HOUSTON, Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — VLS Environmental Solutions is strengthening its leadership in hazardous waste management with the acquisition of Merichem Company’s Caustic Services business, a move that enhances VLS’ reach in the chemical and petrochemical sectors and deepens its commitment to sustainability-driven, beneficial reuse and hazardous waste solutions.

Merichem, founded in 1945, has built a reputation for excellence in the beneficial reuse of spent caustics by diverting hazardous waste streams into applications for reuse with industrial clients worldwide. The company is renowned for its 80-year history of creating sustainable solutions for the chemical industry.

“This acquisition provides the most technically advanced beneficial reuse and caustic waste solutions to industrial and refinery markets,” said John Magee, CEO of VLS Environmental Solutions. “By integrating Merichem’s portfolio, we can now offer an unmatched level of sustainable solutions for clients across multiple industries.”

For Merichem, this new chapter represents an expansion of a legacy focused on sustainable innovation. Kendra Lee, Chairman and CEO of Merichem, reflected, “We are thrilled to combine our heritage grounded in sustainability with VLS’ expansive operational reach to deliver even greater value and sustainability to our customers.” Under Lee’s leadership, Merichem has remained rooted in a philosophy of environmental stewardship, unsurpassed performance and an uncommon commitment to customer service.

As regulatory demands and sustainability goals continue to mount for industrial clients, the integration of Merichem’s caustic services business allows VLS to offer beneficial reuse as an option to its portfolio when handling industrial by-products. Chris Lobue, Executive Vice President of VLS’ Hazardous Waste Services division, explained, “With the integration of Merichem’s caustic services business, VLS can now offer options beyond hazardous waste disposition to its customers for specific by-product streams—such as spent caustics and sulfur-laden byproducts. We are excited to offer expanded handling options that meet the strict regulatory and operational needs of our clients in the chemical and petrochemical industries.”

Merichem will be renamed VLS SustainChem and will be incorporated into VLS’ Hazardous Waste division.

With more than 1,500 employees and a network spanning over 50 locations nationwide, VLS’ acquisition of Merichem’s Caustic Services business brings together two leaders in environmental technology. The combined technical and operational expertise uniquely positions VLS to set a new benchmark for the management, treatment, and beneficial reuse of hazardous and non-hazardous materials across the chemical and petrochemical supply chains. Together, the companies are poised to deliver innovative solutions that not only address today’s complex compliance and sustainability demands but also anticipate and solve future industry challenges.

About VLS Environmental Solutions

VLS Environmental Solutions is one of the nation’s largest, private providers of environmental and sustainability solutions. The company operates four divisions:

  • Non-Hazardous Waste Services: Offers innovative solutions for landfill diversion, recycling, wastewater treatment, and waste sequestration, ensuring efficient and sustainable waste processing.
  • Hazardous Waste Services: Specializes in the management, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials using advanced technologies, like waste sequestration, and strict safety protocols to protect the environment and ensure compliance.
  • Rail Services: Provides comprehensive railcar cleaning, light and heavy repair, and field services for railcars transporting chemicals, hardened materials, and pressurized gases, with a focus on safety and efficiency.
  • Marine Services: Delivers advanced barge cleaning, repair, and gas-free services for chemical solvents and petroleum products, emphasizing environmental responsibility and operational excellence.

With over 1,500 employees across more than 50 locations, VLS is committed to delivering innovative, compliant, and sustainable solutions.

For more information about VLS, visit https://www.vlses.com/. 

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SOURCE VLS Environmental Solutions

EL CERRITO, Calif., January 6, 2026 /3BL/ – In partnership with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Net Impact has launched the Home Electrification Challenge, a statewide competition inviting students from colleges and universities across California to design innovative customer engagement strategies that accelerate home and neighborhood-level electrification across PG&E’s diverse customer base.

The challenge addresses a critical need in California’s path to achieving its ambitious climate goals: moving home electrification from an innovation-driven concept into a trusted, preferred choice for PG&E customers. As California works toward a sustainable energy future, PG&E seeks innovative approaches to help customers understand the benefits of electrification and inspire electrified homeowners to become active advocates within their communities. PG&E turned to Net Impact to activate its business-focused community to help tackle this challenge.

“Home electrification is essential to meeting California’s climate targets, but technical solutions alone won’t get us there,” said Karen Johns, CEO of Net Impact. “We need to understand what motivates customers, address their concerns, and activate a movement of advocates. This challenge empowers the next generation of leaders to tackle one of the most pressing sustainability challenges of our time, and we’re thrilled to do it alongside one of our longtime partners, PG&E.”

Participating students will leverage PG&E’s existing electrification programs and resources when developing strategies that consider the complexities of customer behavior, equity considerations, and the opportunities presented by early adopters who help shape public perception.

“California students bring fresh perspectives and innovative thinking that can help us reach customers in new ways” said David Poster, Director of Building Electrification and Efficiency at PG&E. “By partnering with Net Impact, we’re tapping into the creativity and passion of future sustainability leaders who understand both the urgency of climate action and the importance of meeting customers where they are.”

The challenge unfolds in two competitive phases. First, student teams will develop and present their customer engagement strategies at local pitch-off events hosted by Net Impact chapters across the state. Second, select finalist teams will advance to a regional showcase at PG&E’s headquarters in Oakland, California, where they will present to

PG&E leaders and compete for an overall grand prize of $2,000.

Beyond cash prizes, participants will build valuable skills in customer-centric strategy design, expand their professional networks through direct engagement with PG&E’s sustainability and customer electrification teams, and gain hands-on experience addressing real-world climate challenges.

Net Impact manages and facilitates the program by bringing together its extensive network of emerging social impact and sustainability leaders at colleges and universities across California. With more than 10 years of experience building and executing experiential education opportunities, Net Impact specializes in equipping business leaders to address social challenges, protect the environment, and leverage the tools of business toward the greater good.

More information about the Home Electrification Challenge can be found at

netimpact.org/programs/home-electrification-challenge.

About Net Impact

Net Impact, one of the largest and oldest global member organizations focused on impact,

engages over 50,000 students and professionals annually. With almost 300 chapters in over 40 countries, our members are pursuing impactful careers and impactful lives across diverse industries, including business, sustainability, and social impact fields. Net Impact engages its global chapter community in experiential education-focused programming, convenings, and civic and community engagement projects. Net Impact is committed to using business as a force for good and building the capacity of the next generation of workforce members. Visit www.netimpact.org.

About Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.

CONTACT:

Net Impact
Hilary Manzo, Associate Director of Programs
EmpoweringHomes@netimpact.org

PG&E
Paul Doherty, Manager, Clean Energy & Innovation Communications
paul.doherty@pge.com

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PlanHub, a leading preconstruction software platform connecting general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers nationwide, today announced that it has joined the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Tech Marketplace as an official technology partner.

The ABC Tech Marketplace is an exclusive portfolio of vetted, solutions-oriented technology providers offering innovative, cost-effective tools that support the construction industry. Through this nationwide partnership, PlanHub now offers exclusive benefits and discounts to ABC members belonging to ABC’s extensive network of 67 chapters and 23,000 members.

This partnership underscores PlanHub’s continued commitment to empowering contractors with modern, easy-to-use solutions that improve efficiency, collaboration, and competitiveness throughout the preconstruction process.

“Our inclusion in the ABC Tech Marketplace represents a milestone in our mission to make preconstruction more accessible, transparent, and efficient for every contractor and supplier,” said Ro Bhatia, CEO at PlanHub. “We’re proud to partner with ABC to expand our reach and deliver measurable value to members who are shaping the future of the construction industry.”

“PlanHub’s participation in the ABC Tech Marketplace reinforces our goal of connecting members with trusted technology partners who can help them build smarter, safer, and more efficiently,” said Matt Abeles, Vice President of Construction Technology and Innovation at ABC. “We’re excited to welcome PlanHub to this growing network of innovators who are helping to advance construction through digital transformation.”

In addition to the national partnership, PlanHub has also entered a partnership with the ABC New Jersey Chapter, aimed at strengthening local engagement and education opportunities for regional contractors and suppliers. This partnership will enable PlanHub to offer educational webinars, and engage in thought leadership opportunities and regional events designed to foster technology adoption and member growth.

“We look forward to deepening our partnership with ABC at both the national and chapter levels,” added Ro Bhatia, CEO at PlanHub. “Our shared goal is to equip industry participants with the digital tools and knowledge they need to win more work and grow their businesses.”

Through both initiatives, PlanHub and ABC are together expanding access to industry-leading technology and educational resources that drive innovation and operational excellence across the construction ecosystem.

About PlanHub

PlanHub is an industry-leading preconstruction platform designed to empower construction professionals by simplifying the bidding and project management process. With a mission to connect subcontractors, general contractors, and suppliers, PlanHub provides a centralized digital hub where industry professionals can discover and manage new growth opportunities, collaborate seamlessly, and make data-driven decisions. By integrating high-quality project listings with powerful management tools, PlanHub removes inefficiencies and streamlines communication, ensuring businesses can scale effectively and focus on building America’s infrastructure. With over 500,000+ construction professionals in the PlanHub network nationwide, the platform continues to drive growth and innovation in the industry. Learn more at PlanHub.com.

About Associated Builders and Contractors

Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2025, Associated Builders and Contractors is a national construction industry trade association established in 1950 with 67 chapters and more than 23,000 members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC helps members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. Visit us at abc.org.

About ABC New Jersey

ABC New Jersey is the largest ABC Chapter, with over 1,600 members in all specialties within the construction industry, comprised primarily of firms that perform work in the industrial and commercial sectors. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC helps members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members live and work. For more information, please visit our website at abcnjc.org.

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SOURCE PlanHub

Since publishing our first ESG report in 2020, we have been making constant progress in achieving a range of environmental, social and governance goals. Every year, as we draft the annual report, we take time to review our achievements and reassess our objectives. This year, however, feels different, especially due to the number of pivotal moments that have been reached. These milestones aren’t only ‘pretty on paper’ – they’re real-world, quantitative achievements that affect both people and planet.

Adopting a value chain perspective

For the first time, we measured and estimated the total greenhouse gas emissions from activities connected to Caesarstone operations, across our entire value chain, via Scope 3 calculations whose reach extended beyond direct operations and purchased energy. These measurements included suppliers, logistics and downstream activities, allowing us to better understand our eco-footprint and identify future improvement opportunities.

“ESG reporting is based on data collection, and broader perspectives lead to richer data”, explains Gili Harpaz, Caesarstone’s Global ESG Leader. “In 2024, in an effort to achieve a wider, more robust snapshot of its operations, Caesarstone expanded its scope, analyzing its entire value chain for valuable ESG-related data.”

As part of our broadened evaluation scope, we began assessing the physical and transitional climate risks posed to our global operations – including our supply partners. Using established methodologies, we assessed our physical risks and transitional risks, which will help us adapt to dynamic realities in practice and strategy, strengthening our resilience and market alignment.

We also made real progress in expanding our ESG ecosystem to include our key strategic partners. This was accomplished by collecting and reporting their operational data – from energy use and waste management to labor practices. Our goal was to elevate our transparency while making strides towards creating collective ESG goals.

Measurables that make a difference

In 2019, we set ambitious long-term goals pertaining to our products and raw materials; water; waste; and energy. Using strict assessments, we’ve seen constant progress that is exemplified in every ESG report since 2020.

The 2024 report includes two stand-out goal attainments, in the recycling and wastewater categories. We achieved a 100% recycling rate at our Lioli production plant in India, while recycling 100% of our wastewater at our production sites and key distribution centers. Our strategic partners reused 100% of their wastewater, as well.

Responsible product innovation

2024 was a significant year for Caesarstone in terms of product innovation and sustainability. Perhaps the biggest headline was the launch of Caesarstone ICON – advanced fusion surfaces that are crystalline silica-free* and made with ~80% recycled materials. Our cutting-edge R&D teams worked together to create new surfaces that incorporate used materials in groundbreaking fashion, leading to designs that feature unprecedented depth. It is our hope that Caesarstone ICON, whose 2026 collection unveiling is just around the corner, will help lead the industry’s transition to crystalline silica-free solutions with heightened environmental values.

As for our globally beloved quartz and porcelain surfaces, we continued to reinforce their transparency through an EPD certification process. An EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) is a report that evaluates the environmental impacts of a product based on detailed Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).

“In 2023, five of our models achieved EPD, which was a milestone in itself. By the end 2024, our portfolio included 71 EPD-certified models in our portfolio – a number expected to increase to 146 at the start of 2026”, says Gili Harpaz. “By employing a Life Cycle Assessment, we are acknowledging a growing customer need to delve into the specifics of surface manufacturing, including pre-manufacturing and post-dismantlement treatment.”

* May contain traces of less than 1% crystalline silica.

Social and governance

The 2024 ESG report charts Caesarstone’s progress across key social and governance parameters, from employee well-being and learning and development to business ethics and data protection. Especially compelling is the chapter dedicated to health and safety management, which showcases the progress made in safety monitoring. The number of total incident reports has declined from 58 in 2022 to 35 in 2024, while the number of inspections and internal audits increased (588 in 2022; 1,952 in 2023; 2,350 in 2024).

Caesarstone ESG: A forward-approach journey 

“The 2024 ESG Report shows just how organized, direct and meticulous we are when it comes to sustainability management and reporting”, concludes Harpaz. “Sustainability is an inseparable part of Caesarstone’s DNA, and I believe those who read the report will get an accurate sense of how committed we are to ESG excellence.”

In the foreword to the 2024 ESG Report, Caesarstone’s CEO, Yos Shiran, states that “sustainability is achieved through the power of together”. This is the essence of Caesarstone’s ESG efforts. We’re always collaborating and sharing, relying on the expertise and concern of our teams, partners and stakeholders. We do not go at it alone. We learn, empower and grow through synergy and teamwork.

Click here to download the 2024 ESG report

Looking to reduce your time spent scrolling and increase your time spent reading? We’re here to help you reach that goal … and even learn while you do it!

We asked our experts as well as Antea Group clients and friends about their favorite books about Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), and sustainability. While sustainability is sometimes seen as synonymous with ESG, this selection of books goes beyond purely environmental subjects to include broader social and corporate governance topics that inspire new thinking for businesses.

These 10 books made the list of educational, inspiring, and eye-opening must-reads for the year:

 

Leaving Planet Simple: Embracing Sustainability, ESG, and Resilience to Transform Your Business 

Author: Dr. Alex Gold

From the Back Cover: “Dr. Gold, with a PhD in resilience science and extensive corporate experience, shows us that rather than trying to master it, nature has quite a bit to teach us. Dr. Gold explains that what often hinders business leaders today is an outdated mindset. This is life on Planet Simple, a world where businesses can operate in isolation, separate from the environment and the communities they inhabit. Instead, Dr. Gold shows us that a business, really any organization, is much more like a natural environment, an ecosystem where all the parts are interconnected and changing all the time. Business leaders must leave Planet Simple, abandon this simplistic mindset, and embrace a new resilience mindset better suited for Planet Earth.”

Publisher: Forbes Books

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Insectopolis 

Author: Peter Kuper

From the Back Cover: “This visually immersive work of graphic nonfiction dives into a world where ants, cicadas, bees, and butterflies visit a library exhibition that displays their stories and humanity’s connection to them throughout the ages. Kuper’s thrilling visual feast layers history and science, color and design, to tell the remarkable tales of dung beetles navigating by the stars, hawk-size prehistoric dragonflies hunting prey, and mosquitoes changing the course of human history.”

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Becoming Nature Positive 

Author: Marco Lambertini, Joseph W Bull, LeRoy Little Bear, et al.

From the Back Cover: “As humanity sits at an existential crossroads, this book introduces the need to build a nature-positive future to secure the functioning and stability of Earth systems essential to the survival and wellbeing of present and future human generations as well as the rest of Earth’s amazing diversity of life.”

Publisher: Routledge

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Higher Ground: How Business Can Do the Right Thing in a Turbulent World 

Author: Alison Taylor

From the Back Cover: “Today’s headlines teem with employee unrest over racial injustice, communities infuriated by corporate environmental impacts, staff anxiety over surveillance, public outrage over corruption in business, and discoveries of child labor in supply chains. We’ve traveled far and fast from the old world of business ethics, where black-and-white concerns about bribery and fraud could be addressed via rules and processes. Simply maximizing shareholder value while not breaking the law is no longer a tenable approach, but we’ve never been so confused about what it means to do the right thing-and why it’s so important.”

Publisher: Harvard Business Review Press

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Not the End of the World: How We Can Be the First Generation to Build a Sustainable Planet 

Author: Hannah Ritchie

From the Back Cover: “Packed with the latest research, practical guidance, and enlightening graphics, this book will make you rethink almost everything you’ve been told about the environment. Not the End of the World will give you the tools to understand our current crisis and make lifestyle changes that actually have an impact. Hannah cuts through the noise by outlining what works, what doesn’t, and what we urgently need to focus on so we can leave a sustainable planet for future generations.”

Publisher: Little, Brown Spark

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Under a Metal Sky: A Journey Through Minerals, Greed and Wonder 

Author: Philip Marsden

From the Back Cover: “Under a Metal Sky takes us on a journey across the peat-rich Dutch lowlands, through Prague and Bohemia, and on to the gold-rich mountains of Georgia. Along the way, Philip Marsden uncovers the strange and colorful histories of alchemy, scientific revolution, industrialization, and technological innovation, peopled by figures like the Habsburg Emperor Rudolf II, Goethe, Marie Curie, and William Blake. But alongside wonder and inspiration, there has also been plunder and heedless exploitation, the consequences of which have set us on a path toward our own extinction.”

Publisher: Counterpoint

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org, Amazon

 

ESG Mindset: Business Resilience and Sustainable Growth 

Author: Matthew Sekol

From the Back Cover: “ESG Mindset guides business leaders, ESG specialists and CSR strategists through the nuanced and most thoughtful ways to focus on these core business issues. Equipping readers with an enhanced way to think through complex business decisions and interconnected crises, the book provides accessible perspectives and real-world examples from companies around the world that have implemented a meaningful approach to ESG and learned lessons along the way. Readers will learn how to think about pressing ESG challenges from a new perspective and build defensibility in their efforts to future-proof a business and potentially save the world as only they can.”

Publisher: Kogan Page

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Waste Wars: The Wild Afterlife of Your Trash 

Author: Alexander Clapp

From the Back Cover: Dumps and landfills around the world are overflowing. Disputes about what to do with the millions of tons of garbage generated every day have given rise to waste wars waged almost everywhere you look. Some are border skirmishes. Others hustle trash across thousands of miles and multiple oceans. But no matter the scale, one thing is true about almost all of them: few people have any idea they’re happening.

Publisher: Little Brown and Company

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Human Nature: Nine Ways to Feel About Our Changing Planet

Author: Kate Marvel

From the Back Cover: “Scientist Kate Marvel has seen the world end before, sometimes several times a day. In the computer models she uses to study climate change, it’s easy to simulate rising temperatures, catastrophic outcomes, and bleak futures. But climate change isn’t just happening in those models. It’s happening here, to the only good planet in the universe. It’s happening to us. And she has feelings about that.”

Publisher: Ecco

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Close to Home: The Wonders of Nature Just Outside Your Door 

Author: Thor Hanson

From the Back Cover: “In Close to Home, biologist Thor Hanson shows how retraining our eyes reveals hidden wonders just waiting to be discovered. In Kansas City, migrating monarch butterflies flock to the local zoo. In the Pacific Northwest, fierce yellowjackets placidly sip honeydew, unseen in the treetops. In New England, a lawn gone slightly wild hosts a naturalist’s life’s work. And in the soil beneath our feet, remedies for everything from breast cancer to the stench of skunks lie waiting for someone’s searching shovel.”

Publisher: Basic Books

Where to Find It: Bookshop.org | Amazon

 

Looking for more learning opportunities? Check out these other blogs: Stay On Top of Energy Transition With These Top 10 Podcasts and The 10 Best Sustainability Podcasts for Environmental Business Leaders.

SANTA ROSA, Calif., January 6, 2026 /3BL/ – Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) announced a new series of high-power ATE system power supplies, expanding its power test portfolio with three automated test equipment (ATE) product families: the RP5900 Series Regenerative DC Power Supplies, the EL4900 Series Regenerative DC Electronic Loads, and the DP5700 Series System DC Power Supplies. These next-generation solutions provide high density, bi-directional and regenerative capabilities, and intelligent automation software, helping engineers validate designs more efficiently and accelerate time to market.

Across industries, power validation has become increasingly complex, driven by higher-power devices that require extensive testing, greater rack space, manual test programming, and growing requirements for both security and sustainability. Engineers need ATE solutions that not only deliver more power in less space but also automate complex test scenarios, safeguard sensitive data, and reduce energy waste. Keysight’s latest high-power supplies directly address these challenges, enabling engineers to validate designs more efficiently, expand test coverage, and reduce operational risk.

Keysight’s new high-power ATE supplies range from 1.5 kW to 12 kW and include uni-directional power supplies, bi-directional power supplies, and regenerative electronic loads. By combining superior density with robust automation software, the portfolio enables engineers to validate complex, multi-kilowatt devices with greater precision and repeatability, using less space and energy.

Key benefits of the new high-power ATE supplies include:

  • Compact Power, Maximum Density: The new supplies deliver up to 6 kW in just 1U or 12 kW in 2U, with full regenerative capability, delivering 2-3x more channels in the same footprint as previous systems. The high density reduces the lab footprint, cooling needs, and overall operating costs.
  • Automation That Expands Possibilities: Keysight’s Automated Power Suite enables engineers to automate complex tests like long-duration cycling, state-of-charge battery emulation, or transient replication with consistent accuracy, saving time while improving test coverage.
  • Built-in Security and Sustainability: Removable SD memory ensures safe workflows between classified and open labs, while NIST SP800-171 SSDF standard-compliant software delivers enterprise-grade security. Regenerative operation returns energy to the grid instead of wasting it as heat, lowering costs while advancing sustainability targets.

Carol Leh, Vice President, Electronic Industrial Solutions Group Center of Excellence at Keysight, said: “Engineers today face unprecedented challenges as power devices become larger, more complex, and more critical to innovation across industries. With this new portfolio of high-power ATE solutions, we are giving engineers the density, automation, and sustainability they need to accelerate validation, reduce risks, and confidently bring next-generation technologies to market.”

Resources

About Keysight Technologies   

At Keysight (NYSE: KEYS), we inspire and empower innovators to bring world-changing technologies to life. As an S&P 500 company, we’re delivering market-leading design, emulation, and test solutions to help engineers develop and deploy faster, with less risk, throughout the entire product life cycle. We’re a global innovation partner enabling customers in communications, industrial automation, aerospace and defense, automotive, semiconductor, and general electronics markets to accelerate innovation to connect and secure the world. Learn more at Keysight Newsroom and www.keysight.com

TOPEKA, Kan., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — FHLBank Topeka is proud to announce $33.9 million in affordable housing grants for 2025. The grants, through FHLBank Topeka’s Affordable Housing Program (AHP), are made in partnership with FHLBank Topeka’s member financial institutions and will help fund 31 projects. The successful applications will give 1,764 very low-, low- and moderate-income households a place to call home.

Projects were distributed throughout the four-state district:

  • Colorado: $7.3 million to support 416 housing units
  • Kansas: $16.4 million to support 809 housing units
  • Nebraska: $5.9 million to support 331 housing units
  • Oklahoma: $4.3 million to support 208 housing units

Each year, FHLBank Topeka allocates 10% of its prior year’s earnings to AHP. Nonprofit groups, for-profit developers, government agencies and public entities apply for the grants for rental and owner-occupied housing projects in partnership with an FHLBank member. AHP funding is often key to the success of a project and can attract additional funding to a project.

“Our members are at the heart of their communities and work closely with nonprofits and developers who are expanding safe, stable and affordable housing opportunities,” said Jeff Kuzbel, FHLBank Topeka president and CEO. “We’re proud to partner with our members to support these 31 projects that not only create homes, but open doors to security and long-term economic prosperity.”

In 2025, FHLBank also committed an additional 5% in voluntary funding to support affordable housing and community development. Some of these funds, through the AHP Extra Program, supported AHP grants.

FHLBank Topeka provided $41.9 million in additional funding through our TurnKey Program and voluntary efforts in 2025. These include:

  • $22.6 million through the TurnKey program, providing down payment, closing cost and repair assistance to support 1,632 very low-, low-, and moderate-income homebuyers
  • $5 million through the Native American Housing Initiatives Grants Program to support housing and community development in Native American communities
  • $8.5 million in subsidies through the Mortgage Rate Reduction Product to provide reduced mortgage interest rates to income-eligible households
  • $4.9 million in advance discounts for members supporting targeted lending, like small business and agricultural lending, through the Lending Enhancement Advance Program
  • 3-to-1 matching disaster-relief grants through the Community Assistance Recovery Effort Program
  • Financial support to bolster the FHLBank Topeka Affordable Housing Institute at MSU Denver

FHLBank’s housing and community development programs are central to its mission to make a difference by helping members build their communities. The success of the cooperative means more funding is allocated to support members in these community-building initiatives.

Read more about the successful applicants on FHLBank’s website at www.fhlbtopeka.com/ahp.

FHLBank Topeka is one of 11 Federal Home Loan Banks that provides liquidity and funding to build vibrant communities for its member banks, thrifts, credit unions, insurance companies and community development financial institutions. With $79.9 billion in assets and more than $4.1 billion in capital, FHLBank Topeka serves 651 member financial institutions in Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and Oklahoma. 

Contact: 
Tamara Taylor, FVP, Director of Corporate Communications
tamara.taylor@fhlbtopeka.com
785.478.8157

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SOURCE Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka

As sustainability becomes an increasingly critical pillar of global trade, DP World is showcasing how ports can deliver measurable environmental and social impact through everyday operations.

A new video, “Sustainability in Action at DP World in the Dominican Republic,” highlights progress at the Port of Caucedo, where cleaner energy, circular economy practices, and community investment are shaping a more sustainable logistics ecosystem in the Caribbean.

The video spotlights initiatives ranging from waste recovery and ISO 14001-certified environmental management to solar power, electric equipment, and biodiversity protection. It also highlights DP World’s partnerships to restore mangroves, protect river basins, and monitor marine life, alongside programs that expand opportunity for women, youth, and surrounding communities.

Together, these efforts reflect DP World’s “Our World, Our Future” strategy, which embeds sustainability into port operations while supporting inclusive economic growth.

At DP World in the Dominican Republic, sustainability is not a separate initiative – it is integrated into how the port operates, how it engages with communities, and how it supports the future of trade.

Learn more: DP World Sustainability Initiatives

Originally published on December 19, 2025 on LinkedIn.

From the Gulf to your plate. 

Sysco is proud to partner with Paul Piazza and Sons who sources premium Gulf shrimp from Texas and Louisiana waterways to bring fresh, high-quality ingredients to restaurants of every size. 

Sysco works directly with local fisheries and small businesses like Paul Piazza and Sons, helping them expand and reach more customers. At the same time, our communities get to enjoy the delicious food they bring to the table!

View original content here.

About Sysco

Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing and distributing food products to restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments and other customers who prepare meals away from home. Its family of products also includes equipment and supplies for the foodservice and hospitality industries. With more than 76,000 colleagues, the company operates 340 distribution facilities worldwide and serves approximately 730,000 customer locations. For fiscal year 2024 that ended June 29, 2024, the company generated sales of more than $78 billion. Information about our Sustainability program, including Sysco’s 2023 Sustainability Report and 2023 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Report, can be found at www.sysco.com.

 For more information, visit www.sysco.com or connect with Sysco on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SyscoFoods. For important news and information regarding Sysco, visit the Investor Relations section of the company’s Internet home page at investors.sysco.com, which Sysco plans to use as a primary channel for publishing key information to its investors, some of which may contain material and previously non-public information. In addition, investors should continue to review our news releases and filings with the SEC. It is possible that the information we disclose through any of these channels of distribution could be deemed to be material information.

Open Sysco Addresses Food Insecurity in Global Communities, Exceeding Its Giving Goals in 3rd Annual Purpose Month configuration options

Open Sysco Addresses Food Insecurity in Global Communities, Exceeding Its Giving Goals in 3rd Annual Purpose Month configuration options

 

Whirlpool Corporation made significant product donations in 2025 to Ronald McDonald House and the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, facilities that serve as temporary residences during challenging times.

Ronald McDonald House

The 2025 effort marks Whirlpool Corporation’s first year supporting Ronald McDonald House. During this inaugural year, the company donated 165 appliances to 26 chapters nationwide.

Ronald McDonald House programs are dedicated to caring for families with a community of support. When a child is ill or injured and in the hospital, Ronald McDonald House provides a place to stay with the comforts of home just steps away from the hospital, operating over 385 Ronald McDonald House programs and over 270 Ronald McDonald House Family Room programs globally.

American Cancer Society Hope Lodge®

Whirlpool Corporation continued its long-standing support of American Cancer Society Hope Lodge® communities, marking its 18th consecutive year of support for the organization, a relationship that began in 2007.

In 2025, Whirlpool Corporation donated 188 appliances to 20 different lodges.

American Cancer Society Hope Lodge® communities offer a home away from home for people facing cancer and their caregivers when cancer treatment is far away. The program provides a free place to stay during treatment so that people with cancer can focus on getting better. The presence of functional, high-quality appliances significantly impacts the experience of guests. Guests emphasized the importance of kitchen facilities.

Whirlpool Corp. plans to continue both appliance donation programs with these organizations in 2026.

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is a leading home appliance company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. As the only major U.S.-based manufacturer of kitchen and laundry appliances, the company is driving meaningful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, JennAir, Maytag, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, and InSinkErator. In 2024, the company reported approximately $17 billion in annual sales – close to 90% of which were in the Americas – 44,000 employees, and 40 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

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