Charity Navigator Rates Direct Relief 100% for 2025

November 20, 2025 /3BL/ – Charity Navigator, America’s top independent nonprofit evaluator, has awarded Direct Relief an overall 100% charity rating for 2025. The recognition marks Direct Relief’s 15th consecutive Four-Star rating, underscoring sustained excellence, accountability, and measurable impact in advancing its humanitarian mission.

Direct Relief is one of just four organizations nationwide included on Charity Navigator’s Best Highly Rated Charities list, which recognizes nonprofits with perfect scores across all of Charity Navigator’s rating metrics.

“These organizations are highly impactful in their given cause area, are fiscally responsible and transparent, and follow leadership and organizational culture best practices,” Charity Navigator notes. “We applaud these charities for being highly impactful and outperforming other organizations performing similar work.”

In addition, Charity Navigator named Direct Relief one of the Best Humanitarian Relief Charities for 2025, highlighting responses to  Hurricane Melissa, the Los Angeles fires, and the humanitarian crises in Sudan and Ukraine. The designation recognizes organizations Charity Navigator deems “extraordinarily effective at what they do.”

Charity Navigator also included Direct Relief on its 2025 list of Household Name Charities, a group of organizations that, as the site explains, “became household names partly because of their exceptional financial management, no easy feat considering the scope and size of their operations. Donors should feel confident that these highly rated national institutions will put their donations to good use.”

Direct Relief’s Charity Navigator Ratings

Direct Relief earned a 100% rating in each of Charity Navigator’s four “beacons”—Accountability & Finance, Leadership & Adaptability, Culture & Community, and Impact & Measurement—and received the highest possible score in every subcategory, from “program expense ratio” to “program planning & design” to “external focus on mobilizing mission.”

Michael Thatcher, President and CEO of Charity Navigator, recognized Direct Relief’s performance, stating: “We are delighted to provide Direct Relief with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence. The Four-Star Rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that Direct Relief can accomplish in the years ahead.”

Humanitarian Impact in 2025

In 2025, Direct Relief made significant strides in advancing its global humanitarian mission, including:

  • Delivering Lifesaving Medicines: In the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, Direct Relief distributed 308 million defined daily doses of medicine to more than 2,636 healthcare facilities across 91 countries and all 50 U.S. states. In total, Direct Relief donated pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and supplies with a wholesale value of $1.9 billion and provided $69 million in grants to healthcare providers around the world.
  • Hurricane Responses: Following Hurricane Melissa, Direct Relief dispatched a 757 charter plane carrying 16 tons of medicine and medical supplies to Jamaica, adding to the large quantities of medical supplies already prepositioned in the region prior to landfall, which helped ensure health providers were equipped immediately after the storm.
  • Los Angeles Wildfire Response: Direct Relief’s response began within hours of the first spark, with an initial focus on lifesaving support, including deploying prescription medications to shelters, field medic backpacks to first responders, and more than 140,000 N95 respirators to protect residents and emergency personnel from smoke.
  • Aid to Ukraine:  Direct Relief has surpassed more than $2 billion in medical and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine since the war began in 2022, making it one of the largest private philanthropic supporters of the country’s health system.
  • The Largest Charitable Medicine Program in the U.S.: To help address the lack of affordable prescription medicine in the United States, Direct Relief provides needed medications to nonprofit health centers and clinics that collectively serve about one in 11 people in the country. In its 2025 fiscal year, Direct Relief’s assistance to the U.S. exceeded $300 million.
  • Supporting Healthy Mothers: Direct Relief supports health organizations worldwide that provide critically needed maternal and neonatal services throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. In its 2025 fiscal year, Direct Relief’s support of midwives helped enable more than 45,000 safe births in 17 countries.

Stewardship and Financial Transparency

Direct Relief is committed to maximizing the impact of every donation, ensuring funds are used responsibly and effectively to support those in need:

  • 100% Allocation of Donor-Designated Funds: Every contribution earmarked for specific programs or emergencies is applied exclusively to those purposes, giving donors full assurance that their intent is honored.
  • Independently Funded Operations:  Direct Relief operates solely on private charitable contributions, declining government funding to maintain independence and focus on its mission.
  • Leveraging In-Kind Contributions: Strategic partnerships with businesses and organizations amplify the impact of donations. Contributions of medicine and medical supplies, valued at their wholesale cost, constitute the majority of Direct Relief’s revenue, allowing cash donations to reach further and support more people.

Additional Nonprofit Recognition

In 2025, Direct Relief received additional independent recognition for humanitarian impact, transparency, and financial stewardship, including:

  • Seoul Peace Prize: One of the world’s most distinguished honors for humanitarian achievement, awarded in recognition of Direct Relief’s role in advancing global health and supporting communities affected by disasters and conflict.
  • Platinum Transparency Seal from Candid: Signaling the highest level of openness about finances, programs, and results, and enabling donors to see clearly how resources are used.
  • A+ Rating from CharityWatch: Along with inclusion on its list of top charities, reflecting exceptional program efficiency, low overhead, and disciplined use of donor funds.
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2025 Was a Big Year for Sustainability Communications — Here’s What the Research Said.

NORTHAMPTON, Mass., November 20, 2025 /3BL/ – From shifting consumer trust to the rise of individual impact, 2025 has been a turning point for sustainability communications. Through bold, data-driven research, 3BL explored how public sentiment, corporate action, and storytelling intersect to shape reputation and real-world outcomes.

Across the four reports released this year, 3BL captured the pulse of the moment. Revealing why staying silent on sustainability is riskier than ever, how personal conviction is driving the next wave of change, and what it takes for brands to earn genuine trust in a skeptical world.

The Big Thing Americans Agree On 

The study, conducted in January 2025, sheds light on shifting consumer expectations and the growing role of sustainability in shaping purchasing decisions and brand loyalty.

  • 73% of Americans believe their purchasing decisions can influence corporate behavior on social and environmental issues.
  • While 65% of Gen Z and 64% of millennials lead in prioritizing sustainability, the study found that only 5% of Gen X and Baby Boomers consider sustainability completely unimportant.

Download here.

2025 is the Year of the Individual 

There is a striking trend shaping the sustainability and social impact landscape in 2025: the growing role of individual action.

  • Political and Generational Shifts: Republicans (22%) favor business-led impact, while Democrats (25%) lean on government. Gen Z trusts institutions, while Baby Boomers (38%) believe in individual action but show skepticism (26%).
  • Business Priorities: Consumers expect action on employee well-being (56%), sustainable packaging (54%), and ecosystem restoration (49%).

Download here. 

Say Less, Risk More: Sustainability Silence Is Undermining Trust

This report draws on media analysis and original polling to expose a growing crisis of confidence in corporate sustainability claims. The findings signal a clear warning: greenhushing may feel safe, but it’s undermining public trust and putting market share on the line.

  • A Decline in Corporate Voice: Media mentions of top U.S. companies tied to sustainability topics dropped nearly 10% in the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period last year.
  • Trust Is Slipping: Nearly a quarter (23%) of consumers now say they “rarely” or “almost never” trust what companies say about their sustainability goals, up from just 15% in December 2023.

Download here. 

Sustainable Companies Make More Money, But Does Anyone Trust Them? 

This research shows that companies recognized among the 100 Best Corporate Citizens aren’t just doing good, they’re performing better in the market too. From January 2022 to July 2025, these companies’ annual returns were 2.2% higher than the S&P 500.

Even more impressive, repeat honorees generated a cumulative return of 106%, compared to just 37% for the S&P 500. Excluding outliers, the portfolio still delivered 40% cumulative returns versus the S&P’s 36.6%

Download here. 

About 3BL 
3BL is the leading sustainability and social impact communications partner, connecting organizations’ stories of purpose and progress with the audiences who matter most.

3BL partners with over 1,500 companies – from global corporations and mid-sized enterprises to NGOs and nonprofits – to elevate their reputations as players in the world of responsible business. We do this through unrivaled news and content distribution, bespoke storytelling support, and our digital media division, TriplePundit.

Learn more at 3BL.com

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Investing In Our Talent Pipeline: Southwire Sustainability Report Highlight

To support generational sustainability, we must build a pipeline that equips Southwire to tackle the challenges of today — and those to come. This work is crucial, with researchers estimating that up to 3.8 million manufacturing roles will need to be filled by 2033, and warning that nearly half could remain vacant due to gaps in skilled applicants.

We are addressing this gap by working with educational partners to broaden our recruitment efforts and reach while expanding programs that build critical skills in manufacturing and beyond. In 2024 we maintained partnerships with University of West Georgia (UWG), Auburn University’s 100 Women Strong and Engineering Academic Excellence programs, Georgia Tech’s Office of Minority Educational Development and the Atlanta University Center Consortium. We also zeroed in on early career and student-focused programs, such as internship and apprenticeship opportunities.

BRINGING OUR INTERNSHIP PROGRAM INTO THE FUTURE

Southwire hosted one of its largest internship cohorts in 2024. We updated the program to include more structure for interns, as well as in-person opportunities to spend time with their peers and Southwire team members. All interns came together for in-person onboarding to kick off the program and returned for an in-person offboarding event. We also provided each intern with a mentor, prompted managers to develop more clearly defined projects and created more touchpoints for interns and managers to connect. Outside of our regular programming, we provided interns with access to virtual learning opportunities to build targeted knowledge and skills.

Yello, a leading provider of early talent acquisition software solutions, recognized Southwire as one of its Top 100 Internship Programs of 2024.

CREATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF BUSINESS LEADERS

University of West Georgia (UWG) has been a long-time Southwire talent partner. Together, we host the Southwire Business Leadership Program (SBLP), where UWG students can spend a year gaining firsthand work experience. Next, they begin a two-semester internship that allows them to create a multiyear strategic plan to address a business opportunity or need. All SBLP participants present their plans to Southwire’s executive leadership team, cultivating strong presentation skills and gaining visibility with senior leaders.

Over 60% of SBLP participants over the past two years were offered positions at Southwire.

BUILDING A PIPELINE FOR MAINTENANCE CAREERS

Participants in our two-year Southwire Maintenance Apprenticeship complete on-the-job training alongside classroom instruction, preparing them for potential full-time Southwire roles. Apprentices can choose between two tracks created for maintenance or electrical technician positions. Opportunities are open to outside applicants, such as students from West Georgia Technical College and Southwire team members looking to transition into new roles.

Southwire proudly supports the University of Georgia’s Society of Women Engineers chapter, helping to expand the pool of engineering talent we recruit.

UPGRADING OUR FINANCE ROTATIONAL PROGRAM

The Finance Rotational program employs new recent graduates into the three-year rotational program. During this time, the new graduates learn various finance functions within the Southwire business to include operations, corporate and commercial. In 2024, we broadened our scope of participation to expand the program efficiencies through onboarding, development of cohorts, recruiting and committee sponsorship.

To learn more about Southwire’s accomplishments in 2024, read our full sustainability report: https://southwire.com/sustainability.

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Carton Recycling Options Are Expanding: Here’s What To Know

Originally published on Waste Dive

Carton recycling isn’t just waste diversion. It’s a growing part of the circular economy that keeps materials in use and out of landfills. Some cartons become high-quality fiber for paper goods, while others are transformed into durable building materials that replace virgin resources.

When cartons reach a paper mill, they’re prized for their long, strong fibers. Jason Pelz, VP of Sustainability for Tetra Pak in the U.S. and Canada, says that quality makes them a dependable part of a mill’s feedstock mix.

“Cartons carry some of the best fiber in the recycling stream,” he explains. “At many mills, the yield matches or exceeds other materials.”

Click here to read more on Waste Dive

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Pro Football Hall of Fame Athletes Share Life Lessons, Messages of Inspiration with Detroit Teens

Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinees joined community partners and Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, to share life experiences and messages of compassion to nearly 400 young people from the Detroit Area

DETROIT, Nov. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time, the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Meridian Health Plan of Michigan (Meridian) teamed up to host a Strong Youth Strong Communities (SYSC) Summit at Wayne State University in Detroit. Led by Pro Football Hall of Famers Darrell Green and Aeneas Williams, and former University of North Carolina Women’s Basketball player Iman McFarland, SYSC is based on the premise that investing in today’s youth can yield generational returns and positively impact communities. The program hosted approximately 400 students from the Detroit Public Schools Community District and included opening video remarks by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Today’s event comes at a time when young people across the state are facing a range of behavioral and mental health challenges. In Detroit, over 45% of young people live in poverty, compared to 18.2% of Michigan youth, while 66% of students in Detroit public schools were considered chronically absent in 2023-2024. The former athletes shared powerful personal stories of overcoming adversity, offering young people a compelling message of resilience, determination, and the power to shape their own futures.

“Our young people are facing a range of challenges, and through Strong Youth Strong Communities we’re stepping up to help them and let them know that they are not alone,” said Pro Football Hall of Famer Darrell Green. “We’re here to let young people know that they can discuss the challenges they may be facing, that there are resources available to help them, and that they matter. By doing so, we’re creating strong young people and strong communities in Detroit and across the state.”

The youth summit included ice breaker moments, as well as interactive breakout sessions, where participants could discuss the issues that they may be encountering in their communities or at home.

“We’re proud to host the SYSC summit this year in Detroit on the campus of Wayne State University. We all know Detroit students face many challenges at home, in their neighborhoods, and in the classroom. However, we also know Detroit students are strong, and they are among the best and the brightest and most resilient in the state. They are stronger than any obstacles they may face, and they have what it takes to overcome and succeed. This summit is really about bringing teenagers together to learn lessons on life skills and leadership to help them unlock their potential and to provide a safe space for them to discuss issues that are important to them,” said Patty Graham, Plan President and CEO of Meridian.

About Strong Youth Strong Communities
SYSC is a nationwide campaign led by Centene Corporation, in partnership with the Pro Football Hall of Fame, national non-profit organizations, and local community service providers to bring teens together to learn life and leadership skills that help unlock their potential. To learn more, please visit www.strongystrongc.com.

About the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Located in Canton, Ohio, the birthplace of the National Football League, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit institution with the Mission to Honor the Greatest of the Game, Preserve its History, Promote its Values, & Celebrate Excellence Together.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. AAM accreditation is national recognition for the museum’s commitment to excellence and the highest professional standards of museum operation and public service.

About Meridian

Meridian Health Plan of Michigan provides government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors, and individuals with complex medical needs primarily through Medicaid (Meridian), Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Wellcare), Medicare-Medicaid Plans (MeridianComplete), and the Health Insurance Marketplace (Ambetter from Meridian). Meridian is a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, a leading healthcare enterprise committed to helping people live healthier lives.

About Centene Corporation
Centene Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a leading healthcare enterprise that is committed to helping people live healthier lives. The Company takes a local approach – with local brands and local teams – to provide fully integrated, high-quality and cost-effective services to government-sponsored and commercial healthcare programs, focusing on under-insured and uninsured individuals. Centene offers affordable and high-quality products to more than 1 in 15 individuals across the nation, including Medicaid and Medicare members (including Medicare Prescription Drug Plans) as well as individuals and families served by the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pro-football-hall-of-fame-athletes-share-life-lessons-messages-of-inspiration-with-detroit-teens-302622159.html

SOURCE Strong Youth Strong Communities

Unifi Packages 161,000 Meals for Rise Against Hunger in Fourth Annual Event in U.S. and India

ATLANTA, Nov. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On November 14, Unifi employees across the U.S. and India came together for the company’s fourth annual Rise Against Hunger meal packaging event—achieving their largest impact yet with 161,000 meals packaged in a single day, nearly doubling last year’s total.

 

Unifi teams in the U.S. and India packaged 161,000 meals in one day during the fourth annual Rise Against Hunger event.

The multi-site, multinational event brought teams together at ten locations, including Unifi’s corporate headquarters in Buckhead, the Atlanta Operations Center, and operational sites in Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), San Diego (SAN) and San Franciso (SFO), with additional support from the New Delhi team.

Together, hundreds of Unifi team members worked side by side to prepare shelf-stable meals that will be distributed to families and communities in need around the world.

“The energy and compassion our teams showed during this year’s event demonstrate what Unifi is all about — passion, integrity and empathy in action,” said Jackie Reedy, Vice President, Corporate Communications. “Every box we packed represents hope and a better tomorrow for someone, somewhere. I’m so proud of our teams for showing that one company can truly make a global difference.”

Building on a Growing Global Commitment
Unifi’s partnership with Rise Against Hunger, a global hunger relief organization, began in 2022 and has expanded each year since.

  • 2022: 15,000 meals packaged
  • 2023: 30,000 meals packaged
  • 2024: 90,000 meals packaged across six sites, including the U.S. and India
  • 2025: 161,000 meals packaged across ten sites in the U.S. and India

Each year’s event brings new momentum and deeper impact. The meals packaged not only address immediate hunger needs but also support Rise Against Hunger’s long-term mission to empower communities through sustainable agriculture, clean water and economic development initiatives. 

“Unifi’s commitment to fighting hunger continues to inspire us,” said Mandy Dyxin, Multi-Site and Global Event Coordinator, Rise Against Hunger. “In just four years, Unifi team members have helped provide 296,000 meals to families in need. But this partnership goes beyond the meals themselves — it’s about creating opportunities for communities to build stronger, more sustainable futures.”

About Unifi

Unifi Aviation, LLC® is the largest ground handling and aviation services company in North America, with more than 45,000 employees servicing over four million flights annually. Operating at more than 240 airports, Unifi provides a full range of services, including ground handling, passenger transport, security, cabin cleaning, and ground support equipment maintenance. Beyond its extensive U.S. footprint, Unifi also operates in Canada, the UK, and Ireland—and continues to expand its global reach. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Unifi is part of the Argenbright Group. For more information, visit unifiservice.com

About Rise Against Hunger
Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization, helps underserved people worldwide achieve food security and resilience through nutrition, education and economic empowerment. Through a global network based in the U.S. and with six international offices, the organization provides volunteer-packaged meals and other assistance for people facing hunger today. Rise Against Hunger has facilitated volunteer packaging of more than 600 million meals to be distributed to countries around the world. In addition to providing immediate nourishment, the organization works with local leaders to implement sustainable agriculture and income-generating projects that support long-term solutions to food security. To learn more about Rise Against Hunger’s efforts to end hunger worldwide, please visit www.riseagainsthunger.org.

Media Contact:
Corporate Communications – Unifi
jackie.reedy@unifiservice.com
www.unifiservice.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/unifi-packages-161-000-meals-for-rise-against-hunger-in-fourth-annual-event-in-us-and-india-302622153.html

SOURCE Unifi

Feeding Happiness™ in Action: WK Kellogg Co Releases 2024 Sustainable Business Report

At WK Kellogg Co, we believe that doing good is good for business.

Today marks an important milestone as we launch our 2024 Sustainable Business Report highlighting progress toward the three pillars of our sustainable business strategy – Feeding Happiness: Make Eating Well Easy, Help Kids Be Their Best and Better Our Communities.

In 2024, that progress included:

  • Delivering 42+ million servings of food to those in need in the U.S. and Canada
  • Providing 5.2 billion servings of fiber through Kellogg’s® cereals – a nutrient many people don’t get enough of
  • Supporting millions of kids through Mission Tiger™ and Feeding Reading®
  • Donating $1.1 million to hunger-relief and community initiatives
  • Achieving 98% recyclable or recycle-ready packaging
  • Employees volunteering 4,450+ hours at more than 300 organizations

Our founder believed in the power of food to nurture children, families and communities. More than a century later, that vision inspires us to create a sustainable future rooted in nourishing people and the planet.

Explore our 2024 Sustainable Business Report here: https://www.wkkellogg.com/our-impact

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COP30 Presidency launches Citizens’ Track to bring people’s voices into climate decision-making

BELÉM, Brazil, Nov. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time in UN climate summit history, ordinary citizens will have a direct, formal role in shaping international climate policy. The COP30 Presidency today launched the Citizens’ Track, a new initiative that connects thousands of local community assemblies worldwide to a permanent Global Citizens’ Assembly, creating a structured, global platform for public influence over climate decisions.

The announcement was made at an Action Agenda event in Belém, where Alice de Moraes Amorim Vogas, Director of Program at COP30, confirmed that findings from the initiative will be formally presented at the upcoming mid-year Bonn Climate Conference.

“We need a regime that is inclusive, people-centered, and truly responsive to both climate action and tackling inequalities. This will require different approaches, tools, and methods, and that’s the beauty of the Citizens Track, it gives a structured process that can allow for more organic forms of mobilization. It’s about creating a bridge between formal negotiations and informal participation. Without civil society and citizens, we won’t be able to deliver this.”

The first Citizens’ Track cycle will engage over 100,000 participants in 30 countries, with an ambitious goal to scale to one million people by the global stocktake in 2028. 

The idea was first proposed in a policy paper by Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and COP30 Special Envoy for Europe, in collaboration with the Iswe Foundation. Tubiana said: “Ten years after the Paris Agreement opened the door to cities, businesses, and civil society, COP30 has the opportunity to be remembered not just for new pledges, but for rebooting the relationship between citizens and the climate regime. This is the future a Citizens’ Track can deliver  and the legacy Belém must leave behind.'”

The initiative has also been supported by policy leaders and climate leaders around the world.

Xiye Bastida, climate justice activist and indigenous rights advocate, said: “We need spaces where people can have on-the-ground dialogues about how to implement climate solutions. Without that, we miss out on so much of our communities’ potential. Intergenerational learning is essential, otherwise, a big part of the population won’t get to shape our communities and our world. It’s not just making our voices heard here at COP, but bringing this process to the ground and ensuring people feel empowered to help shape the policies that affect their lives.”

Contact: Tillie Dee, tillie.dee@iswe.org

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cop30-presidency-launches-citizens-track-to-bring-peoples-voices-into-climate-decision-making-302622076.html

SOURCE Iswe Foundation

Safeguarding Our Future: Corporate Responsibility in Building Climate-Resilient Communities

BETHESDA, Md., November 20, 2025 /3BL/ – Tandem Global announces the release of a new white paper, Safeguarding Our Future: Corporate Responsibility in Building Climate-Resilient Communities, available for download today.

As climate-related disasters intensify, the need for proactive resilience planning has become critical. Global disaster relief costs now exceed $200 billion annually, while floods, droughts, and extreme weather continue to disrupt lives and infrastructure. The World Health Organization projects that climate change could cause an additional 250,000 deaths per year between 2030 and 2050, underscoring the urgency of coordinated action.

This white paper highlights how corporations can play a vital role in strengthening community resilience. By leveraging their resources, global reach, and influence, businesses can help safeguard natural resources, enhance infrastructure, and support vulnerable populations. Through innovative strategies and partnerships, corporate leaders are demonstrating that resilience is not just a moral imperative; it’s a foundation for long-term stability and shared prosperity.

Featured case studies include:

  • BASF, Riverview Earth Day Planting: Riverview, MI
  • Bridgestone Americas, Bridgestone Neumaticos de Monterrey: NL, Mexico
  • Cemex, Atotonilco: Cerro Jardín + Xoyatla + Coayuca: Hidalgo, Mexico
  • DTE Energy, Downtown Detroit Headquarters Complex: Detroit, MI
  • Exelon, Gwynedd ROW Stewardship Program: North Wales, PA
  • General Motors, Restoration and Conservation of Ecosystems, Bogotá, Colombia
  • WM, Twin Creeks Landfill: Ontario, Canada

About Tandem Global

Tandem Global (formerly Wildlife Habitat Council and World Environment Center), provides the know-how and the network to move business and the environment forward, together. Across sectors and at all levels of its member organizations, Tandem Global works to facilitate long-term and lasting impact on all aspects of our natural world. It connects leading thinking with practical solutions that positively impact climate, nature, and water. From field operations to boardrooms and beyond, corporate leaders turn to Tandem Global for impact strategies and resilient solutions that can support a better future. Tandem Global is headquartered in Bethesda, MD, USA, with locations across the U.S., in Latin America and Munich, Germany. For more information visit tandemglobal.org.

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INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW 2027 KIA TELLURIDE: FIRST-EVER HYBRID, INCREASED X-PRO CAPABILITY ELEVATE THE THREE-ROW SUV


  • Power meets efficiency: Available turbo-hybrid with 329HP and rated at up to a Kia-estimated 35 mpg1 combined and a total Kia-estimated driving range of 600 miles2.

  • Standard turbocharged power: With nearly 50 lb.-ft. more torque

  • Comfortably rugged: Newly upgraded X-Pro adds wider all-terrain tires than before, with new advanced E-LSD system3, new multi-terrain AWD3 mode, new off-road vehicle status screen and new Ground View Monitor4 all riding on an elevated 9.1-inches of ground clearance.

  • Larger dimensions: Provides more second-row headroom, class-leading legroom5, improved third-row seat access, plus more cargo space behind the 3rd-row.

  • Stretch Out: New, available front relaxation seats with leg rests and a driver massage function, new power-operated and available climate-controlled second-row captain’s chairs, all enveloped in a quieter interior.

  • Innovation Meets Function: New available power tilt/telescope steering wheel with memory, available heated seats for all 3-rows6, new dual wireless phone chargers7 for front passengers, and new Ground Lighting (X-Pro exclusive).

  • Next generation technology: Available compatible smartphone or smart watch vehicle access, available YouTube and Netflix streaming; available custom display themes for all 30 NBA teams and some of Disney’s© most iconic brands8.

  • Enhanced Safety System: 10 airbags including a front-row center airbag, enhanced rigid body structure that targets IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

  • Coming Soon: The 2027 Telluride is targeted to go on sale in the U.S. in first quarter of 2026, and will be assembled in West Point, Ga.

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Kia unveiled the upcoming next-generation 2027 Telluride SUV at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show. The confident and composed three-row Telluride bows as Kia’s flagship SUV while also introducing an all-new available hybrid powertrain. Wrapped in a contemporary aesthetic that evokes the core Telluride design principles while embracing Kia’s Opposites United form language, the 2027 model lays the groundwork for countless new adventures in either 7-or-8-passenger seating configurations.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/kia/9311055-en-new-2027-kia-telluride-hybrid-x-pro-suv

“With the launch of the second-generation Telluride, our design and product planning team had an incredible challenge: Develop an all-new SUV that was its own, unique product, while encapsulating many of the elements that made the original Telluride a historic success,” SeungKyu (Sean) Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America. “The 2027 Telluride is a capable and sophisticated SUV that embodies our approach to bringing innovative, consumer-focused products to market.” 

With greater overall length, more cargo space and interior roominess, along with a sanctuary-like cabin outfitted with features and materials typically found in luxury SUVs, the second-generation Telluride arrives standard with a turbocharged powertrain and will also be available with a turbocharged hybrid powertrain with up to 329 horsepower and has a rating of a Kia-estimated 35 MPG combined1. Thoughtful features abound. Available full LED Ground Lighting and a new Ground View Monitor4 (X-Pro trim exclusive), standard wireless Apple CarPlay9 and Android Auto10 across every trim level, along with a host of new convenience and technology features, set a new benchmark.

Offered in LX, S, EX, SX and SX-Prestige trims, as well as stylish X-Line and capable X-Pro trims, the 2027 Telluride is expected to arrive in the United States in Q1 2026. Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date.


Exterior Design: Precision in Motion

The Telluride’s chiseled exterior design captures the spirit of the Rocky Mountains and its namesake Colorado town. A broad hood establishes a powerful stance, while vertical headlamps frame the high-gloss grille. Advanced lighting signatures create a high-tech, futuristic impression. Fluid body contours lend an elegant shape to the side profile, while aggressively defined triangular creases in the fenders resemble the chiseled facets of a diamond. Upward-flowing character lines give the impression of lifting the vehicle, while sculpted notches in the wheel wells are a smart and deliberate interruption. Flush door handles, as offered on the Kia EV6 and EV9 models, lend to a clean and modern appearance. Such details contribute to a reduction in drag coefficient from 0.33 to 0.30.

Telluride X-Line and X-Pro variants wear blacked-out wheel arches, side mirrors, beltline trim, and D-pillars. Raised roof rails11 reinforce an adventurous profile and are ready to carry the gear that takes you off the grid. Up front, a bold mesh-type grille is paired with a squared-off lower black bumper. The X-Pro comes standard with wider all-terrain tires and increased 9.1 inches of ground clearance, while the X-Line boasts unique 21-inch wheels.

Interior Design: A Dreamer’s Sanctuary

Inside the Telluride’s cabin, opposites unite in a space that is both expansive and intimate; modern and yet harmonized with nature. The dash, instrumentation, and infotainment have a curved, wrap-around design. Wood-based textures add warmth, and hidden door handles tucked into the armrests blend function into form. Meanwhile, a grip handle on the front-center console (a nod to a signature interior element from the 1st generation Telluride) imbues the cabin with a sense of stability and rugged functionality. Durable SynTex upholstery with available SynTex suede inserts boost visual appeal.  Available indirect LED ambient cabin lighting hues add a touch of aesthetic refinement more commonly found in luxury vehicles. In pursuit of a hushed cabin experience, the Telluride features a new comprehensive Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH) package. This includes enhanced triple door seals, expanded use of sound absorbing materials, and increased door glass thickness.

The all-new Telluride treats occupants to greater comfort, including available wider front relaxation seats with power leg rests. The available Ergo Motion driver’s seat uses air pockets to provide a massage, adjust cushioning, and support the driver. Also new is the available memory-enabled power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Dual standard wireless charging pads offer convenient charging for both front occupants.

For second-row passengers, newly available power-operated captain’s seats with individual heated6 and ventilated seat functions provide first-class accommodations. The available heated third-row seats6 offer a new level of comfort to rear-seat occupants. There are additional cupholders and an available two-tier sliding tray that also opens to reveal a functional storage compartment. Multiple USB-C fast-charging ports around the cabin make it easy for occupants to plug in devices in all three rows.

The 2027 Telluride boasts a 116.9-inch wheelbase, and 199.2-inch overall length (an increase of 2.7 and 2.3 inches, respectively). This translates into greater legroom comfort in the second and third rows. A new second-row bench seat design is intended to allow a variety of child seats to remain in place while accessing the third row. It also slides further forward than before, allowing for more room to access the third row12. The increased vehicle length allows for more cargo space behind the third row and contributes to an overall maximum cargo area of 86.9 cubic feet13. With the second row upright, there is 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space. With all seats upright, there is 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space (21.3 in Turbo-Hybrid) behind the third-row seats. Cargo area features behind the third row include a standard folding luggage table with integrated cupholders, as well as a lower storage area with movable and removable dividers for flexible storage solutions.14

Telluride Technology: Connected to Your World

At the heart of the Telluride’s dash is an infotainment system that is as intuitive as it is pleasing to the eyes. The innovative Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) operating system spans more than half of the dash and is available with dual 12.3-inch panoramic digital displays15. The ccNC operating system features over-the-air16 update capability, enabling vehicle software updates, enhancing onboard systems including info-screens and navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay9 and Android Auto10 are standard across all trims. Furthermore, Kia’s generative AI voice assistant allows for a more natural conversation, including the ability to ask for suggestions, or even play some voice games on the go. This can all be initiated simply by saying, “Hey, Kia…”. For audiophiles, the available Meridian17 premium stereo system benefits from two additional speakers for a total of 14 as well as a larger 10-inch subwoofer. The enhanced ultrawideband-based Digital Key 2.018 allows customers to use their compatible Apple and Samsung smartphones or an NFC-enabled smart card as virtual vehicle keys to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. These keys can be shared with up to three friends and family on compatible devices, including an Apple Watch9.

The Telluride SXP models also come equipped with an enhanced Full Display Digital Rear View Mirror19, providing a wide, unobstructed field of view for the driver. The larger 12-inch head-up display (HUD)20 projects key vehicle information, including speed, turn-by-turn navigation, and safety alerts directly on to the windshield.

True connectivity in 2027 goes well beyond maps and texting. The 2027 Telluride comes equipped with Entertainment and Data Services21, which supports streaming for Disney+, Netflix, and YouTube. Additionally, available display themes allow the driver to express themselves with exclusive artwork from some of Disney’s©8 most iconic brands, which will be introduced throughout 2026. Display themes are also available for all 30 NBA teams. Getting home is more convenient thanks to Kia myQ Connected Garage22. Using geo-fencing, the system can detect your vehicle’s proximity and automatically opens or closes the garage door as you approach or leave home. Experience all the new ways to stay connected and entertained with these upcoming features and more, all available in the Kia Connect Store.

Telluride Powertrain: The Power of Choice

Whether you are an urban explorer, an outdoors enthusiast, or just want to conquer the commute, the Telluride delivers. The 2.5-liter turbo and 2.5-liter turbo hybrid powertrains are both enhanced for a wide range of conditions, delivering lively power, and the capability for towing toys on a weekend adventure. The Telluride 2.5-liter turbo develops 274 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. This is a stout increase of 49 lb.-ft. over the previous ICE powertrain. Power is routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels or available all-wheel drive3. Standard on X-Pro and available on all other ICE and HEV trims, the integrated tow hitch blends into the rear bumper and can be hidden from view when not in use. When equipped, the turbo powertrain delivers up to 5,000 pounds of towing23 capacity while the HEV can tow up to 4,500 pounds23, and the available self-leveling rear suspension system delivers confidence while towing.

Telluride models equipped with all-wheel drive provide active distribution of torque to help improve off-road traction. X-Pro all-wheel-drive models with the Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) takes confident control a step further by calculating the driving conditions and controls the AWD to modulate power from front to rear and from left to right. A center differential lock maintains an even 50/50 front/rear torque split.

The turbo hybrid powertrain ushers in a new era for the Telluride, providing confident performance and acceleration, with a Kia-estimated rating of up to 35 mpg1 combined and a total Kia-estimated driving range of 600 miles2. The Telluride hybrid combines the 2.5-liter turbo powertrain with a 1.65-kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motors to make a combined 329 horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s up to a 38-hp increase over the powerplant in the previous Telluride (291 hp) and 77 lb.-ft. more torque (262 lb.-ft.).

The hybrid routes power through a 6-speed automatic transmission, sent to an available all-wheel drive system3.  The hybrid is standard with electronic dynamic torque vectoring control (E-DTVC)3. This system is designed to help the driver achieve improved handling and stability by leveraging braking and motor control. The result is sophisticated power delivery and handling dynamics in a smooth, quiet ride.

Regardless of powertrain, the Telluride comes standard with Rack Mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS), replacing the column-mounted system found in the previous generation. R-MDPS offers improved feedback and responds more quickly to driver inputs. Precision is also enhanced, providing improved handling through corners and better high-speed stability.

The Telluride Hybrid also features Stay Mode. Stay Mode leverages the Telluride hybrid’s battery pack to operate climate control, cabin lighting, stereo, and other vehicle systems for about 20 minutes or until the HEV battery is drained to about 20 percent without activating the internal combustion engine.

Adventure-Ready X-Pro: Equipped to Explore

The Telluride X-Pro is designed for rugged excursions without compromising the dependable attributes that make it a stellar family vehicle the rest of the year. The Telluride X-Pro adds an exclusive suspension with additional stroke, e-LSD, and an impressive 9.1-inches of ground clearance, as well as multiple Drive Modes, including Terrain Mode. This rugged halo variant of the Telluride features front and rear recovery points, and all-terrain tires, giving enthusiasts the critical power delivery and increased traction that they need while getting away from it all.

It also delivers the technology they need to help master the trail, thanks to the introduction of the Ground View Monitor3. This system displays a composite view of the ground when driving below 6 mph. It uses onboard cameras and can be selected from the new off-road vehicle status screen accessed through the infotainment system. Among other important information, the screen illustrates pitch, roll and steering angle. Lastly, exclusive to the X-Pro, Ground Lighting on the front, side and rear areas surrounding the Telluride help illuminate your family camping adventures.

Telluride ADAS: Confidence and Added Peace of Mind

The all-new 2027 Telluride is equipped with a robust roster of standard and available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)3, including Highway Driving Assist, Lane Following Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Warning, Driver Attention Warning, and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist.  Available Highway Driving Assist 2 is a driver convenience system that is designed to help maintain a predetermined distance from the vehicle detected in front, keep the vehicle within detected lane markers on certain highways, and assist in lane changes under certain conditions. Standard Lane Following Assist is a driving convenience feature that is designed to help the vehicle stay in the center of detected lane markers.

Other helpful ADAS features include Blind-Spot Collision Warning and available Blind-Spot View Monitor, which are designed to help detect vehicles approaching from behind in the next lane and, in a variety of circumstances, applying brakes to help mitigate some collisions while making lane changes.

The Telluride comes standard with a Rear Occupant Alert System, which goes beyond a mere reminder. This system uses in-cabin radar motion sensors to detect the presence of occupants in the second and third rows. When the vehicle is parked and turned off, an initial visual reminder is issued to the driver. If the reminder does not yield a response, a secondary alert—both audible and visual—is activated to further prompt the driver. Finally, the feature can send a push notification to a compatible smartphone with the Kia Access app installed. Safe Exit Warning and Safe Exit Assist24 is designed to provide alerts to occupants if another vehicle is approaching when exiting the vehicle.

Among its 10 standard airbags, the redesigned Telluride now comes equipped with a front-row center airbag. Located between the driver and front passenger, this new additional airbag is intended to reduce front-passenger impacts in certain collisions.

Telluride Availability

The all-new 2027 Kia Telluride is anticipated to go on sale in the U.S. in Q1 2026, and will be assembled in Kia’s West Point, Georgia, plant. Pricing, timing availability, specific trim details, and EPA-rated fuel economy estimates are subject to future announcements.

Kia America – about us

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World’s Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including several SUVs proudly assembled in America*.

For media information, including photography, visiwww.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert

* Select trims of the 2025 all-electric EV6 and EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.


1 Not official EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition. Mileage and range based on EX FWD HEV equipped with 18-inch tires.
2 Kia-est. total driving range based on preliminary manufacturer estimates. Range assumes 100% of a full tank used before refueling. Actual range may vary. Kia recommends you refuel as soon as possible after the low fuel warning light illuminates or sooner.
3 No system, no matter how advanced, can compensate for all driver error and/or driving conditions. Always drive safely.
4 Ground View Monitor does not display live video and is not a substitute for safe driving. GVM may not display all objects beneath the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
5 Comparison based on publicly available data regarding second row legroom in 2025 and 2026 midsize 3-row SUV as of November 2025. Midsize 3-row SUV class as defined by Kia segmentation.
6 Heated seats are only on outboard seats.
7 Charging system only works with select devices. Refer to the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for warnings and instructions.
8 Display Themes are only available on models that have the latest ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) based infotainment system. An active Kia Connect subscription is required to utilize Display Themes. Without and active Kia Connect subscription, Display Themes will not be operational. Once purchased, Display Themes are limited to use on the specific vehicle tied to purchase and cannot be transferred to other vehicles.
9 Apple CarPlay runs on smartphone cellular data service. Normal data rates apply. Apple and CarPlay are trademarks of Apple, Inc.
10 Android Auto vehicle user interface is a product of Google and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play store and an Android compatible smartphone running Android 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android, Android Auto, and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC.
11 Roof rail crossbars and roof rack attachments sold separately and not included. Always carry cargo safely.
12 Tilt and slide function of the 2nd-row seats are limited to the following bench seats:
Bench (LX and ICE EX ): Only applicable to the RH (front passenger) side only (the 40 portion of the 60/40 split)
Captain’s Chairs (all trims except LX and ICE EX): Applicable to both seats.
13 All cargo should be evenly distributed and properly secured and never piled higher than the seatback.
14 Lower storage area with removable dividers is exclusive to ICE Turbo model. Not available on HEV.
15 Distracted driving can result in the loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.
16 Over-the-Air features and updates may require an additional cost and may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Kia Connect subscription is required and Kia Connect terms and conditions apply.
17 Meridian® is a trademark of Meridian Audio Ltd.
18 Digital Key requires an eligible Kia Connect subscription and a compatible smart device with an active data plan. Normal cellular service rates may apply when using a smart device.
19 Full Display Mirror® is a registered trademark of Gentex.
20 Failure to pay attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation could result in loss of vehicle control. Always drive safely and use caution.
21 Additional subscriptions may be required for streaming services. Vehicle must be parked for video streaming and gaming features.
Entertainment and Data Services is available only in eligible vehicles. A Kia Connect subscription is required. Use of Entertainment and Data Services is subject to agreement to the Kia Connect Privacy Policy (Privacy Policy) and Terms of Service (Terms of Use & Service | Kia). Verizon is the network provider for Entertainment and Data Services, which uses Verizon’s 4G LTE network to transmit data. Data usage applies, and data speed and storage depend on package purchased. Entertainment and Data Services may require vehicle cellular connectivity and availability of vehicle GPS signal; certain services may collect location information. Coverage not available everywhere. See https://www.verizon.com/coverage-map/ for coverage map. Use of Entertainment and Data Services is subject to Verizon Wireless’s Customer Agreement https://www.verizon.com/about/terms-conditions/overview.
22 Kia myQ Connected Garage is available only on vehicles with a ccNC head unit. Kia Connect and myQ accounts are required to activate your myQ-enabled garage door opener. This feature depends on various other factors in the vehicle such as LTE network coverage to transmit data. Coverage not available everywhere. Certain services may collect location information and data usage applies. Kia Connect terms and conditions apply. Kia myQ Connected Garage is subject to a functioning link between Kia Connect and myQ accounts, as well as myQ systems availability. Speed of the network communication is dependent on the systems and LTE network coverage.
23 Towing requires additional equipment. See Owner’s Manual for towing capacity, additional instruction and warning. Always use caution while towing.
24 When engaged, Safe Exit Assist is not a substitute for one’s attention and may not detect all objects surrounding the vehicle. Always pay attention to traffic and to the area around your vehicle when exiting the vehicle.

The all-new 2027 Kia Telluride’s power meets efficiency with an available turbo-hybrid producing 329 HP and rated at up to a Kia-estimated 35 mpg combined.
The all-new 2027 Kia Telluride’s power meets efficiency with an available turbo-hybrid producing 329 HP and rated at up to a Kia-estimated 35 mpg combined.
Whether you are an urban explorer, an outdoors enthusiast, or just want to conquer the commute, the Telluride delivers 274 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque, nearly 50 lb.-ft. more torque over the previous ICE powertrain.
The all-new 2027 Kia Telluride X-Pro is more capable than ever with wider all-terrain tires than before, a new advanced E-LSD system, new multi-terrain AWD mode, new off-road vehicle status screen and new Ground View Monitor, all riding on an elevated 9.1-inches of ground clearance.
The all-new 2027 Kia Telluride’s larger dimensions provide more second-row headroom, class-leading legroom, improved third-row seat access, plus more cargo space behind the 3rd-row.
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SOURCE Kia America