Month: August 2025

NEW YORK, August 27, 2025 /3BL/ – The security situation in eastern Ukraine has sharply deteriorated since late July, with Russian forces making significant advances and threatening densely populated areas of Donetsk oblast. Following a mandatory evacuation order issued by Ukrainian authorities on July 24th, a surge of over 14,000 evacuees occurred between August 1st and 10th, and the exodus continues.

Daily arrivals at the Pavlohrad Transit Center have increased from between 10 and 40 individuals in early July to over 300 in August. Children and families are prioritized for early evacuation, but displacement patterns indicate a broader wave of adult evacuees is expected soon. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), up to 43,500 additional people could be displaced in the coming weeks.

“Most evacuees are fleeing active combat zones by bus, arriving with minimal belongings, no income, and urgent humanitarian needs,” said Ionuț Raita, Country Director of Action Against Hunger in Ukraine. “They lack cash, basic household items, food, transport, and they need immediate mental health support to cope with the stress and make immediate decisions.”

Ukrainian authorities are opening new transit centers to deal with the influx of people who are escaping the war. However, the planned opening of a second transit center in Synelnykove, about 28 miles away from Pavlohrad, was cancelled after the site was shelled on August 9th. With no alternative site operational, pressure on the Pavlohrad Transit Center remains critical, leaving many families at risk of going without assistance.

The targeting of civilian infrastructure, including humanitarian facilities, constitutes a blatant violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). We urge all parties to the conflict to ensure safe humanitarian access and protect displaced populations.

Expanding Action Against Hunger’s Emergency Response

Action Against Hunger has launched a rapid Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) response to support over 1,500 newly displaced individuals. This intervention is part of a broader humanitarian response supported by the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA).

“Thanks to additional funding ensured by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), Action Against Hunger was able to extend assistance to 600 more people beyond the initial August 15th timeline, continuing through the end of the month,” Raita added. “However, due to insufficient funding, several humanitarian actors, have been forced to suspend distributions. Current resources have been insufficient since mid-August.”

Considering the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and the sharp increase in displacement, Action Against Hunger calls on international donors to maintain and strengthen their commitment to supporting the humanitarian response in Ukraine.

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Action Against Hunger leads the global movement to end hunger. We innovate solutions, advocate for change, and reach 21 million people every year with proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. As a nonprofit that works across over 55 countries, our 8,900 dedicated staff members partner with communities to address the root causes of hunger, including climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. We strive to create a world free from hunger, for everyone, for good.

EMERYVILLE, Calif., August 27, 2025 /3BL/ – Today, the Global Heat Reduction Initiative (GHR) released a first-of-its-kind methodology that will measure and reward the reduction in climate super pollutants achieved through more sustainable rice cultivation practices. In addition to covering the full range of greenhouse gases including the powerful climate pollutants, methane and nitrous oxide, it also accounts for black carbon emissions associated with burning and equipment operations. The methodology also enables users for the first time to assess the global heat reduction value of reducing these emissions over near-term timeframes, such as between now and 2030 or 2050.

“This methodology uses our Total Climate Accounting™ approach to add breadth and depth to the analysis of sustainable rice production projects and credits derived from them,” said Kiff Gallagher, GHR Executive Director. “This new level of information will bring enhanced value for project proponents in terms of climate impact and claims.”

GHR is now seeking public comments from stakeholders interested in providing inputs on the new “Methodology for Assessing Emission Reductions from Rice Cultivation.”

Rice, a cornerstone of global food security, currently drives 1.3%–1.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Rice paddy cultivation accounts for 10-12% of global methane emissions. Methane is far more potent than carbon dioxide in the years immediately after being released (80 times more potent over first 20 years), before eventually breaking down into carbon dioxide, which lasts for centuries. Nitrous oxide, another super pollutant, is associated with the production and application of synthetic fertilizers.

In addition to greenhouse gases, open field burning releases plumes of black carbon that fuel air pollution and global warming, with heat impacts many thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide while airborne. Over time, as black carbon particles fall back to earth, they can deposit on ice and snow, accelerating warming further. Yet despite its significant impacts on both health and climate, black carbon has thus far been largely omitted from current carbon markets, meaning that its mitigation is not currently incentivized. By quantifying black carbon emissions, the new methodology will enable farmers who demonstrate black carbon reductions to yield more credits compared to an approach that only looks at gases.

“Sustainable rice production, including reduced agricultural burning, is a meaningful opportunity to improve air quality and reduce near-term heat,” said Dr. Katie Kaku, GHR Senior Technical Director, who led the development of the methodology.

The methodology reflects GHR’s commitment to driving credible, high-impact mitigation strategies that address all heat drivers. The methodology was developed in consultation with agronomists, climate scientists, and policymakers across the globe to ensure the highest levels of integrity and accuracy.

GHR now invites rice producers, carbon market actors, scientists, and civil society organizations to review and comment on the methodology during its 30-day public consultation period, which begins August 27. The draft methodology and instructions for submitting comments can be found here.

READ MORE

Media Contact: 
media@heatreduction.com

SCS@browningenvironmental.com

About the Global Heat Reduction Initiative:

Global Heat Reduction Initiative combines cutting-edge methodology with expert advisory, enabling organizations to understand their total climate footprint, plan comprehensive mitigation strategies, and accelerate heat reduction. With this holistic view, organizations can prioritize interventions with the greatest climate return per dollar spent, unlock faster climate progress, and deliver immediate local benefits. Learn more at www.heatreduction.com.

SCS Global Services is an international leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verification, certification, auditing, and standards development with over 40 years of experience. Its programs span a cross-section of industries, recognizing achievements in climate mitigation, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, forestry, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe, and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to companies, agencies, and advocacy organizations due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS is a California-chartered Benefit Corporation, reflecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. SCS is also a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact and adheres to its principles-based approach to responsible business. For more information, www.SCSGlobalServices.com.

As the tech industry continues to grow, cultivating the next generation of innovators is essential. At AMD, our commitment to science, technology, engineering and mathematics education reflects a deep belief that investing in young minds today helps build the workforce of tomorrow.

In July 2025, AMD hosted more than 60 middle school students from Breakthrough Central Texas at our Austin campus for a day of hands-on STEM exploration. Breakthrough Central Texas is a college access non-profit organization that supports first-generation and underrepresented students from sixth grade through college. The event was designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence and expose students to real-world applications of STEM.

The day began with inspiring stories from AMD leaders, who shared how grit, creativity and a love of problem solving led them to careers in tech and gave students a chance to engage directly with the people behind our products.

The highlight came when students teamed up with AMD employee volunteers to design, build and race solar-powered cars. More than just a fun challenge, the activity sparked collaborative thinking and hands-on learning. As students overcame design obstacles and fine-tuned their cars, they discovered not only how solar energy works, but also how capable they truly are.

“When students see professionals who look like them and share similar backgrounds, it reinforces that they too can succeed in these careers,” said Holly Wissman, chief development and communications officer, Breakthrough Central Texas.

Mark Fuselier, senior vice president, technology and product engineering, AMD, added, “when we open doors to education, we open doors to a better future for everyone. Together, we advance possibilities.”

AMD is committed to investing in future innovators by creating opportunities that connect students to STEM in meaningful ways. Events like this not only strengthen our company’s partnership with Breakthrough Central Texas but also help cultivate the next generation of engineers, thinkers and leaders – one solar-powered car at a time.

Learn more about AMD STEM initiatives at www.amd.com/en/corporate/corporate-responsibility/digital-impact.html.

Tapping into different voices, perspectives, and experiences helps businesses solve problems, reveals new opportunities to grow, and encourages contributions that better support people and communities. At Henkel North America, diversity is a path to progress, innovation, and impact. Our employees and partners are united by our purpose: Pioneers at heart for the good of generations. They collaborate to tackle challenges, find solutions and open new perspectives – allowing us to deliver products, services, and innovations that enrich and improve everyday life.

We invite you to “meet” our pioneers in our series, “Pioneers for Good.”

Introducing Andy and Courtney

Andy Riddick, Plant Manager, and Courtney Dixon, Administrative Assistant, are catalysts for advocacy and engagement within the Bowling Green plant and across the neighboring areas. At Henkel’s largest manufacturing facility for laundry products, they are at the center of organizing volunteer efforts, donation drives, and building strong ties with local partners.

Through enthusiastic promotion of collaboration and service, Andy and Courtney foster a workplace culture where team members are empowered to make an impact. With a ‘lead-by-example’ approach, Andy and Courtney embody Henkel’s goal of creating lasting change in the communities Henkel calls home.

Immersing Henkel in the Community

Andy and Courtney pride themselves on their deep connection to the Bowling Green community – a value that has become core to their roles at Henkel. By focusing on team building, communication, and employee engagement, they champion activities that benefit the local community and create better environments for future generations.

“It’s our job to communicate with Henkel employees and encourage them to participate in donation and volunteer opportunities, bridging a connection and relationship with the community,” said Courtney.

Andy added, “Being a part of the community is almost a requirement of working here. Our coworkers are constantly bringing up new ideas to get involved and strengthen our community relationships.”

Henkel’s local community work focuses on creating a safer, stronger future for generations to come. The Bowling Green team organizes about 10 community service events with hundreds of employees participating every year.

Among their many community service events is the Barren River Area Child Advocacy Center’s Great Teddy Bear Run, an event advocating for children who are survivors of sexual abuse. Henkel supports the cause financially and employees join in the motorcycle ride and donate teddy bears to comfort children in need. Every small gesture helps to make a big impact.

One of the newer opportunities for service was initiated by Henkel’s Military Veterans Employee Resource Group (ERG) – supporting the Foster Grandparents Program. This program provides senior volunteers an opportunity to support, mentor, and nurture children. To help these wonderful grandparent volunteers, Henkel donates pallets of laundry detergent, body soap and hair care products. Along with helping to ease costs, volunteers can use as a teaching tool for children in their care to learn basic activities such as washing a load of clothes.

When Henkel employees are unable to make it to a volunteer event, Andy and Courtney bring the event to them. For example, they organized a makeshift assembly line on the manufacturing floor, where employees came together to create care packages for a local women’s shelter. They go above and beyond for their community and inspire impactful actions among their coworkers, opening the door for larger change across their region.

Getting Their Hands Dirty

For Bowling Green employees, Mud Happens stands out as a signature example of their hands-on approach to making a difference. The annual, mud-filled 5k obstacle course event in August brings together thousands of people from all walks of life for a day of fun and of course mud, to raise awareness and help prevent child abuse. Henkel has been a sponsor of Mud Happens for over 10 years, contributing more than $60,000 to date, and proudly stepped up as title sponsor five years ago.

Courtney is central to Henkel’s sponsorship. She rallies the team of Henkel volunteers to coordinate the booth and Henkel product giveaways, and cheers on her colleagues who participate in the run. Through this shared experience, Henkel employees accomplish something exciting and meaningful together, strengthening their bond. See pictures below and read local news from this year’s event.

It’s a big deal to be part of this event; at least 5,000 residents come out to support this amazing cause. It means a lot to us to have Henkel’s name closely associated with it – whether we’re handing out laundry samples, running our booth, or our employees are taking part in the activities.

Courtney Dixon, Administrative Assistant

The Lasting Value of Community Engagement

Andy, Courtney, and all the volunteers at Henkel’s Bowling Green facility demonstrate that meaningful community engagement isn’t always about grand gestures—it’s about showing up, being present, and investing in relationships over time. Through their actions and events like Mud Happens, they have shown that each conversation, hour volunteered, and kind gesture can add up to something transformative.

To hear and see the excitement of the people you are connecting with and making a difference together is something that can’t be replaced, those moments are truly unforgettable.

Andy Riddick, Plant Manager

HONG KONG, August 27, 2025 /3BL/ – Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, announced the six students who emerged as winners of the 2025 FedEx/Junior Achievement International Trade Challenge (FedEx/JA ITC) Hong Kong Finals. The winning students demonstrated exceptional creativity and business acumen that earned them the opportunity to represent Hong Kong at the Asia Pacific Finals in Singapore this August, where they will compete against top young entrepreneurs from eight different markets^[1].

FedEx and JA ITC have been nurturing Hong Kong’s youth for 19 years through the FedEx/JA ITC program, equipping students with real-world business skills through teamwork activities and practical workshops. The Hong Kong Finals were held at the FedEx office on July 19, where the three winning teams scored high with their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to clinch their spots at the Regional Finals.

This year, the students tackled the challenge of developing a market entry strategy for a product aimed at addressing fast fashion waste from returns, with China as the target market.

The six students representing Hong Kong at the regionals are:

1. Team: Cycloo
   Names of students: Cheung Kiu Nga Tanya & Zhu Qixuan Amy
   School: Ying Wa Girls’ School
   Business idea: Semi-Alive Mycelium silk – Replanting discarded clothes to grow new fungi and produce new clothes.
    
2. Team: Mud Dauber
   Names of students: So Royden & Lai Asta Hiuyan
   School: Sha Tin College
   Business idea: A WeChat mini-program which uses facial recognition to conduct AI-powered colour analysis for smarter shopping decisions and reducing waste.
    
3. Team: Verdant Wear
   Names of students: Yuen Ji Kei Kelly & Chong Kan Yi Christina
   School: St. Paul’s School (Lam Tin)
   Business idea: Verdant Wear Smart Fitting System – A 360° virtual try-on, powered by smart mirrors and mobile apps, ensuring millimeter-accurate fit simulations and slashing returns due to sizing errors.

A panel of professional judges comprising Anthony Leung, managing director, FedEx, Hong Kong and Macau; Janice Wong, Senior Vice President – AI and Innovation Strategy, Nan Fung and an alumna of ITC; Vivian Choi, Chief Executive Officer, Junior Achievement Hong Kong, as well as two senior managers from FedEx Hong Kong Operations, assessed the teams on several criteria: the comprehensiveness of their business plans, market analysis and creativity.

The Regional Finals will bring together winning teams from across the region for an in-person competition in Singapore. Winners from the Hong Kong Finals will join students from other markets to collaborate, exchange ideas and compete in a dynamic cross-cultural business challenge.

“We are proud to collaborate with Junior Achievement for the 19th year, as we continuously strive together to empower Hong Kong’s youth with the essential skills and mindset needed to thrive within the global economy, particularly in today’s dynamic market environment,” said Anthony Leung, managing director of FedEx Hong Kong and Macau. “This year’s challenge encourages students to resolve real-world business issues with bold, innovative thinking. Through the FedEx/JA ITC program, we are nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs who will drive Hong Kong’s future business success.”

“It is a privilege to continue our longstanding collaboration with FedEx, building on our shared commitment to mentoring and guiding Hong Kong’s youth to gain global business perspectives and entrepreneurial skills,” said Vivian Choi, Chief Executive Officer of Junior Achievement Hong Kong. “Our annual competition inspires students to develop innovative ideas by honing their critical thinking in addressing evolving business needs. Fostering creativity and cross-cultural understanding enables young leaders to be well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to Hong Kong’s future and beyond. We look forward to seeing more students embracing these opportunities to grow and lead the way as tomorrow’s business innovators.”

FedEx has worked with Junior Achievement since 2007 to provide Hong Kong’s youth with invaluable global business opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing future entrepreneurs. Over the years, the FedEx/JA ITC program has engaged more than 5,500 local students through hands-on workshops, with more than 1,100 competing in the Hong Kong Finals and 113 representing the city in regional competitions.

For more details on the 2025 FedEx/JA ITC, visit the JA Hong Kong website here.

Click here to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

^[1]Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.

AUSTIN, Texas, August 27, 2025, /3BL/ – Whole Foods Market Foundation announced today that 950 garden grants will be awarded to schools to start or expand edible learning spaces. For the second year, Amazon Fresh is supporting the program with $150,000, funding 48 garden grants. New this year, 100 select garden grant recipients are receiving additional funding totaling $100,000 from Newman’s Own Foundation to further their garden programs. The total $3.425 million investment will serve 554,385 students by providing $3,500 grants in the U.S and Canada. This year’s award is the largest annual investment in the garden grant program since inception.

Research from the University of Texas at Austin shows that students who participate in gardening, nutrition, and cooking classes eat more vegetables per day than they did before the programs. Plus, edible gardens support a wide range of classroom curriculums including science, nutrition, math, and art.

The program is one of the Foundation’s longest-running annual grants and has provided over $24 million to support more than 9,700 edible gardens benefiting over 6 million students since 2011.

Since 2011, Whole Foods Market Foundation has invested over $200 million supporting over 16,000 partner organizations and schools in 81countries around the world.

For more information, visit wholefoodsmarketfoundation.org/funding-announcements. 

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ABOUT WHOLE FOODS MARKET FOUNDATION

Whole Foods Market Foundation works to nourish people and the planet by providing access to essential resources to improve nutrition and create opportunities for financial stability. The registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, based in Austin, Texas, encompasses the pillars of Whole Cities, Whole Kids and Whole Planet. For more information on the Foundation’s work, visit wholefoodsmarketfoundation.org. For ongoing news and updates, follow Whole Foods Market Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

Sandra Mariscal, Director of Philanthropy
Sandra.Mariscal@wholefoods.com