their mech-inspired aesthetics and exceptional performance, have gained recognition in international markets.

Visitors also experienced intelligent manufacturing and premium test-ride services at the Huizhou base.

On the opening day of the Canton Fair, the company secured key agreements and new orders, boosting its overseas expansion. From the delivery of the electric mobility project in Thailand to the base commissioning in Vietnam, from the office opening in Indonesia to its presence at EICMA 2024, TAILG has established seven global marketing centers, including benchmark markets in Southeast Asia like Vietnam and Indonesia. Facing global trade risks and opportunities, TAILG’s international expansion is steadily progressing.

As a pioneer in long-range electric vehicles, TAILG remains committed to a technology-driven global strategy and the advancement of low-carbon mobility.

Since becoming the UNEP E-Mobility Partner in 2019, TAILG’s international expansion has been highlighted by participation in the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) and a letter of appreciation from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, underscoring the company’s influence in E-Mobility.

About TAILG

TAILG Group was established in Shenzhen, China in 2003. It’s a group company integrating R&D, production, sales of electric two & three-wheelers, as well as the whole industry chain of sharing, charging and switching. TAILG has ten manufacturing bases worldwide with over 15 million units annually, and exports over 90 nations with more than 30,000 stores and served over 45 million consumers.

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SOURCE TAILG

TACO BELL BRINGS BACK FAN-FAVORITE CHICKEN NUGGETS WITH AMBITIONS TO MAKE CRISPY CHICKEN PERMANENT BY 2026

Following a sell-out launch and overwhelming fan demand, Crispy Chicken Nuggets return to menus on April 24 with permanent plans in the works

TLDR:

  • After fan demand sparked a sell-out last December, Crispy Chicken Nuggets return April 24 as the first step in Taco Bell’s plan to add crispy chicken to menus permanently by 2026.
  • Taco Bell tested over 50+ recipes and flavor combinations to perfect the crispy tortilla-chip breaded coating that makes these nuggets irresistible.
  • Bold by design, the nuggets are made with tender all-white meat chicken, marinated in zesty jalapeño buttermilk, complete with a tortilla-crumb coating.
  • Saucy sidekicks are back, including choice of Hidden Valley™ Fire Ranch Sauce, Bell Sauce, and Jalapeño Honey Mustard, all crafted for maximum dipping moments.
  • Crispy Chicken Nuggets and epic sauce pairing assets can be found here.

IRVINE, Calif., April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Taco Bell’s Crispy Chicken Nuggets are making a comeback on April 24, after selling out nationwide in December 2024 in less than a week. This time, they’re bringing bigger plans with them. Followed by a menu pipeline of chicken-led innovation, the nugget’s return is the start of Taco Bell’s journey to become a go-to destination for crispy chicken with a permanent mainstay by 2026.

“We’re a taco place doing chicken our own way and like all our best moments, it’s a little unexpected – because we’ve never been about following the rules,” said Taco Bell’s Chief Marketing Officer, Taylor Montgomery. “The demand for our nuggets was off the charts, which is why we’re looking at making crispy chicken permanent to give our fans what they are telling us they want. We know we’re not the usual name in crispy chicken, but our nuggets speak for themselves — they’re bold, different, and unmistakably Taco Bell.”

Crispy Chicken Dominance is Just Heating Up
After testing more than 50+ recipes and flavor combinations, Taco Bell perfected the crispy tortilla-chip breaded coating that’s set to join menus permanently in 2026. With new forms and sauce pairings in the works all year long, fans can expect even more craveable drops ahead, including a sweet and spicy collab with Mike’s Hot Honey®, coming later this year. As 95% of innovations from the Taco Bell test kitchen feature chicken as the premier protein, Taco Bell’s chicken dominance is becoming undeniable. From the Cantina Chicken Menu to tests like Chicken Al Pastor Street Chalupas, everyone’s favorite taco place is suddenly becoming everyone’s favorite chicken place.

Fueled by Cravings, Powered by Fans
Taco Bell’s Crispy Chicken has already earned global acclaim as a top-selling menu item, and the nationwide US debut proved to be just as iconic. During the initial run, roughly 5 million Americans turned to Taco Bell to satisfy their crispy chicken cravings. The response was overwhelming—almost 1 in 6 orders included Crispy Chicken Nuggets, leading to a nationwide sell-out in under a week. Message received: a taco joint can do chicken, too.

From day one, Taco Bell fans made it clear that the Crispy Chicken Nuggets were a “delish” smash hit. As many fans were left without the savory tortilla-chip coated goodness, the cultural obsession only grew as those desperate for nuggets demanded (even dreamt of) a comeback. That dream became reality at Live Más LIVE, where Taco Bell surprised superfans with the big reveal: Crispy Chicken Nuggets are making their return. And this is just the beginning—a bold new crispy chicken era is on the horizon.

Crispy Chicken Nuggets: Dip, Dunk, Devour
Fans know these aren’t the run of the mill nuggets. They’re built to defy expectations with every bite. Made with tender all-white meat chicken, Taco Bell’s Crispy Chicken Nuggets are marinated in a zesty jalapeño buttermilk flavor, breaded with a blend of breadcrumbs and crispy tortilla chips. First introduced as a bold remix on a comfort classic, they became a sell-out sensation, delivering unmatched flavor and texture with a crisp so mouthwatering, it’s confusingly good that they’re from Taco Bell.

Fans have a handful of ways to enjoy their nugget experience.

  • Crispy Chicken Nuggets a la carte: 
    • 5-piece nugget + 1 dipping sauce: $3.99*
    • 10-piece nugget + 2 dipping sauces: $6.99*
  • Crispy Chicken Nuggets Combo: Complete your meal with an order of regular Nacho Fries, nacho cheese sauce, and a large fountain drink.
    • 5-piece nugget combo + 1 dipping sauce: $5.99*
    • 10-piece nugget combo + 2 dipping sauces: $8.99*

Nuggets need the perfect sauce pairing—and fans made their favorite loud and clear. Hidden Valley™ Fire Ranch Sauce is back by popular demand after becoming the top-selected sauce for crispy chicken orders during the first run. It leads the returning trio from last year’s introduction alongside the tangy Bell Sauce and bold Jalapeño Honey Mustard, offering a crave-worthy lineup to elevate every dunk.

After dipping and dunking in their sauce of choice, fans can mail in their used, empty dipping cups throughout the month of April to earn 80 bonus Taco Bell Rewards points. Thanks to Taco Bell’s Sauce Container US Recycling Program partnership with TerraCycle®**, hundreds of thousands of used sauce packets and single-use sauce containers have been collected.

Keep an eye on social and LinkedIn to see how the crispy chicken craze comes to life.

About Taco Bell Corp.
For more than 62 years, Taco Bell has brought innovative, craveable Mexican-inspired food to the masses, and was recently recognized as one of Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies, one of TIME’s Most Influential Companies, and Nation’s Restaurant News’ Brand Icon. For more information about Taco Bell, visit our website at www.TacoBell.com, our Newsroom at www.TacoBell.com/news, or check out www.TacoBell.com/popular-links. You can also stay up to date on all things Taco Bell by following us on LinkedIn, TikTok, X, Instagram, Facebook and by subscribing to our YouTube channel.

*At participating locations for a limited time only, while supplies last. Contact restaurant for prices, hours and participation, which vary. Taxes extra. Prices higher with delivery. In combos and boxes, drinks exclude freezes.

**US only. Earn 80 Bonus Reward points when you recycle your used, empty sauce packets, sauce dipping cups, 2 oz souffle cups/lids, and coffee creamer pods with TerraCycle from 4/1/2025 – 4/30/2025 through 11:59 PM PST. (Taco Bell and any other brands accepted). Rewards members must use their Taco Bell Rewards account email address when they recycle on the TerraCycle site in order to receive the bonus points. 80 Bonus Points will only be rewarded one time per Taco Bell Rewards account regardless of the quantity of packets being recycled. Bonus Points will be reflected in Taco Bell Rewards account around mid-May 2025. No cash value. Taco Bell Rewards program is available at participating US locations and subject to terms and conditions. https://www.tacobell.com/terracycle.

Ronald Quintero – Taco Bell Corp.
Ronald.Quintero@yum.com

Rosie Herzog – Edelman
Rosie.Herzog@edelman.com 

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SOURCE Taco Bell Corp.