Resilient EHS Strategy in a World of Supply Chain Disruption

The intersection of climate-driven weather events, geopolitical instability, and evolving trade policies turns supply chain disruption into a persistent challenge. As organizations navigate these turbulent conditions, Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) teams are stepping into a more strategic role, ensuring compliance, continuity and resilience.

Today, EHS professionals are involved in enterprise risk management, business continuity planning, and resource stewardship. In this blog, we explore how EHS leaders can strengthen resilience by preparing for disruption scenarios, engaging local expertise, maintaining compliance, and stewarding energy and water resources.

Understanding the New Normal of Disruption

Disruption has become the new baseline. These disruptions take the form of extreme weather events that damage infrastructure, raw material shortages, labor instability, and logistical breakdowns. As a result, global supply chains are more fragile than ever

Each of these disruptions has cascading EHS implications:

  • Facility shutdowns due to flooding, fires, or energy outages.
  • Worker relocations that introduce new health and safety risks.
  • Compliance challenges as operations move across regions with different regulations.

Among the most pressing concerns are access to water and energy, both of which are increasingly unpredictable. EHS strategies must now factor into these core resource risks as part of business continuity planning.

Proactive EHS Planning for Supply Chain Disruption Scenarios

Resilient organizations plan and prepare for disruptions. They can’t afford to wait for an emergency to strike and then haphazardly respond while it grows into a catastrophe.

Leading EHS teams are embedding disruption scenarios into their risk assessments, asking:

  • What happens if a facility loses water access?
  • How do we protect workers if production shifts to a new geography?
  • Can we reduce dependency on vulnerable suppliers or resources?

Meaningful scenario planning should include:

  • Energy availability: Anticipating power disruptions or cost volatility.
  • Water access: Managing supply limitations or usage restrictions.
  • Circular resource strategies: Using recycled materials, closed-loop systems, or alternative inputs.

By integrating EHS considerations into supply chain due diligence, companies can make smarter sourcing decisions and reduce exposure to future operational shocks.

The Value of Localized Expertise and Flexibility

Environmental regulations and resource availability differ drastically across regions. For example, a manufacturing site in California may face strict water-use rules, while a counterpart in Vietnam may struggle with waste infrastructure or air quality controls.

To stay agile and compliant, best practices include:

  • Getting the benefits of a local perspective from EHS consultants who understand environmental constraints and enforcement practices.
  • Leveraging global EHS networks to ensure consistent standards while adapting to local realities.

Workforce Safety and Mobility Under Strain

With a truly global workforce, companies can struggle with bridging occupational safety across borders. One primary issue is that the health and safety risks can vary based on the geography and site conditions, so global protocols are impractical and even dangerous.

Another challenge is the normalization of remote work in field team oversight. Remote work adds complexity to field team oversight and emergency response. The best solution is to partner with local EHS consultants who can ensure workplace safety by creating practical risk assessments.

Local EHS consultants also are crucial partners for training. Language and cultural differences can reduce the effectiveness of training and communication, so these partners are key to overcoming these barriers.

Regulatory Watch: Staying Compliant During Change

Disruption is often a catalyst for regulatory change. For example:

  • New emissions caps during climate events
  • Revised permitting requirements for relocated production
  • Emergency health and safety mandates following political unrest

Compliance remains non-negotiable, even in crisis. EHS teams need local monitoring tools like regulatory registers and proactive planning to stay ahead of change.

The latest episode of Rethinking EHS (Season 2, Ep. 1) explores how companies are managing regulatory shifts across regions like APAC, Europe, and the Americas, highlighting tools and strategies for staying ahead.

Building Resilience Through EHS

Supply chain disruption is not going away. For EHS leaders, this means planning for continuous change, balancing global standards with local execution. EHS plays a vital role in ensuring operational resilience by maintaining compliance, supporting workforce safety, and reducing energy and water risk.

For insights you can apply to your own EHS strategy, listen to Rethinking EHS: Leading EHS Through Uncertainty. In this episode, Inogen Alliance members share how companies are responding to energy transition, shifting supply routes, regulatory divergence, and climate-driven resource stress. 

Access the Podcast Episode

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PAL Names Soloviev Group CEO Michael Hershman Honoree of 50th Annual Gala

Gala Brings Together Top Business, Sports, and Law Enforcement Leaders to Support Programs for Over 15,000 NYC Kids

NEW YORK, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Police Athletic League (PAL), one of New York City’s largest and longest-serving youth nonprofits, will honor Michael Hershman, CEO of the Soloviev Group and a proud PAL alumnus, at its 50th Annual Superstar Gala on Wednesday, October 15th at The Pierre.

A global expert in corporate governance and ethics, Michael Hershman is CEO of the Soloviev Group, a diversified real estate development firm based in New York City dedicated to community-focused verticals, including residential and commercial development, hospitality, agriculture, energy, logistics and philanthropy. He is the founder of The Fairfax Group and has counseled companies such as General Electric, Walmart, Siemens, and Soloviev Building Company on issues of compliance and transparency over the last 30 years.

The highly anticipated event will be co-chaired by Stefan Soloviev, Chairman of the Soloviev Group, and Jeff Blau, CEO of Related Companies. The evening’s distinguished host committee includes PAL Chairmen John Catsimatidis and Robert J. McGuire, Esq., former NYPD Commissioner; Brooklyn-born NBA All-Star and former Knicks point guard Stephon Marbury; former NYPD Detective Bo Dietl; Howard Fiddle, Vice Chairman at CBRE; Richard Rubenstein, President of Rubenstein Public Relations; JR Chantengco, Senior Managing Director at Black Pearl Investments; and Bart M. Schwartz, President of the PAL Board of Directors and Chairman and Co-Founder of Guidepost Solutions LLC.

For more than 100 years, PAL has provided New York City youth with a safe, supportive space to learn, play, and grow. The organization offers free, year-round programs that range from early childhood education to after-school academics, arts, sports, job training, and college prep. Steadfast in its mission to help youth to realize their full individual potential, PAL serves more than 15,000 children annually across all five boroughs.

Michael Hershman’s story is what PAL is all about. He came up through our programs and went on to lead with purpose, compassion, and a strong moral compass. Honoring him is about more than his success, it is about showing every PAL kid what they are capable of,” said Carlos Velazquez, CEO of PAL.

Michael Hershman, CEO of Soloviev Group said: “Being recognized by PAL is deeply personal. The organization gave me my first taste of discipline, teamwork, and responsibility. It opened doors and gave me the confidence to walk through them. To now be in a position to give back to the next generation of New York City is an incredible honor.”

According to Stefan Soloviev, Chairman of Soloviev Group and Principal of The Soloviev Foundation: “Through The Soloviev Foundation, we believe that uplifting the youngest members of our community is the key to long-term change. We are proud to support PAL and the wonderful work that they do every day.”

“I am proud to serve as this year’s co-chair and to help advance PAL’s essential mission of providing New York City’s youth with access to mentorship and opportunity,” said Jeff Blau, CEO of Related Companies. “It is even more special to be able to honor my friend Michael Hershman, who believes deeply in investing in our city’s future at all levels, and is himself an alumnus of this wonderful and important organization.”

“Growing up in Brooklyn, I saw firsthand how PAL provides children with direction, discipline, and dreams,” said Stephon Marbury, NBA All-Star and former Knicks point guard. “Through all of their programs, and sports in particular, participants learn lifelong lessons about teamwork and handling challenges.”

“I want to congratulate Michael Hershman for this well-earned recognition. His personal connection to the impact of PAL and his contributions to our city make him the ideal honoree,” said PAL Chairman John Catsimatidis.

According to Robert J. McGuire, Esq., Former NYPD Commissioner: “Few organizations deliver the kind of real, lasting impact that PAL does. It is an honor to recognize Michael Hershman. His work and dedication embodies our ideals and mission.”

Howard Fiddle, Vice Chairman at CBRE said: “Michael Hershman’s integrity, leadership, and dedication to service are exactly the values that PAL works to instill in every young person it reaches.”

Michael Hershman is an industry leader and champion of his community. I’m proud to serve on the host committee and help bring attention to PAL’s mission,” said Richard Rubenstein, President of Rubenstein Public Relations.

“As a member of the host committee for this year’s Superstar Gala, I am deeply honored to celebrate Michael Hershman, whose journey reflects the heart of the Police Athletic League. Michael’s story is not just one of personal success; it’s a testament to what PAL stands for—hope, resilience, and the power of community support,” said John Richard (JR) Chantengco, Senior Managing Director of Black Pearl Investments. “His commitment to giving back and inspiring others is a powerful reminder of the impact we can all have on the lives of our youth. Together, we can continue fostering an environment where every child feels empowered to pursue their dreams with confidence and courage.”

“PAL gives young New Yorkers the tools, the space, and the support to dream bigger and aim higher,” said Bart M. Schwartz, President of the PAL Board of Directors and Chairman and Co-Founder of Guidepost Solutions LLC. “It’s an honor to be part of this year’s host committee and to recognize someone like Michael Hershman, whose personal experience with PAL as a young person helped empower him to pursue and achieve his goals.”

Proceeds from the Superstar Gala will directly fund PAL’s free youth programming across all five boroughs. To learn more about the event or to support PAL, please visit www.palnyc.org.

About Police Athletic League
The Police Athletic League (PAL) is one of New York City’s largest independent not-for-profit youth development organizations. PAL operates programs such as Head Start, daycare and Universal Pre-K, elementary and middle school after-school programs, and summer day camps and playstreets. PAL’s philosophy is grounded in the belief that young people’s individual strengths and capabilities can guide them to mature, productive adulthoods with our encouragement and commitment.

About Soloviev Group
Unwavering in its commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, the Soloviev Group brings four generations of successful development across community-focused verticals, including hospitality, residential and commercial development, agriculture, energy, logistics and philanthropy.

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pal-names-soloviev-group-ceo-michael-hershman-honoree-of-50th-annual-gala-302549262.html

SOURCE The Soloviev Group

CSRD Reporting in 2025: Navigating the EU Omnibus Proposal's Impact on Global Corporate Sustainability

The rules of sustainability reporting in Europe may be shifting, but the business case for transparency remains as strong as ever. In early 2025, the European Commission introduced the EU Omnibus proposal – a sweeping set of revisions that could delay and narrow the scope of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), along with other key sustainability and corporate reporting initiatives. 

For many companies, especially those with cross-border operations, these proposed changes raise a new set of questions: Should you pause your reporting efforts or stay the course? How do you weigh evolving regulatory timelines against long-term environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy?

In this post, we’ll explore the potential impacts of the Omnibus proposal, what it means for CSRD reporting, and how companies can move forward with confidence, even amid uncertainty.

The EU Omnibus Proposal Explained: What’s Changing for CSRD Reporting?

In February 2025, the European Commission introduced the Omnibus Simplification Package. This proposal includes significant amendments to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), affecting reporting timelines and the scope of companies required to comply.

Timeline and scope modifications

The proposal recommends a two-year postponement for companies in the second and third waves of CSRD implementation. Companies originally scheduled to report in 2026 and 2027 would now have until 2028 and 2029, respectively.

The scope would also narrow. Previously, companies meeting or exceeding two of the following three thresholds were in scope: 250 employees, €50 million in net turnover, or €25 million on the balance sheet. Under the revised proposal, only companies with more than 1,000 employees that also meet or exceed either the turnover or balance sheet thresholds would be required to report—potentially exempting around 80% of previously covered entities.

Current status and approval process

The proposal is currently under review by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union, with potential amendments expected before final approval.

Until then, existing CSRD obligations remain in effect. Companies, including U.S.-based firms with European subsidiaries, should continue tracking developments closely and maintain readiness in jurisdictions where national transpositions are already underway.

Strategic Implications: To Report or Not to Report?

With CSRD’s future scope and timing still under review, many organizations are asking whether to continue investing in reporting or slow down. While the Omnibus proposal may reduce immediate obligations, it introduces new strategic considerations.

Halting efforts might reduce near-term costs, but it also risks losing ground on ESG credibility, investor readiness, and risk management. For U.S. companies with a European presence, the ability to communicate sustainability performance is quickly becoming a business imperative—regardless of regulation.

In this environment, understanding your company’s risk profile and forward posture is critical.

Risk assessment for different company profiles

  • Large companies – those with over 1,000 employees and significant EU operations – are unlikely to fall outside CSRD’s scope, even under the revised criteria.
  • Medium-sized enterprises may be exempt, but could still face supply chain and customer pressure to provide ESG data.
  • International companies must navigate a growing patchwork of global reporting requirements, from the EU to California to Australia and beyond.
  • U.S. parent companies with EU subsidiaries should anticipate divergence between U.S. and EU requirements, and proactively align internal systems.
  • Suppliers to in-scope organizations may be required to provide sustainability data, regardless of their own legal standing.

The cost-benefit analysis of voluntary reporting

Even without a mandate, ESG reporting delivers tangible business value. Upfront investment in systems and data can yield long-term benefits in transparency, risk mitigation, and trust.

Companies that stay the course may gain an edge through market differentiation, especially in ESG-sensitive sectors like finance, manufacturing, and consumer goods. Investor expectations continue to rise, with or without regulation.

Early alignment with CSRD and the broad reaching European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) can also ease future compliance as reporting standards continue to evolve globally. A proactive approach today can reduce costs and complexity tomorrow.

Voluntary Reporting Framework: A Viable Alternative?

A central feature of the Omnibus proposal is the introduction of a voluntary sustainability reporting framework for companies no longer in scope. For resource-constrained organizations, this might seem like a welcome reprieve. But a lighter-touch approach can come at the expense of rigor, consistency, and stakeholder confidence.

Voluntary frameworks do not eliminate the need for ESG disclosure; they simply shift the responsibility for defining scope, depth, and format back to the company. For U.S. firms navigating multiple standards, this adds both flexibility and complexity.

Understanding the VSME framework limitations

The proposed Voluntary Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (VSME) framework offers simplified, checklist-style reporting. But this structure limits depth, especially around social and governance topics, making it harder to understand material risks related to labor, supply chains, and oversight.

Data comparability and consistency may also suffer, challenging investors and partners seeking reliable benchmarks. And because the VSME framework may not align well with emerging U.S. or global standards, companies that adopt it could face future rework.

Bridging the gap between voluntary and mandatory reporting

Still, voluntary reporting can be a useful steppingstone, if approached strategically. Companies can build scalable systems by focusing on core ESG metrics, maintaining high data quality, and aligning with common ESG framework principles where possible.

Double materiality assessments – examining both financial impact and societal outcomes – can future-proof reporting practices and prepare companies for evolving regulations. Ultimately, the most resilient businesses won’t view voluntary reporting as an opt-out, but as a chance to opt-in on their own terms.

Beyond Compliance: The Business Case for Sustainability Reporting

Sustainability reporting helps companies identify and manage risk, strengthen operational oversight, and build transparency into how they do business.

For U.S. organizations operating globally, ESG disclosure also serves as a bridge connecting different jurisdictions and stakeholder expectations through a common language of performance and accountability.

Perhaps most importantly, it allows companies to lead with transparency in a time when visibility is critical to trust.

Tangible business benefits

Reporting can help expose potential risks and blind spots, while also identifying opportunities to cut waste, reduce inefficiencies and lower operational costs.

It can also improve access to capital, as investors reward clear, consistent ESG disclosures. During periods of market disruption or regulatory change, robust reporting strengthens reputation and stakeholder confidence.

For U.S. companies with European operations or clients, it opens doors, simplifying partnerships and reinforcing alignment with global value chains.

Meeting evolving market expectations

ESG expectations are growing from every angle:

  • Investors want comparable, useful decision-making data.
  • Customers seek responsible and transparent partners.
  • Top talent (especially younger professionals) are drawn to purpose-driven employers.

Sustainability reporting also enhances supply chain resilience by offering visibility into ESG risks and dependencies. As U.S. climate disclosure regulations develop, reporting will become less of a differentiator and more of a baseline.

Practical Preparation: Building Adaptable Reporting Systems

As ESG disclosure requirements evolve, companies have an opportunity to invest in systems that are not just compliant but resilient. Rather than reacting to each regulatory shift, customer survey, or investor inquiry, organizations can create a foundation that supports flexibility, comparability, and continuous improvement.

This is especially critical for U.S. companies operating across multiple jurisdictions. Aligning with the CSRD, and frameworks such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), requires systems that are nimble and consistent. The strongest reporting programs aren’t designed for one rule; they’re built to grow and adapt with the business.

Efficient data collection and management

Laying the groundwork for agile reporting starts with how your data is gathered, organized, and maintained. A strong data infrastructure is the backbone of any sustainability reporting program, especially one expected to flex with evolving standards and stakeholder expectations.

  • Centralize sustainability data infrastructure to ensure consistency across business units and regions.
  • Automate data collection where possible to reduce manual input and minimize errors.
  • Maintain audit-ready documentation to streamline internal reviews and external assurance.
  • Design scalable systems that can accommodate new KPIs, shifting materiality thresholds, or additional disclosure requirements.

Future-proofing your sustainability strategy

A future-ready ESG program aligns with evolving expectations while staying grounded in what matters most to your business and stakeholders.

  • Focus on ESG topics that reflect your core risks and opportunities.
  • Build internal capacity through training, governance, and clearly defined roles.
  • Leverage technology to reduce reporting burdens and improve accuracy.
  • Monitor new global regulatory developments so you can stay ready, not reactive.

Making Informed Decisions in an Evolving Regulatory World

The proposed changes to CSRD may delay timelines and reduce obligations, but they do not diminish the strategic value of ESG reporting. Transparent reporting continues to support informed decision-making and builds lasting credibility – regardless of whether it’s required or voluntary.

As companies assess their next steps, it’s critical to apply a double materiality lens—considering not only how sustainability issues impact the business financially, but also how the business impacts people and the environment. This dual perspective is foundational to the CSRD and increasingly reflected in global stakeholder expectations.

For global companies, this is an opportunity to reassess and reaffirm long-term priorities.

Antea Group can help you navigate what’s next. Explore our sustainability reporting services.

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Creating Entrepreneurship Opportunities

By Kim Borges

“This was not the plan. But it’s way better than I ever thought.”

Melanie Brown said this to herself before she began saying it to her students.

Eight years ago, Brown bumped into a nonprofit board member she’d worked with in a prior role. He mentioned a newly established high school entrepreneurship program and encouraged her to apply to lead it.

Her response? “No, thank you.”

When Brown bumped into him again just weeks later after not seeing him for years, she reconsidered.

“Our families were out to dinner at the same restaurant, and I felt like it was a sign,” she said. “I didn’t know what it was all about, but I decided I would lean into it and apply. As a visual learner, I needed to go and observe a class where the program originated.”

It took Brown 90 minutes to see what it was all about. Her response this time?

“Oh my gosh, I am in love with this program.”

From the beginning, this was something we believed would really benefit students.
Bart Rose, Commercial Banking relationship manager and Central Illinois market executive with Regions Bank

The realization launched Brown’s venture as the facilitator of Central Illinois CEO, serving juniors and seniors across three counties. Bart Rose, Commercial Banking relationship manager and Central Illinois market executive with Regions Bank, is a co-founding board member of the organization’s Central Illinois chapter based in Decatur. Regions has been a sponsor since day one.

“From the beginning, this was something we believed would really benefit students,” said Rose. “If we could have them talk with local business owners, we thought maybe we could get kids to come back after college.”

But before that, Brown helps each cohort of juniors and seniors uncover entrepreneurship’s ins and outs by:

  • Visiting 35 business owners at their companies.
  • Gaining insights from 20-plus speaker panels.
  • Participating in monthly Mentor Days.

It all happens before the first bell rings. Students set up the room, host their presenters, put everything back and head to school by 9:00 a.m.

Impressive – and we haven’t even gotten to the “wow” yet.

Our students are evaluated every day,” said Brown. “We have them do a self-assessment at the end of each week, asking, ‘Did you show up and dress professionally? Did you engage with our speakers? Did you produce the ‘wow,’ as we call it?’”

The students do more than talk with business owners during the school year. They become them – three times.

Their initial venture begins with students securing funding for start-up costs to help launch their group business.

“They have four weeks to figure it all out,” said Brown. “I give them the project and step back. They ask me questions. My go-to is, ‘What do you think?’ We kind of want it to be messy. I want them to learn it’s OK to get it wrong.”

Once the initial venture is completed, the class works together on another business concept developing a product, service or event idea and creating their business plan.

“We have them pitch it to our CEO board,” said Brown. “Then, they execute the entire business plan.”

This past semester, that plan was a black-tie auction featuring local artists. Every two weeks, students reworked the numbers and shared their progress.

In January, 200 guests attended “Melodies and Masterpieces,” which raised $30,000.

“It was a moment where we almost all cried,” said Brown. “They saw this vision and made it happen.”

With net gains of increased self-confidence and assets to reinvest in themselves, students next identified their own product, service or event to pitch to a judging panel in May.

“I tell them, ‘Find something you’re going to date for five months,’” said Brown. “You can’t quit it, and that’s entrepreneurship.”

Beef jerky, cologne, lawncare businesses, car detailing services – each entrepreneur receives a grant to help fund their idea. Earning them involves requesting a loan from finance veterans like Rose on Banker Days.

“Bart has been very involved every year,” said Brown. “He does a really good job of listening and giving good feedback. He breaks down financial plans in a way the students can easily understand.”

“The questions students ask are well thought out,” added Rose. “They’re not afraid to ask and they do it in a very professional way.”

They call on that professionalism again speaking to 200 high school classmates to help recruit the next Central Illinois CEO cohort.

“It means so much more hearing it from their peers,” explained Brown. “They’re honest in sharing you have to get up at 6 a.m., but it’s worth it. They say, ‘Here’s what you’re going to get out of it.’”

Those returns include more than learning the value of making eye contact, giving a solid handshake and writing thank you notes.

It’s my calling to help people become the best versions of themselves.
Melanie Brown, Central Illinois CEO Facilitator

“It’s my calling to help people become the best versions of themselves,” said Brown. “I tell our students, ‘I’m not here to pick you apart, I’m here to set you apart. Once they know we believe in them, they begin to believe in themselves.”

Rose sees that transformation occur every year.

“When you initially meet the students, they’re nervous; their communications skills are still a bit raw,” he said. “By May, I’m blown away by the difference in their comfort levels. They’re placing themselves miles ahead by participating in this program.”

Rose is grateful to Brown for producing Central Illinois CEO’s “wow” every day.

Melanie has taken this program to heights I don’t know we thought possible in its early days.
Bart Rose, Commercial Banking leader and Central Illinois market executive with Regions Bank

“Melanie has taken this program to heights I don’t know we thought possible in its early days,” he said. “The businesses she’s been able to introduce the students to and the connections she’s made in the community – I don’t know what we’d do without her.”

And Brown has no plans to depart the role way better than she ever thought.

“It’s very rewarding and a lot of fun,” she said. “I get to work with amazing people like Bart. I love what I do, and I love what this program is.”

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Pushing Back Against Anti-ESG and Climate Change Laws

The two largest companies that provide advice to institutional investors on how to vote their corporate proxies are fighting back against a Texas law that would limit their ability to advise clients on environmental, social and governance practices. Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS), which advises about 2,000 clients for more than 51,000 shareholder meetings, and Glass Lewis, with than 1,300 clients, both filed suit in July to block Texas Senate Bill 2337 that was scheduled to take effect on September 1.

In our Top Stories for the issue, the law firm Gibson Dunn reports that on August 29, the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas entered a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of the new Texas law until a trial is held, which is set for February 2, 2026.

According to Gibson Dunn, SB 2337 “will impose extensive public and directed disclosure obligations on proxy advisory firms when their recommendations or services are based on non-financial factors, which include environmental, social and governance (ESG) and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) considerations, diverge from company management’s recommendations, or provide conflicting advice across clients.”

In their lawsuits, ISS and Glass Lewis argued that SB 2337 is unconstitutional since it would violate the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the US Constitution by “forcing the proxy advisors to state that recommendations inconsistent with management or incorporating ESG/DEI are not in shareholders’ financial interest.”

Reuters reported in July that the proxy advisors said the new law was an attempt “to force proxy advisers to broadcast Texas’ preferred viewpoints when their own differed, including on hot-button issues that a Republican state legislator perceived as having a ‘hard left bent.’”

The State of Texas, under the leadership of Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is running for U.S. Senate, has been at the forefront of Republican efforts to attack ESG and DEI programs at corporations, schools and in government. The state passed a law in 2023 banning DEI offices at public universities and colleges and this year passed a law, which is being challenged by the ACLU, to ban DEI programs in K-12 schools.

In our other Top Stories, Reuters and NPR report that state attorney generals and leading environmental and scientific groups are pushing back against the proposal by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to invalidate the 2009 Endangerment Finding — which underlies regulations for controlling greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Reuters reported that Arizona Attorney General Chris Mayes said, “the EPA is proposing to bury its head in the sand and ignore the mounting costs of climate change for all Americans.”

NPR reports that in August, the Environmental Defense Fund and the Union of Concerned Scientists filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA alleging that the government’s report used to support its proposed repeal of the Endangerment Finding was unlawful since it was created in secret. Public comments regarding the proposed EPA repeal of the Endangerment Finding can be submitted through September 15, with instructions available here.

The G&A team will be closely following the legal battles in Texas and in Washington and are available to answer questions about the impact on your ESG and sustainability programs. For more information contact us at: info@ga-institute.com.

This is just the introduction of G&A’s Sustainability Highlights newsletter this week. Click here to view the full issue.

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Sustainable Brands Unveils Program for SB’25 San Diego – Helping Brands Adapt & Accelerate Toward a More Resilient Future

Join a global community of purpose-driven industry leaders that are meeting today’s challenges with bold vision and collaboration. Exchange ideas and explore solutions that will help your brand lead in today’s evolving marketplace – delivering value for business, society, and the planet.

SAN DIEGO, September 8, 2025 /3BL/ – Sustainable Brands (SB) has officially launched the full program for SB’25 San Diego, taking place October 13-16, 2025 at the Town & Country Resort.

In a time of global uncertainty, SB’25 will convene brands that continue to lead with purpose. This year’s theme – Adapt and Accelerate – calls on leaders to turn disruption into innovation and challenges into progress to drive good growth that benefitsbusiness, people, and the planet. From marketing to drive consumer behavior change to advancements in materials science and demonstrating ROI and impact, the conference program offers actionable insights to build clarity, credibility, and cross-functional momentum around sustainable business transformation.

Register before Sept. 14 for the last chance to save and be part of the community that’s still doing the work – together.

Program Highlights Include:

  • Trevor Shah, Head of Sustainability, L’Oréal Professionnel Paris, sharing the company’s innovative focus on product performance to deliver sustainability impact
  • Daniel Aronson, Founder and CEO, Valutus, leading an in-depth workshop on the ROI of sustainability to include coaching from renowned experts in governance and sustainability performance metrics
  • James Reeves, Director of Sustainability Strategy, and Brian Bautsch, Director of North American Safety Strategy, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., outlining a dynamic cross-functional internal engagement initiative to embed sustainability and safety into the rhythm of daily work throughout offices and manufacturing plants.
  • Yuki Kabe, Technical Advisory Specialist and Maureen Malia, Circular Economy, Sustainability, and Advocacy Manager, Braskem exploring how bio-based resins are helping shift industries away from fossil-based materials

SB’25 is designed to create space for peer-to-peer exchange. The program includes curated experiences like Birds of a Feather dinners, Campfire Conversations, and sunrise sessions that foster honest dialogue backed by data, leadership, and collective insight.

For more information, visit the SB’25 Program Page. Discounts are available for groups of 3+, SMBs, NGOs, and educational institutions. 

Sponsorship, Exhibit, and Partnership opportunities are also available for those looking to sharing their solutions with leading brands. For more information about sponsoring SB’25 San Diego, email inquiries to engage@sustainablebrands.com or visit the event website. For general press inquiries and credential requests, please visit our Media Center

About Sustainable Brands Sustainable Brands®, a female-founded Public Benefit Corporation, is the premier global community of brand innovators who are reshaping the future of commerce worldwide. Since 2006, our mission has been to inspire, engage and equip today’s business and brand leaders to prosper for the near and long term by leading the way to the future we want for all people for all time. Digitally published news articles and issues-focused conversations, a robust e-learning library and internationally known conferences and regional events, along with peer-to-peer membership groups, unique market intelligence, tools and services all facilitate community education and transformative action throughout the year.

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TCS Strengthens Strategic Collaboration With the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA)

Tata Consultancy Services, through its Tech4HOPE pro bono consulting and services initiative, recently contributed to efforts of the Sports Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) to make stronger connections to its members and global stakeholders. The project, for which TCS donated approximately USD $210,000 worth of IT consulting and services, enabled SIGA to improve its ability to establish, manage and protect its most critical relationships using a new, made-to-order customer relationship management (CRM) tool.

For TCS, a top sponsor of some of the world’s most prestigious marathons, the project aligned deeply with both its technology consulting capabilities as well as its values and passions.

Based in Geneva, Switzerland, SIGA is the world’s leading organization for sport integrity. Its mission is to provide global leadership, promote good governance, and safeguard the integrity of sport through a set of universal standards established by an independent, neutral, and global body. To help SIGA effectively execute its goals, the TCS project team designed their contribution in three parts. They began with a thorough assessment of SIGA’s operational priorities, recommended Salesforce CRM as a solution, and set to work customizing it to meet the organization’s needs.

The Challenge

With staff, members, and committed supporters located around the world, SIGA identified the need for a more streamlined and integrated approach to managing stakeholder information. To improve coordination and efficiency, SIGA adopted a CRM system that centralizes key data and supports its global teams in Geneva, Washington, D.C., Lisbon, and São Paulo. This requested tool was aimed at enabling enhanced communication, stakeholder engagement and improving the effectiveness of SIGA on multiple levels.

The TCS Volunteer Team

Next, the TCS’ Tech4HOPE team assembled a group of volunteers to develop a tailor-made CRM solution. This group of 16 highly qualified technical CRM architects from around the world were led by two technical leaders based in India. Over a period of nine months, the global team programmed the custom tool to address needs ranging from data collection and storage to event planning and sponsor management. As a result of these efforts, SIGA will be able to advance its positive influence in a way that will best serve its members while facilitating good governance and data integrity across a more inclusive, accessible, and diverse range of outputs.

“SIGA warmly acknowledges the outstanding support provided by the TCS team and the efficient, highly professional way in which the process was conducted. The CRM tool developed through this collaboration directly responds to our operational needs and enhances our ability to manage complex and demanding projects more effectively. These positive changes have ensured we are able to enhance our impact, while being more efficient with our time and resources – all of which combine to better serve the SIGA members, our wider stakeholder network and sport as an industry,” said Iain Lindsay, SIGA’s Global COO. “A particular note of recognition must go to the contribution of Haley Price, Head of Sports, Sustainability and Innovation for North America at TCS, who serves as a member of the SIGA Council and brings invaluable insight to our shared mission.”

From TCS’ perspective, the partnership and project were a perfect match. TCS began sponsoring marathons in 2008 with a simple purpose—to celebrate running’s positive health impacts and the human connection they foster. Today, the company partners with 14 of the world’s most prestigious marathons and running events. Importantly, TCS understands that the qualities needed to run a marathon—focus, determination, perseverance and increasingly, technology—are also required to run a successful, long-lasting business.

“TCS believes sport can contribute to greater futures as participants and fans increasingly hold sporting events to higher ethical standards,” said Michelle Taylor, Global Head, Sports Sponsorship. “Our partnership with SIGA is aligned with our conviction to be a true transformation partner for our clients, our communities, and the ecosystems we live and work within. We share SIGA’s commitment to making sporting events around the world more sustainable, responsible, and inclusive.”

TCS employee volunteers on the SIGA CRM project believe in SIGA’s mission and the values it shares with TCS. The group enjoyed the comprehensive nature of the work, which spanned corporate social responsibility, marketing, sales, digital commerce, and customer service interactions. The final CRM tool, launched in May 2025, is expected to increase efficiency and help SIGA better manage content, contacts, and sales, while increasing productivity and strengthening customer relationships.

For more information on the TCS Tech4HOPE program, contact northamerica.csr@tcs.com.

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Rich Products Expands Support of Foodservice Workers through New Partnership with Giving Kitchen

BUFFALO, N.Y., Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global, family-owned food company Rich Products (Rich’s) today announced a new partnership with Giving Kitchen – a national nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance and community resources to foodservice workers in crisis. Through the Rich Family Foundation – the philanthropic arm of Rich Products – Rich’s is contributing a $30,000 grant to support Giving Kitchen’s mission, including its national fundraising campaign –  “Dining with Gratitude” – a month-long initiative that brings together restaurants across the country to raise awareness and funds for foodservice workers in need. Rich’s donation will directly support foodservice workers by covering either 25 months of housing, 200 power bills, 100 water bills or 600 gas bills.

“Foodservice workers are the backbone of our industry and Giving Kitchen is stepping up in a big way to support them when they need it most,” said Kevin Aman, vice president, Community Engagement, Rich Products. “At Rich’s, we have a deep sense of responsibility to show up for our local communities and take care of one another. I can’t think of a better way to do that then by helping those in the industry who have made it their job to help others.”

The Dining with Gratitude campaign runs through September, bringing together nearly 500 foodservice establishments across 32 states who are all showing up in different ways to support the mission. Consumers are encouraged to show their support by visiting participating restaurants and posting their meal on social media, tagging @GivingKitchen with #DiningWithGratitude.

“Every client we serve reflects our industry’s commitment to compassion and care,” says Jen Hidinger-Kendrick, a founder of Giving Kitchen. “Dining With Gratitude is a national campaign to support the people who bring our restaurants—and our communities—to life.”

This partnership is part of Rich’s commitment to “Generations of Good” – the food company’s responsible business strategy that is designed to help create a brighter future. Annually, Rich’s supports over 200 non-profit organizations with resources and funding. This includes dedicated support for foodservice workers and small businesses through campaigns like #TheGreatAmericanTakeout and #TheGreatAmericanDineout, as well as long-time partnerships with organizations like the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation.

For more information on Rich’s, visit http://www.richs.com.

MEET RICH’S.
Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $5.8 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.

Learn more at Richs.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

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SOURCE Rich Products Corporation

Saint-Gobain Video Series: Journey to 2030: The Road to Sustainable Concrete

To achieve net-zero carbon by 2050, Saint-Gobain North America must reach key milestones by 2030. In our latest episode of Journey to 2030, see how Saint-Gobain and Chryso are working to create a world with more sustainable concrete.

With concrete alone contributing approximately 8% of global CO2 emissions, how is Chryso working to decarbonize concrete? Lisa Barnard shows us how we’re reducing environmental impact without sacrificing strength, durability, or quality.

About Journey to 2030

With approximately 37% of CO2 emissions coming from the built environment, we have a responsibility as the leader of light and sustainable construction to move towards net-zero carbon by 2050. But before we can get there, Saint-Gobain has milestones we’re trying to achieve by 2030. 

Join us on our Journey to 2030 and watch the entire video series on YouTube.

About Saint-Gobain

Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group, celebrating its 360th anniversary in 2025, remains more committed than ever to its purpose “MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME”.

€46.6 billion in sales in 2024
More than 161,000 employees, locations in 80 countries
Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050

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Essity Awarded Supplier Engagement Leader by CDP for Sixth Consecutive Year

Originally published on Essity Newsroom

Hygiene and health company Essity has, for the sixth consecutive year, been acknowledged for its leadership in sustainability by the global non-profit environmental organization CDP. Essity has been recognized on CDP’s 2024 Supplier Engagement Leaderboard list for its efforts in involving suppliers in climate change initiatives.

To combat climate change and reduce Essity’s total emissions, the company is committed to cascading environmental actions throughout the entire supply chain. Achieving Essity’s net zero ambition by 2050 is dependent on close collaboration and engagement with suppliers. 
Essity is dedicated to fostering strong partnerships to collectively reduce Scope 3 related carbon emissions, including sourced key raw materials, by 35% by 2030. For 2024, Essity reported Scope 3 emissions reduction of 21%.

“Our approach to supplier collaboration is built on clear expectations, robust support, and the fostering of innovation. We communicate our environmental targets, provide the necessary tools and training, and encourage new solutions to reduce emissions. Open communication and strong partnerships ensure our suppliers are fully engaged and committed to our shared climate action mission”, says Jessica Nordlinder, VP Global Procurement, Essity.

CDP’s annual environmental data collection is widely acknowledged as the premier independent standard for evaluating companies’ environmental practices. The Supplier Engagement Assessment (SEA) by CDP evaluates companies based on their governance, targets, Scope 3 emissions, and value chain performance.

More information on CDP: Turning Transparency to Action

For additional information please contact: Karl Stoltz, Public Relations Director, +46 709 426 338, karl.stoltz@essity.com

About Essity 
Essity is a global, leading hygiene and health company. Every day, our products, solutions and services are used by a billion people around the world. Our purpose is to break barriers to well-being for the benefit of consumers, patients, caregivers, customers and society. Sales are conducted in approximately 150 countries under the leading global brands TENA and Tork, and other strong brands such as Actimove, Cutimed, JOBST, Knix, Leukoplast, Libero, Libresse, Lotus, Modibodi, Nosotras, Saba, Tempo, TOM Organic and Zewa. In 2024, Essity had net sales of approximately SEK 146bn (EUR 13bn) and employed 36,000 people. The company’s headquarters is located in Stockholm, Sweden and Essity is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm. More information at essity.com.
 

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