Originally published on 3M News Center

The 10 finalists for the 2025 3M Young Scientist Challenge have spent the summer working with 3M scientist mentors to refine their projects ahead of the final contest at the 3M Innovation Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, Oct. 13-14.

An exclusive mentorship with a 3M scientist is one of the perks of being named a finalist in the Young Scientist Challenge finalist. It’s the nation’s premier middle school science competition from 3M and Discovery Education, giving students in grades 5-8 a chance to compete for a $25,000 grand prize and the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist.”

For many of this year’s finalists, who range in age from 11 to 14, these exclusive mentorships have been a transformative experience, helping them bring their scientific solutions to life. Their remarkable journeys are documented in a series of vlog posts published throughout the summer.

  • Shrey Arora, who created FreshMate, a smart refrigerator device that tracks food expiration dates to reduce food waste, expressed thanks in his vlog for the help from his mentor, Lalitha Ganapatibhotla, an advanced product development specialist at 3M. “Being given the opportunity to work with a real scientist has helped me in so many ways,” Shrey said. “My mentor has helped me through refining my idea, exploring how to build a working prototype, and giving me the resources I need, and even thinking about how my idea and my project can impact the world.”
  • Divyam Desai, mentored by Dr. Caitlin Race, a research specialist at 3M, built a smart irrigation system that monitors soil moisture around buildings and waters each zone only as needed to conserve water and prevent foundation damage. “My 3M mentorship has been absolutely instrumental in the progress of my report,” Divyam said. “She has been tirelessly guiding me through all of the major steps I’ve taken to improve my system, offering valuable feedback and support every step of the way.”
  • Kiyara Gunawardena, working with Ann Gilman, an advanced research specialist at 3M, developed CORAL, a low-cost underwater robot that helps scientists monitor ocean health without needing divers. “My mentorship sessions are very interactive,” Kiyara said. “Every week we meet. We set goals and we also talk about different products we can use so that CORAL can be optimized.”
  • Isha Marla, whose mentor is Rodrigo Marmol, a global portfolio manager at 3M, created AlginaFAB, a sustainable fabric made from seaweed and other natural ingredients that mimics the strength and flexibility of traditional textiles while breaking down easily in the environment. “Working with my mentor has really helped me move forward,” Isha said. “I already had a clear idea of where I wanted to take my project, but having someone with real world experience meant that my ideas were not out of reach.”
  • Reanna Bhuyan Patel, mentored by Stephanie Owen, an expanded beam optics laboratory manager at 3M, developed a device that captures electricity from surrounding heat, offering a clean, low-cost energy source for communities with limited access to reliable power. “Through just this beginning, she has taught me how to use the knowledge around me through science to put forth amazing ideas and act on them,” Reanna said.
  • Sheyna Patel, working with Deborah Isabelle, a product engineering specialist at 3M, created a non-toxic hydrogel to capture and break down microplastics in water. “Her guidance has helped me overcome obstacles and believe more in my ability to bring my project to life,” Sheyna said.
  • Anirudh Rao, guided by Dr. Aditya Banerji, a 3M research specialist, developed a moisture-powered nano-generator for clean electricity. “Dr. Banerji didn’t just help me with the science part of my work,” Anirudh said. “He asked questions that I had not considered before.”
  • Aniket Sarkar, working with Timothy Hebrink, a senior staff scientist at 3M, designed a low-cost moisture capturing system that pulls water from dry air to help farmers grow crops in arid regions. “My mentor encouraged me to expand a bit more on an old idea I had,” Aniket said.
  • Amaira Srivastava, with the mentorship of Dr. Rohit Gupta, a product development specialist at 3M, created biodegradable cups infused with fruit peels to fight plastic waste. “The coolest part was being able to share and develop my project with my mentor,” Amaira said. “His mentorship is really making this experience unforgettable.”
  • Kevin Tang, guided by Dr. Mark Gilbertson, a senior robotics and automation engineer, developed a real-time fall detection system that uses video analysis and smart alerts to protect older adults in their homes. “Having someone guide me has made a huge difference in my project,” Kevin said.

The 3M Young Scientist Challenge, now in its 18th year, continues to inspire young minds to apply STEM to real-world problems.

Former America’s Top Young Scientists have given TED Talks, filed patents, founded nonprofits, made the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, and exhibited at the White House Science Fair. These young innovators have also been named TIME Magazine’s Kid of the Year; featured in The New York Times Magazine, Forbes, and Business Insider; and appeared on national television programs such as Good Morning America, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and more.

In addition to the 10 finalists, 3M and Discovery Education also recently announced the 2025 3M Young Scientist Challenge 32 state merit winners and four honorable mention recipients.

In May, 3M and Discovery Education unveiled the recipients of the 2025 Alumni Grants Program, which supports past participants of the 3M Young Scientist Challenge. This program provides funding for alumni to continue their original projects, develop new innovations aimed at improving the world, or promote science within their communities.

 

CLEVELAND, September 3, 2025 /3BL/ — KeyBank (NYSE: KEY) is helping clients take control of their financial futures with EasyUp® , a tool that transforms everyday spending into meaningful savings. With every debit card purchase, EasyUp can be set up to automatically transfer a user-selected amount – up to $5 – into a linked KeyBank savings account, helping clients build savings and work toward a financial goal one transaction at a time. The tool reflects KeyBank’s ongoing commitment to delivering simple, effective solutions that help clients take control of their financial journeys. Since its launch in August 2019, EasyUp® has helped KeyBank clients collectively save more than $182 million (as of July 31, 2025), with the average user saving $490 per year.

“EasyUp demonstrates that small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful financial progress over time. Available through KeyBank’s online and mobile banking platforms, EasyUp eliminates the need for manual transfers and helps clients stay on track without requiring major changes to their spending behavior,” said Jeannie Fanning, Director of Consumer Bank Relationship Growth at KeyBank.

The newly refreshed website highlights how easy EasyUp is for clients to use:

  • Enrolling seamlessly. Clients can simply sign on to online banking or the KeyBank mobile app and select EasyUp in online banking under Tools or in the mobile app under More, then Tools. Next, they simply follow the prompts to add the designated checking and savings accounts and set the transfer amount.
  • Saving while spending. With EasyUp, every time clients make a purchase with their KeyBank debit card, a pre-set amount of their money automatically moves from their KeyBank checking account to their KeyBank savings account. Clients set and manage the transfer amount – from 10¢ to $5.
  • Reaching financial goals. Through EasyUp, clients can build their savings for an emergency fund, vacation, investing, or other goals. Another option clients have is to pay down their debt sooner by having their EasyUp money automatically sent as an extra monthly payment to a creditor.
  • Taking control. Pausing, resuming and changing selections in EasyUp is simple. EasyUp allows clients to make changes in seconds – at any time – from adjusting the amount of the automatic transfer to changing account selections, and more.

Debit Card Purchases Unlock Relationship Benefits and Build Client Savings with EasyUp:

At KeyBank, clients can take advantage of relationship benefits with one simple requirement, using their eligible KeyBank checking account on five or more qualifying transactions a month. Debit card purchases count as qualifying monthly transactions under Key’s relationship benefits program. Therefore, if a client is enrolled in EasyUp, each debit card purchase not only automatically builds savings, but also counts toward the five monthly transactions needed to qualify for Key’s relationship benefits.

“To KeyBank, EasyUp is more than just a savings tool – it’s another way to help our clients wherever they are on their financial journeys. We keep our clients at the center of all that we do and seek to build enduring relationships. We’re committed to delivering practical solutions that address everyday financial challenges, empowering clients to achieve their financial goals and providing the advice clients need to take the next best financial step for their futures,” said Fanning.

To learn more about KeyBank’s products and services and move forward on your financial journey, visit key.com/easyup, key.com/relationship or find the nearest KeyBank branch.

ABOUT KEYCORP

In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit KeyBank Heritage Center. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $185 billion at June 30, 2025.

Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank Member FDIC.

CFMA #250827-3445178

From Rare Plants to Uncommon Crystals, In-App Users Can Now Compete on the Popular Live Selling Marketplace for High-Value Treasures Starting Above $35

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Palmstreet (https://palmstreet.app/), the live-shopping marketplace app, launches Long-Form Auctions, its latest integration into its lineup of buying and selling features. Palmstreet is known for offering an extensive variety of products from plants, pottery, crystals, to beauty, home decor, and even live reptiles from independent sellers. Unlike its fast-paced livestream auction platform, Palmstreet’s Long-Form Auctions run for up to three days with bids starting above $35, allowing time for buyers to explore unique listings, consider options, and place bids confidently on big-ticket items.

The new format opens the door for sellers to earn higher profits by competitively pricing their rarest, most valuable goods, while giving shoppers the chance to secure coveted pieces at attractive prices. With Long-Form Auctions, buyers gain access to exclusive items not typically found in standard listings, making it a must for discerning collectors. From rare plants and one-of-a-kind art, jewelry, crystals, and other sought-after collectibles and luxury goods, these auctions spotlight Palmstreet’s most in-demand treasures.

Since the implementation of Long-Form Auctions, Palmstreet has seen over 200 sellers post nearly 500 listings since the feature went live. Most recently, the sale of a $1,030 “Grey Fairy” Hoya plant made it the highest bid on Palmstreet’s Long-Form Auction platform to date. 

In order for potential sellers and buyers to access Palmstreet’s Long-Form Auctions, they need to first download the Palmstreet mobile app free of charge via iOS or the Google Play store.

Palmstreet makes buying with Long-Form Auction simple:

  • Buyers can sort through auctions organized by Popular, Highest Bids, Ending Soon, or Recently Added.
  • When placing a bid, users can open any auction listing to view product information, shipping & policies, and visit the My Bids section to easily track auctions already joined.
  • The Palmstreet App keeps buyers informed with real-time notifications and status updates to manage multiple auctions.
  • For first-time bidders, Palmstreet implements a verification check to ensure buyer legitimacy, providing peace of mind for sellers.

“From livestreams to purges, and now Long-Form Auctions, we’re excited to keep expanding our in-app features that provide ways for our community to connect and shop,” said Chen Li, CEO and Founder of Palmstreet. “This high-stakes auction format provides an opportunity to buy and sell premium items in a way that hasn’t been available on Palmstreet before, while creating greater value for both collectors and small businesses.”

Sellers can list products for the Long-Form Auction by following five easy steps:

  • Apply to become a verified seller on the Palmstreet app.
  • Once approved, navigate to the “Shop” tab to access the Palmstreet marketplace.
  • Tap the “+” button and select “Auction” and the “Longform” option to include a detailed description and high-quality product photos.
  • Start the bid at $35+, choose a duration between 24, 48, and 72 hours, and promote the auction on social media platforms to gain traction.
  • Manage the auction on the listing with the three-dot drop-down menu to edit description, photos, and price, after the auction goes live.

For media inquiries on Palmstreet, please contact BPM-PR Firm at 877-841-7244 or email info@bpm-prfirm.com.

ABOUT PALMSTREET

Established in 2020, Palmstreet stands as a vibrant LIVE shopping platform dedicated to the unique world of rare and collectible plants, alongside coveted treasures like crystals and artisanal decor. Rooted in fostering community, the app has embraced the empowering and nurturing spirit of its live marketplace, expanding into diverse offerings and championing fellow artisans. Palmstreet’s live selling videos provide an immersive and interactive shopping experience like no other. Imagine tuning in to a live stream where you can engage directly with sellers, ask questions about the products, and even see demonstrations in real time. For more information, please visit: www.palmstreet.app

Media Contact:
Erika Vives
400636@email4pr.com
1.877.841.7244
BPM-PR Firm

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SOURCE Palmstreet

Each retrofit saved $78,000 compared to buying new EVs, and a signed Letter of Intent will expand this model nationwide across Pickup Please’s fleet.

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pickup Please, the donation pickup service operated by Red White & Blue Thrift Store, has officially launched the nation’s first electric donation trucks in partnership with Evolectric. The vehicles were converted using Evolectric’s CircularEV™ solution and have been operating across the Greater Los Angeles area since May. This milestone positions Pickup Please as the first U.S. thrift fleet to electrify its vehicles.

 

Just as Pickup Please gives new life to donated household goods and clothing, this EV initiative gives new life to trusted trucks. The approach reinforces a truly circular model that reduces waste while serving local communities.

The converted trucks, which have served the Los Angeles community for years, now begin their next chapter from mile zero. They are fully electric, zero emission, and equipped with smart-enabled technology. The trucks are used for residential donation pickups and local deliveries to Red White & Blue Thrift Store locations, a stop-and-go duty cycle that highlights the practicality of EV retrofits for urban fleets.

Unlike many EV deployments that depend on subsidies, these trucks were deployed without government incentives. Each conversion saved approximately $78,000 per vehicle, representing a 45% reduction in capital costs compared to purchasing new electric trucks. This demonstrates that fleets can electrify affordably and at scale without relying on subsidies. Evolectric and Pickup Please have also signed a Letter of Intent to expand this model nationwide across the organization’s entire fleet.

Drivers report significantly quieter operation, enabling earlier morning starts in residential areas. Early results reinforce the business case by showing lower operating costs through reduced fuel expenses, lower maintenance needs, and more uptime from higher reliability. Together these benefits demonstrate how electrification can improve both operational efficiency and community impact.

“At Pickup Please, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From repurposing household goods to reducing our carbon footprint, we are committed to making a difference. Our EV conversion initiative is another step toward a cleaner future, ensuring that every pickup contributes to a healthier planet,” said Boomer Butler, CEO of Pickup Please.

In partnership with EverCharge, an EV charging solutions provider, two AC chargers were installed at Pickup Please’s Los Angeles facility using existing power availability to support overnight charging. This approach kept costs under $10,000 and limited the deployment timeline to just a few weeks, minimizing downtime and enabling a fast return to service.

“Seeing these donation trucks reborn as electric vehicles and serving Los Angeles neighborhoods shows what circular electrification is all about. It is faster, more affordable, and more sustainable than starting from scratch. Circular electrification lets fleets cut costs and emissions without sacrificing reliability or economics,” said Jakson Alvarez, Co-Founder of Evolectric.

CircularEV™ is Evolectric’s proprietary retrofit solution converting existing trucks into fully electric, smart vehicles by reusing, refreshing, and redeploying fleets.

“Together, we are not just upgrading vehicles. We are driving meaningful change for communities and the environment,” added George Diaz, Director of Fleet Management at Pickup Please.

Evolectric’s strategy centers on scaling through a certified network of service centers, upfitters, and dealers providing high-quality installations and service near fleet operations. This decentralized model enables rapid deployment, creates skilled jobs, and keeps investment in local communities.

About Pickup Please
Pickup Please, operated by Red White & Blue Thrift Store, makes donating easy and accessible, helping communities declutter while supporting charities.

About Evolectric
Evolectric is a California-based technology company helping fleets electrify smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Its CircularEV™ platform converts existing trucks into fully electric, smart vehicles while reducing carbon footprints by up to 50%.

Contact:
Nathalie Stein
310-596-7557
400563@email4pr.com

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SOURCE Evolectric Inc.

Landmark project to deliver 214 apartments with modern amenities and neighborhood-oriented retail, enhancing the legacy of the Westlake Shopping Center

DALY CITY, Calif., Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bozzuto, in partnership with Kimco Realty (NYSE: KIM), today announced the start of construction for The Chester at Westlake, a landmark mixed-use development that will be Daly City’s first major predominantly market-rate apartment community in more than 15 years. Scheduled to open in winter 2027, the community will bring thoughtfully designed residences, dynamic amenities and a vibrant sense of place to one of the Bay Area’s most established planned communities.

The Chester at Westlake advances Kimco’s strategy of transforming its premier retail centers into vibrant mixed-use destinations. The project also reflects Bozzuto’s nationally recognized expertise in creating award-winning residential communities and expands its management presence in the region. This is the partnership’s second joint venture, following Coulter Place, a mixed-use development adjacent to the historic Suburban Square shopping center on Philadelphia’s Main Line, which broke ground in 2023 and is scheduled to open later this year.

“We are honored to partner again with Kimco on The Chester at Westlake, Bozzuto’s first ground-up development on the West Coast,” said Toby Bozzuto, President & Chief Executive Officer, Bozzuto. “Together, we are creating a vibrant community that will combine an extraordinary living experience with a thriving retail destination, ensuring Westlake Shopping Center remains a cornerstone of Daly City’s future. This work reflects the strength of our partnership and the remarkable possibilities that emerge when residential and retail expertise come together.”

Located at 99 Southgate Avenue in Daly City, just south of San Francisco and less than a mile from the Pacific Ocean, Interstate 280 and BART, The Chester will include 214 residential units featuring studio, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments (70% of which will offer a private balcony or terrace), more than 13,000 square feet of amenities, and nearly 10,000 square feet of leasable ground-floor retail space. The Chester is part of the iconic Westlake Shopping Center, one of the earliest planned shopping centers in the United States and a longstanding community hub in the Bay Area. Daly City and its neighborhoods were built around Westlake, establishing it as the city’s central retail and commercial core. The Chester will add modern residences, amenities, and retail that enhance Westlake’s legacy as a destination while supporting the city’s growth and vitality.

“Westlake has always been at the heart of Daly City, and with The Chester we are writing its next chapter,” said Kimco CEO Conor Flynn. “This project reflects our strategy of transforming high-quality retail destinations into thriving mixed-use communities that bring new housing, amenities, and energy to one of the Bay Area’s most established neighborhoods. Daly City is also where I began my career at Kimco, so helping to guide its evolution represents a full-circle moment, both for me and for our company.”

At the heart of The Chester are thoughtfully designed spaces that cater to modern living. The community will feature a 2-story, hospitality-inspired lobby and two landscaped courtyards connected by a clubroom that flows into each. The west courtyard will serve as an active social hub, with an outdoor kitchen and grilling stations, a water feature, and ample lounge and dining areas for entertaining or connecting with neighbors. The serene east courtyard will provide a peaceful retreat with a covered lounge, fireplace, and lush landscaping for quiet relaxation. Additional amenities include a 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center and yoga room, collaborative co-working spaces and personal focus areas, a communal bar area with lounge seating, and a breathtaking rooftop sky lounge and patio offering panoramic views. Together, these spaces blend community connection, wellness, and personal retreat.

Bozzuto Development Company will serve as lead developer of The Chester, together with Kimco’s experience in developing, owning and operating vibrant retail destinations across the country. Kimco has owned and operated Westlake Shopping Center since 2002.  

Construction financing for The Chester is supported by J.P. Morgan. “J.P. Morgan is proud to support Bozzuto and Kimco Realty in the development of The Chester at Westlake, a landmark residential project that marks a new era for Daly City. This development will help enrich the community by offering modern living spaces and amenities, fostering a dynamic environment that celebrates the area’s rich history while paving the way for its future growth.”

Project Facts – The Chester at Westlake
Address: 99 Southgate Avenue, Daly City, CA
Site Size: 1.93 acres
Residential Units: 214 units
Residential SF: 250,000 SF
Amenities: 13,000 SF, including dual courtyards and indoor clubroom
Retail: 9,854 NRSF
Developer: Bozzuto Development and Kimco Realty
Property Manager: Bozzuto Management
Architect: BDE Architecture
Civil Engineer: Kimley-Horn
Interior Designer: Vida Design
Landscape Architecture: JETT Landscape Architecture & Design
General Contractor: Palisade Builders
Sustainability: Targeting LEED Gold Certification

About Bozzuto
Bozzuto is an experience-focused real estate company distinguished by its innovative developments, dedicated customer service, and top-rated workplace culture. With award-winning expertise in homebuilding, multifamily development, construction, and management, Bozzuto is devoted to delivering extraordinary experiences for those they serve.

Since its founding in 1988, Bozzuto has developed, acquired, and built more than 62,000 homes and apartments. Celebrating 37 years of creating sanctuary, Bozzuto currently manages 130,000 apartments and 4 million square feet of retail space across the U.S. For more information, visit Bozzuto.com.

About Kimco Realty®
Kimco Realty® (NYSE: KIM) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) and leading owner and operator of high-quality, open-air, grocery-anchored shopping centers and mixed-use properties in the United States. The company’s portfolio is strategically concentrated in the first-ring suburbs of the top major metropolitan markets, including high-barrier-to-entry coastal markets and Sun Belt cities. Its tenant mix is focused on essential, necessity-based goods and services that drive multiple shopping trips per week. Publicly traded on the NYSE since 1991 and included in the S&P 500 Index, the company has specialized in shopping center ownership, management, acquisitions, and value-enhancing redevelopment activities for more than 65 years. With a proven commitment to corporate responsibility, Kimco Realty is a recognized industry leader in this area. As of June 30, 2025, the company owned interests in 566 U.S. shopping centers and mixed-use assets comprising 101 million square feet of gross leasable space.

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SOURCE Bozzuto

NEW YORK, September 3, 2025 /3BL/ – The names of the 20 nominated Chief Sustainability Officers of North America have been revealed today, together with the names of the Grand Jury that will select the three winners of the Futur/io CSO Awards North America.

The winners will be announced during the CSO Awards gala ceremony in New York City on September 22, during the UN General Assembly and New York Climate Week.

The 20 CSO Awards Nominees are, in alphabetical order:

Aditi Mohapatra Expedia
Ann Tracy Colgate-Palmolive
Annika Dubrall Tiffany & Co
Anu Piduru Carter’s
Ara Erickson Weyerhaeuser
Caitlin Leibert Whole Foods Market
Carrie Sabin Stantec
Deanna Bratter Crocs
Emma Stewart Netflix
Erik Hansen Workday
Helene V Gagnon CAE
Jackie Jung Western Digital
Jennifer Motles Philip Morris International
Kate Heiny Booking Holdings
Kellie Ballew Shaw Industries
Malisa Maynard Mohawk Industries
Nicola Acutt Netapp
Patrick Barron Telus
Susan Uthayakumar Prologis
Wendy Rentschler BMC Software

 

The Grand Jury, who will choose the three winners among the 20 nominees, includes nine stellar individuals such as John Elkington, known as “the Godfather of Sustainability”, Sandrine Dixson-Declève, honorary President of the Club of Rome, Vandinika Shukla, deputy director of Global Programs at the Obama Foundation, Nina Eisenman, VP of Corporate Sustainability Strategy & Reporting, NASDAQ and Michael Kobori, former CSO of Starbucks, and winner of the CSO Gold Award in 2024.

The CSO Awards North America is an initiative of the Futur/io Institute, a pioneering organization dedicated to nurturing and inspiring leadership in sustainable innovation and building the most impactful network of CSOs globally. The European version of the CSO Awards takes place every year during the World Economic Forum week in Davos.

“The CSO Awards celebrates the human leaders who are championing change within the largest corporate enterprises in North America,” says Harald Neidhardt, CEO & Curator of the Futur/io Institute. “I’m honored to announce the names of the 20 nominees to the CSO Awards, and also of the members of the Grand Jury, who will choose the final winners.”

“The members of the grand jury are some of the most inspirational voices in sustainability, and the combination of such incredible and diverse experiences, backgrounds and points of view will certainly bring powerful insights, shining a light on the next wave of sustainability leaders within the corporate world.”

“The purpose of having a jury in our CSO Awards is to integrate the human factor into the evaluation criteria for our CSO Awards. Besides, it can also help to identify and promote Chief Sustainability Officers who are not only effective sustainability leaders, but also ambitious, innovative, and capable of fostering positive change within their organizations and beyond.” added Harald Neidhardt.

In August, Futur/io published a list of the Top 100 CSOs of North America, which included sustainability leaders from a diverse range of industries, including technology, consumer brands, services and retail, excluding fossil fuel industries like oils and gas.

From an extensive database including all the Fortune 2000 companies of the USA and Canada, the most relevant names were selected using data-driven criteria, developed by Futur/io and with an ambitious NetZero goal by 2040.

Futur/io Institute is collaborating for the data analysis with scientific partner the Leonardo Centre on Business for Society at Imperial College Business School, and supported by knowledge partners Denominator, specialized in human-centric data, ClimateGPT for public sentiment analysis and Rainforest Partnership, focused on biodiversity.

The four quadrant model takes into consideration the maturity of corporate behaviours, regulatory performance on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) criteria, environmental and human impact and also a self assessment survey.

Finally, the members of the Grand Jury will add the human factor to the selection process, using their expertise to choose the three final winners, to be announced at a gala ceremony in New York City on September 22, during the UN General Assembly and New York Climate Week. The CSO Awards North America are organised in collaboration with Made in Sustainability and supported by premium partner IntegrityNext and Gold partners Vitra and CEEZER.

CSO Awards North America Grand Jury 2025

John Elkington

Founder of Volans and chief pollinator. A true pioneer and foundational figure in the global sustainability movement, John brings over 50 years of experience as a strategic advisor to businesses across the world. 

Known as the creator of the “Triple Bottom Line” concept—People, Planet, and Profit—John’s visionary approach has become a fundamental part of business strategy worldwide. He has been at the forefront of movements such as the Global Reporting Initiative, Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes, and B Lab UK, and continues to guide sustainability conversations globally.

John has addressed over 1,000 conferences around the world and was a faculty member of the World Economic Forum from 2002-2008. He is the author or co-author of 21 books including the best-selling Green Consumer Guide and the recently published “Tickling Sharks”.

Vandinika Shukla

Deputy Director of Global Programs at the Obama Foundation.

With experience at the crossroads of human rights, tech policy, and democracy, her journey includes shaping AI tools at MIT Media Lab, incubating the Practicing Democracy Project at Harvard Kennedy School, and crafting gender policies at the United Nations.

Vandinika’s commitment to social change is reflected in her work, her teaching, and her writing, which has been featured in major publications like The Boston Globe and Slate Magazine.

Sandrine Dixson-Declève 

Honorary President of the Club of Rome and Executive Chair, Earth4All. Sandrine recently was elected to Commissioner of the WHO, Pan European Commission on Climate & Health.

She chairs the European Commission’s Expert Group on Economic and Societal Impact of Research & Innovation (ESIR), and is involved in climate missions and multiple advisory boards for organizations like BMW, UCB, Climate KIC, and Imperial College London.

A TED global speaker and author, Sandrine’s recent publications like Earth4Alll aim to guide humanity towards a sustainable future. She was recognised most recently by Reuters as one of 25 global female trailblazers and by GreenBiz as one of the 30 most influential women across the globe driving change in the low carbon economy and promoting green business.

Michael Kobori

Former Chief Sustainability Officer, Starbucks & Gold Award Winner, CSO Awards North America 2024 

Michael is the former Chief Sustainability Officer at Starbucks. He is a seasoned executive and adviser with over 25 years of experience driving corporate sustainability at global brands including Levi Strauss & Co., Starbucks, and as a Board Director at Bunge Global SA.

He now advises boards, executives, and private equity firms on leveraging sustainability as a competitive advantage, while also speaking at leading forums such as the UN and The Aspen Institute. With deep expertise in sustainable business strategy and systems change, he helps organizations unlock growth, resilience, and impact in a rapidly shifting global landscape.

Nina Eisenman

VP, Head of Corporate Sustainability Strategy & Reporting, NASDAQ

Nina has spent more than 20 years at the forefront of corporate sustainability. A pioneering executive passionate about technology-driven transformation, Nina currently serves as Vice President and Head of Corporate Sustainability Strategy & Reporting at Nasdaq where she leads the company’s sustainability strategy, ensures regulatory readiness, and leverages emerging technologies—including AI—to turn data-driven insights into action and impact.

Her leadership has shaped the forward-looking sustainability program and transparent disclosures that helped Nasdaq earn top recognition, including “Best ESG Reporting – Large Cap” at the 2025 IR Impact Awards and the 2024 Corporate Governance Awards, and a ranking as #1 in the U.S. and #8 globally on TIME’s 2025 “World’s Most Sustainable Companies” list. Her work has also contributed to Nasdaq’s inclusion on the CDP Climate A List and Supplier Engagement A List, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (World), the JUST 100, and Newsweek’s Greenest Companies list.

Daniel Erasmus

Chief Executive Officer, Erasmus.AI and Creator of ClimateGPT; Full Member, Club of Rome 

Daniel is the founder of Erasmus.AI and creator of ClimateGPT, the first AI model family focused on climate change. As co-founder of The Digital Thinking Network, he has led global scenario planning for over 25 years, anticipating major disruptions such as the 2008 financial crisis and the 2012 oil price collapse. His initiatives have delivered both business impact and social change, including providing over 60 million meals in Sub-Saharan Africa. He has authored three books and serves on several academic and technology advisory boards.

Niyanta Spelman

Founder and CEO of Rainforest Partnership, an international NGO that works to protect rainforests by empowering Indigenous and local communities on the front lines of deforestation. 

Under her leadership, the organization has safeguarded over 1 million acres of rainforest, making a significant impact on biodiversity and climate. With a background in environmental policy, Niyanta is a thought leader in global conservation efforts.

Niyanta has received numerous honors and awards, including The Women Of Change® Award at the Family Office Impact Summit, hosted by 5th Element Group PBC in the Delegates Dining Room at the United Nations in 2019, and the Profiles in Power award from the Austin Business Journal in 2020. She also spearheads the Rainforest Collective, convening leaders to drive action for forest protection.

Livio Scalvini 

Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Leonardo Centre on Business for Society at Imperial College London and leads the Sustainable Development Strategy of Imperial College Business School. 

With over 30 years of international experience in entrepreneurship, innovation, social impact, and venture capital, Livio’s expertise spans across diverse sectors including finance, sustainability, and education. His extensive background includes serving in C-level roles at financial institutions, advising start-ups, and co-founding the GOLDEN for Impact Foundation.

He has published books and articles on entrepreneurship, sustainability, business strategy, strategic planning, and risk management. He served as an advisor and investor in a wide range of start-ups and NGOs across Europe and Africa. Livio holds a Degree in Economics & Business Administration, MSc in Macroeconomics, and Executive Education in Exponential Technologies at Singularity University.

Harald Neidhardt, Chair of the Grand Jury

CEO and Curator of the Futur/io Institute, where he has grown an influential faculty and think tank of innovators, futurists and thought leaders – home to the co-creators of desirable, regenerative futures. He is the initiator of the Futur/io CSO Awards for sustainable leadership, and the host of the CSO Impact Podcast.

Harald is an advisor to the UNFCCC Resilient Frontiers initiative and an expert member of the World Economic Forum workgroup on digital platforms & ecosystems projects. He is a Singularity University alumni and is a keynote speaker on sustainable innovation at many international conferences, including COP26, TEDx (Hongkong, Hamburg, Marrakesh), SXSW, SingularityU Summit (NL/USA/DE), Wired, Next, MWC/4YFN and is a speaker at corporate executive events.

He’s published five books, most recently “Leadership for Sustainable Futures”, “Moonshots for Europe”, and “Before this Decade is Out”.

Selection Criteria: the Four Quadrant Model 

1 – Science & Behaviour Based Maturity Index – Imperial College (External Research Based): 

The Leonardo Centre at Imperial College has created a comprehensive global dataset that analyses corporate sustainability behaviours, enabling a thorough assessment of the maturity levels of the top 100 companies. Utilising this dataset, the Impact Maturity Index ranks companies within various sectors and geographies, providing valuable insights into their sustainability performance.

2 – ESG Qualitative Rating and NetZero Goal by 2040 (External Research Based): 

Using publicly available ESG Ratings, Futur/io Institute assessed which companies are exceeding regulatory requirements in their advancements on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. A crucial ranking is compiled data about an ambitious NetZero goal before 2040.

3 – Planet (Internal & External Research Based) & People (External Research Based):

Futur/io trained an AI tool to analyse 100 sustainability reports from the companies of the Top 100 shortlisted CSOs for the CSO Awards, extracting pertinent information on Greenhouse Gas emissions, Biodiversity measures, and Water usage. The Futur/io team then created a maturity scoring based on the compiled data points.

In addition, research partner Denominator created a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) matrix score and research partner ClimateGPT created a sentiment analysis from external sources and published data outside of the company’s own reporting. In addition, research partner Rainforest Partnership carried out an in-depth analysis on biodiversity aspects of each company.

4 – Survey & Self-Assessment (Internal Research Based):

The Top 100 CSOs were invited to contribute to a survey & self-assessment, including adding more recent initiatives that are not yet mentioned in the last published report and to verify correct leadership alignment.

About Futur/io Institute

We believe in co-creating desirable futures where ideas and innovation drive a regenerative economy that benefits people and the planet within the planetary boundaries.

The Futur/io Institute is a pioneering organization to serve the most impactful network of Chief Sustainability Officers dedicated to transforming businesses to drive positive impact for people, planet and prosperity. We do this through publications, podcasts and convening at inspiring locations like Davos, Basel, Lisbon, Venice and New York.

With a mission to inspire ambition, action and cross-pollination to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the institute provides a platform for thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers to shape the futures of business and society.

Futur/io works with organizations like the UNFCCC or corporations in leadership training and curates Executive Programmes to inspire future leaders in sustainable innovation. Each year in Davos, the institute organizes executive receptions and recently debuted the annual CSO Awards to shine a light on the leadership role of Chief Sustainability Officers.

Futur/io is based in Hamburg and works as a think-tank with a selected international and diverse faculty of 100+ leaders in sustainability. The most recent book “Leadership for Sustainable Futures” was published in May 2024 with Murmann Publishers. CEO & curator Harald Neidhardt hosts the CSO Impact Podcast, which launched in June 2024.

futur.io

Additional Info

https://www.csoawards.org/north-america

Top 100 List: https://www.csoawards.org/north-america/top-100-csos

Selection Criteria: https://www.csoawards.org/north-america/criteria

Media Contact

Luciana Prestes
Chief of Staff & Head of Marketing 
luciana@futur.io

CALGARY, AB, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Exro Technologies Inc. (TSX: EXRO) (“Exro” or the “Company”) provides the following corporate update.

Exro’s strategic review process is ongoing, with current discussions focused on the potential sale of the Company’s intellectual property and technology, and the potential sale of certain limited components of the Company’s business. There can be no assurance that any transaction will be completed, and Exro will provide further updates if and when any binding agreements are signed.

Exro has taken steps to reduce costs and preserve cash by terminating approximately 60 of its employees, including most of the employees in its Cell Driver and Coil Driver units and several operational support staff in SEA Driver.

The Company continues to operate with the support of its senior secured lender under the credit facility announced on May 16, 2025, and is in the process of negotiating revised milestones to access the facility which reflect Exro’s updated cost reduction and repositioning initiatives. Continued access to the facility will, in part, be dependent on the outcome of certain asset sale discussions.

The Company has postponed its annual general meeting of shareholders scheduled for September 5, 2025. A new meeting date will be announced when it has been determined.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified using terminology such as “plans”, “expects”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes” or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Forward looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s filings with Canadian securities regulators, that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing these forward-looking statements are reasonable based upon the information currently available to management as of the date hereof, actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Readers are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed times frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in filings made by the Company with the Canadian securities regulators, including the Company’s annual information form for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, and financial statements and related MD&A for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available at www.sedarplus.ca. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties, and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law.

Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

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SOURCE Exro Technologies Inc.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., September 3, 2025 /3BL/ – A new study reveals that while there is wide agreement that student engagement plays a vital role in learning, educators continue to face uncertainty about what engagement looks like, how best to measure it, and how to sustain it. Education Insights 2025–2026: Fueling Learning Through Engagement captures prevailing attitudes and beliefs on the topic of engagement from 1,398 superintendents, teachers, parents, and students from across the United States. Survey data was collected in May 2025 by Hanover Research on behalf of Discovery Education, the creators of essential PreK-12 learning solutions used in classrooms around the world.

Discovery Education conducted the Education Insights report to gain a deeper understanding of how engagement is defined, observed, and nurtured in K-12 classrooms nationwide, and we are thankful to the participants who shared their perspectives and insights with us,” said Brian Shaw, Discovery Education’s Chief Executive Officer. “One of the most important findings of this report is that engagement is seen as essential to learning, but is inconsistently defined, observed, and supported in K-12 classrooms. I believe this highlights the need for a more standardized approach to measuring student engagement and connecting it to academic achievement. Discovery Education has embarked on an effort to address those challenges, and we look forward to sharing more as our work progresses.”

Key findings of the Education Insights 2025–2026: Fueling Learning Through Engagement report include:

  • Engagement is broadly recognized as a key driver of learning and success. 93% of educators surveyed agreed that student engagement is a critical metric for understanding overall achievement, and 99% of superintendents polled believe student engagement is one of the top predictors of success at school. Finally, 92% of students said that engaging lessons make school more enjoyable.
  • But educators disagree on the top indicators of engagement. 72% of teachers rated asking thoughtful questions as the strongest indicator of student engagement. However, 54% of superintendents identified performing well on assessments as a top engagement indicator. This is nearly twice as high as teachers, who rank assessments among the lowest indicators of engagement.
  • School leaders and teachers disagree on if their schools have systems for measuring engagement. While 99% of superintendents and 88% of principals said their district has an intentional approach for measuring engagement, only 60% of teachers agreed. Further, nearly 1/3 of teachers said that a lack of clear, shared definitions of student engagement is a top challenge to measuring engagement effectively.
  • Educators and students differ on their perceptions of engagement levels. While 63% of students agreed with the statement “Students are highly engaged in school,” only 45% of teachers and 51% of principals surveyed agreed with the same statement.
  • Students rate their own engagement much higher than their peers. 70% of elementary students perceived themselves as engaged, but only 42% perceived their peers as engaged. 59% of middle school students perceived themselves engaged in learning, but only 36% perceived their peers as engaged. Finally, 61% of high school students perceived themselves as engaged, but only 39% described their peers as engaged.
  • Proximity to learning changes impressions of AI. Two-thirds of students believe AI could help them learn faster, yet fewer than half of teachers report using AI themselves to complete tasks. Only 57% of teachers agreed with the statement “I frequently learn about positive ways students are using AI,” while 87% of principals and 98% of superintendents agree. Likewise, only 53% of teachers agreed with the statement “I am excited about the potential for AI to support teaching and learning,” while 83% of principals and 94% of superintendents agreed.

A complete copy of Education Insights 2025–2026: Fueling Learning Through Engagement can be downloaded here.

On Wednesday, October 8 at 2:00 PM ET, Discovery Education is hosting a special, town hall-style webinar during which education leaders from across the nation will share their thoughts and insights on this report and its findings. Find more details and register for this event here.

For more information about Discovery Education’s award-winning digital resources and professional learning solutions, visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

###

About Discovery Education 
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art, PreK-12, digital solutions help educators engage all students and support higher academic achievement. Through award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, and innovative classroom tools that are effective, engaging, and easy to use, Discovery Education helps educators deliver powerful learning experiences. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Through partnerships with districts, states, and trusted organizations, Discovery Education empowers teachers with essential edtech solutions that inspire curiosity, build confidence, and accelerate learning. Learn more at www.discoveryeducation.com.

Contact 
Stephen Wakefield 
Discovery Education 
Phone: 202-316-6615 
Email: swakefield@discoveryed.com

PUNE, India, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tech Mahindra (NSE: TECHM), a leading global provider of technology consulting and digital solutions to enterprises across industries, in collaboration with MIT Technology Review Insights, released a joint report that emphasizes how enterprises can leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance sustainability in product design and development. The report highlights that enterprises combining AI with sustainability in their design and prototyping processes will gain a significant competitive edge.

Tech Mahindra Logo

The joint study finds that while AI adoption in product development is on the rise, many organizations are still in the exploratory stage. Full-scale implementation remains limited due to cost constraints, knowledge gaps, and rapidly shifting market dynamics. At the same time, increasing regulatory and societal expectations are putting corporates under pressure to reduce environmental footprints while continuing to innovate.

Narasimham RV, President – Engineering Services, Tech Mahindra, said, “Enterprises today are under increasing pressure to innovate while reducing their environmental footprint. At Tech Mahindra, we empower enterprises to achieve this by embedding AI into the earliest stages of product development through tools like digital twins, simulations, and rapid prototyping. The joint study with MIT Technology Review Insights reinforces the importance of measurable, AI-driven frameworks that reduce emissions and help businesses future-proof their models responsibly.

According to the research, nearly 80% of a product’s environmental impact is determined at the design stage. AI-powered tools such as digital twins, simulations, and rapid prototyping can optimize designs for functionality, manufacturability, and sustainability, significantly reducing waste, emissions, and resource usage.

Despite these opportunities, the study identifies key challenges enterprises face in embedding sustainability into product development. These include:

  • Customer confusion about what makes a product truly sustainable
  • Rapidly changing regulations and standards, a shortage of specialized talent
  • The absence of measurable sustainability metrics to track progress.

The joint report emphasizes that by overcoming hurdles and adopting measurable AI-led frameworks, organizations can harness sustainability as a driver of innovation, ensuring long-term business resilience and contributing positively to the planet.

Download the full report here

For more information on how Tech Mahindra can partner with you to meet your scale at speed imperatives, please visit https://techmahindra.com

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SOURCE Tech Mahindra

Development a component of ensuring reliability and facilitating economic growth

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Ameren Missouri, a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE), announced plans to develop an additional low-cost energy source to power 44,000 homes and provide 300 construction jobs.

Building on a series of recent announcements focusing on investing in a reliable and balanced mix of energy resources, the company filed a proposal with the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) to construct the 250-megawatt (MW) Reform Renewable Energy Center.

The solar facility is planned adjacent to the company’s existing nuclear powered Callaway Energy Center in central Missouri. Pending timely approval, construction will begin next year, with the project ready to serve customers in 2028.

Like Callaway Energy Center, the project is anticipated to be an economic engine in the community, adding an estimated 300 high-quality construction jobs at its peak, generating demand for support services and suppliers, and contributing to the area’s economic vitality. There will also be permanent jobs for maintenance and ongoing operations once in service.

“For more than 40 years, Callaway Energy Center has been a dependable source of energy for Missouri, and this new project will produce more locally generated energy,” said Mark Birk, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri. “Reform will also help us meet our goal of a balanced energy mix of about 70% from on-demand and 30% from intermittent sources, which allows us to achieve the two things our customers find most valuable: reliability and affordability.”

Ameren Missouri owns the land for the proposed facility and the transmission interconnection, reducing construction time and expenses. Reform also offers customers exceptional value thanks to available tax incentives, including its location inside an energy community.

“The Reform project will benefit our customers, the communities we serve and the entire state,” said Ajay Arora, senior vice president and chief development officer at Ameren Missouri.”

The site can also host up to 250 MW of energy storage. In the future, Ameren Missouri may apply to the PSC to install batteries at the Reform site. The batteries would store excess energy produced by the facility and discharge it when demand on the grid is higher, when customers need it most.

Alongside the Reform Renewable Energy Center, Ameren Missouri is developing several projects to ensure long-term reliability. The Castle Bluff Energy Center, scheduled to be online in 2027, will provide backup power during peak demand. The planned Big Hollow Energy Center, pending approval and slated for completion in 2028, will be Ameren Missouri’s first hybrid facility combining natural gas and battery storage. Four solar projects, representing more than 400 MW, are under construction and expected to begin serving customers by the end of next year. They will join three solar sites brought online at the end of 2024, which are collectively generating enough power for 92,000 homes annually.

About Ameren Missouri
Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years. Ameren Missouri’s mission is to power the quality of life for its approximately 1.3 million electric and 135,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company’s service area covers approximately 60 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.

Forward-looking Statements
Statements in this release not based on historical facts are considered “forward-looking” and, accordingly, involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed. Although such forward-looking statements have been made in good faith and are based on reasonable assumptions, there is no assurance that the expected results will be achieved. These statements include (without limitation) statements as to future expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, strategies, targets, estimates, objectives, events, conditions, and financial performance. In connection with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are providing this cautionary statement to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. The following factors, in addition to those discussed under Risk Factors in Ameren Missouri’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and elsewhere in this release and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations suggested in such forward-looking statements:

  • regulatory, judicial, or legislative actions, and any changes in regulatory policies and ratemaking determinations that may change regulatory recovery mechanisms;
  • our ability to control costs and make substantial investments in our businesses, including our ability to recover costs and investments, and to earn our allowed returns on equity, within frameworks established by our regulators, while maintaining affordability of services for our customers;
  • the effect on Ameren Missouri of any customer rate caps or limitations on increasing the electric service revenue requirement pursuant to Ameren Missouri’s election to use the plant-in-service accounting regulatory mechanism;
  • Ameren Missouri’s ability to construct and/or acquire solar generation facilities and battery storage, as well as natural gas-fired and nuclear energy centers, and implement new or existing customer energy-efficiency programs, including any such construction, acquisition, retirement, or implementation in connection with its Smart Energy Plan, preferred resource plan, or emissions reduction goals, and to recover its cost of investment, a related return, and, in the case of customer energy-efficiency programs, any lost electric revenues in a timely manner, each of which is affected by the ability to obtain all necessary regulatory and project approvals, including certificates of convenience and necessity from the Missouri Public Service Commission or any other required approvals;
  • Ameren Missouri’s ability to earn and utilize or transfer federal production and investment tax credits related to renewable energy projects; the cost of solar generation and battery storage technologies; and our ability to obtain timely interconnection agreements with the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. or other regional transmission organizations at an acceptable cost for each facility;
  • the inability of our counterparties to meet their obligations with respect to contracts, credit agreements, and financial instruments, including as they relate to the construction and acquisition of electric and natural gas utility infrastructure and the ability of counterparties to complete projects, which is dependent upon the availability of necessary materials and equipment, including those obligations that are affected by supply chain disruptions;
  • advancements in energy technologies, including carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration, hydrogen fuel for electric production and energy storage, next generation nuclear, and large-scale long-cycle battery energy storage, and the impact of federal and state energy and economic policies with respect to those technologies;
  • the effects of changes in federal, state, or local laws and other domestic or international governmental actions, including monetary, fiscal, foreign trade, and energy policies, foreign trade tariffs, executive orders, or extended federal government shutdowns or defunding;
  • the effects of changes in federal, state, or local tax laws or rates; additional regulations, interpretations, amendments, or technical corrections to, or in connection with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (“OBBBA”) and the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (“IRA”), including the effects of the OBBBA as it relates to construction timelines of solar and wind projects along with the ability to obtain materials for these projects to be eligible for federal production and investment tax credits, and the effects of the IRA as it relates to the 15% minimum tax on adjusted financial statement income; and any challenges to the tax positions taken by us, as well as resulting effects on customer rates and the recoverability of the minimum tax imposed under the IRA;
  • the effects on energy prices and demand for our services resulting from customer growth patterns or usage, including demand from data centers, technological advances, including advances in customer energy efficiency, electric vehicles, electrification of various industries, energy storage, and private generation sources, which generate electricity at the site of consumption and are becoming increasingly cost-competitive;
  • disruptions in the delivery of fuel, failure of our fuel suppliers to provide adequate quantities or quality of fuel, or lack of adequate inventories of fuel;
  • the effectiveness of our risk management strategies and our use of financial and derivative instruments;
  • the impact of cyberattacks and data security risks on us, our suppliers, or other entities on the grid, which could, among other things, result in the loss of operational control of energy centers and electric and natural gas transmission and distribution systems and/or the loss of data, such as customer, employee, financial, and operating system information;
  • acts of sabotage, which have increased in frequency and severity within the utility industry, war, terrorism, or other intentionally disruptive acts;
  • business, economic, geopolitical, and capital market conditions, including foreign trade tariffs or trade wars, evolving federal regulatory priorities, and the impact of such conditions on interest rates, inflation, and investments;
  • the impact of inflation or a recession on our customers and suppliers and the related impact on our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity;
  • disruptions of the capital and credit markets, deterioration in our credit metrics, or other events that may have an adverse effect on the cost or availability of capital, including short-term credit and liquidity, and our ability to access the capital and credit markets on reasonable terms when needed;
  • the actions of credit rating agencies and the effects of such actions;
  • the impact of weather conditions and other natural conditions on us, including the impact of system outages and the level of solar resources;
  • the construction, installation, performance, and cost recovery of generation, transmission, and distribution assets;
  • the ability to maintain system reliability during and after the transition to clean energy generation by Ameren Missouri and the electric utility industry, as well as Ameren Missouri’s ability to meet existing or future generation capacity obligations;
  • the effects of failures of electric generation or natural gas storage facilities systems and equipment, which could result in unanticipated liabilities or unplanned outages;
  • the impact of current environmental laws or their interpretation and new, more stringent, or changing requirements and environmental policies, including those related to New Source Review provisions of the Clean Air Act, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and other emissions and discharges, cooling water intake structures, coal combustion residuals, energy efficiency, and wildlife protection, that could limit, terminate or otherwise modify the operation of certain of Ameren Missouri’s energy centers, increase our operating costs or investment requirements, result in an impairment of our assets, cause us to sell our assets, reduce our customers’ demand for electricity or natural gas, or otherwise have a negative financial effect;
  • the impact of complying with renewable energy standards in Missouri;
  • labor disputes, workforce reductions, our ability to attract and retain professional and skilled-craft employees, changes in future wage and employee benefits costs, including those resulting from changes in discount rates, mortality tables, returns on benefit plan assets, and other assumptions;
  • the impact of negative opinions of us or our utility services that our customers, investors, legislators, regulators, creditors, rating agencies, or other stakeholders may have or develop, which could result from a variety of factors, including failures in system reliability, failure to implement our investment plans or to protect sensitive customer information, increases in rates, negative media coverage, or concerns about company policies or practices;
  • the impact of adopting new accounting and reporting guidance;
  • the effects of strategic initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures;
  • legal and administrative proceedings;
  • pandemics or other significant global health events, and their impacts on our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity; and
  • the impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East, related sanctions imposed by the United States and other governments, and any broadening of these or other global conflicts, including potential impacts on the cost and availability of fuel, natural gas, enriched uranium, and other commodities, materials, and services.

New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all of such factors, nor can it assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained or implied in any forward-looking statement. Given these uncertainties, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by the federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect new information or future events.

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SOURCE Ameren Missouri

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