Author: sHq_LoGiNz

Guiding Stars: Focused Grocery Goals for Big Results

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Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Kitty Broihier

We cover goal-setting and ways to prioritize health regularly in this blog. But this time the aim is not to give you pointers on how to set health goals. Instead, I’m sharing how to make simple nutritional goals for the grocery shopping trips themselves. This goes far beyond just making a grocery list (although we do always suggest having a list of some sort). An efficient, goal-oriented shopping trip can help you achieve the diet and health outcomes you’re seeking.

Results Start in the Cart

Ever arrive home from shopping and still find it challenging to create meals that support your health goals? One big reason for this is probably because of the ingredients you chose. When you make strategic food choices that align with your goals, you’re automatically much closer to meals that support them. For example, maybe you’re looking to decrease sodium in your diet to support your cardiovascular health. If you already have a wide selection of foods low in sodium, cooking lower-sodium meals is that much easier. We eat what we have on hand, so it pays to choose wisely. Every food item you bring home plays a role in the overall quality of your diet.

One Nutrition Goal per Trip

The key to success with this method of shopping is simplicity—focus on just one nutrition goal at a time. Every time you shop, challenge yourself to choose the products that align best with the nutrition goal you’ve set. This technique is essentially a way to “level up” your food selections—making the best choice among the options available for each item on your list. For example, let’s say you’re looking to consume more whole grains. So you’ll seek out whole grain options for every food on your list with grains. This includes the obvious food categories like breads, crackers, and cereals, but also the less obvious: pastas, baking and pancake mixes, frozen entrees, and other frozen products that include grains. And don’t forget snack foods such as pretzels, chips, and other crunchy snack options.     

Use Guiding Stars to Help You Choose

There’s no need to scour every food’s ingredient list before adding it to your cart (unless you want to, of course). Rely on the Guiding Stars nutrition navigation system to help you make the best food choices for you and your family—without a lot of time or effort. When you select an item that earns Guiding Stars, you know that rating is based on its balance of positive nutritional characteristics against negative ones. Foods that earn one, two, or three Guiding Stars indicate that those foods have a “good, better, or best” nutrition rating. Remember your chosen nutrition goal for any particular shopping trip? There’s a good chance that Guiding Stars already takes it into consideration when scoring foods and assigning stars. For general foods, the nutritional characteristics that translate into stars are shown below:

Guiding Stars chart

Of course, not everything on your list will conform to your nutrition goal for that shopping trip. But I bet you’ll be surprised how often you can make a better choice—especially if you let Guiding Stars help you narrow down your healthy choices.

Staying Flexible With Food Choices

Nutrition goals are valuable to help solidify your health intentions. But it also pays to know when to be flexible about which foods you purchase and the meals you cook. Not everything you eat needs to adhere to a goal. When you’re shopping, make the best choices you can with the options and budget that you have. Buying something that doesn’t “fit” your goals doesn’t make you a bad eater, just like having an occasional treat doesn’t discount all your healthy eating efforts. What you do most often counts the most with nutrition, but staying consistent with good nutrition requires flexibility too. That’s why leveling up your regular, staple food choices with nutrition in mind makes sense. It’s a practice that leaves room for real life.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores, in Circana’ Attribute Marketplace, and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

*Image by Freepik

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Nation’s green development accelerating

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Xi has emphasized the need to maintain ‘strategic resolve’ in ecological civilization

BEIJING, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from China Daily:

More than a decade ago, when President Xi Jinping joined deliberations with national lawmakers and political advisers during China’s annual two sessions in 2014, he raised pointed questions about fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, for three consecutive days.

A view of Beijing's CBD area.

“Compared with Beijing, how is the level of PM2.5 in Shanghai?” Xi asked during a panel discussion with Shanghai deputies to the National People’s Congress, China’s top legislature, on March 5 that year, in a widely reported exchange with the municipality’s ecology and environment bureau head.

At the time, images of smog-shrouded skylines in Beijing were making global headlines, turning China’s air pollution into an international talking point, and making PM2.5 — airborne particles measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter that can harm the lungs — part of everyday vocabulary.

Today, the term is far less frequently heard. Clearer skies across many Chinese cities have become increasingly common. According to the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, China’s air quality reached its best level on record in 2025, with the average PM2.5 concentration dropping to 28 micrograms per cubic meter.

The change reflects not only targeted pollution-control campaigns, but also a deeper transformation in China’s green development philosophy — one that has been repeatedly articulated by Xi at the annual meetings of the NPC and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, China’s top political advisory body.

In 2015, while joining deliberations with NPC deputies from Jiangxi province, Xi said that “protecting the environment is ensuring livelihood”, adding that the eco-environment should be safeguarded as if protecting “one’s own eyes and life”, showing his resolve to curb the widespread pollution that was choking the world’s second-largest economy.

In 2016, during discussions with NPC deputies from Heilongjiang province, he called for drawing red lines for environmental protection and leaving sufficient space for sustainable development, in order to leave a beautiful homeland with blue skies, green land and clear waters for future generations.

In 2018, addressing fellow lawmakers from the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, Xi stressed efforts to strengthen the protection of forests and wetlands, to step up the fight against desertification and pollution, and to build the “Green Great Wall” along the northern border of the motherland.

Christoph Nedopil Wang, a professor of economics at Griffith University in Australia who specializes in the green economic transition in the Asia-Pacific region, said that earlier stages of China’s approach to green development focused primarily on visible issues such as air quality and PM2.5 levels.

“Over the past decade, China’s philosophy has shifted from reactive pollution control — often described as a ‘pollute first, clean up later’ approach — to a proactive, systemic economic transformation,” he said.

Xi has repeatedly emphasized during the two sessions the need to maintain “strategic resolve” in advancing ecological civilization. In 2019, while addressing Inner Mongolia deputies to the NPC, he stressed that environmental protection and economic development are closely integrated and complement each other, and warned against sacrificing ecological standards for short-term growth.

During the two sessions in 2020, he described ecological protection as a long-term plan for the benefit of the people, stressing that China must adhere to the principle of prioritizing ecological conservation and pursuing green development.

In September 2020, when delivering a speech at the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Xi announced that China would strive to have carbon dioxide emissions peak before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060 — marking the first time that Beijing laid out a concrete timeline for net-zero emissions.

Wang, from Griffith University, said Xi’s emphasis on strategic resolve signals China’s policy continuity and long-term planning. While many Western countries face fluctuating environmental commitments, China’s system provides predictability for large-scale green finance and industrial investment, Wang noted.

In his view, China treats the green transition not as a luxury to be discarded during economic uncertainty, but as a fundamental requirement for future competitiveness, resource security and social stability. “By maintaining this course, China aims to solidify its dominance in global green supply chains,” said Wang.

Wang Xiaoli, an associate professor in the Department of Social and Ecological Development at the National Academy of Governance, said that since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, China’s green transformation has gone far beyond the environmental sector itself, contributing to a high-quality development model.

“China’s ‘green content’ in economic development has continued to rise, with green and low-carbon industries now accounting for more than 18 percent of GDP,” she said, noting that advanced manufacturing with environmental and climate-friendly characteristics, green technologies, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and high-value-added services have emerged as new growth engines. “The fact that China has been able to achieve rapid economic development while steadily improving environmental quality has demonstrated to the world the effectiveness of this strategic resolve,” she said.

Institutional support has also strengthened. During the two sessions in 2023, the CPPCC officially established a new sector, “environment and resources”, adding it to the 34 sectors within the top political advisory body, reflecting a heightened priority on ecological protection, sustainable development and green energy goals in national policy planning.

In 2024, when joining the discussion of political advisers, including those from the sector of environment and resources, Xi, who is also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, said that the CPC Central Committee always attaches great importance to environmental protection.

He emphasized the need to secure red lines in the development and protection of territorial space, and improve the region-specific environmental management system, in order to further consolidate the ecological foundations of high-quality development.

On the country’s plan to control new pollutants following its treatment of smog and black and malodorous water bodies, Xi said that both newfound and persisting environmental problems need to be addressed.

“Today, the focus of China’s green development philosophy is firmly on ecological civilization and high-quality development,” said Wang of Griffith University. “In recent two sessions, this has culminated in the concept of new quality productive forces,” which integrates green technology as a pillar of economic growth and national security, rather than treating environmental protection as a cost, he said.

As this year marks the beginning of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period, analysts said the international community will closely watch for further policy signals regarding China’s green development at this year’s two sessions, which begin this week.

Wang of the National Academy of Governance noted that the recommendations for formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan outlined key areas for accelerating the green transition across the board and building a beautiful China. She said that the goal of peaking carbon emissions, before 2030, the final year of the 15th Five-Year Plan, is expected to draw particular attention, especially regarding new policy instruments, accounting systems and supervision mechanisms.

Wang, the Griffith University professor, said that key areas of international interest will likely include expanding the national carbon market to heavy industries such as steel and cement, integrating AI into green manufacturing and offering new incentives for transition finance.

How China balances domestic carbon goals with its role as a leading exporter of green energy equipment amid rising trade tensions will also be closely monitored, he added.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nations-green-development-accelerating-302703966.html

SOURCE China Daily

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Houston Nonprofit Gives Free Xfinity Internet Service to Thousands of Families in Three U.S. Cities

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Smiles lit up the room as nearly two hundred families received the tech tools needed to connect their homes to the internet, opening doors to endless opportunities and a brighter future.

Group at the free laptop and Internet giveaway

In an impactful new initiative, Houston nonprofit Compudopt, which provides free technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities, teamed up with tech leader Comcast to offer free high-speed Xfinity Internet service to thousands of families in Houston, Atlanta, and Chicago. This effort is made possible through Comcast’s Internet Essentials Partnership Program (IEPP).

Group photo at the free laptop and Internet giveaway

Compudopt and Comcast are on a mission to bridge the digital divide, which affects nearly 11% of U.S. households that lack access to high-speed internet, according to 2023 U.S. Census Data.

Speaker at lectern

“While digital access and connectivity are increasingly important resources, challenging economic times force families to choose between internet services and household necessities,” Compudopt CEO Megan Steckly said. “Our partnership with Comcast offers families affordable, accessible solutions, especially to the thousands of households impacted by the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).”

Person handing bag of tech supplies to student

Launched in 2020, IEPP is part of Comcast’s broader Internet Essentials initiative, aimed at accelerating student internet adoption through collaborations with school districts and other organizations. Comcast has established IEPPs with hundreds of schools, school districts and organizations nationwide.

“Every family deserves to be connected to education, healthcare, online banking, community and more,” Comcast Texas’ Regional Senior Vice President Jose Espinel said. “We know digital accessibility opens the door to more opportunities, and we’re inspired by the impact this partnership with Compudopt will make on thousands of American households.”

Two students holding blue bags of tech supplies

This collaboration marks a significant step towards ensuring that more families have the digital access they need to thrive in today’s connected world.

Group of speakers at event

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Mastercard: What Spending Data Tells Us About Cyberattacks

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Originally published by Mastercard
By Johan Gerber, Executive Vice President, Security Solutions, Mastercard and Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist, Mastercard Economics Institute

Asahi Group, maker of Japan’s best-selling beer, was struck by a cyberattack last fall that was so severe the company had to shut down many computer systems and fill orders using pen, paper and fax machines. The disruption cascaded to Asahi’s supply chain, bars and restaurants, and consumers.

This attack is representative of the new face of cybercrime, with digital assaults inflicting broader economic damage and causing greater global losses each year. This trend is creating a stronger connection between cyberattacks and the global economy, with a growing body of research showing that when markets and businesses fail to prioritize their cyber protections, economic growth can suffer.

The more policymakers and business leaders can understand the economic implications of cyberattacks, the more effectively they can prevent them from happening – for instance, if AI-powered phishing is causing the most financial harm, they can prioritize their investments and consumer education there. To support this research, economists at the Mastercard Economics Institute analyzed both the Asahi cyberattack as well as a cyberattack on the Colonial Pipeline a few years ago, as part of our ongoing research into the economics of cybersecurity and cybercrime.

Our review of aggregated and anonymized Mastercard spending data showed a similar pattern of distortion to buying patterns, with evidence of stockpiling in the face of supply disruptions. These two case studies highlight how attacks that impact supply chains expose their fragility and interconnected nature, showing that the effects can go far beyond financial losses for a single business targeted in an attack. Instead, these attacks can result in major impacts for millions of consumers and thousands of businesses, with some disruptions persisting for several months.

Case studies of Asahi and Colonial Pipeline attacks

The Mastercard Economics Institute team, led by our colleague Shubham Chauhan, completed in-depth analyses of these two major cyberattacks. The Mastercard Economics Institute reviewed historic transaction data processed on the Mastercard network following each attack to gain insights on their aftereffects and impact on consumers.

In the first case study, we analyzed the September 29, 2025, cyberattack on Asahi Group. Cybercriminals caused a system failure for the company, forcing it to stop production at most of its 30 factories in Japan and suspend orders, shipments and call center operations in the country.

As restaurants, bars and stores struggled to restock Asahi beer, we observed a large, sustained spike in spending at beer and liquor stores in Japan in the first 10 days of October, as news of the cyberattack caused consumers to stockpile Asahi beer, thus exacerbating shortages.

In beer and liquor stores in Japan over those 10 days, we saw a 57% rise in sales from a year earlier. Comparatively, sales rose by only 3% during the same 10-day period in 2024 versus the year prior.

Asahi Group ransomware attack

The late September 2025 ransomware attack on Japanese beverage maker Asahi cripped its operations and led to a spike in sales at beer and liquor stores. 

Graph of Asahi Group ransomware attack

In the second case study, we researched the Colonial Pipeline attack, a ransomware breach on May 7, 2021, that shut down Colonial’s operations and disrupted nearly 45% of fuel supplies on the East Coast of the U.S.

In a similar pattern to the Asahi attack, news of the supply disruption triggered a surge in fuel purchases along the East Coast by May 10. The Mastercard Economics Institute found that the data revealed a 17% increase in spending per card in impacted states versus a 5% increase in other states. Additionally, we found a 14% rise in the average transaction size of fuel purchases, reflecting both stockpiling by consumers and price spikes amid the growing demand.

By May 12, our research identified widespread fuel shortages across the impacted states, caused by both supply disruptions and the higher demand, with supplies eventually normalizing two days later.

The Colonial Pipeline cyberattack timeline

Panic buying in the Eastern U.S. ensued in the first days after the ransomware attack on May 7, 2021, followed by fuel shortages. The bar below shows the total spend index per postal code indexed to the 2021 fiscal year average, with red signifying lower than average spend and green signifying higher than average spend. 

Map timeline showing results of Colonial Pipeline cyberattack

The rise of larger scale cyberattacks

The potential for these types of large-scale attacks has only grown. Cybercriminals have professionalized their operations and have increasingly targeted critical infrastructure and key business operations to maximize their chances of receiving large payments for stolen data or frozen systems. To that end, some of the most malicious — and increasingly common — attacks are those targeting hospitals and other health care systems. These attacks can often endanger people’s lives, as emergency care is diverted to different locations and impacted hospital staffs struggle to coordinate and share critical information.

In another recent example of these large-scale breaches, Jaguar Land Rover, the largest U.K. automaker, in August 2025 suffered a cyberattack that halted its global operations for five weeks and impacted more than 5,000 suppliers. This attack was so large that it harmed the overall U.K. economy, which reportedly absorbed estimated losses of $2.5 billion.

Additionally, in 2024, software firm CDK Global shut down data centers, phones and applications following a ransomware intrusion. These mitigation measures disrupted services for approximately 15,000 car dealerships across North America. Economic consultant Anderson Economic Group estimated that CDK’s shutdown cost auto dealers more than $600 million over two weeks. CDK paid a $25 million ransom.

In all four of these cases mentioned, we can clearly see that cybercrime has grown into an economic threat to businesses, infrastructure and GDP growth. More significant attacks should be expected in the future, especially as artificial intelligence increases the sophistication and frequency of attacks.

Recommendations and next steps

As part of our research, we’ve identified two key recommendations.

First, because of how interconnected global economies have become, the response to cybercrime must be more coordinated globally and involve shared responsibility to protect data, instill trust in digital tools and support continued GDP growth. As cybercriminals continue focusing on critical business operations, industries need to build up resilience of both their cybersecurity operations and supply chains to counteract these attacks. Strong public-private partnership and information sharing across industries will support this work.

Second, our analysis underscores the need for continued research into the economics of cybercrime. Without reliable metrics, organizations and governments won’t be able to make informed decisions and will instead be forced to rely on anecdotal information to determine the direction of policy and cybersecurity investments.

Continue reading here
Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.
 

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Global EHS and Sustainability Conferences To Attend in 2026

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Remaining informed about new trends and innovations in environment, health, safety, (EHS) and sustainability is crucial for industry professionals dedicated to continuously enhancing their company’s processes and initiatives.

There are a multitude of upcoming EHS and Sustainability events across the globe that can serve as invaluable resources for gaining fresh insights, identifying new trends, and ultimately contributing to a safer and more environmentally friendly workplace and planet. From interactive sessions to inspirational presentations and networking opportunities, here is a brief compilation of global EHS and sustainability conferences and events that should be on your radar for 2026.

 

Asia

 

Sustainability Week Asia

Date: 25-26 March

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Event Details: The 5th annual Sustainability Week Asia brings together 1,000 sustainability leaders, purpose-driven consumers, and business decision-makers in Bangkok to accelerate the transition to net zero. As Asia-Pacific’s rapid economic growth, significant investment in renewables, and diverse ecosystems position the region to lead the race to a greener future, this event offers practical case studies, in-depth panels, private roundtables, and high-impact networking to support rapid, real-world business transformation.

Website: https://events.economist.com/sustainability-week-asia/

 

EREE 2026 – 2026 8th International Conference on Environment, Resources and Energy Engineering

Date: 5-7 October

Location: Singapore

Event Details: As environmental pollution intensifies and the demand for practical, cost-effective solutions grows, advancing innovative technologies in Resources, Environmental & Energy Engineering has never been more critical. EREE 2026 provides a premier platform for academic exchange, bringing together specialists, researchers, and scholars to share ideas, present breakthroughs, and explore emerging challenges across environment, resources, and energy engineering.

From solar energy and renewable resources to natural environment protection and sustainable systems design, the conference fosters collaboration across disciplines—encouraging fresh perspectives, meaningful dialogue, and the discovery of powerful synergies that can drive real-world environmental and energy solutions.

Website: https://www.eree.org/

 

The Health & Safety Event Asia

Date: 10-12 November

Location: Singapore

Event details: Join 3,000+ health and safety professionals for a dynamic event designed to advance best practices, showcase emerging trends, and share proven strategies shaping the future of workplace safety. Connect with leading experts and influential voices across the sector, gain CPD points through an expert-led content programme, and stay ahead of critical regulatory changes and industry developments.

Explore 10,000+ innovations and engage with 75+ global suppliers to source cutting-edge technologies and solutions that strengthen safety performance across your organisation. With unmatched networking opportunities spanning industries and sectors, this is your opportunity to elevate your expertise, expand your professional network, and drive meaningful improvements in health and safety standards.

Website: https://www.safetysecurityasia.com/health-safety-event

 

COP31

Date: 9-20 November

Location: Antalya, Turkiye

Event Details: COP 31 will bring together Parties to the United Nations climate convention for the world’s premier climate decision-making forum. As the supreme body of the Convention, the Conference of the Parties (COP) convenes annually to review progress on implementation, assess national communications and emissions inventories, and adopt decisions that strengthen global climate action. With participation from governments across all UN regions—alongside observers, institutions, and stakeholders—COP 31 will play a critical role in evaluating collective progress and advancing the institutional, legal, and practical measures needed to meet the Convention’s ultimate objective.

Website: https://unfccc.int/cop31

 

Africa

 

Twelfth Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development

Date: 28-30 April

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, United Nations Conference Center

Event details: The Twelfth Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD) convenes governments, private sector leaders, civil society, youth, and development partners to accelerate progress on the 2030 Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Under the theme “Turning the Tide: Transformative and Coordinated Actions,” the 2026 Forum will focus on scaling bold, aligned solutions and reviewing progress on SDGs 6, 7, 9, 11, and 17, while strengthening peer learning, supporting countries presenting Voluntary National Reviews, and shaping Africa’s regional priorities for key global sustainability milestones.

Website: https://www.uneca.org/eca-events/arfsd2026

 

16th Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainable Development Forum

Date: 30 April – 2 May

Location: North Coast, Egypt

Event Details: Join us on the journey toward a more sustainable future. The 16th edition of this forum moves beyond theory, equipping participants with a practical Sustainability Toolbox—featuring inspiring tools, forward-looking policies, and real-world experiences designed to turn big questions into clear answers and actionable plans.

More than a conference, it is a collaborative platform where ideas become implementation—empowering organizations to translate ambition into measurable impact for today and for future generations.

Website: https://www.egyptcsrforum.com/

 

16th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion

Date: 2-4 September

Location: Cape Town

Event details: This conference examines the structural, social, and commercial drivers of injury risk—alongside practical, scalable solutions—through an African lens with global relevance. Grounded in the philosophy of Ubuntu, which reflects interconnectedness, shared humanity, and mutual responsibility, the theme underscores the power of collective action in preventing injury and violence.

Bringing together diverse sectors and communities, the event promotes a holistic and inclusive approach to safety—one that benefits Africa and resonates worldwide. Participants will explore cutting-edge evidence on injury prevention while confronting the complex social, economic, and political barriers that often hinder implementation. More than a dialogue, this conference is a call to action: to elevate safety and public health as central priorities in policy, practice, and leadership.

Website: https://worldsafety.co.za/

 

Sustainability & ESG Africa, CONFERENCE & EXPO

Date: 30 September – 01 October

Location: South Africa, Sandton Convention Centre

Event Details: The Sustainability & ESG Africa Conference and Expo brings together industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators committed to advancing sustainable development across the continent. Over two days of high-level discussions, interactive workshops, and expert panels, participants gain practical insights into the environmental, social, and governance strategies shaping Africa’s future. Designed to foster collaboration and real-world solutions, the event offers a dynamic platform to connect, explore emerging technologies, and drive meaningful impact toward a more resilient and responsible Africa.

Website: https://esgafricaconference.com/

 

Europe

 

3rd Annual World ESG and Climate Summit

Date: 27-28 May

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Event Details: The World Sustainability and ESG Summit is a leading international forum focused on advancing sustainable development and accelerating ESG integration across sectors. Bringing together global leaders, policymakers, investors, and sustainability professionals, the summit offers keynote addresses, expert panels, interactive workshops, and high-level networking. Participants gain insights into global sustainability trends, emerging ESG frameworks, and practical strategies to address today’s most pressing environmental and societal challenges.

Website: https://www.leadventgrp.com/events/3rd-annual-world-esg-and-climate-summit/details

 

EHS Congress 2026

Date: 27-28 May

Location: Berlin, Germany

Event Details: A premier European event for Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) leaders, focused on “Creating a genuine Culture of Care.” This year will feature workshops, keynotes, and networking, bringing together professionals to explore tech trends, risk assessment, and safety culture.

Website: https://ehscongress.com/

 

World Biodiversity Forum

Date: 14-19 June

Location: Davos, Switzerland

Event Details: Under the theme “Leading Transformation Together,” the fourth World Biodiversity Forum (WBF 2026) will take place 14–19 June 2026 in Davos, Switzerland. The Forum brings together leaders from science, business, policy, arts, and civil society to advance actionable solutions that address biodiversity loss and interconnected planetary crises. Focused on supporting implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, WBF 2026 fosters cross-sector and cross-generational collaboration to tackle root causes, co-create biodiversity-positive futures, and build equitable systems that drive lasting transformation.

Website: https://worldbiodiversityforum.org/

 

The 7th International PFAS Congress

Date: 17-20 June

Location: Paris, France

Event Details: The 7th International PFAS Congress PFAS over 4 Days, the 17th to 20th of June 2026 in Paris is the largest PFAS Congress internationally, with participants from Industries, Service Providers, Consultants, Authorities, Universities, Dirking Water Producers, Lawyers, Insurance Companies, and all kind of Stake Holders. Presentations and Discussions are ensured during 4 days with Experts from the European Community (Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland) and from the UK, USA, UK, Canada, Australia.

Themes are focused on Innovative Site Investigations (Water, Soil, Air, Sediments, Organisms), Risk Assessments (Human Health & Environment), use of AI for Contamination Source Identification and Differentiation for Cost Sharing and Court Disputes, Case studies of Remediation and Treatment Technologies and new Research Results. In parallel an Exhibit Space for companies is installed for visiting.

Inogen Alliance is an official sponsor and will be attending this event, we hope to see you there!

 

Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) Global Water Stewardship Forum

Date: 23-24 June

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Event Details: The AWS Global Water Stewardship Forum is one of the key events in which our community of members, implementers and stakeholders share knowledge and learning on the evolution of water stewardship practice and forge new directions through dialogue and partnerships. Held annually since 2016 in Edinburgh, Scotland, it has become the must-attend event for the international water stewardship community.

Website: https://a4ws.org/global-water-stewardship-forum/

Inogen Alliance is an official sponsor and will be attending this event, we hope to see you there!

 

Responsible Investment Forum: Europe

Date: 17-18 November

Location: London, UK

Event Details: The longest-running private equity forum focused on bringing together fund managers, institutional investors, and expert advisors to discuss ESG issues across alternative asset classes will return to London on 17-18 November.. Recent key themes included addressing climate change within a portfolio, ongoing regulatory changes, the growth in impact and what it means for ESG, value creation and much more. Hear from the leading investors, managers and expert advisors on the latest ESG strategies.

Website: https://www.peievents.com/en/event/responsible-investment-forum-europe/home/

 

North America

 

Reuters Responsible Business USA 2026

Date: 5-6 May

Location: Boston, USA

Event Details: Amid growing regulatory fragmentation, shifting investor expectations, and mounting pressure to demonstrate ROI, sustainability leaders are navigating an increasingly complex landscape. Reuters Events: Responsible Business USA 2026 is designed to meet this moment.

Taking place this May in Boston, the event convenes 350 senior decision-makers for two focused days of candid case studies, peer-led insights, and structured networking. Attendees will explore how leading organizations are protecting sustainability budgets, strengthening board buy-in, setting clear priorities amid political uncertainty, and positioning sustainability as a driver of growth and resilience. Responsible Business USA 2026 offers a focused, high-impact forum to regroup, refocus, and reinforce sustainability’s place at the core of corporate strategy.

Website: https://events.reutersevents.com/sustainable-business/responsible-business-usa

 

Climate Week NYC

Date: 20-27 September

Location: New York, USA

Event Details: Climate Week NYC is the largest annual climate event of its kind, bringing together over 500 events and activities across the City of New York – in person, hybrid and online. Each year, business leaders, political change makers, local decision takers and civil society representatives of all ages and backgrounds, from all over the world, gather to drive the transition, speed up progress, and champion change that is already happening. Climate Week NYC is hosted by Climate Group, an international non-profit whose purpose is to drive climate action, fast. Climate Group hosts the official program during the week that brings together the most senior international figures from business, government, civil society and the climate sector.

Website: https://www.climateweeknyc.org/

 

Forum26: NAEM EHS & Sustainability Management Forum

Date: 12-14 October

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Event Details: NAEM’s EHS & Sustainability Management Forum is the largest annual gathering for environment, health and safety, and sustainability (EHS&S) decision-makers. Join your peers from leading companies, get exposed to new ideas, and come away energized and ready to implement what you’ve learned.

Website: https://www.naem.org/events/read/2026/10/12/conferences-events/forum26-ehs-sustainability-management-forum

 

Latin America

 

Latin America Energy Summit

Date: 15-16 April

Location: Santiago, Chile

Event Details: The Latin America Energy Summit 2026 will take place April 15–16 in Santiago, Chile, bringing together energy companies, developers, investors, engineering firms, and government leaders to explore emerging opportunities across the region’s evolving energy landscape.

Over two days, experts from across the Americas and Europe will examine renewable infrastructure projects in wind, solar, and hydropower, alongside the continued role of hydrocarbons and natural gas in meeting power and transportation demands. Designed to foster strategic partnerships and enhance competitiveness, the Summit offers a focused platform to build the relationships needed to succeed in Latin America’s dynamic energy market.

Website: https://www.latamenergysummit.com/

 

First International Conference for the Just Transition Away from Fossil Fuels

Date: 28-29 April

Location: Santa Marta, Colombia

Event Details: The Governments of Colombia and the Netherlands have announced plans to co-host the first International Conference on the Just Transition Away from Fossil Fuels, following COP30 negotiations that produced no agreement on fossil fuel phaseout. The conference will bring together governments, Indigenous Peoples, NGOs, and other stakeholders to advance legal, economic, and social pathways for an equitable global transition away from fossil fuels.

Aligned with the Belem Declaration on the Just Transition Away from Fossil Fuels, now signed by 24 countries, the event aims to strengthen international cooperation and accelerate progress toward a coordinated and just phaseout

Website: https://www.gwec.net/events/first-international-conference-for-the-just-transition-away-from-fossil-fuels

 

4th ISIE Americas & the Caribbean 2026

Date: 4-6 November

Location: Bogotá, Colombia

Event Details: The 4th ISIE Americas & the Caribbean Conference 2026 returns to Bogotá, Colombia, marking a decade since the first regional gathering on Industrial Ecology and Green Growth. This year’s conference will explore how circular economy research, industry innovation, and public policy can respond to pressing sustainability challenges across the Americas and the Caribbean.

In a time of supply chain disruption and environmental uncertainty, the event will highlight circularity as a pathway to resource security, regional collaboration, and resilient growth—bringing together diverse voices from across the Global North and South to advance practical, shared solutions.

Website: https://is4ie.org/events/isie-regional-conferences/131

 

About Inogen Alliance

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of over 70 of independent local businesses and over 6,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates, listen to our podcast and follow us on LinkedIn.

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

The Surrogacy Foundation Celebrates First Baby Born Through Its $100,000 Grant Program

Posted on by sHq_LoGiNz

Baby Girl McGill marks a historic milestone for Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy

ATLANTA, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Surrogacy Foundation, an Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy, announced today the birth of the first baby born through its grant program.

Baby girl McGill was born on February 24, 2026, to Shannon and Patrick McGill of Canton, Georgia, the intended parents, marking a defining milestone for the organization and a moment the family once feared might not be possible.

In May 2022, Shannon McGill experienced life-threatening complications during the birth of her son. After an emergency cesarean section and severe hemorrhage, doctors performed a hysterectomy to save her life. She later learned that while she could no longer carry a pregnancy, her viable eggs meant surrogacy could still allow them to grow their family.

“After everything we endured, we knew our story wasn’t over,” said Shannon McGill. “Being told I needed a hysterectomy was devastating, but hearing that surrogacy was still possible gave us hope. The truth is, we could only move forward because of The Surrogacy Foundation’s grant. Without their support, it likely would have been years before we held our baby girl. Now that she’s here, it’s hard to imagine having to wait any longer.”

The McGills were awarded The Surrogacy Foundation’s second $100,000 grant in October 2024 following a rigorous, multi-stage application and review process. The funding was made possible through proceeds raised at the Foundation’s annual Surrogacy Soirée in February 2024.

At the following year’s Soirée, Shannon and Patrick met Charlotte Ramberg of Cumming, Georgia, an experienced gestational carrier. Ramberg is also a licensed professional counselor specializing in maternal and reproductive mental health, reflecting her long-standing commitment to supporting families. She was supported throughout her journeys by her husband, Kevin Ramberg.

What followed was a journey marked by medical and psychological screenings, legal coordination, embryo transfer, months of waiting, and ultimately hearing their daughter’s first heartbeat.

“For me, surrogacy is an act of trust, hope, and responsibility,” said Ramberg. “Every journey is unique, but the goal is the same. It is about helping a family welcome their child into the world. Watching Shannon participate in her daughter’s delivery, then seeing her and Patrick hold her for the first time, was unforgettable. Outside of delivering my own children, it is one of the greatest honors of my life.”

The birth of baby girl McGill marks the first child born through The Surrogacy Foundation’s grant program.

“We talk a lot about access to family building in theory. This is what it looks like in practice,” said Zach French, Executive Director of The Surrogacy Foundation. “A family who once heard ‘you can’t’ is now holding their daughter because a community decided to step in.”

Gestational surrogacy in the United States can cost well over $150,000, placing it out of reach for many families. Through grants and partnerships, The Surrogacy Foundation works to reduce that barrier while promoting ethical surrogacy practices.

The McGill surrogacy journey was made possible through a network of partners, many of whom provided pro bono or discounted services, including:

  • Family Makers Surrogacy — agency support
  • Claiborne, Fox, Bradley & Goldman, with Holland Goldman — legal counsel
  • Sherriann Hicks Law Firm — legal representation
  • Thallo Health — mental health support
  • SeedTrust Escrow — escrow management
  • International Fertility Insurance — insurance services
  • Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine with Dr. Ashley Tiegs — fertility services
  • Scarlet Oak Photography — photography

Additional partners included:

  • Northside Hospital Forsyth — delivery hospital
  • OB-GYN of Atlanta — obstetric care
  • Your Birth Helper — doula support

A maternity photo featuring both families and a photo of baby girl McGill are available for media use. Additional images and video assets are available upon request. More behind-the-scenes moments from the journey are available on Instagram at @TheSurrogacyFoundation. For media inquiries, please contact Mariam Shaha, 469-441-8388, 409966@email4pr.com.

This milestone reflects the growing impact of The Surrogacy Foundation’s work. By the end of Surrogacy Awareness Month in March 2026, the organization will announce two additional national grant recipients and surpass $500,000 in lifetime direct financial support to families.

About The Surrogacy Foundation

The Surrogacy Foundation is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to making surrogacy more accessible through financial grants, education, and advocacy. By partnering with medical, legal, and mental health professionals, the Foundation supports intended parents and gestational carriers throughout their journeys. To date, the organization has raised more than $1 million to help families pursue surrogacy and continues to work toward normalizing ethical surrogacy and expanding access to family building.

For more information, visit www.giftofsurrogacyfoundation.org.

 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-surrogacy-foundation-celebrates-first-baby-born-through-its-100-000-grant-program-302703815.html

SOURCE The Surrogacy Foundation

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

The Surrogacy Foundation Celebrates First Baby Born Through Its $100,000 Grant Program

Posted on by sHq_LoGiNz

Baby Girl McGill marks a historic milestone for Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy

ATLANTA, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Surrogacy Foundation, an Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy, announced today the birth of the first baby born through its grant program.

Baby girl McGill was born on February 24, 2026, to Shannon and Patrick McGill of Canton, Georgia, the intended parents, marking a defining milestone for the organization and a moment the family once feared might not be possible.

In May 2022, Shannon McGill experienced life-threatening complications during the birth of her son. After an emergency cesarean section and severe hemorrhage, doctors performed a hysterectomy to save her life. She later learned that while she could no longer carry a pregnancy, her viable eggs meant surrogacy could still allow them to grow their family.

“After everything we endured, we knew our story wasn’t over,” said Shannon McGill. “Being told I needed a hysterectomy was devastating, but hearing that surrogacy was still possible gave us hope. The truth is, we could only move forward because of The Surrogacy Foundation’s grant. Without their support, it likely would have been years before we held our baby girl. Now that she’s here, it’s hard to imagine having to wait any longer.”

The McGills were awarded The Surrogacy Foundation’s second $100,000 grant in October 2024 following a rigorous, multi-stage application and review process. The funding was made possible through proceeds raised at the Foundation’s annual Surrogacy Soirée in February 2024.

At the following year’s Soirée, Shannon and Patrick met Charlotte Ramberg of Cumming, Georgia, an experienced gestational carrier. Ramberg is also a licensed professional counselor specializing in maternal and reproductive mental health, reflecting her long-standing commitment to supporting families. She was supported throughout her journeys by her husband, Kevin Ramberg.

What followed was a journey marked by medical and psychological screenings, legal coordination, embryo transfer, months of waiting, and ultimately hearing their daughter’s first heartbeat.

“For me, surrogacy is an act of trust, hope, and responsibility,” said Ramberg. “Every journey is unique, but the goal is the same. It is about helping a family welcome their child into the world. Watching Shannon participate in her daughter’s delivery, then seeing her and Patrick hold her for the first time, was unforgettable. Outside of delivering my own children, it is one of the greatest honors of my life.”

The birth of baby girl McGill marks the first child born through The Surrogacy Foundation’s grant program.

“We talk a lot about access to family building in theory. This is what it looks like in practice,” said Zach French, Executive Director of The Surrogacy Foundation. “A family who once heard ‘you can’t’ is now holding their daughter because a community decided to step in.”

Gestational surrogacy in the United States can cost well over $150,000, placing it out of reach for many families. Through grants and partnerships, The Surrogacy Foundation works to reduce that barrier while promoting ethical surrogacy practices.

The McGill surrogacy journey was made possible through a network of partners, many of whom provided pro bono or discounted services, including:

  • Family Makers Surrogacy — agency support
  • Claiborne, Fox, Bradley & Goldman, with Holland Goldman — legal counsel
  • Sherriann Hicks Law Firm — legal representation
  • Thallo Health — mental health support
  • SeedTrust Escrow — escrow management
  • International Fertility Insurance — insurance services
  • Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine with Dr. Ashley Tiegs — fertility services
  • Scarlet Oak Photography — photography

Additional partners included:

  • Northside Hospital Forsyth — delivery hospital
  • OB-GYN of Atlanta — obstetric care
  • Your Birth Helper — doula support

A maternity photo featuring both families and a photo of baby girl McGill are available for media use. Additional images and video assets are available upon request. More behind-the-scenes moments from the journey are available on Instagram at @TheSurrogacyFoundation. For media inquiries, please contact Mariam Shaha, 469-441-8388, 409966@email4pr.com.

This milestone reflects the growing impact of The Surrogacy Foundation’s work. By the end of Surrogacy Awareness Month in March 2026, the organization will announce two additional national grant recipients and surpass $500,000 in lifetime direct financial support to families.

About The Surrogacy Foundation

The Surrogacy Foundation is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to making surrogacy more accessible through financial grants, education, and advocacy. By partnering with medical, legal, and mental health professionals, the Foundation supports intended parents and gestational carriers throughout their journeys. To date, the organization has raised more than $1 million to help families pursue surrogacy and continues to work toward normalizing ethical surrogacy and expanding access to family building.

For more information, visit www.giftofsurrogacyfoundation.org.

 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-surrogacy-foundation-celebrates-first-baby-born-through-its-100-000-grant-program-302703815.html

SOURCE The Surrogacy Foundation

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

The Surrogacy Foundation Celebrates First Baby Born Through Its $100,000 Grant Program

Posted on by sHq_LoGiNz

Baby Girl McGill marks a historic milestone for Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy

ATLANTA, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Surrogacy Foundation, an Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy, announced today the birth of the first baby born through its grant program.

Baby girl McGill was born on February 24, 2026, to Shannon and Patrick McGill of Canton, Georgia, the intended parents, marking a defining milestone for the organization and a moment the family once feared might not be possible.

In May 2022, Shannon McGill experienced life-threatening complications during the birth of her son. After an emergency cesarean section and severe hemorrhage, doctors performed a hysterectomy to save her life. She later learned that while she could no longer carry a pregnancy, her viable eggs meant surrogacy could still allow them to grow their family.

“After everything we endured, we knew our story wasn’t over,” said Shannon McGill. “Being told I needed a hysterectomy was devastating, but hearing that surrogacy was still possible gave us hope. The truth is, we could only move forward because of The Surrogacy Foundation’s grant. Without their support, it likely would have been years before we held our baby girl. Now that she’s here, it’s hard to imagine having to wait any longer.”

The McGills were awarded The Surrogacy Foundation’s second $100,000 grant in October 2024 following a rigorous, multi-stage application and review process. The funding was made possible through proceeds raised at the Foundation’s annual Surrogacy Soirée in February 2024.

At the following year’s Soirée, Shannon and Patrick met Charlotte Ramberg of Cumming, Georgia, an experienced gestational carrier. Ramberg is also a licensed professional counselor specializing in maternal and reproductive mental health, reflecting her long-standing commitment to supporting families. She was supported throughout her journeys by her husband, Kevin Ramberg.

What followed was a journey marked by medical and psychological screenings, legal coordination, embryo transfer, months of waiting, and ultimately hearing their daughter’s first heartbeat.

“For me, surrogacy is an act of trust, hope, and responsibility,” said Ramberg. “Every journey is unique, but the goal is the same. It is about helping a family welcome their child into the world. Watching Shannon participate in her daughter’s delivery, then seeing her and Patrick hold her for the first time, was unforgettable. Outside of delivering my own children, it is one of the greatest honors of my life.”

The birth of baby girl McGill marks the first child born through The Surrogacy Foundation’s grant program.

“We talk a lot about access to family building in theory. This is what it looks like in practice,” said Zach French, Executive Director of The Surrogacy Foundation. “A family who once heard ‘you can’t’ is now holding their daughter because a community decided to step in.”

Gestational surrogacy in the United States can cost well over $150,000, placing it out of reach for many families. Through grants and partnerships, The Surrogacy Foundation works to reduce that barrier while promoting ethical surrogacy practices.

The McGill surrogacy journey was made possible through a network of partners, many of whom provided pro bono or discounted services, including:

  • Family Makers Surrogacy — agency support
  • Claiborne, Fox, Bradley & Goldman, with Holland Goldman — legal counsel
  • Sherriann Hicks Law Firm — legal representation
  • Thallo Health — mental health support
  • SeedTrust Escrow — escrow management
  • International Fertility Insurance — insurance services
  • Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine with Dr. Ashley Tiegs — fertility services
  • Scarlet Oak Photography — photography

Additional partners included:

  • Northside Hospital Forsyth — delivery hospital
  • OB-GYN of Atlanta — obstetric care
  • Your Birth Helper — doula support

A maternity photo featuring both families and a photo of baby girl McGill are available for media use. Additional images and video assets are available upon request. More behind-the-scenes moments from the journey are available on Instagram at @TheSurrogacyFoundation. For media inquiries, please contact Mariam Shaha, 469-441-8388, 409966@email4pr.com.

This milestone reflects the growing impact of The Surrogacy Foundation’s work. By the end of Surrogacy Awareness Month in March 2026, the organization will announce two additional national grant recipients and surpass $500,000 in lifetime direct financial support to families.

About The Surrogacy Foundation

The Surrogacy Foundation is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to making surrogacy more accessible through financial grants, education, and advocacy. By partnering with medical, legal, and mental health professionals, the Foundation supports intended parents and gestational carriers throughout their journeys. To date, the organization has raised more than $1 million to help families pursue surrogacy and continues to work toward normalizing ethical surrogacy and expanding access to family building.

For more information, visit www.giftofsurrogacyfoundation.org.

 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-surrogacy-foundation-celebrates-first-baby-born-through-its-100-000-grant-program-302703815.html

SOURCE The Surrogacy Foundation

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

Mary Kay Goes for Gold in Global Manufacturing Standards

Posted on by sHq_LoGiNz

newsroom.marykay.com

DALLAS, March 4, 2026 /3BL/ – Mary Kay Inc., a global direct sales leader in beauty and skincare innovation, has achieved ISO 22716 certification, the internationally recognized gold standard for cosmetic Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), reinforcing the company’s unwavering commitment to product quality, safety, and consumer trust worldwide.

Key Data Points About Mary Kay’s Global Manufacturing:

  • Built on 26 acres of land, Mary Kay’s state-of-the-art, Silver LEED-certified Richard R. Rogers Manufacturing and R&D Center (R3) is located in Lewisville, Texas.
  • R3 is a $100+ million investment and is a 453,000-square-foot building.
  • R3 has the capability to produce up to 1 million units of product daily across its 21 packaging lines.
  • Nearly 60 percent of products manufactured at the facility are exported to international markets, supporting the company’s presence in more than 40 markets around the world.

ISO 22716 provides comprehensive global guidelines aligned with EU standards for the production, control, storage, and shipment of cosmetic products, ensuring safety and quality at every stage of the manufacturing process. The certification comes at a pivotal time for the beauty industry as the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) strengthens regulatory oversight in the United States and establishes mandatory Good Manufacturing Practices for cosmetics.

" "

Chaun Harper, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Mary Kay Inc.: “At Mary Kay, quality is not a checkbox – it is a promise, an operational framework, and a culture. (Image Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)

Chaun Harper, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Mary Kay Inc., emphasized the broader significance of the milestone: “At Mary Kay, quality is not a checkbox – it is a promise, an operational framework, and a culture. ISO 22716 certification matters as it is a global standard recognizing what we have always strived for: manufacture products with care, consistency, and accountability from raw materials to finished goods. It reflects our culture of empowering people to do things the right way every day and reinforces our long-term commitment to safe, reliable, and responsibly made beauty products.”

ISO 22716 is recognized globally as the benchmark for cosmetic GMPs. It requires rigorous documentation, traceability of every batch, structured training, supplier quality management, and clearly defined processes to ensure products are manufactured in a safe, controlled, and transparent manner.

For consumers, the certification signals confidence. For regulators and partners, it demonstrates preparedness and alignment with evolving global standards. For Mary Kay, it affirms a culture built on accountability, teamwork, and excellence – values rooted in the Golden Rule philosophy of founder Mary Kay Ash.

" "

Celebrating Mary Kay’s ISO 22716 Certification at the Richard R. Rogers Manufacturing and R&D Center, where nearly 60 percent of products manufactured at the facility are exported to over 40 international markets. (Image Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)

As the beauty industry enters a new era of regulation and accountability, Mary Kay’s ISO 22716 certification underscores how global standards, strong governance, and human-centered quality culture come together to shape the future of cosmetics.

***

About Mary Kay

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 40 markets. For over 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X.

###

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
newsroom.marykay.com
972.687.5332 or media@mkcorp.com

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

Mary Kay Goes for Gold in Global Manufacturing Standards

Posted on by sHq_LoGiNz

newsroom.marykay.com

DALLAS, March 4, 2026 /3BL/ – Mary Kay Inc., a global direct sales leader in beauty and skincare innovation, has achieved ISO 22716 certification, the internationally recognized gold standard for cosmetic Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), reinforcing the company’s unwavering commitment to product quality, safety, and consumer trust worldwide.

Key Data Points About Mary Kay’s Global Manufacturing:

  • Built on 26 acres of land, Mary Kay’s state-of-the-art, Silver LEED-certified Richard R. Rogers Manufacturing and R&D Center (R3) is located in Lewisville, Texas.
  • R3 is a $100+ million investment and is a 453,000-square-foot building.
  • R3 has the capability to produce up to 1 million units of product daily across its 21 packaging lines.
  • Nearly 60 percent of products manufactured at the facility are exported to international markets, supporting the company’s presence in more than 40 markets around the world.

ISO 22716 provides comprehensive global guidelines aligned with EU standards for the production, control, storage, and shipment of cosmetic products, ensuring safety and quality at every stage of the manufacturing process. The certification comes at a pivotal time for the beauty industry as the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) strengthens regulatory oversight in the United States and establishes mandatory Good Manufacturing Practices for cosmetics.

" "

Chaun Harper, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Mary Kay Inc.: “At Mary Kay, quality is not a checkbox – it is a promise, an operational framework, and a culture. (Image Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)

Chaun Harper, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Mary Kay Inc., emphasized the broader significance of the milestone: “At Mary Kay, quality is not a checkbox – it is a promise, an operational framework, and a culture. ISO 22716 certification matters as it is a global standard recognizing what we have always strived for: manufacture products with care, consistency, and accountability from raw materials to finished goods. It reflects our culture of empowering people to do things the right way every day and reinforces our long-term commitment to safe, reliable, and responsibly made beauty products.”

ISO 22716 is recognized globally as the benchmark for cosmetic GMPs. It requires rigorous documentation, traceability of every batch, structured training, supplier quality management, and clearly defined processes to ensure products are manufactured in a safe, controlled, and transparent manner.

For consumers, the certification signals confidence. For regulators and partners, it demonstrates preparedness and alignment with evolving global standards. For Mary Kay, it affirms a culture built on accountability, teamwork, and excellence – values rooted in the Golden Rule philosophy of founder Mary Kay Ash.

" "

Celebrating Mary Kay’s ISO 22716 Certification at the Richard R. Rogers Manufacturing and R&D Center, where nearly 60 percent of products manufactured at the facility are exported to over 40 international markets. (Image Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)

As the beauty industry enters a new era of regulation and accountability, Mary Kay’s ISO 22716 certification underscores how global standards, strong governance, and human-centered quality culture come together to shape the future of cosmetics.

***

About Mary Kay

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 40 markets. For over 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X.

###

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
newsroom.marykay.com
972.687.5332 or media@mkcorp.com

Posted in UncategorizedTagged
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