Tag: 3BL

Mental health crises are often invisible, but in times of conflict, they’re almost always there. War and violence turn lives upside down, leading to displacement, loss of livelihoods, trauma, and the grief that soon follows.

In America, it can be hard to imagine constant conflict. But around the world, conflict is on the rise. Citizens may be subjected to violence, sexual abuse, and injuries; many have their farms burned and their homes looted, their water systems destroyed, their markets bombed, and their hospitals attacked.

In America, it can be hard to imagine constant conflict. But around the world, conflict is on the rise. Citizens may be subjected to violence, sexual abuse, and injuries; many have their farms burned and their homes looted, their water systems destroyed, their markets bombed, and their hospitals attacked.

Although conflict is obvious to the human eye, the mental health crisis often isn’t — and it’s an emergency that can carry on for decades after the conflict ends. That’s why Action Against Hunger provides support in some of the world’s most dangerous environments, ensuring that future generations feel safe, supported, and healed from past trauma. Our psychosocial interventions offer a holistic approach during humanitarian crises to address both psychological and social needs, at both the individual and community levels. In crisis situations, psychosocial impacts can include social breakdown, an increase in gender-based violence, psychological distress, mental health issues, and individual difficulties conducting daily activities.

A vicious cycle

Conflict is the primary driver of hunger. When people can’t access enough food, they often become depressed, tired, or anxious. Food insecurity also impacts physical well-being and can cause psychological or developmental challenges. When their mental health is impacted, individuals often don’t have the energy or resources to feed themselves or their families. It can become harder for people to earn money, engage in social activities, or maintain a job.

The vicious cycle is only exacerbated when their communities are struck with shells and missiles. Those who are forced to leave— like the 120 million people forcibly displaced— end up with nothing and must start their lives over from scratch.

Conflict, hunger, and mental health crises are closely intertwined. Action Against Hunger is working in Gaza, Sudan, Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond to help people survive and rebuild their lives.

Here are some ways our teams confront mental health crises:

Distress in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Elisabetta Dozio supervises mental health and psychosocial support for our programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She frequently visits North Kivu and sees the crisis firsthand.

Here, fighting between armed groups and the Congolese army has already displaced 2.7 million people.

“I am used to going to camps [for internally displaced people], but this experience was very violent,” said Dozio. “I haven’t seen anything like it for a long time. Living conditions are unbearable. People are living in makeshift shelters, many of them in very small spaces.”

Dozio was distressed upon hearing the testimonials of people living there. Some even expressed thoughts of suicide. One person said, “I’m alone, the only solution is to die.”

Another said, “We’d rather go back under the bombs than die of cholera or hunger.”

Most of the people living there have been victims of traumatic events, said Dozio. The living conditions are poor. “When it rains, the ground gets muddy and the tarpaulins get damaged and torn. Conditions are very unhealthy, with very limited access to drinking water. Food distributions are inadequate, and people are going hungry. The humanitarian response is not meeting needs.”

In 2022, Action Against Hunger started implementing increased mental health support for people in North Kivu. Dozio and psychosocial workers partnered to ensure that the sessions could address the needs of the displaced people.

It can be difficult to confront and treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) while the crisis is ongoing, both in the camp on its outskirts. Action Against Hunger’s intervention, called Emotional Stabilization Protocol, provides tools for managing anxiety, intrusive thoughts and nightmares. It helps people in distress to regain a sense of security and emotional stability that can encourage them to focus on what they can control.

“It is normal to have nightmares, but these men and women need to be given the opportunity to take control of what is happening to them,” said Dozio. In the flood of emotions, sometimes a positive thought comes to mind. “Some see their village in their thoughts, and they see it rebuilt. For a moment they are soothed, and they don’t want to go back to reality.”

During these sessions, children are divided into age groups and take part in breathing and relaxation exercises. Dozio is especially worried about them.

“What will become of these children?” she asked. “How can we hope to limit the circle of repetition of violence when we live like this?”

Children are included in the Emotional Stabilization Protocol from an early age: some babies are just a few months old. Particular attention is also paid to pregnant and breast-feeding women, to limit the transmission of stress from mother to child.

Trauma in Eastern Ukraine

The war in Ukraine has left 14.6 million people in need — but it’s children who pay the highest price. Since the start of the invasion in February 2022, more than half of all Ukrainian children have been displaced and 2,200 have been killed or wounded. The upsurge in hostilities, particularly in East Ukraine, is endangering both the lives and mental health of children.

On July 8, 2024, Russian missiles struck a children’s hospital in Kyiv. The attack left dozens dead and wounded, including several children. This is only one example of the violence that children have faced since the war began.

Displacement, a precarious economic situation, incessant bombardments, the loss of loved ones, and the disruption of education and health systems have had devastating effects on the cognitive development and mental health of Ukrainian children. According to a UNICEF survey, half of young people aged 13 to 15 suffer from sleep disorders, and three-quarters of children and young people aged 14 to 34 said they needed emotional or psychological support.

“Every airborne alarm exacerbates children’s anxiety and loss of learning,” said Yuliia Dikalova, Deputy Manager of Action Against Hunger’s mental health and psychosocial support programs in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city. Many people have been displaced to Kharkiv, but even here, strikes on densely populated areas are increasing. Since May, Action Against Hunger has increased its response and reached over 1,500 children with programs aimed at psychosocial and psychological support.

Yuliia fears for the future of Ukrainian children: “40% of Ukrainian children no longer have access to formal education due to the security situation or the destruction of educational infrastructure. Online education is regularly disrupted by power cuts caused by bombardments. The traumas caused by the war will have far-reaching, long-term repercussions.”

Seated between teddy bears and heart-shaped pink balloons, a dozen children and teenagers attend weekly psychological and psychosocial support sessions led by Marina Nechaieva, a psychologist with Action Against Hunger in the Kharkiv region. In the last few months, Marina has worked to help children feel stabilized and safe amidst their distressing environments.

“These children often come from the Donbass region or from areas close to the front line. This means they left under bombardment, having been injured or having lost a loved one,” said Marina. “Many show signs of anxiety and depression. Each session incorporates drawings or games and techniques to soothe them. I strive to create a relationship of trust with the children and invite them to reflect on their lives before, their fears, the changes they have faced, but also to project themselves into the future.”

Sixteen-year-old Anastasia took part in Action Against Hunger’s psychological and psychosocial support sessions at a children’s rehabilitation center in Kharkiv. She’s originally from Luhansk but was forced to leave due to the conflict. She left in the hopes of finding safety, but she was instead met with an uncertain future.

Anastasia arrived in Kharkiv during the first months of the full-scale invasion. Despite the crisis conditions, she feels supported by Action Against Hunger’s psychosocial support groups.

“I found the sessions very helpful,” she said. “I had some difficulties when I was a bit upset and didn’t want to answer, but after the discussion, I felt better and it was easier to share how I felt. My self-esteem also improved.”

Today, Anastasia is more interested in actively sharing her experiences and opinions. Even amid the ongoing war, Anastasia finds herself dreaming of her future. “I want to graduate from university and become a student at the police academy,” she said.

The longer the conflict goes on, the greater the burden on Ukrainian children. There’s no end in sight. Humanitarian aid — and ample funding — is essential to support children like Anastasia in the days to follow.

Action Against Hunger in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine

Action Against Hunger is committed to providing lifesaving assistance in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), including nutrition and medical care, water, hygiene, sanitation and psychosocial support. We have worked in DRC since 1997 and has programs across North Kivu and displacement sites in Goma.

In Ukraine, Action Against Hunger works with the most vulnerable people both directly and through Ukrainian partners. From the start of our intervention in March 2022 to February 2024, we have helped nearly 960,000 individuals through programs aimed at improving mental health support, food security, hygiene, nutrition and more.

For more about our work on mental health programs, click here. 

About Action Against Hunger

Action Against Hunger leads the global movement to end hunger. We innovate solutions, advocate for change, and reach 21 million people every year with proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. As a nonprofit that works across 59 countries, our 8,900 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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Written by Ana-lina Thoueille, Kenneal Patterson and Inès Olhagaray 

NEW ORLEANS, September 19, 2024 /3BL/ – With soaring high temperatures this summer, Entergy donated $3 million to help its low-income customers become more energy efficient and save money on their energy bills. Through Entergy’s “Beat the Heat” program, customers received bill payment assistance, fans, energy efficiency kits, home weatherization and invaluable support from local community partners. The company also launched Single Stop, a free program that helps households in need access financial assistance and more.

“We are deeply committed to empowering our customers, especially during challenging times like the summer heat,” said Patty Riddlebarger, Entergy’s vice president of corporate social responsibility. “Through our ‘Beat the Heat’ program and our partnerships with local organizations, we’re helping our neighbors stay safe, cool and reduce their energy expenses. We’re proud to provide ongoing support to those who need it most in the communities we serve.”

For 23 years, Entergy has partnered with local organizations across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas to ease the burden of hot summer temperatures resulting in increased usage and higher energy costs for our most vulnerable customers. Year after year, this collaborative program provides customers with energy bill assistance, tools and resources, and support during the critical summer months. Through this program the company:

Donated more than $2.8 million in funds from Entergy shareholders, employees and customers to The Power to Care program, which provides energy bill assistance to older adults and customers with disabilities. 
 Provided 3 million customers with free access to Single Stop, an online resource that connects households in need with financial assistance and more. More than 8,000 Entergy customers completed the Single Stop screening, which identified more than $61 million in potential financial aid and other resources. 
 Awarded more than $83,250 in grants to vulnerable customers to provide free resources like electric fans and home weatherization kits. 
 Donated $25,000 to local organizations that weatherized homes for customers in need. 
 Held Entergy Navigators fairs in underserved communities, providing customers with assistance and resources to help manage their bills, energy efficiency kits, pro bono legal aid, Kids to College savings accounts and more. 
 Provided more than 3,900 free electric fans to help customers beat high temperatures and save on electricity bills throughout the summer. 
 Distributed over 900 energy efficiency kits to customers. The kits included money-saving LED lightbulbs, advanced power strips, bathroom faucet aerators and V-seal weather-stripping. 
 Over 200 low-income homes were weatherproofed during neighborhood sweeps that were held in select, underserved communities.

Savings programs and bill help

Entergy offers several energy efficiency and bill help programs, including:

Our newly launched Bill Toolkit website connects customers to bill management, energy efficiency and financial assistance resources. This new resource helps customers explore simple ways they can lower their electricity use and costs. 
 The Power to Care program provides emergency bill payment help to older adults and customers with disabilities. 
 Our partnership with Single Stop helps build pathways out of poverty by connecting our customers to available resources in a one-stop site. Single Stop makes it easy for customers to check if they qualify for financial assistance and connects them with opportunities for education, counseling, training and support. 
 myAdvisor lets customers track their energy usage and alerts them on how much power they use each day. 
 Level Billing allows customers to “level out” spikes in seasonal energy use, making their energy bills more consistent every month. 
 Payment arrangements for customers needing flexibility with paying their energy bill.

Entergy is dedicated to ensuring all customers have access to the resources and support they need to stay safe and comfortable year-round. To learn more about our customer assistance programs, visit billtoolkit.entergy.com.

About Entergy

Entergy (NYSE: ETR) is a Fortune 500 company that powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and connect with @Entergy on social media. #WePowerLife

Starting every May, people who work at Viatris’ facility in Komárom, Hungary, are serenaded by a chorus of chirping sounds from above while walking from the car park to the building. These familiar sounds signal the annual return of the site’s winged residents, the birds.

Home to a vibrant and diverse birdlife, the Komárom site is near the Danube River and encompasses an undisturbed area of about 4 hectares (about 9.8 acres). The sandy grassland is interspersed with clumps of trees and intermittent waterlogged areas, making the land a paradise for many species of birds and insects.

In addition to packaging operations, Viatris’ Komárom site is also home to the European Center of Excellence, the company’s largest Quality organization in the region. The location has a long history of commitment to advancing sustainability.

This year, the site’s lush space gained new enhancements when Viatris partnered with the Hungarian Ornithological Society to join its Bird-Friendly Workplace Program. The idea was first suggested by Róbert Klinga, a Quality Control Support Manager at the site, who has been a bird lover since childhood. Growing up on the edge of a forest, watching and later photographing birds became one of his favorite pastimes. His hope is that the initiative will make a positive impact on many colleagues’ interest in nature conservation.

“We are working in an industrial environment where it is particularly important to manage well the natural assets that surround us. At Viatris in Komárom, we do our part to contribute to Viatris’ deep commitment to sustainability and reducing our environmental impact,” Róbert said. (Click here to see video of the site.)

The bird-friendly workplace idea was fully supported by both Raymond Keeling, the former site head, and Mihály Régi, the current site manager. During the preparation and planning phases it became clear that the employee population in Komárom includes several bird lovers, amateur ornithologists, bird photographers and keen conservationists.

In February 2024, the Viatris Komárom team, in collaboration with the Hundred Valley Nature Conservation Society – the local branch of the Hungarian Ornithological Society — installed 50 bird houses of various types in the area, helping the species already living there to breed and new species to settle in. About 40 different bird species are expected to find a home in this green oasis.

As part of the program, the bird houses will be regularly monitored by experts, with Viatris colleagues joining in. In addition, a breeding wall was established in the spring which has already been taken over by several pairs of birds.

To raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity in providing a sustainable future, the Komárom site organized a Bird-Friendly Family Day for employees at the end of June. About 80 participants took part in bird ringing, burrow checks and a five-station tour where they could solve activities related to environmental protection and knowledge of plants and animals at each station.

“Every day we see the colorful bird life that surrounds us here,” said Róbert. “Preserving and trying to enhance the biodiversity of our green area is a worthy initiative not only for our site, but for Viatris as a whole.”

For more detail about the company’s efforts to advance responsible practices and operations, read Building Sustainable Access at Scale.Connecting People With Medicines, Around the WorldIn Business, as in Life, Success is Powered by Authenticity

Ted Tanner, Executive Vice President of Real Estate Development, AEG, has recently been named to Sports Business Journal’s (SBJ) Power Players list, recognizing his influence and leadership in shaping the landscape of sports and entertainment venues across the globe.

With over 26 years of experience at AEG, Tanner has played a critical role in the design, development and management of world-class venues such as L.A. LIVE, Dignity Health Sports Park, The O2 London and Uber Platz Berlin. His leadership has significantly contributed to the transformation of cities into world class sports and entertainment destinations.

Tanner’s inclusion in this year’s list highlights his visionary approach, focusing on sustainability, fan experience and community impact. His work not only enhances the venues where the world’s biggest events take place but also drives urban revitalization and economic development in the surrounding areas, creating long-lasting benefits for local communities.

The Power Players List, compiled by Sports Business Journal, honors top executives in the sports industry who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. To learn more about SBJ’s Power Players, please click here.

Our purpose is what unites us at Henkel North America: Pioneers at heart for the good of generations. Our pioneering spirit is reflective of the diverse backgrounds, experiences and talents of our employees and partners. They dare to make an impact on the world by collaborating to tackle challenges, find solutions and open new perspectives.

Their contributions allow us to deliver products, services and innovations that enrich and improve everyday life. We invite you to “meet” our pioneers in our series, “Pioneers for Good.”

Introducing Guillermo

As Senior Communications Manager for Joico – one of Henkel’s professional haircare brands – Guillermo’s impact expands beyond his day-to-day responsibilities of guiding creative strategy for digital marketing and communications.

What Guillermo brings to his work is a deep passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and understanding of the importance of integrating sustainability. He has become a leading voice within Henkel’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), an advocate for embracing sustainable practices, and a mentor for the next generation.

Making a Difference Through Leadership

At Henkel, ERGs help create a culture that values and elevates different perspectives and backgrounds. Guillermo volunteers his time to build a strong network and promote leadership development. He co-founded ¡Unidos!, the Latinx/Hispanic ERG, and is an active member of the PRIDE ERG.

Just being exposed to those conversations and topics on a regular basis helps me keep diversity in my paradigm of thinking, and I’ll bring it back to my work, whether it’s a fully fleshed-out idea or just a kernel.

Guillermo Güereque, Senior Communications Manager, Joico

Guillermo understands how sharing his own experiences can support others. It’s why he represents the company at recruitment events like the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers’ (SHPE) National Convention and the Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA) Conference where he’s connecting with Hispanic STEM students and LGBTQ+ business students, encouraging them in their own professional journeys.

The first time I went to SHPE,” he says, “I was emotionally impacted. I had never seen so many people like me in a room like that. We need to see representation of others like us at all levels.”

Laying the Groundwork for Diverse Representation

Guillermo’s work is an extension of his commitment to DEI and multicultural representation, drawing inspiration from his own diverse background. “I was born in Mexico and raised in Southern California from age four. I think the duality of those cultures has influenced a lot of my decisions.”

Culture and inclusion are at the heart of Guillermo’s work to ensure Joico’s brand content and messaging – as well as the models and artists the brand hires – represent the diversity of the consumers who use their products.

He has engaged Henkel interns in an annual audit process that analyzes the company’s social media presence and seeks ways to constantly optimize content for representation, diversity, and inclusivity. These audits have grown tremendously, from reviews of Joico’s Instagram page to full assessments of the brand’s online presence. It is just one example of Guillermo’s impact – not only for the brand, but also for the interns who learn the value of representation.

Empowering the Next Generation

Guillermo believes in empowering the next generation and has helped bring the Henkel Researchers’ World curriculum to life for students attending events like STEM Day at Henkel.

When you invite students to learn about what we do, you encourage them to ask more and to think, ‘maybe I want to do that.’ That can be very powerful in expanding their possibilities.

Guillermo Güereque, Senior Communications Manager, Joico

Guillermo’s family has been a particular inspiration for him – especially his sister, who opened his eyes to wider possibilities for the future. He has watched her excel in aerospace engineering, a male-dominated field, which helped transform his own perception of being a leader.

“My sister did not have an example in her industry – she was one of only three women in her graduating class, and the only Latina. Had she not gone on to graduate school, would I have seen myself doing the same?” It’s questions like these that have driven Guillermo in his own career and to be a role model to others.

He is an advocate for early-in-career colleagues at Henkel, who he encourages to get involved in ERGs to find community and unique leadership opportunities. “Putting yourself out there can help you build your network, pull you out of your comfort zone, and open doors by introducing you to new tools and experiences that can impact your career in the long term.”

Embodying a Pioneer’s Spirit

Throughout his work, Guillermo has found endless opportunities to be a pioneer for good. He understands the voices we bring to the table and the choices we make contribute to innovating for the future. In addition to being an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, he serves as Regional Sustainability Manager for the professional haircare business and sits on the company’s Evergreen Council – a cross-functional team exploring how Henkel Consumer Brands can track progress and achieve Henkel’s sustainability goals.

“Sustainable business practices have been at the heart of our culture for decades.” he says of Henkel, “We continue to lead in sustainability. Those aren’t just words – they really are the focus of the company, and we all have a part in that.”

When asked what it means to be a Pioneer for Good, Guillermo reflects on the importance of understanding your power and impact as a leader. “We know our decisions don’t only affect the here and now – they will carry into the next generation and beyond.”

Joshua Parish knows the tragedy that can befall Veterans who don’t get the help they need.

His cousin, a Vietnam War Veteran, was never able to adjust to life back home. More than 50 years later, he struggles with alcoholism.

Parish hopes Battle Buddy, a new app launching in September, will connect Michigan Veterans like his cousin with services and benefits, helping guide them to healthy, fulfilling civilian lives.

“Veterans don’t like to ask for help,” the Iraq vet explains. “A large majority of Veterans struggle with a loss of sense of purpose and a loss of sense of identity. But navigating the benefit process is really difficult. We created Battle Buddy to help automate services and bring resources to the Veteran.”

Battle Buddy is an extension of the services provided through VETLIFE, the Michigan-based non-profit Parish and his wife founded in 2018, after he returned from serving in Iraq. From day one, the organization has helped connect Veterans with the support, services and benefits that can help them readjust to civilian life.

The Battle Buddy app is designed as a chatbot that asks the Veteran questions about where they live and where they served and then helps connect them with services and benefits they’re eligible for. It has been specifically designed for Michigan vets, but Parish hopes to expand it across the United States.

Feedback on the beta version is “phenomenal. Veterans don’t like to talk about their feelings to another person, but now, you’re just talking to an automated chat bot,” Parish notes. “Veterans are telling me they feel more at ease, and they’re more open to gaining access to their benefits because they don’t feel judged.”

Enbridge has been a VETLIFE supporter since the organization’s early days. Last year, we awarded the non-profit $12,000 in Fueling Futures grants to help put on Vet Fest, an annual event that attracts 4,000 Veterans and helps celebrate their service and get them connected to support.

This year, we were proud to contribute $27,000 to help develop Battle Buddy and improve life for Veterans in Michigan. We believe taking care of Veterans is essential for a safe and vibrant community.

The app will serve an important secondary function—to collect data on Native American Veterans.

“Ninety per cent of able-bodied Native American males have served in the military,” Parish says.

Statistics on Tribal Veterans in Michigan, though, are wildly inaccurate — potentially as far off as 20,000 people, he adds. Further, the percentage of Native American Veterans who are not accessing their military benefits is higher than any other demographic group.

“What I’m trying to do with this app is gain a better understanding of how many Tribal Veterans are currently living in Michigan or are currently enrolled in a federally recognized Tribe,” explains Parish, who grew up on a reservation in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

The app’s focus on helping Indigenous people aligns with Enbridge’s Indigenous Reconciliation Action Plan and shows a commitment to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and advancing reconciliation.

“Veterans volunteered for a higher calling to serve their country and to preserve our freedom. I believe we owe them personally a debt of gratitude,” Parish says. “If somebody volunteers for a job that less than 1% of the population has volunteered to do, and they honorably served their country, they should be taken care of when they come home.

“By providing access to these benefits, we are improving the quality of life of the Veterans.”

Originally published in International Paper’s 2023 Sustainability Report

Climate change is disrupting society and business today. As we face physical and transition risks now and in the years ahead, identifying these risks and opportunities for our company and the communities where we operate is key. We’re working to better understand these risks and determine the best way to monitor, measure and address them. As one of the first North American pulp and paper companies to have an approved Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) target, we continue to use the SBTi-approved methodology to inform the strategies we need to implement.

Our reporting also follows the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), a framework for companies to analyze and report on climate-related risks, and to inform investors on exposure to financial risks related to climate change. We additionally respond to Climate Disclosure Project’s (CDP) Climate Change, Forest and Water Security questionnaires to transparently disclose our risks and opportunities in those core areas of sustainability.

Our latest TCFD Report maps out our climate-related risks and opportunities as well as the corresponding mitigation and adaptation strategies. As a leading producer of renewable fiber-based products, we see significant opportunities in the growing low-carbon circular economy. However, we are already experiencing weather-related impacts exacerbated by climate change. We believe that we are more likely to experience an increase in acute, rather than chronic, impacts related to extreme weather and water scarcity during this decade. We continue to refine our climate scenario analyses to plan effectively and communicate transparently to our stakeholders.

Learn more in this report’s Sustainable Operations section and our Climate Change Statement.

Read more

About International Paper

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global producer of sustainable packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, and one of the world’s largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what’s next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2023 were $18.9 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com/.

About International Paper – EMEA

In Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), International Paper focuses on the production and marketing of fiber-based packaging and specialty pulp, employing approximately 4,400 people. As a leading supplier of high-quality corrugated containers for a multitude of applications, we serve customers throughout the region from our network of two recycled containerboard mills and 23 box plants in France, Italy, Morocco, Portugal and Spain. Specialty pulp is made in Gdansk, Poland. Other products available from International Paper in the region include a variety of Kraft linerboard and other pulp products.

Originally published in Mary Kay’s 2024 Sustainability Report

FOREST STEWARDSHIP AT MARY KAY

Mary Kay celebrated International Day of Forests by highlighting its certification from the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®). The certification applies to Mary Kay’s Print and Digital Imaging Center in North Texas (FSC® C181627).

Mary Kay has a commitment to support responsible forestry by using certified sustainable paper sources for paper inserts, distribution cases and shipping boxes.30%: Current rate of postconsumer recycled paper content for product paper inserts printed at the Mary Kay Print Center.

DID YOU KNOW? 

The FSC® certification stands for sustainable sourcing that puts forests and people first and ensures products come from responsibly managed forests.

Learn more about the FSC

1.4 MILLION TREES PLANTED GLOBALLY 

Through our partnership with The Arbor Day Foundation, Mary Kay is making a positive environmental impact in ecosystems where we operate around the world using reforestation and urban forestry to solve issues of climate change, community, and biodiversity. The Arbor Day Foundation is the world’s largest member nonprofit dedicated to planting trees. 

THE ARBOR DAY PARTNERSHIP BY THE NUMBERS

16 years planting together30+ reforestation projects across nine countries, providing valuable resources and ecosystem service1.4 million+ trees in the ground100, 000 trees planted in 2023 in Spain, Mexico and in the U.S., in Georgia and California, with a focus on areas of critical needs

CONSERVATION AWARD

In 2023, Mary Kay received an award for “Leadership in Conservation and Sustainability” by Texan by Nature, founded by former First Lady, Laura Bush. TxN 20 recognizes Texas’ publicly traded and private companies from 12 industry sectors that have made a demonstrative commitment to conservation.

From the extraction of raw materials to the disposal of e-waste, electronics have a huge impact on communities of people and the wider planet. In response, Amazon, one of the world’s largest online retailers, championed the development of a new recycled content standard for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) that aims to increase the use of recycled materials in the manufacturing of these products and reduce their environmental footprints. The new standard underpins certification for electronic and electrical products that is recognized by Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly program.

In this blog, we will explore the details of the EEE standard, why it is important, and how certification can benefit businesses that manufacture products in the covered categories. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about the standard and achieving certification.

What is the new SCS EEE recycled content standard? 

Amazon worked with SCS Standards to develop this specific guidance as an annex to SCS’ well-established Recycled Content Standard (SCS-103). SCS Standards is an independent standards creation organization. SCS-103 is a global standard used to verify the recycled content claims of products and materials, and the EEE annex (SCS-103A) sets specific requirements and thresholds for recycled content in electrical and electronic products, such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, and printers.

Developed through a multi-stakeholder process involving industry leaders and NGO representatives, such as Close Loop Partners, Logitech, Dell, HP, Microsoft, and others, the EEE annex reflects the best practices and innovations in the electronics industry, while also pushing for higher levels of recycled content and sustainability.

The standard underpins recycled content certification for electrical and electronic equipment, and products must have more than one source of recycled material and meet specific minimum thresholds set for each recycled material (plastics, metals, etc.) to achieve certification. The standard specifies an overall claim of the combined recycled materials as a percentage of the whole product.

Why is recycled content certification for electronics important? 

By increasing the use of recycled content in electronic products and giving consumers a choice for more sustainable products, EEE recycled content certification can help drive markets for recycled materials, reduce the demand for virgin materials, conserve natural resources, and prevent e-waste from ending up in landfills or incinerators. It also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and energy use associated with electronics manufacturing.

In certifying their products to the EEE standard, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility and differentiate themselves from their competitors. They can also access new markets and customers, such as Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly Program, which recognizes products that meet high environmental standards and displays a badge on their product listings.

How can businesses engage with the EEE standard? 

Companies producing or selling electrical and electronic products need trustworthy guidance about how to engage with the EEE standard, plus a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges of aligning their operations with the standard. To that end, we will walk through some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the EEE standard.

How do I know if my product is eligible for certification to the EEE standard?

The EEE standard applies to a wide range of electrical and electronic products, such as computers, tablets, phones, cameras, printers, scanners, monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, headphones, routers, modems, smartwatches, smart speakers, and more.

A complete list of product types and their minimum recycled content thresholds (in Table 4 of the standard) can be downloaded from the SCS Standards website. The standard requires that a product have at least two different recycled material inputs, such as metals or plastics, that meet the minimum thresholds for recycled content. A product must also have a minimum total recycled content percentage, which varies depending on the product type.

What if my product type is not listed in the standard or does not meet the minimum requirements?

If your product type is not listed in the standard or does not meet the minimum requirements, you can request an interpretation or variation from SCS Standards. This is a process where organizations can provide additional information or data to justify why their product should be eligible for certification, or why an organization might need an exception or deviation from the standard.

For example, you may offer a product not listed in the standard but with a similar function and composition to another product listed. Or you may have a product that has only one recycled material input, but it forms more than 50% of the total product weight. Or you may have a product that has technical or legal limitations that prevent you from using more recycled content. In these cases, you can contact SCS Standards, and the team will review your submission and decide whether to approve or reject your request.

How do I get certified to the EEE standard and how long does it take?

Certification is broken down into the following steps:

1) Submit an application to SCS Global Services found on our website here.

2) Submit data and documentation to SCS according to the data request an SCS auditor will supply — such as your bill of materials, material input evaluation, purchasing and inventory records, legal compliance affidavit, material due diligence, and quality control procedures.

3) Undergo an on-site or virtual audit by SCS, where an auditor will verify your data and claims and identify any nonconformities or corrective actions.

4) Upon completion, you will receive a certification decision from SCS, which involves issuance of the certificate and logo, and then SCS submits the certified product information to the Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly Program. The certification process can take anywhere from two to six months, depending on the complexity and scope of the product and the availability of company data and documentation.

How do I maintain my certification and what are the costs involved?

Existing certifications must be renewed every year. This involves submitting updated data and documentation to SCS and undergoing a surveillance audit, which checks for any changes or issues with your product or your supply chain. The renewal process can take anywhere from one to three months, depending on the extent and frequency of your changes.

The costs involved in maintaining your certification include the annual fees for SCS and the Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly Program, as well as the audit fees, which vary depending on the scope and location of your audit. You can also add new products or suppliers to your certification scope at any time, which may incur additional fees.

SCS Global Services is here to help

For 40 years, SCS Global Services has served as a trusted partner and a leading provider of sustainability certification, consulting, and standards development. The Recycled Content Standard was first introduced in 1989, a response to the burgeoning interest in recycled content claims and the introduction of innovative new recycling technologies. More than three decades later, the demand for recycled products and materials continues to grow — and SCS has certified thousands of products worldwide.

If you are unsure whether certification is right for your products, we can help you better understand the certification and how it qualifies for inclusion in Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly Program. To learn more, replay our recorded webinar, “Qualify for Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly with SCS Recycled Content Certification for Electrical and Electronic Equipment.”

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Author

Youssra Elkhatib

Program Manager, Circular Materials

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From the extraction of raw materials to the disposal of e-waste, electronics have a huge impact on communities of people and the wider planet. In response, Amazon, one of the world’s largest online retailers, championed the development of a new recycled content standard for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) that aims to increase the use of recycled materials in the manufacturing of these products and reduce their environmental footprints. The new standard underpins certification for electronic and electrical products that is recognized by Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly program.

In this blog, we will explore the details of the EEE standard, why it is important, and how certification can benefit businesses that manufacture products in the covered categories. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about the standard and achieving certification.

What is the new SCS EEE recycled content standard? 

Amazon worked with SCS Standards to develop this specific guidance as an annex to SCS’ well-established Recycled Content Standard (SCS-103). SCS Standards is an independent standards creation organization. SCS-103 is a global standard used to verify the recycled content claims of products and materials, and the EEE annex (SCS-103A) sets specific requirements and thresholds for recycled content in electrical and electronic products, such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, and printers.

Developed through a multi-stakeholder process involving industry leaders and NGO representatives, such as Close Loop Partners, Logitech, Dell, HP, Microsoft, and others, the EEE annex reflects the best practices and innovations in the electronics industry, while also pushing for higher levels of recycled content and sustainability.

The standard underpins recycled content certification for electrical and electronic equipment, and products must have more than one source of recycled material and meet specific minimum thresholds set for each recycled material (plastics, metals, etc.) to achieve certification. The standard specifies an overall claim of the combined recycled materials as a percentage of the whole product.

Why is recycled content certification for electronics important? 

By increasing the use of recycled content in electronic products and giving consumers a choice for more sustainable products, EEE recycled content certification can help drive markets for recycled materials, reduce the demand for virgin materials, conserve natural resources, and prevent e-waste from ending up in landfills or incinerators. It also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and energy use associated with electronics manufacturing.

In certifying their products to the EEE standard, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility and differentiate themselves from their competitors. They can also access new markets and customers, such as Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly Program, which recognizes products that meet high environmental standards and displays a badge on their product listings.

How can businesses engage with the EEE standard? 

Companies producing or selling electrical and electronic products need trustworthy guidance about how to engage with the EEE standard, plus a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges of aligning their operations with the standard. To that end, we will walk through some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the EEE standard.

How do I know if my product is eligible for certification to the EEE standard?

The EEE standard applies to a wide range of electrical and electronic products, such as computers, tablets, phones, cameras, printers, scanners, monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, headphones, routers, modems, smartwatches, smart speakers, and more.

A complete list of product types and their minimum recycled content thresholds (in Table 4 of the standard) can be downloaded from the SCS Standards website. The standard requires that a product have at least two different recycled material inputs, such as metals or plastics, that meet the minimum thresholds for recycled content. A product must also have a minimum total recycled content percentage, which varies depending on the product type.

What if my product type is not listed in the standard or does not meet the minimum requirements?

If your product type is not listed in the standard or does not meet the minimum requirements, you can request an interpretation or variation from SCS Standards. This is a process where organizations can provide additional information or data to justify why their product should be eligible for certification, or why an organization might need an exception or deviation from the standard.

For example, you may offer a product not listed in the standard but with a similar function and composition to another product listed. Or you may have a product that has only one recycled material input, but it forms more than 50% of the total product weight. Or you may have a product that has technical or legal limitations that prevent you from using more recycled content. In these cases, you can contact SCS Standards, and the team will review your submission and decide whether to approve or reject your request.

How do I get certified to the EEE standard and how long does it take?

Certification is broken down into the following steps:

1) Submit an application to SCS Global Services found on our website here.

2) Submit data and documentation to SCS according to the data request an SCS auditor will supply — such as your bill of materials, material input evaluation, purchasing and inventory records, legal compliance affidavit, material due diligence, and quality control procedures.

3) Undergo an on-site or virtual audit by SCS, where an auditor will verify your data and claims and identify any nonconformities or corrective actions.

4) Upon completion, you will receive a certification decision from SCS, which involves issuance of the certificate and logo, and then SCS submits the certified product information to the Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly Program. The certification process can take anywhere from two to six months, depending on the complexity and scope of the product and the availability of company data and documentation.

How do I maintain my certification and what are the costs involved?

Existing certifications must be renewed every year. This involves submitting updated data and documentation to SCS and undergoing a surveillance audit, which checks for any changes or issues with your product or your supply chain. The renewal process can take anywhere from one to three months, depending on the extent and frequency of your changes.

The costs involved in maintaining your certification include the annual fees for SCS and the Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly Program, as well as the audit fees, which vary depending on the scope and location of your audit. You can also add new products or suppliers to your certification scope at any time, which may incur additional fees.

SCS Global Services is here to help

For 40 years, SCS Global Services has served as a trusted partner and a leading provider of sustainability certification, consulting, and standards development. The Recycled Content Standard was first introduced in 1989, a response to the burgeoning interest in recycled content claims and the introduction of innovative new recycling technologies. More than three decades later, the demand for recycled products and materials continues to grow — and SCS has certified thousands of products worldwide.

If you are unsure whether certification is right for your products, we can help you better understand the certification and how it qualifies for inclusion in Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly Program. To learn more, replay our recorded webinar, “Qualify for Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly with SCS Recycled Content Certification for Electrical and Electronic Equipment.”

Read More

Author

Youssra Elkhatib

Program Manager, Circular Materials

Email