Southwire, the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Engineering and Algae Tree LLC have teamed up to pilot one of the first carbon removing art installations in the US.

The unit grows microalgae in a tree-shaped photobioreactor at Southwire’s Thorn Customer Solutions Center where visitors can witness the carbon dioxide removal project firsthand.

The pilot unit contains a species of microalgae called Arthrospira platensis (spirulina) – a naturally occurring strain of algae – and is projected to capture carbon dioxide at the same rate as 38 fully grown trees.

“Southwire has a long-held commitment to sustainability, and this project aligns with our efforts to support education and reduce impacts to the environment,” said Bo Quick, vice president, corporate sustainability.  “We were pleased to engage with the Algae Tree and the UGA capstone students as they evaluated this innovative carbon removal technology.”

While the pilot unit is in service, UGA engineering students will analyze data from the project with the hopes of helping influence the design of future full-scale ventures.  Students displayed the prototype to members of the public and UGA community at the 2024 Capstone Design Showcase where it started hundreds of conversations about how carbon dioxide impacts the environment.

“The Algae Tree is a great way for organizations to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability,” said Jeffery Whitmire, Algae Tree founder.  “Our tree-shaped sculptures actively remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere while engaging with the public and making a statement of beauty.”

Visit https://southwire.com/sustainability to learn more about sustainability at Southwire.

CALGARY, AB, June 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Exro Technologies Inc. (TSX: EXRO) (“Exro” or the “Company“), a leading clean technology company specializing in power control solutions for electric vehicles and energy storage, today provided an update on the settlement of certain interest payments through the issuance of common shares.

As of June 23, 2025, pursuant to the terms of the C$15,000,000 senior secured convertible debentures of the Company issued on December 30, 2022 (the “Debentures”), bearing interest at 12% per annum, payable semi-annually in arrears beginning on June 30, 2023 (the “Due Date”), the Company has 14,950 debenture units outstanding, and an aggregate amount of interest owing on the Debentures payable of C$897,000 (the “Interest”). The Company has elected to issue 12,814,284 common shares in the capital of the Company (“Common Shares”) at a deemed price of C$0.07 to the debenture holders as payment for the interest. Pursuant to the Debentures, the deemed issue price per Common Share is calculated based on the volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares for the five trading days immediately prior to June 23, 2025.

The issuance of the Common Shares as payment for interest owing on the Debentures is subject to the terms and conditions of the Debentures as well as the receipt of all requisite approvals, including, without limitation, the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

ABOUT EXRO TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Exro Technologies Inc., now expanded through the acquisition of SEA Electric, is a leading clean technology company that has developed new-generation power control electronics. Its innovative suite of solutions, including Coil Driver™, Cell Driver™, and SEA-Drive®, expand the capabilities of electric motors and batteries and offer OEMs a comprehensive e-propulsion solution with unmatched performance and efficiency. Exro is reshaping global energy consumption, accelerating adoption towards a circular electrified economy by delivering more with less – minimum energy for maximum results. 

For more information visit our website at www.exro.com.
To view our Corporate Presentation visit us at www.exro.com/investors
Visit us on social media @exrotech.

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.

  • French-American chemist Marie Perrin wins the World Builders prize for her method to recycle rare earth elements from fluorescent lamps
  • Ugandan team Sandra Namboozo and Samuel Muyita awarded Community Healers prize for biodegradable sachets that reduce fruit spoilage
  • US sisters Neeka and Leila Mashouf receive Nature Guardians prize for turning industrial CO₂ emissions into sustainable textiles
  • Spanish team Granado, Sosa and Chimeno named People’s Choice winners for smart labels reducing food waste 

MUNICH and REYKJAVIK, Iceland, June 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — During a ceremony held today in Iceland, the European Patent Office (EPO) has awarded three special prizes as part of the 2025 Young Inventors Prize. These recognise outstanding achievements by inventors aged 30 and under whose work supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A fourth distinction, the People’s Choice winner, was awarded to Spanish inventors Granado, Sosa and Chimeno, after having ranked first in the public vote.

The ten winners of this year’s Young Inventors Prize — known as the Tomorrow Shapers — were selected by an independent jury from over 450 candidates worldwide, each receiving EUR 5 000. From this group, the jury awarded special recognition to Marie Perrin (France/US), Sandra Namboozo and Samuel Muyita (Uganda), and Neeka and Leila Mashouf (US) naming them World Builders, Community Healers, and Nature Guardians, respectively, with each receiving an additional EUR 15 000. The team of Spanish inventors Granado, Sosa and Chimeno was also chosen by public vote as the People’s Choice winner, earning a further EUR 5 000.

World Builders prize
Marie Perrin (28), a French-American chemist based in Switzerland, was awarded the World Builders Prize for her invention– a cleaner method to recycle rare earth elements (REEs) from discarded fluorescent lamps. Rare earths are essential to electronics and green tech, but difficult and environmentally damaging to extract. Perrin’s method, commercialised through her company REEcover, avoids harmful solvents and complex purification, making it easier to reuse resources instead of relying on new mining. The process achieves selective recovery of europium while preserving the ability to reuse chemicals, significantly reducing toxic waste compared to conventional methods.

“It has been a true privilege to stand alongside such inspiring young innovators from across the globe, and I hope it encourages more young women to see themselves as inventors and changemakers,” said Perrin.

The World Builders prize honours innovators advancing sustainable access to essential resources, such as water, energy and infrastructure. Their work drives circular economy solutions that promote prosperity while reducing environmental impact.

Community Healers prize
Ugandan entrepreneurs Sandra Namboozo (26) and Samuel Muyita (28) received the Community Healers Prize for having developed a biodegradable sachet that triples the shelf life of fruit without refrigeration. The sachets release plant-based compounds that slow down ripening and help to reduce food waste. The duo founded Karpolax to commercialise their work and support smallholder farmers. In pilot tests, Karpolax-treated mangoes remained fresh for 33 days, compared to just 11 days for untreated fruits.

“Winning a special prize is a powerful validation,” said Namboozo and Muyita. “It shines a global spotlight on a simple truth: innovation rooted in empathy can change the world.”

The Community Healers prize recognises changemakers focused on social equity through solutions in food security, healthcare, education and fair working conditions.

Nature Guardians prize
Twin sisters Neeka and Leila Mashouf (28), from the United States, were awarded the Nature Guardians prize for a carbon capture process that mimics photosynthesis. Through their company Rubi Laboratories, they developed an enzymatic method that converts CO₂ emissions into biodegradable cellulose for textiles and other products. The company’s closed-loop system uses carbon from manufacturing waste streams to produce regenerated fabric without fossil-based fibres or dyes.

“It took countless trials, errors and optimisations to make it all work,” said Neeka. “From producing enzymes that had never been made before to testing them in conditions no one had ever explored.”

The Nature Guardians prize celebrates innovators dedicated to protecting ecosystems and biodiversity, addressing climate change, ocean health and wildlife conservation.

People’s Choice winner
Spanish entrepreneurs Pilar Granado (29), Pablo Sosa Domínguez (29) and Luis Chimeno (28) are the People’s Choice winners. Their innovation of smart labels that indicate food spoilage based on bacterial growth was selected by public vote for its potential to help reduce food waste and increase food safety, while promoting sustainability across the supply chain. 

“We are very excited and grateful for the recognition! It is a motivational boost for us, as this award shows that we are on the right track and that our solution could really change the world, taking a positive step towards a more sustainable and safer supply chain for all”, said the team.

The People’s Choice is chosen by the general public. Voting opened online on 6 May when all the Tomorrow Shapers were announced and closed just before the ceremony started. 

The Young Inventors Prize celebrates worldwide innovators 30 and under using technology to address global challenges posed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The winners of the 2025 edition were announced today during a ceremony livestreamed from Iceland. 

Find more information about the inventions, their impact and the inventors’ stories here.

About the Young Inventors Prize
Aimed at individuals 30 and under, the Young Inventors Prize showcases the transformative power of youth-driven solutions and recognises the remarkable young people paving the way to a more sustainable future. Established in 2022, trophies were first handed out during the European Inventor Award ceremony. As of 2025, the Prize has moved up a gear with its own dedicated event, held separately from the Award. Among the 10 Tomorrow Shapers selected for each edition, three receive special prizes: World Builders, Community Healers, and Nature Guardians. In addition, a People’s Choice winner is selected through an online public vote. Each Tomorrow Shaper receives EUR 5 000, while the three special prize winners are awarded an additional EUR 15 000. The People’s Choice winner also receives an extra EUR 5 000. Read more on the Young Inventors Prize eligibility and selection criteria.

About the EPO
With 6,300 staff members, the European Patent Office (EPO) is one of the largest public service institutions in Europe. Headquartered in Munich with offices in Berlin, Brussels, The Hague and Vienna, the EPO was founded with the aim of strengthening co-operation on patents in Europe. Through the EPO’s centralised patent granting procedure, inventors are able to obtain high-quality patent protection in up to 46 countries, covering a market of some 700 million people. The EPO is also the world’s leading authority in patent information and patent searching.

*Important note
B-roll and picture materials of the inventors/invention here

Additional videos and photos from the ceremony will be available shortly
Full ceremony video available upon request

 

 

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SOURCE European Patent Office (EPO)

CHENGDU, China, June 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, Dr. Robin Zeng, Chairman and CEO of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), delivered a speech at the second Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology Exchange. During the speech, Dr. Zeng detailed CATL’s commitment to open collaboration and mutually beneficial development global wise, with a significant focus on empowering emerging economies.

In his address, Dr. Zeng emphasized CATL’s readiness to foster deep industrial cooperation and share its advanced technologies to accelerate the global energy transition. “There are many ways we can cooperate,” Dr. Zeng stated. “CATL is willing to co-build factories, form joint ventures, and engage in commercial agreements on technology licensing.” This collaborative spirit is central to CATL’s strategy of building localized ecosystems and supporting partners worldwide in their journey towards carbon neutrality.

Highlighting the significant opportunities in transport electrification, CATL noted the rapid pace of EV market growth in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. CATL is actively pursuing partnerships in the region, such as its collaboration with Arun Plus in Thailand to supply batteries and support the nation’s ambition to become Southeast Asia’s EV hub; and its co-development of a full industrial value chain—from mining to recycling—to localize Indonesia’s EV ecosystem.

Beyond transportation, CATL’s comprehensive “Zero-Carbon Tech” solutions encompass innovative energy storage systems that are crucial for unlocking the full potential of renewable energy. Its grid-forming storage systems enable independent microgrids, which are essential for remote regions and industrial sites. One notable example is the 19GWh battery energy storage system powering Masdar’s “AI + Zero-Carbon” green data center in the UAE.

To promote battery circularity across society, CATL plans to roll out 1,000 Choco-Swap stations by 2025. The footprint is expanding into Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR, with construction officially underway on Hong Kong’s first Choco-Swap station. In the medium term, CATL aims to establish 10,000 stations in collaboration with automotive partners. Furthermore, CATL’s advanced battery recycling technology—which processed 130,000 tons of waste batteries last year—underscores its strong commitment to the circular economy.

Dr. Zeng also touched upon the concept of “industrial decarbonization,” explaining it as the transformation of traditional high-energy-consumption industries with new energy solutions, such as using hydrometallurgy to reduce carbon emissions. This approach, combined with “new energy industrialization,” aims to create new economic growth engines and green transformation pathways, particularly relevant for nations seeking industrial upgrading and sustainable development.

CATL’s strategy involves fostering a global production network to ensure market supply and development worldwide, exemplified by its major investments in European manufacturing, including Europe’s largest battery base in Hungary and a new factory in Spain with Stellantis. These initiatives are designed to deeply integrate CATL into regional new energy industry chains, enhancing local value and technological advancement.

With over 43,000 patents and nearly 20 billion yuan invested annually in battery R&D, CATL continues to innovate in battery materials, chemical systems, and beyond. In 2024, CATL ranked second among all Chinese companies in overseas patent applications.

“As a global leader in innovation and technology, CATL is willing to collaborate with business and scientific communities across all international partner countries,” Dr. Zeng concluded. “We are eager to contribute – for humanity’s new energy’s sake, for humanity’s sustainable development, and for building a community with a shared future for mankind!”

CATL’s recent listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange further demonstrates its deeper integration into global capital markets, providing a vital platform to support its expanding production capacity, supplier network, and talent pool, enabling more diverse cooperation with international partners towards a zero-carbon future. The company aims for its factories to be carbon-neutral this year and is committed to achieving carbon neutrality across its battery supply chain by 2035.

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SOURCE Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL)

JAKARTA, Indonesia , June 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As proud members of the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC), APP Group (APP) and Charta Global Inc., its exclusive sales channel in the US and LATAM, were excited to sponsor the Paperboard and Packaging Councils (PPC) Spring Outlook & Strategies Conference this past April. Leaders from across the industry came together to discuss the future of the packaging sector including regulatory compliance, design trends and sustainable solutions.

On display throughout the conference was APP’s extensive paperboard packaging solutions including its new 85% post-consumer waste CRB duplex, kraft cup stock, kraft tray/box and uncoated kraft URB.  Also showcased during the event was its new 92 bright Sinar Vanda Hi-Brite C1S and Sinar Vanda Lumina C2S offerings.

APP also featured its full suite of food packing, including the company’s award-winning Bio Natura sustainable paperboard solution.   Designed to replace plastic coatings, Bio Natura is a PFAS and PE free, compostable and recyclable paperboard solution ideal for hot and cold cups, food service trays, take-a-way and frozen food containers and related food service packaging.  The board is multi-certified for microwaveable, ovenable, recyclable, and compostable, exceeding the capabilities for direct food contact safe use and for proper end of life.

Foopak’s portfolio highlights APP Group’s long-term commitment to develop sustainable and food-safe paperboard solutions, offering an alternative to plastic without compromising performance or safety.  This development supports the growth of the sustainable packaging market expected to grow to more than 800 billion by 2034 according to insight analytics.

“Engaging in industry dialogues such as PPC is essential for us to stay aligned with global best practices and anticipate future needs,” said Ian Lifshitz, a spokesperson from APP Group. “Foopak’s innovations not only support global brands in reducing plastic but also reflect our broader commitment to a circular and sustainable economy.”

As environmental expectations rise and legislation evolves, APP Group remains committed to accelerating its contributions toward a more sustainable packaging future, both in the U.S. and globally.

This participation comes as the biodegradable paper and plastic packaging market in the U.S. is projected to surge from $17 billion in 2025 to more than $40 billion by 2034, according to Towards Packaging Consultants. This exponential growth is fueled by increasing consumer demand for eco-conscious products and tightening environmental regulations.

With ongoing investments in R&D and certifications like PEFC and FDA compliance, Foopak continues to emerge as a trusted partner for food and beverage packaging brands worldwide.

About APP Group

APP is a leading pulp, paper, and forestry company based in Indonesia, supplying high-quality tissue, packaging, and paper to over 150 countries. With operations in Indonesia and China, we prioritize sustainability, ethical practices, and the well-being of our employees, society, and the environment. Our Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030, aligned with ESG principles, guides our efforts in environmental protection, community support, biodiversity preservation, and carbon neutrality.

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SOURCE APP Group

NINGBO, China, June 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Risen Energy Co., Ltd. (SZSE: 300118), a globally leading renewable energy company, recently released its 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report, themed “Powering a Better World with Clean Energy.” The report highlights the company’s progress across areas including green manufacturing, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility, including saving 22,065.05 tons of standard coal equivalent (TCE) through renewable energy usage.

As the climate crisis continues to dominate the news cycle —driven by extreme weather, pollution, and biodiversity loss—Risen Energy is dedicated to demonstrating its commitment to a sustainable future. By integrating ESG principles into every aspect of operations, the company is advancing clean energy solutions while addressing pressing global environmental and social challenges.

Certified for Responsibility

Risen Energy operates 12 sites certified under ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, ISO 14001 for environmental management, and ISO 9001 for quality management. These certifications reflect the company’s commitment to best-in-class operational practices and worker well-being.

The company also holds 878 valid patents and has developed a fully circular green manufacturing ecosystem. This system spans product design, raw material sourcing, logistics, production, usage, and end-of-life management. All materials comply with the EU RoHS Directive, and 100% of packaging materials are recyclable.

Driving Change Across the Value Chain

Risen Energy requires all core suppliers to sign 12 ESG-related commitments, including a Supplier Code of Conduct. In 2024, the company conducted 124 ESG due diligence investigations across its supplier network, enhancing transparency and accountability throughout the value chain.

The company’s use of renewable energy in operations has effectively saved the equivalent of 22,065.05 tons of standard coal, contributing meaningfully to emissions reductions.

Empowering Communities

In cybersecurity, all major information systems of the company are certified under China’s Level II Information Security Protection framework, ensuring robust data protection protocols. Women now comprise 33.19% of the workforce, reflecting the company’s efforts to promote gender inclusivity.

Recognition and Leadership

Additionally, Risen Energy was recently recognized as a best-practice case in the sustainable development of Chinese listed companies and received a score of 65 in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment. The company was also featured in the 2025 edition of the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook (China) and received a Silver Medal from EcoVadis for its 2024 ESG performance.

“At a critical juncture for global energy transition, Risen Energy embeds sustainability into its DNA,” said Lin Haifeng, Chairman of Risen Energy. “Guided by our ‘RISEN’ strategy—Responsible, Inclusive, Sustainable, Empowering, Navigating—we are merging solar innovation with ecological responsibility. Through capacity upgrades and cutting-edge products like the Hyper-ion Pro module and integrated solar-storage solutions, we are accelerating the industry’s digital and green transformation.”

Looking Ahead

Risen Energy plans to deepen its presence in smart industrial parks and low-carbon urban initiatives, while expanding its digital ecosystem across the entire value chain. The company will continue to prioritize human-centered development and foster a culture where employees and the company grow together.

Risen Energy is committed to illuminating a greener future with solar technology and invites global partners to join in shaping a sustainable world.

To download the full ESG report, please visit: https://en.risen.com/uploads/20250618/2024%20Risen%20ESG%20Report.pdf 

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SOURCE Risen Energy Co., Ltd

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