Author: sHq_LoGiNz

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With five years remaining to meet President Trump’s goal of ending HIV by 2030, a coalition of 95 companies is proving that the private sector has become an essential force in the fight against the epidemic.

Today, U.S. Business Action to End HIV released its 2025 Impact Report, supported by presenting sponsors Gilead Sciences and ViiV Healthcare, documenting how member companies are expanding HIV testing, accelerating prevention, and reshaping public understanding of HIV through innovation and cross-sector partnerships.

Among the highlights: Coalition member Walgreens and KFF’s “Greater Than” campaign marked their largest-ever National HIV Testing Day, offering free HIV and STI testing at more than 540 stores nationwide in partnership with 385 health departments and community organizations. And a 15-month Stanford study found that patients using Healthvana’s AI-powered telehealth platform were three times as likely to start PrEP and twice as likely to stay on it. Nearly 80% of users came from communities most impacted by HIV.

“Our members are taking action in their workplaces, across their industries, and alongside the communities most impacted,” said Coalition Co-Founder Stephen Massey. “As our nation advances toward the goal of ending HIV by 2030, businesses across the country are stepping forward with the courage and conviction this moment demands.”

PRIVATE SECTOR INNOVATION DRIVING RESULTS

Across the Coalition, member companies are translating commitment into meaningful outcomes, taking a cumulative 572 actions since the Coalition’s inception to raise HIV visibility, end stigma, support employees, strengthen communities, advocate for change, and fund progress, including key highlights from this year:

Chispa, Match Group‘s dating app for Latino communities, promoted HIV and STI testing for National HIV Testing Day by sending push notifications directing users to Together TakeMeHome, which provides free HIV self-tests.

CVS Health partnered with local organizations, including Monarch Health Services and Palm Beach State College, to host the third annual #PlaySafe Lunch Hour Concert, engaging students with music, games, food, giveaways, and on-site rapid HIV, hepatitis C, and STI testing. CVS Health also mobilized its national network by hosting a virtual World AIDS Day event highlighting how employers can take year-round action to help end HIV.

MISTR launched the first-ever National PrEP Day on Oct. 10, hosting events across 15 cities — many of them priority jurisdictions under the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative — to enroll 10,000 new people on PrEP in just 10 days. Cities including New York, Fort Lauderdale, West Hollywood, and Washington, D.C., issued official proclamations recognizing the day, while bipartisan leaders from seven states released public statements of support.

Paramount Pictures partnered with the Coalition to host “Hollywood x HIV: Rewriting the Narrative” in October, convening media and entertainment leaders to explore how storytelling can reshape public understanding of HIV, reduce stigma, and inspire action.

“Co-hosting the ‘Hollywood x HIV’ convening was an important reminder of the influence our industry has in shaping public understanding,” said Jennifer Lynch, Senior Vice President of Global Corporate Social Responsibility and Internal Communication at Paramount Pictures. “We’re proud of our ongoing partnership with the Coalition and of our Paramount Fights HIV/AIDS initiative, which engages our employees and community partners throughout the year. We look forward to continuing to help shape the narrative around HIV and deepen our impact.”

The Coalition also brought the business perspective to national policy conversations this year, meeting with dozens of lawmakers on Capitol Hill to share the case for sustained federal investment in HIV prevention, treatment, and research.

Three regional chapters in Atlanta, Houston, and Los Angeles strengthened cross-sector partnerships this year, bringing together employers, public health leaders, and community organizations to address local HIV priorities.

DEEPENING COMMITMENT

The Coalition’s impact extends beyond individual initiatives. This year, 15 member companies completed all six Coalition commitments — a milestone reflecting sustained engagement across HIV testing, prevention, workplace education and policy, and community investment: Alchemy, Avita Care Solutions, Chevron, Curant Health, CVS Health, Gilead Sciences, Healthvana, IHDLab, Match Group, Mercer, MISTR, RADcube, Theratechnologies, ViiV Healthcare, and Walgreens.

Three leaders received special recognition for going above and beyond: William Cunningham of Match Group for driving the Coalition’s government affairs work; Tristan Schukraft of MISTR for bold innovation in HIV prevention; and Paramount Pictures for rallying the entertainment industry to reshape how HIV is portrayed in popular culture.

THE ROAD TO 2030

Founded in 2022 by the Health Action Alliance, U.S. Business Action to End HIV has grown into the nation’s largest employer coalition focused on ending HIV.

“As a founding member and presenting sponsor of the U.S. Business Action to End HIV coalition, ViiV Healthcare helped launch this movement because we believe in harnessing the collective influence of the private sector to help end HIV,” said Carie Harter, Head of Government Relations at ViiV Healthcare. “At this pivotal moment in the U.S. HIV epidemic, it is inspiring to see how the Coalition is building partnerships, coordinating policy approaches, and offering collaborative solutions to accelerate progress toward ending HIV.”

As the 2030 deadline approaches, the Coalition will deepen its efforts to mobilize businesses, strengthen public-private collaboration, and ensure prevention and treatment reach everyone who needs them.

“We are at a critical inflection point in the global response to ending the HIV epidemic,” said Shreya Jani, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at Gilead Sciences. “This moment serves as a powerful reminder that ending the epidemic requires a combination of science and social change, and only through partnership and innovation will we drive progress. This World AIDS Day, Gilead remains committed to working alongside communities around the world to transform the AIDS response by prioritizing science that breaks barriers, partnerships that drive equity and reduce stigma, and people who are most affected by HIV. Gilead is proud to recognize the important work of U.S. Business Action to End HIV, and we are honored to serve as a key supporter of this Coalition’s mission.”

For more information on U.S. Business Action to End HIV and member company commitments, visit healthaction.org/EndHIV.

ABOUT U.S. BUSINESS ACTION TO END HIV

U.S. Business Action to End HIV is the nation’s largest coalition of employers committed to ending the HIV epidemic in the United States by 2030. It was founded in 2022 by the Health Action Alliance, with support from ViiV Healthcare, and has since grown with generous support from Gilead Sciences, MISTR, and other partners. The Coalition mobilizes corporate leadership to close gaps in HIV prevention, care, and visibility.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/five-years-left-business-coalition-marks-world-aids-day-with-550-commitments-to-end-hiv-by-2030-302627299.html

SOURCE Health Action Alliance

Nation to spur low-carbon transition of manufacturing, top regulator says

BEIJING, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news reports from chinadaily.com.cn

China will deepen multilateral cooperation on green technologies, support its new energy vehicle, battery and photovoltaic enterprises in expanding globally, and accelerate the low-carbon transition of its sprawling manufacturing sector, said the nation’s top industry regulator.

Li Lecheng, minister of industry and information technology, said in an exclusive signed article written for China Daily that when global climate governance encounters setbacks and some nations are backsliding on their commitments, China’s determination to pursue a green transition in manufacturing underlines its drive to foster new quality productive forces and pursue high-quality development.

China will “encourage competitive Chinese enterprises in photovoltaics, wind power, lithium batteries and new energy vehicles to expand globally and to invest in and develop green energy projects in countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative and beyond”, Li said.

President Xi Jinping announced China’s new Nationally Determined Contributions in his video speech in September to the United Nations Climate Summit 2025. Xi said that China will, by 2035, expand the installed capacity of wind and solar power to over six times the 2020 levels, striving to bring the total to 3,600 gigawatts, and make new energy vehicles the mainstream in the sales of new vehicles.

“The deep impetus for the green transition of China’s sprawling manufacturing sector stems from President Xi’s ecological civilization concept,” Li said, adding that China’s new NDC targets demonstrate a pragmatic and actionable ambition for emission reductions.

Highlighting that “China has built the world’s largest new energy industry chain”, Li said the country’s renewable energy products are exported to over 200 countries and regions. Such products meet more than 80 percent of the global demand for photovoltaic modules and 70 percent of the global demand for wind power equipment. Meanwhile, over half of the world’s electric vehicles run on Chinese roads.

“China has also collaborated with more than 100 countries and regions on green energy projects. … These initiatives demonstrate the tangible impact of Chinese solutions in helping other developing nations address climate change while fostering economic growth,” Li added.

According to Li, from 2021 to 2024, China produced about 15.6 trillion kilowatts of photovoltaic modules, which has helped the world generate about 3.2 trillion kilowatt-hours of green electricity and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by roughly 2.54 billion metric tons.

China will also promote international cooperation in green infrastructure and transportation solutions, and actively participate in shaping international green and low-carbon regulations, he said.

Li outlined a systematic approach to reinforcing the green development of China’s manufacturing economy, focusing on modernizing the industrial system, building green supply chains and deepening international cooperation.

“China will strategically plan and deploy future-oriented energy and manufacturing industries, including hydrogen energy, energy storage, bio-manufacturing and carbon capture, utilization and storage,” he said.

The senior official also emphasized technological innovation as the core driver for sustainable development. Nearly half of Chinese enterprises engaged in or planned green tech innovation in 2024, according to data from the China National Intellectual Property Administration.

“Over the past decade, China has contributed to a cumulative reduction of over 60 percent and 80 percent, respectively, in the global average levelized cost of electricity for wind power and solar photovoltaic technologies,” Li said.

“An ancient Chinese proverb reads: ‘Those who persevere in action will achieve their goals.’ … No matter how the international landscape shifts, (China’s manufacturing industry) remains committed to honoring its pledge of building a community with a shared future for mankind through tangible green initiatives,” he added.

He Kebin, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, said: “After decades of efforts, China has taken the lead in research and development, and in the large-scale engineering application of new energy technologies. Its mature and cost-competitive technical solutions are becoming increasingly sought-after in the global market.

“In the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period, China’s unique expertise will provide crucial support for other countries that are rich in wind and solar resources but have weak grid foundations,” the academician said.

He Xiaopeng, CEO of Chinese auto company Xpeng Motors, said that China “possesses distinct advantages in industrial chain and artificial intelligence, complemented by strengths in efficiency, cost, quality and scale”, adding that “these factors can empower the global expansion of China’s new energy vehicles”.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/china-to-boost-green-industry-cooperation-302628965.html

SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn

DUBAI, UAE, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, today announced an emergency humanitarian contribution to support communities affected by the devastating floods across Southeast Asia, with a primary focus on Sri Lanka—one of the hardest-hit countries following Cyclone Ditwah.

Over the past week, torrential rains and cyclone-driven winds have led to catastrophic flooding across Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. The disaster has claimed more than 420 lives across the region, including 123 lives lost in Sri Lanka, with tens of thousands displaced and critical infrastructure severely damaged.

In response to this unprecedented crisis, Bybit is in touch with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to donate $100,000 in support of relief operations, emergency shelters, and essential supplies for affected families. This collaboration ensures that assistance reaches those who need it most and aligns with national priorities during this critical moment.

“Our hearts are with the people of Sri Lanka and the wider South Asian region during this time of immense loss,” said Nazar Tymoshchuk, Bybit’s Mini-Global Regional Manager. “As communities face the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, we stand in solidarity with them and are committed to contributing to relief and recovery efforts together with credible local partners such as the CBSL.”

Sri Lanka alone has seen more than 44,000 people displaced, with widespread landslides, damaged transportation routes, and suspended public services. Rescue efforts continue as authorities race to reach stranded citizens, restore power and communications, and prevent further losses amid continued rainfall forecasts.

Bybit’s contribution aims to support immediate necessities including food, clean water, medical aid, temporary housing, and rehabilitation programs. The company reaffirms its long-term dedication to supporting communities globally in times of crisis through meaningful action and collaboration.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bybit-announces-humanitarian-aid-for-sri-lanka-as-cyclone-ditwah-triggers-severe-flooding-in-southeast-asia-302628938.html

SOURCE Bybit

University of Toronto climate scientist and IPCC contributor shares low-cost home upgrades and bike/transit policies with clear guidance on climate models.

NEW YORK, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Planet Classroom Network, in association with the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement, today launches a new Net Zero Speaks episode featuring climate scientist Danny Harvey—Professor, University of Toronto ; IPCC contributor—in conversation with POP youth host Sahil Soni. Edited by Sergio Castaneda, this compelling episode turns big climate goals into everyday actions for homes, schools, and cities.

What’s inside:

• City playbook: End sprawl with urban densification, add protected bike lanes, and prioritize fast bus lanes to shift trips from cars.
• Best sub-$2,000 home upgrade (cold climates): Schedule a blower-door test and air-seal leaks; during renovations, move to triple-pane windows.
• Hot-climate basics: Shading, natural ventilation, and efficient fans to curb AC demand.
• How to read models: Current warming is largely baked in, making near-term cuts urgent.
• Diet shifts with impact: Reduce processed meats first, then red meat; build meals around legumes + grains.
• Hardest sector: Aviation—efficiency helps, but demand growth can erase gains; policy signals and fewer discretionary flights matter.

Harvey in his own words:
 “The simple things are air sealing, shading, ventilation,” says Harvey, adding that cities should “do everything we can to make cycling more attractive.” On the stakes: “This is serious. And it’s going to get worse.”

“When Sahil asked Danny what a mayor should do with just five minutes, we got a ready-made city playbook—housing, bike lanes, buses, and home energy bills. It’s youth-led climate reporting that local leaders and families can act on now.”

— C.M. (Cathy) Rubin, Founder, Planet Classroom Network

Why it’s newsworthy now: As municipalities finalize 2026 budgets and families face winter energy bills, Net Zero Speaks with Danny Harvey offers specific, low-cost steps reporters can localize—bike lanes, transit priority, housing density, home retrofits—and an honest look at aviation, where demand threatens to outpace technological gains.

Watch now on YouTube — Planet Classroom’s streaming channel.

About the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement
POP mobilizes youth worldwide to take collective climate action aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

About the Planet Classroom Network

Planet Classroom connects filmmakers, educators, technologists, and youth to entertain, educate, and empower global audiences with short films and conversations spanning climate, innovation, creativity, and community impact.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/planet-classroom-premieres-net-zero-speaks-with-danny-harvey–practical-climate-fixes-now-302628813.html

SOURCE Planet Classroom Network

BEIJING, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The International Geothermal Standard Committee (“IGSC”) was officially established on November 26 in Beijing, with its permanent Secretariat hosted by China Petroleum and Chemical Corporation (HKG: 0386, “Sinopec”), marking a historic milestone in global geothermal standardization.

Initiated by the International Geothermal Association (IGA), the IGSC brings together 30 leading experts from 15 countries as its inaugural committee members. The committee will lead the development and promotion of unified international geothermal standards, accelerate technology deployment, and ensure the healthy, sustainable growth of the global geothermal industry chain.

“As the world undergoes a profound energy transition, geothermal energy – abundant, stable, clean and low-carbon – is emerging as a strategic cornerstone of the future energy mix. Unified and mutually recognized standards are the foundation for lowering international cooperation barriers, speeding up technology transfer, and securing a resilient global geothermal supply chain,” commented Mr. Niu Shuanwen, Senior Vice President of Sinopec. “Sinopec will spare no effort in supporting the IGSC and translating global consensus into actionable standards that drive real impact.”

During the meeting, members unanimously adopted the IGSC Standard Development Procedures and the 2025–2027 Work Program. Going forward, the committee will systematically advance a comprehensive geothermal standard system covering the full industry chain, including resource exploration and evaluation, reservoir engineering, drilling and completion, district heating, power generation, and shallow geothermal systems, with a focus on processes, methods, equipment, and materials.

“With geothermal energy playing an increasingly vital role in the global energy landscape, the industry is experiencing unprecedented growth momentum. The establishment of the IGSC transforms a long-standing industry consensus into urgent action,” remarked Mr. Bjarni Pálsson, President of the International Geothermal Association. “By pooling worldwide expertise in an open and inclusive manner, we will deliver authoritative international standards and guidelines, laying a solid foundation for large-scale, efficient geothermal development and contributing meaningfully to global climate goals.”

Sinopec, China‘s largest developer and operator of mid- and deep-geothermal energy, currently provides geothermal heating for 126 million square meters of building area, replacing the equivalent of nearly 6.2 million tons of CO₂ emissions annually. Sinopec has drafted over 50% of China‘s national geothermal standards and led the country‘s first IGA international standard. Its landmark “smoke-free city” geothermal heating project in Xiongxian County, Hebei Province, has been included in the global promotion catalogue of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/international-geothermal-standard-committee-launched-in-beijing-with-permanent-secretariat-at-sinopec-302628918.html

SOURCE SINOPEC

BEIJING, Nov. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A report from China Daily. 

The All-China Federation of Trade Unions is harnessing the power of female role models, not only by honoring their contributions but also by deploying their expertise to enterprises, turning individual ingenuity into a driving force for national development.

Han Liping, a computer numerical control machining center operator at a Shanxi province-based aerospace equipment manufacturing company, has dedicated over three decades to working on the frontlines of China’s space industry, with her career exemplifying professional attributes often associated with the “craftsmanship spirit”.

Han, 54, a national model worker and craftswoman, has contributed to the success of nearly 200 Chinese space launches not by working on the rockets themselves, but on what supports them: the launch platform.

Involved in the precision machining of key parts for these platforms, Han operates various digital control systems and software to ensure every component meets the exacting standards required for a successful launch.

“I’m just a cog in the machine on the production line, doing my everyday job. But it makes me incredibly proud to add my little piece to the success of our country’s space industry,” Han said.

Notably, Han has innovated an operation method for complex valve body hole systems, which resolved a critical challenge in the Long March 7 launch platform, where the valve body holes had extremely narrow tolerance ranges and minimal redundancy space. This breakthrough achieved a 100 percent first-pass qualification rate for key components controlling the support arm leveling precision, ensuring the accurate orbital insertion of the new-generation carrier rocket.

“The accumulation of production experience and the maturation of skills must be continuously validated through practical application — there are no shortcuts or detours, only steady progress with each step,” Han said.

Leading the national-level Han Liping Skills Master Studio, Han and her team focus on tackling bottleneck issues in scientific research and production.

To date, the studio has completed more than 300 innovation projects, generating cumulative benefits exceeding 30 million yuan ($4.23 million) and obtaining 13 patents.

“Technology is constantly evolving. As front-line industrial workers, we must also keep learning and improving our skills to meet the demands of our positions,” Han said.

Yet her aspirations extend beyond personal breakthroughs. For decades, she has been dedicated to passing down the spirit of craftsmanship to the next generation. She shares her knowledge, skills and techniques with team members and young colleagues, nurturing a new generation of skilled workers. Thanks in part to her mentorship, the company has now produced 29 national technical experts.

In the wave of intelligent manufacturing, Han said, “A truly competitive industry needs both the brains behind core technologies and the skilled hands that bring them to life on the factory floor.”

Han’s story is a prime example of the ACFTU’s systematic efforts to cultivate, recognize and utilize female role models.

A recent tour project focusing on female model workers and craftswomen assisting enterprises extends this model, transforming individual expertise into collective productive forces for businesses nationwide.

On the morning of July 24, at a Geely automobile industrial park in Xi’an, Shaanxi province, national model worker Yi Ran, a renowned welder and the first national master craftswoman from Zhuzhou, Hunan province, signed a mentorship agreement with welder Li Junle from Geely. Yi then accompanied Li to his workstation while offering hands-on guidance.

“I plan to first help Li solve some production problems, then teach him skills like operating welding robots, and also help him plan his career path,” Yi said. 

Simultaneously, nine other top model workers and master craftswomen split into groups to assist different companies during the tour. They provided advice on non-standard parts processing at Xi’an Caijing Opto-Electrical Science & Technology, solved vibration issues in high-speed winding machines at Xi’an Da’an Chemical Industry, and advised on skill certification systems at TBEA Xi’an Electric Technology.

A manager from Xi’an Da’an expressed gratitude, noting that the experts “helped solve many technical problems that had troubled us for years, and their innovative ideas can be translated into tangible productivity”.

Sun Mei, a national women’s pacesetter and a welding manager from YCIH Mechanical Manufacturing and Installation, emphasized that “the exchange platform built by the ACFTU has provided broader space for the growth and innovation of female talent”.

The tour demonstrated holistic care by organizing visits to innovation studios such as the “Xue Ying Class” and C919 production line, where participants delivered supplies to front-line workers. These activities were complemented by “Caring for Employees” health services provided in partnership with Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The program aims to create a new platform for demonstration, enterprise empowerment, and employee exchange.

The ACFTU is pioneering a new service model described as “enterprises placing orders, model workers accepting orders, and the union providing delivery”, which is designed to serve workers and small and medium-sized enterprises more efficiently and effectively. This systematic approach ensures specialized knowledge is transferred to where it is most needed, creating multiplier effects for industrial advancement.

The effect of such activities extends beyond immediate technical solutions. By creating opportunities for female professionals to demonstrate leadership in traditionally male-dominated sectors, the ACFTU is reshaping industry perceptions and encouraging more women to pursue technical careers. This aligns with broader national goals to foster innovation-driven development, where the participation of women in the workforce is recognized as crucial for sustainable economic growth.

As the ACFTU celebrates its 100th anniversary, the combination of honorific recognition and platform building ensures that the dedication of pioneers such as Han is amplified. The footsteps of these elite women are reaching far and wide, sharing their wisdom to collectively power the nation’s development.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/female-model-workers-sharing-expertise-with-enterprises-302628719.html

SOURCE China Daily

Promoting a Workplace Where Everyone Can Thrive Authentically and Equitably

TOKYO, Nov. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On November 14, 2025, transcosmos has been awarded the highest Gold rating for the second consecutive year in the PRIDE Index 2025, one of Japan’s largest benchmarks for evaluating corporate initiatives that promote LGBTQ+ inclusion and workplace diversity.

This recognition reflects transcosmos’s strong commitment to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive authentically and equitably, through both policy development and cultural transformation.

The PRIDE Index is Japan’s first evaluation benchmark for corporate and organizational initiatives related to LGBTQ+ inclusion. It was established in 2016 by work with Pride to promote the creation of workplaces where sexual minorities can work comfortably and authentically.

The index consists of five categories: Policy (Commitment and Action Statements), Representation (Employee and Ally Communities), Inspiration (Awareness and Education Activities), Development (HR Policies and Programs), and Engagement/Empowerment (Social Contribution and External Collaboration).

Points are awarded based on compliance with specific requirements in each category. Organizations are then certified as Gold, Silver, or Bronze according to their total score.

(*) About work with Pride
work with Pride (wwP) is a general incorporated association that supports the promotion and integration of diversity management related to LGBTQ+ and other sexual minorities within companies and organizations.
Each year, wwP hosts conferences on LGBTQ+ topics primarily for HR, human rights, and diversity professionals, and manages initiatives such as the PRIDE Index and Rainbow Certification.
Website: https://workwithpride.jp/

■Background of Gold Certification
transcosmos strives to build an organization where everyone can thrive authentically and equitably, embracing individuality while supporting one another. To achieve this, we promote accurate understanding of LGBTQ (sexual minorities) and SOGIE (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity/Expression) among all employees.

We have worked to increase the number of LGBTQ allies while fostering an inclusive workplace for everyone. In 2023, we participated in the PRIDE Index for the first time and earned Silver certification. This year, in the PRIDE Index 2025, we have been honored with the highest Gold rating for the second consecutive year.

■transcosmos LGBTQ+ Initiatives

1. Policy (Commitment Statements)
・Demonstrated top-level commitment by clearly defining our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) policy.
・Established guidelines on LGBTQ and SOGIE, clarifying our stance and expected behaviors toward employees.
・Formulated the “transcosmos Human Rights Policy,” outlining our approach toward all business partners and stakeholders.

2. Representation (Community Building)
・Set up an exclusive LGBTQ consultation desk with external specialists, alongside an internal help desk, ensuring a safe space for anyone to seek advice.
・Participated in cross-industry networks through joint communities with other companies.
・Distributed virtual backgrounds for online meetings and displayed rainbow flags at offices nationwide to visibly support allies.

3. Inspiration (Awareness & Education)
・Conducted annual LGBTQ training via e-learning: for managers since FY2021 and for all employees since FY2023.
・Hosted an “LGBTQ Forum” for executives and managers, and distributed the “LGBTQ Ally Handbook” to foster understanding.
・Collected feedback through post-training surveys to measure comprehension and continuously improve initiatives.

4. Development (HR Policies & Programs)
・Introduced partnership and familyship systems and revised related regulations.
・Allowed the use of preferred names and established leave policies for gender-affirming surgery and hormone therapy.
・Incorporated legal information on same-sex relationships into risk management manuals for overseas assignments and business travel.

5. Engagement/Empowerment (Social Contribution & Advocacy)
・Co-hosted events with LGBTQ ally companies to promote social awareness.
・Endorsed the “Business for Marriage Equality” campaign, which visualizes corporate support for marriage equality.
・Supported the “Business Support for LGBT Equality in Japan” initiative, advocating for the enactment of LGBT equality legislation.

●Glossary & Notes
LGBTQ: An acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning, representing diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

LGBTQ Ally: A person who actively supports and advocates for understanding and respect among all individuals, including LGBTQ communities.

Business for Marriage Equality: A campaign jointly operated by Marriage For All Japan (MFAJ), Lawyers for LGBT & Allies Network (LLN), and certified NPO Nijiiro Diversity.

Business Support for LGBT Equality in Japan: An initiative jointly operated by the Japan Alliance for LGBT Legislation, Human Rights Watch, Athlete Ally, and global petition platform ALL OUT.

*transcosmos is a trademark or registered trademark of transcosmos inc. in Japan and other countries.
*Other company names and product or service names used here are trademarks or registered trademarks of respective companies.

■ About transcosmos inc.
transcosmos launched its operations in 1966. Since then, we have united superior “people” with up-to-date “technology” to enhance the competitive strength of our clients by providing them with superior and valuable services. transcosmos currently offers services that support clients’ business processes focusing on both sales expansion and cost optimization through our 184 bases across 36 countries/regions with a focus on Asia, while continuously pursuing Operational Excellence. Furthermore, following the expansion of e-commerce market on the global scale, transcosmos provides a comprehensive One-Stop Global E-Commerce Services to deliver our clients’ excellent products and services to consumers in 46 countries/regions around the globe. transcosmos aims to be the “Global Digital Transformation Partner” of our clients, supporting the clients’ transformation by leveraging digital technology, responding to the ever-changing business environment. Visit us here https://www.trans-cosmos.co.jp/english/

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/transcosmos-earns-top-gold-rating-for-second-consecutive-year-in-pride-index-2025-for-lgbtq-workplace-initiatives-302628028.html

SOURCE transcosmos inc.

TOKYO, Nov. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Manoa Energy (“Manoa” or the “Company”) today announced the start of commercial operations for the Helios 50MW Battery Energy Storage System (“BESS”) in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, Japan.

The Helios 50MW / 104 MWh BESS was developed in partnership with Brawn and HD Renewable Energy Japan (HDJP) by Brawn’s 100% owned Japan based development platform Manoa Energy (“Manoa”). 

“Successful completion of our first standalone Extra High Voltage BESS asset emphasizes our commitment to sustainable infrastructure investment in Japan. Brawn will continue to develop our additional 1GW pipeline of Extra High Voltage and High Voltage assets throughout Japan, for commercial operations between 2026 and 2030.” said Scott Reinhart, CEO of Brawn.

Helios construction began in April 2024. The project uses Tesla Megapack 2XL batteries, while Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) was managed by HOKKAIDENKO Corporation. The Helios asset is a 100% merchant BESS which will participate in the wholesale, balancing, and capacity markets.

Dean Cooper, Head of Manoa Energy and COO of Brawn said “Japan’s energy storage sector is experiencing rapid acceleration, positioning Japan among the world’s most dynamic energy storage markets. Manoa Energy is excited to be part of Japan’s energy transition momentum, as the country emphasizes battery energy storage systems as a strategic priority for its critical energy infrastructure.”

About Brawn 

Brawn is an alternative investment manager focused on accelerating the energy transition across the Asia-Pacific region. With over 300+ projects purchased to date and a proven track record in renewable energy and infrastructure, Brawn specializes in originating, developing, and managing utility-scale projects, particularly in energy storage and clean energy solutions.

Along with its Japan energy storage portfolio, Brawn is also a strategic partner with Singapore based DDSP – a developer of next-generation digital and decarbonized energy infrastructure across Asia-Pacific. Focused on delivery for hyperscale clients alongside long-term operational partners, DDSP combines deep sectoral expertise across technical, operational, and investment disciplines to deliver and scale infrastructure in complex, underserved, and high-growth markets

Committed to global ESG principles, Brawn delivers sustainable investments that drive decarbonization while creating long-term value for stakeholders.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/helios-50-mw-bess-achieves-commercial-operations-in-hokkaido-japan-302628452.html

SOURCE Brawn