Trellis Impact 25: Accelerating Solutions to Our Planet’s Biggest Challenges

OAKLAND, Calif., October 3, 2025 /3BL/ – Trellis Impact 25 is the premier event empowering professionals to accelerate innovative solutions to our planet’s biggest challenges. Taking place October 28–30, 2025, at the San Jose Convention Center, Trellis Impact 25 brings together three leading conferences — VERGE, Bloom, and GreenFin — into one powerful convening designed for action and results.

More than 4,000 professionals, 500 speakers, and 100+ sessions will make Trellis Impact 25 the center of gravity for sustainability doers and leaders across industries, finance, technology, and policy.

  • VERGE mobilizes professionals decarbonizing and future-proofing their organizations and supply chains through climate technologies.
  • Bloom convenes leaders and innovators driving cutting-edge tools, business strategies, and partnerships to protect and regenerate nature.
  • GreenFin equips professionals with strategies to harness the power of capital for the clean economy transition.

“Trellis Impact is more than an event — it’s where ideas, investments, and innovations converge to drive real-world change,” said Hana Kajimura, Interim CEO of Trellis Group. “By bringing VERGE, Bloom, and GreenFin together, we’re giving leaders a platform to collaborate across climate, nature, and finance like never before.”

Featured Sessions at Trellis Impact 25

Highlights from this year’s program include:

  • Carbon Credit Offtake Tutorial — A practical guide for buyers and sellers navigating the carbon markets.
  • Next Phase of Industrial Decarbonization: Data-Driven Procurement Strategies — How leading companies are tackling emissions across supply chains.
  • From Risk to ROI: Making the Business Case for Water and Nature Investments — Linking biodiversity and water strategies to financial outcomes.
  • The State of Corporate Sustainability Disclosure and Planning — Unpacking evolving requirements and strategies for corporate ESG reporting.
  • Mission Based Investing: Aligning Institutional Values with Market Opportunities — Exploring the future of climate-aligned finance.

In addition to curated sessions and cross-sector networking, highlights include the Startups to Watch competition, a showcase of emerging innovators, and the Emerging Leaders program, which elevates the next generation of sustainability professionals.

Registration is now open. Use code TI253BL for 10% off. Discounted rates are available through October 3, 2025. To learn more, visit https://buff.ly/oFBbikP

About Trellis Group
Trellis Group (formerly GreenBiz Group) is a leading convenor of sustainability and climate solutions, combining events, media, and networks to empower professionals to drive measurable impact. Its flagship events include GreenBiz, VERGE, Bloom, GreenFin, and now Trellis Impact.

Media Contact
Chandler Griffin
chandler.griffin@trellis.net

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AEG Employees Support Los Angeles Regional Food Bank in Fighting Food Insecurity

AEG employees recently joined forces to volunteer at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, reinforcing the company’s commitment to giving back and supporting the communities where it operates. This initiative focused on addressing the urgent issue of food insecurity in Los Angeles, where one in four residents struggles to access sufficient and nutritious food.

A dedicated team of AEG volunteers spent the day sorting and packing fresh produce for distribution across the county. Working together, they assembled five-pound bags of fruits and vegetables that were distributed to more than 29,000 families, older adults, and children in need. In total, the team alongside other corporate and individual volunteers packed an impressive 39,775 pounds of fresh produce, making a tangible impact on the lives of thousands of Angelenos.

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank plays a vital role in the fight against hunger, partnering with hundreds of agencies to ensure food reaches those who need it most. AEG’s involvement in this effort reflects the company’s broader commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.

Through their volunteer efforts, AEG employees helped deliver nutritious food to individuals and families facing hardship, exemplifying the company’s values of compassion, collaboration, and service. This initiative is one of many ways AEG continues to support local organizations and contribute to a stronger, healthier Los Angeles.

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3M Helps Shape a New Age of Nuclear Energy

Originally published on 3M News Center

The global demand for energy continues to surge, driven by population growth, urbanization, energy-intensive AI models and the increasing electrification of industry and transportation. Amid this evolving energy landscape, nuclear power is emerging as a pivotal component, offering a safe, reliable, and low-carbon source of electricity.  The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that nuclear capacity could double by 2050, and with advancements in reactor technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and fundamentally safe designs, nuclear energy is poised to play a crucial role in meeting global demand, alongside renewables and other innovative energy solutions. 

3M’s long support of commercial nuclear applications

3M has supported commercial nuclear applications since 1988, delivering solutions throughout the nuclear fuel cycle. In fact, 3M is one of just a few commercial sources in the world to maintain facilities for separation of boron isotopes, offering secure, consistent supplies and products for water chemistry, neutron absorption, emergency shutdown, fuel control and fuel storage. 

“3M remains a leader in providing solutions that drive energy security for the world and nuclear energy remains one of the safest and most reliable sources of power, providing a stable, low-carbon baseload of electricity to the grid,” said Stefanie Engbrocks, business director for energy solutions at 3M.  “We will continue to work with our customers in the nuclear industry to advance materials science innovations that meet the growing global energy demands.” 

How 3M’s existing technology helps in the future

Existing 3M technology can help the industry meet upcoming advancements in nuclear reactor design and technology today, by providing enriched boron compounds, advanced metal matrix composites (AMMCs), and technical ceramics solutions that cannot be procured from any other known source in the world. 3M is ready to help shape the future of nuclear energy by working with industry leaders to apply 3M’s global materials science expertise—enhancing modular reactor construction, accelerating construction, and improving material quality. 

In addition to materials solutions, 3M has products to help support the safety of workers in the nuclear industry. 3M offers a comprehensive range of personal safety equipment, including respiratory protection, fall protection, and communications/hearing protection, to help enhance worker health and safety.  

3M’s ongoing commitment to nuclear energy

While nuclear energy is a key focus, 3M’s commitment extends to broader energy solutions, including energy production, transmission and distribution, EVs and mobility solutions, the built environment and energy efficiency, and waste reduction. 3M’s innovative materials and technologies are designed to deliver scalable impacts that can help shape the future of energy across the value chain. 

 

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Fashion, Sustainability Leaders Convene at Climate and Nature Studio, Climate Week NYC

At Climate Week NYC, eight leading fashion organizations joined forces to present the Climate and Nature Studio, a collaborative platform designed to accelerate progress on climate, labor, and nature impact across the sector.

Together, Apparel Impact Institute (Aii), Cascale, Fashion for Good, Global Fashion Agenda, Textile Exchange, The Fashion Pact, Worldly, and ZDHC Foundation co-hosted the event, delivering two full days of impactful programming and networking moments.

Drawing over 450 attendees (with 235 attending the drinks reception), the inaugural event marked a new level of cooperation, reinforcing that collaboration is the industry’s most powerful tool to drive measurable change. Sessions spanned topics like green chemistry, decarbonization, climate adaptation, financing mechanisms, supply chain data and technology solutions, regulatory reporting, policymaking, and more.

Despite a busy week for delegates, the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) also had a special presence at the event. Acting as a high-level sector champion, Isabella Marras, senior programme management officer of interagency affairs at the UNEP, provided opening remarks on the sector’s positive potential for accelerating transformative change. Highlighting the impact of the apparel sector, Marras shed light on the importance of each organization convening together, with a call-to-action, noting ”collaborations that last are sincere and operational.”

Apparel Alliance

For the day one plenary, attendees played an interactive trivia game called “Inside the Apparel Alliance” spotlighting each Apparel Alliance member’s unique role and impact. By blending knowledge with play, participants gained clarity on the distinct roles of Apparel Alliance members Aii, Cascale, Textile Exchange, and ZDHC. The interactive session featured Aii’s president Lewis Perkins; Cascale’s senior director of brand and retailer membership Joleen Ong; ZDHC’s CEO Frank Michel; Textile Exchange’s CEO Claire Bergkamp and senior director of engagement and partnerships, Sarah Needham; who each shared how their organizations drive collective impact.

Attendees tested their knowledge through a round of trivia, underscoring the shared goals and complementary roles of each group. The discussion reinforced that no single organization can solve the industry’s challenges alone.

Similarly, day two’s plenary panel, “Partnerships that Power Progress,” brought together voices from across the value chain in a candid discussion moderated by Gonzalo Muñoz, cofounder of Ambition Loop and UN high-level climate champion. Panelists underscored how partnerships with the Apparel Alliance are advancing progress through harmonized measurement systems, shared investment models, and collective climate action.

Speakers included Ulrika Leverenz, head of green investment at H&M Group; Jeanne Carver, founder and president of Shaniko Wool Company; Scarlette Tapp, executive director of the Sustainable Furnishings Council; and Nikhil Hirdaramani, director of Hirdaramani Group.

Carver spoke to the rancher and farmer perspective, describing the importance of community at Textile Exchange and calling industry fragmentation the greatest challenge. Based in Sri Lanka, Hirdaramani brought the manufacturer’s view, pointing to ZDHC’s role in chemical management while urging stronger collaboration in light of severe weather disrupting supply chains. “I’d like to see even more suppliers at Climate Week,” he said.

Tapp highlighted how Cascale’s acquisition of SFC’s assets expands opportunities for cross-sector collaboration in home and textiles. Noting parallels between wood and fiber, she emphasized transparency and tool alignment as key enablers of progress. Leverenz underscored the role of financing in overcoming fragmentation, citing H&M Group’s partnership with Aii as a model for efficiency and scale.

Together, the discussion showcased how partnerships — from farms to finance — are accelerating climate solutions and driving industry-wide transformation.

Apparel Impact Institute

Aii hosted three interactive sessions addressing barriers and solutions for decarbonization including, “Cost of Inaction: Financial Case for Decarbonization,” ”Beyond Apparel: Lessons from Cross-sector Leaders on Climate Action,” and ”Doubling Down on Decarbonization.”

In the first workshop, attendees developed tailored finance pitches through exercises like persona creation, reflection mapping, and collaborative storyboard building. Attendees engaged in structured peer discussions to co-create arguments for sustainable investment. The outcomes from this session will inform a new report by Aii and Accenture about the quantifiable benefits to decarbonization, slated for Q1 next year.

Structured as a dynamic “fishbowl” conversation, the “Beyond Apparel” session invited participants to first listen in on a discussion between leaders from multiple sectors, and then rotate into the inner circle to contribute their own perspectives. The format allowed attendees to draw parallels between sectors, challenge assumptions, and spotlight their own barriers.

In the last session, participants took part in a board game-style experience where they worked in teams to navigate real-world barriers to supply chain decarbonization. The game encouraged problem-solving through trivia, map-based exercises, and rotating breakout stations staffed by experts on finance, infrastructure, and technology.

Attendees found the workshop formats fresh and engaging. They enjoyed the opportunity to learn both from Aii staff and from one another about creative approaches for funding and advancing supply chain improvements.

Aii’s president Lewis Perkins emphasized: “In the spirit of Climate Week NYC and turning bold ideas into urgent action, our Climate and Nature Studio proves the power of transforming fragmentation into collaboration, and mobilizing networks into collective impact. By uniting in one space, we not only amplify each other’s efforts, we send a clear signal that the apparel industry is ready to accelerate systemic change and drive measurable progress toward a lower-carbon future.”

Cascale

At Cascale’s intimate decarbonization session “Reality Check: Challenges in Tier 2 Decarbonization,” Chris Marshall, head of industry decarbonization, set the scene using a high-level data analysis from the Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM). Afterwards, Cascale’s editorial director Kaley Roshitsh moderated a chat with James Dougherty, managing director of REN Energy, examining the pressing challenge of engaging Tier 2 suppliers in decarbonization efforts. The conversation examined how multi-stakeholder collaboration models are unlocking progress where engagement has historically lagged. Key takeaways included the critical role of supplier business cases, the need for aligned metrics and financing mechanisms, and the importance of scaling proven engagement frameworks to overcome systemic and regional barriers. By pre-qualifying suppliers, Dougherty said some of them are seeing 20 to 30 percent cost-savings by switching to renewable energy.

On day two, Cascale’s session “Thriving in Climate Uncertainty: Prioritizing Decent Work for All,” featured Cascale’s Joleen Ong; Chana Rosenthal, consultant at NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business and principle and founder of ReDesign Consulting; Nim Deshpande, managing director at Good Business Lab; and Evre Kaynak, Global Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) Leader, W. L. Gore &. Associates.

Panelists addressed how climate instability threatens workers’ rights and livelihoods across the supply chain. Speakers emphasized that safeguarding decent work must remain central to climate action, pointing to practical solutions such as risk-based due diligence, worker well-being programs, and harmonized solutions.

Ong called climate adaptation the “perfect storm” of vulnerabilities, including lost productivity and wages. Citing Cascale Annual Meeting 2025 data, she said that in an audience poll, over 55 percent  reported they are “unsure” of what to do about climate adaptation. Rosenthal called for action and a shift from the status quo, using tools like NYU Stern’s ROSI Methodology to calculate savings. “We have to look internally and shift the way we do business.” Kaynak called attention to the inequity faced in the Global South while Deshpande spoke about worker satisfaction and retention as a key benefit for employers, exploring solutions like cooling vests and heat insurance.

Fashion for Good

For the session “Catalyzing Future Forward Factories,” speakers explored how clean textile manufacturing could become the industry’s default. Speakers included Stephanie Grotta of Target, Sophia Halliday of the H&M Foundation, Amol Mehra of the Laudes Foundation, and Katie Tague of Artistic Milliners. Together, they examined how philanthropy, corporate capital, and new business models can help accelerate a transition to low-impact production.

The conversation challenged long-held assumptions around risk and responsibility in financing the shift to cleaner manufacturing. Panelists questioned whether fashion brands could make long-term capacity reservations to secure investment in new facilities and highlighted the role of catalytic capital in demonstrating viable, scalable solutions. They also discussed the importance of creating shovel-ready projects that unlock broader market transformation.

Speakers stressed that while philanthropy has helped advance early-stage innovation, corporate capital must also play a greater role to ensure a just and effective transition. This collective responsibility, they noted, is essential to align ambition with action.

Global Fashion Agenda

The GFA Policy Masterclass brought together a full room for a timely dialogue on fashion’s fast-moving policy landscape. The discussion covered California’s Responsible Textile Recovery Act, new EPR frameworks in the EU, and the revision of the Waste Framework Directive — addressing fragmented regulations and exploring opportunities to bring greater clarity for producers. Earlier this week, the GFA Assembly also explored the key topic of EPR.

Speakers included; Federica Marchionni, CEO, GFA; Chelsea Murtha, senior director of sustainability, American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA); Dennis Nobelius, CEO, Syre; Rachel Van Metre Kibbe, founder and CEO, American Circular Textiles; and Maria Luisa Martinez Diez, VP, public affairs, GFA.

In a separate session, GFA and strategic partner Ralph Lauren brought together industry peers for its “Innovation Networking” at the Climate and Nature Studio. With the aim of supporting the adoption of solutions across the fashion industry, the event featured a series of 126 strategic meetings connecting brands, financiers, and solution providers to foster collaboration.

Textile Exchange

Textile Exchange’s “Closing the Gap with Decision-Makers” panel featured Vogue Business’ Bella Webb, Textile Exchange’s Claire Bergkamp, Tapestry’s Logan Duran, Syre’s Dennis Nobelius, and Goldman Sachs’ Letitia Webster. The discussion centered on bridging ambition and action in sustainability by identifying key roadblocks and strategies for engaging decision-makers. Barriers include misaligned timelines, lack of relevant business-focused information, and difficulty translating sustainability into clear ROI, cost savings, and risk mitigation. Panelists emphasized the need for transparency, shared language, and framing sustainability as core to business viability, not an add-on.

Examples included Tapestry shifting sustainability from legal compliance to supply chain integration, which enabled deeper embedding into brand strategy and board conversations. To gain traction, sustainability professionals must “speak the language of business,” using true-cost accounting and material risk modeling to show relevance and profitability. Rather than fear-based messaging, companies should highlight incentives, circular models, and opportunities for competitive advantage. With sustainability budgets shrinking, organizations must leverage cross-departmental champions to embed sustainability across marketing, finance, and operations, ensuring resilience despite lean teams.

The “Unlocking the Economics of Scale for Preferred Production Systems” panel featured The Business of Fashion’s Sara Kent, Textile Exchange’s Sarah Needham, Cotton On’s Liz Hershfield, and Everlane’s Katina Boutis. The discussion centered on insights from Textile Exchange’s newly released Materials Benchmark report, highlighting the encouraging rise in certified material adoption. Panelists explored how lower-impact fibers are gaining traction with both brands and farmers, emphasizing that scalability is key to making these models viable. While rigid standards limit scale, overly flexible ones risk undermining trust. Costs remain a major barrier, driven by both adoption and climate change impacts, but panelists agreed that long-term investment is worth it if it strengthens supply chains and supports farmers.

The conversation stressed the importance of incentivization, fair farmer compensation, and recognizing that materials like cotton cannot be taken for granted. To advance, the industry must commit to long-term strategies, leverage financial mechanisms, and emphasize the business case for scaling sustainable practices. Opportunities in regenerative agriculture, circularity, and data-driven business models provide optimism for transformation.

The Fashion Pact

In The Fashion Pact’s “Scaling Climate Action in Fashion with the Future Supplier Initiative (FSI),” brands, suppliers, and partners convened to highlight how this collective financing model is helping suppliers access capital and accelerate decarbonization. Speakers included moderator and reporter Olivia Rockeman, business leader and The Fashion Pact’s co-chair Paul Polman, and The Fashion Pact’s executive director Eva von Alvensleben.

“Profit without sustainability will not give you a long lasting company,” stated Polman. He called for collective courage, highlighting the industry’s need to cooperate, adding: “The future of humanity is also the future of your industries.”

Tanul Chakraborty at Hameem Group and Mohammed Zahidullah at DBL Group joined to provide the manufacturer perspective in a hybrid session that also included Gap’s vice president of global sustainability Dan Fibiger, H&M Group’s head of green investment Ulrika Leverenz, along with Hemang Nerlekar, associate director at Guidehouse which is the facilitator of the FSI. Overall takeaways included the importance of pooling resources and de-risking investment, direct supplier engagement, and engagement at the CEO and CFO level to accelerate impact at scale. To date, 45 suppliers have been engaged in the FSI which also includes manufacturers from Aii’s Climate Leadership Programme.

Worldly

In the sessions “Put Your Supply Chain Data to Work” and “Getting Scope 3 Data That Is Fast, Reliable, and Flexible,” speakers Adele Stafford, chief growth officer; Stefanie Kato, associate director of accounts; Michael Krakower, senior director of accounts; and Paula Bernstein, associate director of sustainability science, reflected on how supplier engagement, primary data, and actionable intelligence help brands, retailers, and manufacturers innovate, future-proof their operations, and move the industry forward together.

When equipped with trusted data and insights, businesses can understand supply chain risk, strengthen collaboration, and deliver product-level transparency. From carbon intensity and production volumes to climate scenario analysis and policy forecasts, Worldly’s supply chain data enables companies to pinpoint where investments can drive the greatest impact so they can build resilience while meeting regulatory requirements and improve social and environmental impact globally. Worldly’s recently launched solution Worldly Axion helps companies look forward to future-proof their operations. It brings together dozens of risk datasets—including heat, water, climate, and transition risks — to give companies a clear view of where their operations and suppliers are most exposed. Its built-in AI system helps teams interpret the data, from planning GHG reductions to guiding decisions like coal phase-out strategies for factories, electricity pricing, and next steps.

In both sessions, Worldly speakers expressed gratitude in joining collaborators and customers at the Climate and Nature Studio.

ZDHC Foundation

ZDHC Foundation hosted two sessions on how safer chemistry de-risks supply chains, safeguards natural capital, and creates durable financial value. For its “From Chemistry to Natural Capital: Launching the ZDHC-Quantis Study, Results, and Real-World Impact,” ZDHC partnered with Quantis to launch the Natural Capital Impact study. In a presentation, Quantis’ Phillipp Meister shared data-driven findings on how safer chemistry and ZDHC’s Roadmap to Zero MRSL approach directly reduces negative impacts on human and environmental health and well-being, mitigates risk and equips organizations with practical tools for ESG integration. He underscored real-life brand case studies. Facilitated by ZDHC’s Lauren Zahringer, a leadership dialogue explored the significance and real-life application of the results and research findings. This candid conversation included Alante Capital’s Leslie Harwell, investor David Bennell, ZDHC’s CEO Frank Michel and chief impact officer Scott Echols, offering diverse perspectives from the industry, private equity and innovation to public markets finance industry at large.

The following day, ZDHC’s session ”ROI: Financial Strategies and Market Value from Safer Chemistry” shifted focus toward tangible business and shareholder value. The session drew investors, sustainability strategists, ESG rating agencies, and supply chain experts for a personable roundtable style session exploring the returns of investing resources in safer-chemistry, sustainable chemical management and the connection to risk and natural capital.

The session featured insights and research findings from ZDHC’s Lauren Zahringer, Quantis’ Natalie Benz, and an investor-led dialogue with Diederik Wokke of the Wire Group and David Bennell, an investor and leading expert in the emerging field of natural capital investing. The session drew on cross-sector experience and offered participants clear examples of how integrated chemical management supports mitigating risk, enhances due diligence, and creates long-term value.

Momentum Across All Programming

Across all sessions, a unifying theme emerged: collective action is not optional – but essential. Too, networking moments – including a jointly sponsored drinks reception by the Apparel Alliance and catered lunches both days by all organizers – captured the spirit of unity. During these networking moments, attendees found a space to carry on dialogues and make additional connections. Brand partners, where noted, also contributed immensely to the festivities.

Across the two days of programming, attendees, speakers, and organizers stressed the value in the Climate and Nature Studio as a dedicated convening hub for celebrating and building actionable momentum at Climate Week NYC.

Photography Credit: Barbara Gabrielle 

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As Disasters Rise, T-Mobile Debuts New First Responder Tech

Originally published on GovTech.com

By Nikki Davidson

In 2024, the U.S. saw 27 weather and climate disasters that caused at least $1 billion in damage. The total number of destructive disasters was just one shy of 2023’s record, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Whether the destruction comes from fire, tornado, flood or hurricane, they all have one thing in common: They stress infrastructure that provides digital connectivity. T-Mobile has launched several new tools aimed at helping first responders and governments improve their responses with tech.

While T-Mobile deploys to areas hit by disaster with community support teams that stand up Wi-Fi and device-charging trucks, the team has also launched tools like a dynamic 5G slice just for first responders, an expansive drone fleet and direct-to-cell satellite texting capabilities.

“I haven’t seen more advancements in technology like I’ve seen just even in the last year that are really changing the way we show up,” said Nicole Hudnet, the national adviser and ESF 2 lead for T-Mobile Emergency Response, in an interview with Government Technology.

NEW NETWORK SLICE PRIORITIZES FIRST RESPONDERS
T-Mobile has released what it describes as “the nation’s first 5G slice that prioritizes public safety.” It’s called T-Priority, a 5G network slice dedicated to first responders.

“It is a dynamic slice on the network,” said Hudnet, explaining that in times of congestion the network is expanded to allow first responders to stay connected while remaining network capacity for other customers scales down, giving first responders priority. “It can expand across that network, giving responders reliable data connectivity, low latency and faster speeds for that data communication that they need.”

In the video above, Hudnet shared how T-Priority was used to keep fire crews connected during the Palisades and Eaton wildfires in early 2025.

Hudnet noted that when working with the Los Angeles Fire Department, T-Mobile activated more than 350 devices with T-Priority, enabling first responders and command posts access to tools like AI-enabled mapping software and to livestream the view from drone technology.

DIRECT-TO-CELL SATELLITE TEXTING ENABLES EMERGENCY ALERTS
T-Mobile has also launched T-Satellite, a cellular service that provides connectivity for smartphones with direct-to-cell satellite texting capabilities in areas without traditional cell tower service.

The service was first activated directly in response to a crisis, when the FCC granted T-Mobile and Starlink a Special Temporary Authority to use SpaceX’s direct-to-cellular satellite technology to provide emergency texting and alerts in some areas impacted by Hurricane Helene’s destruction.

In the video above, Hudnet explained the impact the early launch had during the disaster.

“This was in the very early phases, we had no guarantee of the service. But, we said, ‘If we can get one message out, one is better than none,’ and we did see over a million people connected,” Hudnet said.

Since that first use case, T-Satellite has been used in more recent disasters, like the flooding in Central Texas in July.

“T-Satellite is really that flashlight in the dark,” said Hudnet, adding that T-Satellite connected as many as 93,000 people during the event.

A NEW FOCUS ON DRONE TECHNOLOGY
The flooding in Texas also prompted T-Mobile to increase its drone fleet by 50 percent to reach places more quickly when disasters occur.

The company is investing in heavy-lift drones that can travel for miles and carry up to 100 pounds to deliver supplies and drop in portable connectivity gear. They’ve also added specialty drones to their fleet, equipped with thermal and high-resolution cameras with lidar to locate people, map damage, guide crews and provide scene lighting.

Meanwhile, tethered drones can stay in the air up to 400 feet high, creating a temporary cell-coverage bubble about two miles wide.

According to Hudnet, the company’s drone team embedded with Texas Parks and Wildlife to assist with air operations, supporting search and recovery efforts and providing mapping assistance and airspace monitoring.

“It really improves that emergency response, whether it is providing surveillance over a community, being able to transmit that live feedback from a scene so that responders, when they can’t physically get to an area, they can send a drone into the area and be able to stream that back,” she said.

AN EMERGING FOCUS ON MANAGING CYBER INCIDENTS
T-Mobile frequently partners with agencies during their most challenging moments, but much of the work happens on “blue-sky days,” when the company plans and coordinates with state, local and federal partners. Hudnet asserted that the theme for disaster response in 2025 is the power of having a PACE (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) communications plan in place.

“These relationships, especially at the state and local level, are so important to working with other stakeholders, whether that’s utilities and power helping us coordinate together to restore these communities together. They’re also helping us mitigate access issues, roadblocks, getting escorts into areas and getting us into areas where there are access concerns so we can restore quickly for those communities,” said Hudnet. “These relationships are absolutely paramount and pivotal to response in a community.”

Those relationships also come into play during critical cybersecurity incidents. T-Mobile has supported several agencies in the wake of major cyber attacks, when they’re often asked to ship in hot spots and routers, like when St. Paul, Minn., declared a state of emergency for a cyber attack this summer.

“While we did get them there quickly, that response is not immediate versus having that equipment onsite,” she said.

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Dozens of Animal Crates Delivered Sunday for ASPCA by FedEx Ahead of Hurricane Imelda

It was late Thursday afternoon when FedEx received an urgent email from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) as Hurricane Imelda threatened to make landfall on the Carolina coast.

The organization requested support to get a two-pallet, 425-pound shipment of 76 animal crates from its warehouse in Missouri to a disaster response staging area in South Carolina.

In less than 15 minutes, FedEx operations responded. The shipment was scheduled and then picked up Friday. It was delivered Sunday, right on time.

The crates were needed before Imelda to accelerate safe evacuation and sheltering of unowned shelter animals in harm’s way. By staging crates ahead of an expected storm, the ASPCA can rapidly move and house unowned companion animals and livestock from affected communities, helping to prevent overcrowded shelters, and ensure humane handling during transport and intake. Having the crates ready in advance also reduces critical delays once responders reach disaster zones, allowing them to quickly set up temporary holding areas and begin providing care as soon as conditions allow.

The ASPCA’s disaster response efforts are a testament to the organization’s commitment to animal welfare during emergencies. The ASPCA provides critical support in disaster zones across the country, including animal search and rescue, supply distribution, emergency operation management, and more. In addition to hurricanes, the ASPCA also responds to wildfires, tornadoes, and other natural and human-made disasters, ensuring that both shelter and owned animals receive the care and support they need when they are at their most vulnerable.

FedEx has provided financial and in-kind shipping services to the ASPCA for more than 10 years. 

Click here to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

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3 Inspiring Ways Action Against Hunger Is Building Sustainable Food Systems

Published by Action Against Hunger.

Contact media@actionagainsthunger.org for inquiries.

The Transformative Power of Sustainable Food Systems 

Action Against Hunger is striving to create a world free from hunger for everyone, for good. Achieving this vision requires strong food systems that ensure access to nutritious food for all. Yet in today’s world, the goal can feel out of reach. Climate change is accelerating, inequity abounds, and poverty persists. Challenges like these have left 673 million people without reliable access to the food they need.

But what if we found a way to make food systems that are not only prepared to withstand hunger-causing challenges, but to help prevent them? Action Against Hunger is doing exactly that. Our approach to building food systems focuses on nourishing people, sustaining the planet, and creating fair opportunities for farmers, all of which promote food security for present and future generations. Around the world, our teams are working closely with local communities to create food systems that tackle hunger at the root so we can create a future where no one goes hungry.

Here are three case studies of Action Against Hunger’s work in building sustainable food systems.

3 Cases of Sustainable Food System-Building 

1. Western Province, Zambia

Zambia is struggling to boost food security in the face of a changing El Niño weather pattern. As climate change worsens, the crop-destroying dry season becomes longer and is followed by excessive flooding that depletes soil nutrients. In 2024, Zambia experienced its worst drought in over 40 years, a national emergency that impacted over nine million people – 2.04 million of whom were already severely food insecure.

Action Against Hunger is bolstering the climate resilience of Zambia’s food system with the power of one simple crop – the cowpea. The protein-packed legume is drought-resistant and able with withstand Zambia’s low-fertility soil. It even enriches the soil with nitrogen, combatting the damaging effects of climate change and helping other crops flourish. So far, Action Against Hunger has provided training to 1,545 smallholder farmers who are successfully harvesting cowpeas – about 108.85 Metric tons-worth in 2025 alone.

The project is still in its infancy, but benefits are already tangible: farmers’ crop yields have been boosted, the local community’s diet diversity and protein intake has improved, and soil health is restoring. Additionally, farmers are using other parts of the cowpea plant as fodder [animal feed], decreasing waste and maintenance costs. With crop yields and incomes rising, farmers in Zambia are paving the way for a more resilient food system that can withstand the trials of droughts and floods.

2. Malkadaka, Kenya

In Malkadaka Village, women faced major barriers to income. Gender norms excluded them from financial decision-making, while climate shocks devastated their community’s traditional pastoralist livelihood and left families without food or income. Determined to change this, a group of women turned to farming.

With Action Against Hunger’s support, they learned agroecological and climate-smart techniques such as water harvesting, soil conservation, and intercropping, which helped them build a thriving, sustainable garden. Families could finally access diverse, nutritious foods. Additionally, farmers were linked to markets where they could sell surplus harvests and generate income. Savings enabled the women to make purchases for basic needs and investments in small businesses and farm improvements, and a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) was established to improve financial resilience. For women like Shinda Yussuf, who had never had her own money before, the garden and VSLA supplied her with unprecedented security and independence.

By combining climate-smart farming with financial empowerment, women in Malkadaka are transforming their community’s food system. Their leadership is building resilience to climate change, nourishing their families, and creating equitable opportunities for future generations.

3. Satkhira, Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s coastal regions are under siege by climate change. Cyclones are striking with greater frequency and force, salinizing soil and water, destroying crops, and pushing families into hunger. In Satkhira, where most people depend on farming, repeated disasters have left land barren, and fear of the next disaster is ever-present.

Action Against Hunger is implementing an innovative way to strengthen Satkhira’s food system. Using artificial intelligence, our team monitors key indicators to predict cyclones and tidal surges. Communities receive warnings and enact Early Action Plans, so families are able to harvest and store crops, secure assets, and evacuate safely before disaster strikes.

When families return to their land, they have support in rebuilding their farms. Farmers are trained in agroecological techniques like raised garden beds, which lift crops above saline soils, and mulching, which improves water retention and replenishes nutrients. Women, who often bear the brunt of food insecurity, are also engaged in alternative livelihoods such as aquaculture, giving households more diversified and resilient incomes.

Harnessing the power of predictive technology and resilient farming practices, Satkhira demonstrates how sustainable food systems are able to withstand even the harshest climate shocks. Instead of each cyclone setting communities back further, they are able to prepare for and overcome the damage together.

Achieving a Hunger-Free Future Through Sustainable Food Systems 

Ending hunger is not just an aspiration: it is achievable. The incredibly resilient communities in Zambia, Keyna, and Bangladesh show that, even in dire circumstances, sustainable food systems can still be built. Through innovative thinking and collective effort, we can create food systems that nourish everyone today, while contributing to a better tomorrow.

***

Action Against Hunger leads the global movement to end hunger. We innovate solutions, advocate for change, and reach 26.5 million people every year with proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. As a nonprofit that works across over 55 countries, our 8,500+ dedicated staff members partner with communities to address the root causes of hunger, including climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. We strive to create a world free from hunger, for everyone, for good.

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From Devastation to Opportunity: How One Company Sparked Transformation in New Orleans

Originally published by U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
By Patty Riddlebarger, Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility, Entergy Corporation

Aug. 29, 2005, will forever be remembered as the day that changed the history of New Orleans, one of America’s most iconic cities. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, one of the costliest natural disasters to hit the United States, an economic line of demarcation laid bare the difference between hope and hopelessness and, in some cases, life and death.

Much of the suffering and devastation associated with Hurricane Katrina can be traced directly to the extreme poverty that far too many New Orleans residents struggle with daily.

As the only Fortune 500 company headquartered in the city during the disaster, our shareholders recognized our unique responsibility to act thoughtfully and decisively. Wayne Leonard, then-chairman and CEO of Entergy, emphasized this urgency by expressing, “If we rally for stronger levees, better flood protection, and marsh restoration, but don’t address the underlying causes of poverty that pervade our region, that would be the greatest tragedy of all.”

So, as the rebuilding began, our approach was focused on eliminating or reducing socio-economic inequities and improving the quality of life for our most vulnerable citizens.

Katrina was a once-in-a-lifetime moment to work with our community partners and create a New Orleans where neighborhoods are safe, businesses thrive, schools excel, and families achieve the dream of homeownership, all while fostering a culture of respect for the environment and celebration of diversity and inclusion. To that end, Entergy shareholders have invested some $95 million in philanthropic funds and more than $1.6 million in volunteer hours not just to rebuild, but to create a stronger, more resilient, and vibrant community that offers opportunity for all of its residents.

Affordable housing 

One of the most immediate needs post-Katrina was building or rebuilding affordable housing to enable families to return home. Entergy, with organizations like Volunteers of America, SBP USA, and Habitat for Humanity, partnered together to help build or rebuild 1,300 single or multi-family homes. We focused on supporting innovative partnerships that leveraged federal and other funding sources. Entergy provided critical seed funding to Volunteers of America that enabled it to hire a team with the financial expertise to utilize $80 million in new market tax credits and activate large-scale, multi-family housing initiatives.

Placing families on the path to economic stability 

An enduring lesson from Katrina was that when disaster strikes, the most vulnerable communities suffer most. To lessen the impact of future disasters, we took proactive steps to fortify low-income families for economic stability by implementing programs that not only increase household income but also facilitate savings, reduce debt, enhance credit ratings, and promote generational wealth through homeownership. In partnership with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, Entergy launched the Individual Development Accounts (IDA) Project to help low-income individuals and families save money and build a strong financial foundation to recover and thrive.

Since 2006, the IDA Project has resulted in $58 million in asset purchases, transforming lives across Southeast Louisiana. More than 430 individuals, primarily single mothers, have become first-time homeowners.

Transforming public education 

Before Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans public schools ranked as the second-lowest performing school districts in Louisiana, with 83% of students in failing schools. Since 2005, our shareholders have invested $30 million in education in Orleans Parish. Today, there are zero failing schools across the parish. Although much work remains to be done, New Orleans students are better prepared for lifelong success today compared to pre-Katrina. Our strategic investments are targeted to organizations that deliver a data-driven approach to metrics that matter—attendance, behavior, growth in academics, and trauma-informed wrap-around services and supports. Our strategic partners have included New Schools for New Orleans, Teach for America, KIPP New Orleans, The Posse Foundation, College Beyond, College Track, First Line Schools, and Start the Adventures in Reading.

Providing high-quality childcare for low-income families 

Katrina destroyed 75% of childcare centers in Orleans Parish. With post-storm waiting lists of 16-to-1, the lack of childcare was a major obstacle in the city’s recovery. Entergy and our partners focused attention and resources on the issue through advocacy to draw down state and federal funding resources. Working with organizations like the Ready Louisiana Coalition, Success by Six, the Campaign for Grade Level Reading, and the Louisiana Public Policy Institute, these advocacy efforts culminated in the creation of $42 million in annual funding from municipal and state resources to provide early care and education for low-income families in Orleans Parish. 

Greening New Orleans by creating 130+ miles of bike lanes and walkways 

Before Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans had fewer than 11 miles of bike lanes. Although the city was awarded millions of dollars to resurface damaged roads through the federal Submerged Roads Program, the funding was restricted to capital uses only. Through a unique public-private partnership between the City of New Orleans and the Louisiana Public Health Institute, a grant from the Entergy Charitable Foundation underwrote five years of salary expenses for the transportation engineer who designed and oversaw the creation of more than 130 miles of bike lanes and pedestrian pathways.

Restoring our urban forest 

The flood waters that covered 80% of Orleans Parish wreaked havoc with the city’s urban forest, destroying some 200,000 trees and resulting in New Orleans’ designation as the most de-forested urban center in the nation. Since Hurricane Katrina, Entergy has partnered with Nola Tree Project, Sustaining Our Urban Landscape (S.O.U.L.), Sankofa, Lafitte Greenway, and other nonprofits to restore many of the trees that were lost during the storm.

Investing in our future workforce through workforce development 

The presence of a skilled and ready workforce ranks among the most important factors for site selection when companies are seeking to expand or relocate. To that end, Entergy has partnered with the state, colleges and universities, and nonprofit partners to develop programs that create pathways to employment in high-demand, living-wage jobs. As the first corporate partner for STEM NOLA, we are fueling the imagination and dreams of 30,000 students in Louisiana each year by providing hands-on STEM learning opportunities.

Looking ahead 

As we reflect on 20 years since Hurricane Katrina made landfall, we recognize the significant strides that have been made and understand that our work is far from complete. This blog honors our employees and community partners whose dedication and efforts have forged a path toward a brighter future for New Orleans.

Together, we continue to power life in the communities we’re privileged to serve, working tirelessly to achieve unprecedented progress that deserves celebration and recognition.

Continue reading here.

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Thriving through Learning: Meet Danielle Bouchard

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

Tell us about your career journey and what led you to join the Learning and Development team at GoDaddy.

I started my journey at GoDaddy as a Guide, helping customers and building connections every day. From there, I moved into a Supervisor role, where I got the chance to coach and support Agents more directly. But deep down, I always knew my heart was set on the Learning and Development team. That passion for education actually started before GoDaddy—back in my Sephora days as an Educational Lead. I fell in love with the way learning could transform not just results, but people’s confidence and growth and I knew GoDaddy had a real strength in this through L&D. Since then, my journey has been about combining my love for people, coaching, and creating meaningful learning experiences—and I’m grateful to be part of a team that helps employees grow and thrive.

What have you learned about yourself through the projects you’ve worked on?

Through the projects I’ve worked on, I’ve learned a lot about myself. I’ve found that I thrive in that sweet spot where creativity meets structure—whether I’m welcoming new hires into our values, giving feedback to make learning content shine, or coaching on sales skills. I also discovered (thanks to StrengthsFinder here at GoDaddy!) that my natural “Woo” energy is one of my biggest strengths—it helps me connect with people, spark excitement, and make learning fun and approachable. And honestly, I’ve learned that the magic happens when I step outside my comfort zone—that’s where I grow the most, and where I get to support and inspire others to do the same.

How does GoDaddy’s culture support employee learning and growth?

One of the things I love most about GoDaddy is how much the culture embraces learning as part of everyday life. It’s never just about checking boxes or following a rigid path—it’s about curiosity, exploration, and growth. With the vast array of resources available through L&D and GoLearn—which boasts an impressive 60,000 courses—it’s truly difficult not to foster your own growth and development!

I’ve always felt encouraged to try new ideas, bring creativity into my work, and lean into opportunities that stretch me.

That kind of support makes it possible to grow not only as an employee, but as a person—and that’s what makes learning here feel exciting and meaningful.

Do you have any advice for someone who is interested in a career at GoDaddy?

If you’re thinking about a career at GoDaddy, my advice is simple: be curious, take chances, and show up as your true self. This is a place that celebrates individuality, so lean into your unique strengths and see where they take you. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, try new things, and build connections—those relationships and experiences are often the stepping stones to growth, fun, and success!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I truly treasure spending time with my family. My happiest moments come from making memories together and enjoying the little adventures of everyday life with my husband, our 3½-year-old daughter, and our two dogs. Since moving from the United States to Britain seven years ago, travel has become a big passion of mine. I love exploring new countries and places. I’m known among my friends for my love of cheese, and I also have a love for all things beauty (skincare, haircare, makeup) and being creative. I enjoy cross-stitching, playing video games, and finding fun ways to express myself.

Are you enjoying this series and want to know more about life at GoDaddy? Check out our GoDaddy Life social pages! Follow us to meet our team, learn more about our culture (Teams, ERGs, Locations), careers, and so much more. You’re more than just your day job, so come propel your career with us.

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Lenovo Receives AA+ Rating From Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index

October 3, 2025 /3BL/ – Lenovo today announced its AA+ rating on the 2025 Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index, the index’s second-highest rating. Within its industry, Lenovo achieved the highest score in the environmental and social areas. This index is based on a robust process that includes consideration of the results from a sustainability assessment undertaken by Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA), an independent and professional assessment body, using its proprietary sustainability assessment and rating framework. 

Companies are evaluated on seven subjects under the categories of Environmental, Social, and Governance: Corporate Governance, Human Rights, Labor Practices, The Environment, Fair Operating Practices, Consumer Issues, and Community Involvement and Development. The methodology behind the sustainability assessment is reviewed annually to incorporate developments within the evolving ESG landscape, with reference to both international and local protocols. The assessment framework is designed to capture both general and industry-specific criteria across the three E, S and G core aspects; each rated equally as a base, with additional industry-specific materiality factors applied.  

Continued inclusion in the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index demonstrates Lenovo’s long-term commitment to driving a smarter, more sustainable future for all. Lenovo is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 with targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative and is innovating to provide more energy-efficient products and solutions to its customers. Lenovo is also focused on contributing to the circular economy by integrating recycled materials into its products [1] and increasing the ease of repairability [2].

In social achievements, Lenovo fosters a culture of inclusion and mutual respect in its global workforce and extends these values to communities around the world. It has been recognized by the Human Rights Campaign, Workplace Pride, and Disability:IN for its inclusive workplace practices. Since 2020, Lenovo has invested nearly US $100 million towards providing access to technology and STEM education for those who need it most.

In addition to recognition from the Hang Seng Sustainability Index, Lenovo has recently received Platinum Recognition from EcoVadis, an AAA rating from MSCI ESG Ratings, and the Gold Award from the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) for Best Corporate Governance and ESG. Additionally, Lenovo was recently ranked #8 in Gartner’s Top 25 Global Supply Chain, with an ESG Score of 9/10 and retained the top spot in Gartner Asia/Pacific Supply Chain Top 10 for fourth year. These achievements underscore Lenovo’s commitment to transparent, credible progress across environmental, social and governance programs.

Learn more about Lenovo’s ESG performance on  Lenovo StoryHub and in Lenovo’s FY 2024/25 ESG Report.  

[1] In 2024, Lenovo’s use of plastics containing recycled content was approximately 12 million kilograms (gross) with a net CL PCC of approximately 6.2 million kilograms.

[2] Lenovo provides users of many of its laptop and desktop products with the resources necessary to repair their own devices, as well as offering repair support and service options for many systems

About Lenovo

Lenovo is a US$69 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #196 in the Fortune Global 500, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s largest PC company with a full-stack portfolio of AI-enabled, AI-ready, and AI-optimized devices (PCs, workstations, smartphones, tablets), infrastructure (server, storage, edge, high performance computing and software defined infrastructure), software, solutions, and services. Lenovo’s continued investment in world-changing innovation is building a more equitable, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY). To find out more visit https://www.lenovo.com, and read about the latest news via our StoryHub.

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