Tag: 3BL

Bridgewater, N.J., July 10, 2024 /3BL/ – Henkel, a global leader in adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings, has been recognized by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for meeting the highest criteria for recyclability according to the APR Design Guide for Plastics Recyclability for five TECHNOMELT® labeling products:

TECHNOMELT® EM 115™TECHNOMELT® EM 377™TECHNOMELT® EM 310™TECHNOMELT® EM 598™ RETECHNOMELT® EM 386™ RE

APR Design for Recyclability Recognition provides independent validation that a package or packaging component is compatible with the North American recycling system. This process confirms the product meets the highest criteria for plastics recyclability according to the APR Design Guide.

“We are proud of the strides we continue to make in packaging and labeling adhesives to drive more sustainable solutions for our customers, the industry and consumers,” said Jean-Philippe Caye, Vice President of North America’s Consumer Goods Adhesive business. “Henkel’s labeling products provide a variety of options to aid in PET (polyethylene terephthalate) recycling for containers and help our packaging and consumer goods customers meet their own sustainability commitments.”

“APR congratulates Henkel for taking action to improve the recyclability of their packaging adhesives and receive APR Design Recognition,” said Steve Alexander, APR President & CEO. “Recyclable packaging means less waste, more efficient use of limited natural resources, and more high-quality post-consumer resin (PCR) for new products.”

Hot melt labeling adhesives are used in a variety of packaging and container applications across fast moving consumer goods products. Henkel’s portfolio of TECHNOMELT® EM labeling adhesives assure reliable, sustainable bonding and secure label application. TECHNOMELT® adhesives are trusted for reliability, quality, and proven results across a variety of applications. The TECHNOMELT® product portfolio includes biobased formulations, as well as innovative solutions like wash-off features to support a circular economy. To learn more about Henkel’s sustainable solutions, visit henkel-northamerica.com/sustainability.

* TECHNOMELT® is a registered trademark of Henkel and/or its affiliates in the USA, Germany and elsewhere.

* APR DESIGN is a trademark of the Association of Plastic Recyclers, Inc.

July 10, 2024 /3BL/ – Leaders in Nevada’s public and private sectors convened for the Nevada Sustainability Summit: Upping the Game. The event highlighted efforts and opportunities to grow the state’s economy by addressing sustainability challenges like climate change, water scarcity, and energy demand.

A recording of the final session, a fireside chat with Nevada Governor’s Office of Energy Director Dwayne McClinton, Caleb Cage, executive director of the Nevada Battery Coalition, and Rose McKinney James, managing principal of Energy Works LLC and McKinney-James & Associates and former Commissioner of the Nevada Public Service Commission, can be seen here.

The Nevada Sustainability Summit was held at Lee’s Family Forum in Henderson and hosted by Ceres, Lee’s Family Forum, and the Vegas Golden Knights.

The Golden Knights recently announced the Knight SHIELD Project, with SHIELD an acronym for the program’s key areas of focus: Sustainability, Healthy Air, Improve and Inspire, Energy and Water Efficiency, Landscape Protection and Decrease Waste Generation. This event showcased some of the sustainability efforts incorporated in the construction and operation of Lee’s Family Forum.

“Nevada stands at the epicenter of global sustainability solutions, balancing its rich natural resources with formidable challenges in climate, water, energy, and air pollution,” said Mel Mackin, interim director of state policy, Ceres. “This unique position – as well as several major private-sector investments in the state to build clean technology – makes Nevada a crucial player in tackling the planet’s most urgent challenges. The Nevada Sustainability Summit showcased efforts in the state to grow the state’s economy by addressing these challenges and further strengthen the partnership between leaders in the public and private sectors to achieve those goals.”

“We appreciate the public and private leaders, including Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, who joined us at Lee’s Family Forum for the Nevada Sustainability Summit and thank Ceres and GOAL for their leadership in the event. The Vegas Golden Knights strive to be champions both on the ice and in the community, and our efforts with the Knight SHIELD Project continue to grow as we work to be leaders in sustainability,” said Vegas Golden Knights President & CEO Kerry Bubolz. 

The event included participants from across Nevada’s public and private sectors. Featured speakers included:

Nevada Gov. Joe LombardoNevada Governor’s Office of Energy Director Dwayne McClintonNevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development Executive Director Tom BurnsCaleb Cage, Executive Director, Nevada Battery CoalitionAnthony Casciano, Siemens Financial Services, Inc. President and CEORachelle Reyes Wenger, Vice President, Public Policy & Advocacy Engagement, CommonSpirit SystemMichael Gulich, Vice President of Sustainability, MGM Resorts InternationalTom Clark, Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce Board MemberRose McKinney James, Managing Principal of Energy Works LLC and McKinney-James & Associates, former Commissioner of the Nevada Public Service Commission

“The Nevada Governor’s Office of Energy is pleased to work with the state’s business leaders to leverage federal investments that will help us build the thriving energy economy that Nevadans need and deserve. Nevada is already seeing significant private sector investments focused on capturing Nevada’s natural clean energy potential, lowering energy costs for Nevada families and businesses, bringing jobs to our communities across the state. We look forward to continuing this critical collaboration with business partners to ensure Nevada is an economic leader on delivering sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy sources,” said Nevada Governor’s Office of Energy Director Dwayne McClinton.

“Nevada’s wealth of natural resources sets us up to be ground zero for the nation’s way towards U.S. energy independence. By leveraging federal initiatives, Nevada is well positioned to capitalize on its potential to effectively participate in the economy’s energy transition. We have an opportunity to build on this momentum and ensure Nevada is ready to attract the fast-growing clean tech and manufacturing industries to generate economic growth and the well-paying jobs that come with it,” said Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development Executive Director Tom Burns.

“Nevada is emerging as the leading lithium battery center in North America, and the industry is only poised to grow from here. The current investment in this industry has produced profoundly positive environmental, economic, and national security advantages for the state. We are thrilled to be here with so many private and public sector partners to find opportunities to support this thriving industry and strengthen workforce and economic development to communities statewide can reap the benefits,” said Caleb Cage, executive director of the Nevada Battery Coalition. 

“Today’s summit underscored the critical collaboration between the public and private sectors in achieving decarbonization and adaptation goals, with various success stories that serve as blueprints for deploying an effective ecosystem. Sustainability-focused lenders like Siemens Financial Services can help empower Nevada businesses and enable their adoption of cost-efficient green technologies. The tools, technology, and capital are there—it’s for our mutual benefit to leverage our collective strengths to streamline the process and enhance accessibility,” said Anthony Casciano, President and CEO of Siemens Financial Services, Inc.

“We’re thrilled to help connect the platform of Vegas Golden Knights teams and venues to opportunities that inspire and change the industry on sustainability and specifically in clean energy! While our team advises them on how to take action in venue operations and community impacts, through [this summit], we also see how they are able to use their power to convene leaders on this critical topic for their region!” said Kristen Fulmer, Head of Sustainability for Oak View Group & Director of GOAL (Green Operations & Advanced Leadership).

The Nevada Sustainability Summit came amid a national surge in clean energy investment that has greatly benefited the state. Since the summer of 2022, when the nation’s largest-ever clean energy legislation passed into law, Nevada has secured more than $14.5 billion in new clean energy investments, which are projected to create more than 20,000 new jobs. The Nevada Sustainability Summit will celebrate this success while exploring further opportunities to grow the state’s sustainable economy.

About Ceres

Ceres is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more just, and sustainable world. United under a shared vision, our powerful networks of investors and companies are proving sustainability is the bottom line—changing markets and sectors from the inside out. For more information, visit ceres.org.

Media Contact: Helen Booth-Tobin, booth-tobin@ceres.org

Originally published on ASPCA®

This weekend, 40 dogs (30 puppies and 10 adults) were flown from Mobile SPCA in Mobile, Alabama, to the Laurence G. Hanscom Field in Bedford, Massachusetts, where they were then transported by ground to MSPCA-Angell: Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire SPCA in Stratham, New Hampshire, where they will soon be made available for adoption. This flight and animal transport, sponsored by Subaru of America, Inc., is part of our Animal Relocation Program, which works with overcrowded shelters to relocate their animals to other shelters where those animals have greater chances of being adopted.

“We are grateful for Subaru’s support of the ASPCA’s Animal Relocation efforts,” said Monique Ward, ASPCA Flight Manager. “Their contributions toward the animal transport flight allow the ASPCA to move more animals at once and enable the team to travel longer distances, like from Alabama to the Northeast, to shelters that have the capacity to take in adoptable pets and place them with families in their communities.”

This transport is vital to Mobile SPCA as their shelter has experienced overcrowding with a high number of puppies and dogs consistently in their care. The transport will increase Mobile SPCA’s capacity to assist more animals in need in their community and given the transported animals a better chance at finding the loving homes they deserve.

Our Relocation Program is the country’s largest national transporter of animals, having transported over 260,000 animals since its inception. We also provide resources, support and training to both source and destination shelters with the goal to not only reduce overcrowding at partner shelters, but also to help shelters create and strengthen programs that will have a long-term effect on animal welfare in the surrounding community.

Click here to read on ASPCA

AMSTERDAM, HONG KONG, and OAKLAND, Calif., July 10, 2024 /3BL/ – Cascale, formerly the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, is proud to announce the election of a new board member and the re-election of two incumbent board members to serve on the Cascale Board of Directors. The parity-based Board of Directors is pivotal in steering Cascale’s strategic direction, driving transformation, and furthering the organization’s mission to create a more restorative and equitable consumer goods industry.

Cascale congratulates the following individuals on their re-elections to the board:

Vidhura Ralapanawe, Epic Group

Ralapanawe is the executive vice president, innovation & sustainability for Epic Group, focusing on emissions, water, chemicals, and sustainable product innovation. With 18 years of experience in apparel sustainability, he is also a renewable energy and climate activist. His expertise covers facility design, product LCA, and standards design. He is an advocate for equal partnership in the apparel industry as it transitions towards sustainability. Ralapanawe will continue representing Cascale’s manufacturer voting member category.

Lena Staafgard, Better Cotton Initiative

As the chief operating officer at BCI, Staafgard leads Better Cotton’s global operations, ensuring their work delivers positive change and impact for cotton farmers around the world. She joined BCI during its first year of operation and has helped guide the organization towards becoming the largest cotton sustainability initiative in the world, with programs in multiple countries that have reached millions of smallholder farmers. Staafgard will continue representing Cascale’s affiliate voting member category.

Cascale is also pleased to welcome the following new board member:

Fiona Sadler, Marks & Spencer

Sadler is the global head of responsible sourcing and has worked at M&S for 26 years. She is a senior ethical, sourcing, sustainability, and technical professional with extensive experience in development programs and management within retail and supply chains. She brings a strong external perspective on global issues, stakeholder management, and an ability to manage and influence issues within the corporate framework. Having developed ethical strategies focusing on emerging social issues, Sadler aims to use this knowledge and experience to help Cascale achieve its goals and shape the future. Sadler will represent Cascale’s brand, retailer, and holding group voting member category.

Cascale CEO Colin Browne said, “We are thrilled to welcome Fiona Sadler of M&S to the Cascale Board and continue working with BCI’s Lena Staafgard and Epic Group’s Vidhura Ralpanawe. Equal representation in the value chain is more important than ever, and their unique perspectives, valuable insights, and vast expertise will be incredibly important as Cascale continues to evolve and drive transformative change in the industry.”

Harsh Saini, Cascale board director and governance and nomination committee chair, stated, “The 2024 class of directors is uniquely equipped to serve the future of this organization. Their combined experience and dedication to sustainability and ethical practices will further strengthen our board’s ability to guide Cascale’s strategic plan. We look forward to their contributions as we strive to realize our mission for an even greater impact in our industry.”

The incoming class of directors will be seated on the Board in September 2024.

Cascale also extends its deep gratitude to the outgoing board director Pascal Brun, vice president of sustainability and diversity and inclusion at Zalando. Brun’s dedicated service and contributions have been instrumental in guiding the organization’s strategic initiatives throughout his tenure.

For more information about Cascale’s governance and to view the current Board of Directors, please visit our website.

ABOUT CASCALE

Cascale is the global nonprofit alliance empowering collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry. Formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cascale owns and develops the Higg Index, which is exclusively available on Worldly, the most comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform. Cascale unites over 300 retailers, brands, manufacturers, governments, academics, and NGO/nonprofit affiliates around the globe through one singular vision: To catalyze impact at scale and give back more than we take to the planet and its people.

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This article was previously published on MaineBiz.com

By: Tony DiSotto, KeyBank Maine Market President

Recently, 140 KeyBank Maine teammates and I completed 18 community projects and 564 community service hours in a single afternoon. KeyBank’s annual Neighbors Make The Difference Day started in Key’s Alaska market in 1991 and was quickly embraced by the Maine market. I personally have participated in the effort in each of my eighteen years with Key. This day of volunteerism has been a cornerstone of our business and culture for decades and is just one of the ways our bank supports the communities where we live and work.

Why is employee volunteerism important? 

The textbook answer includes increased employee engagement, talent development, teambuilding, and an enhanced corporate reputation. But a truly impactful employee volunteer program accomplishes so much more – it says to employees and other stakeholders that the health and wellbeing of the communities where we do business is vital, a priority, and our collective responsibility. Employees giving of themselves that truly builds community commitment within a company. This is the foundation that KeyBank is built upon.

What makes a successful employee volunteer program? 

I can point to several elements in our Neighbors Day program that have contributed to its success and longevity:

Clear alignment with company culture – KeyBank’s culture is built on our commitment to helping customers and communities thrive and we do that through fair and responsible banking services, community lending and investments to low-and moderate-income neighborhoods and populations, impactful philanthropic giving, and employee community outreach. Our employees are encouraged to “live our brand” by conducting financial literacy programs in their communities, serving on nonprofit boards and committees, and participating in the bank’s employee giving program. Neighbors Day is another way our employees can “own” the bank’s commitment to the communities we serve. 
 Management supported – Not only does KeyBank close branches and provide paid-time off for our employees to participate in Neighbors Day, our leaders from the top-of-the-house down take part in local projects. It says to our employees, our clients and the public that community service is a priority at Key. 
 Employee-led — Neighbors Day is spearheaded by a committee in our Cleveland headquarters, but it would not be successful without dedicated teams of local employees in each market. Here in Maine, branch and line of business teams identify nonprofits with which to work and organize project teams and tasks. This employee-led initiative is what sets Neighbors Day apart from KeyBank’s other community investment activities and has kept it going strong year after year. 
 Valued nonprofit partnerships – collaborating with reputable nonprofit organizations ensures that our volunteer efforts are impactful and address genuine community needs. Our branch teams have built strong relationships with local nonprofits by serving as their bankers, board members, and community partners. They are nonprofits that we believe in and we’re proud to support their efforts.

A well-implemented and supported employee volunteer program is just one element of a comprehensive corporate community support strategy, and one of the many ways that KeyBank supports the Maine market. In 2023, KeyBank and KeyBank Foundation provided $28.7 million in community investments in affordable housing, community development, LMI small business and mortgage lending, and philanthropy in the state.

Key Private Bank is the marketing name through which KeyBank National Association (KeyBank) provides a range of financial products and solutions. KeyBank, Member FDIC.

About KeyBank’s 2024 Neighbors Make the Difference Day 

Neighbors Make The Difference Day of community service was held Thursday, June 6, 2024, with more than 4,200 KeyBank employees across the nation completing 559 community projects and 17,000 service hours in one afternoon. In Maine, 141 employees completed 18 projects for the following nonprofit organizations: Hirundo Wildlife Trust, Alton; Bread of Life, Augusta; Bridgton Historical Society; Birdsacre Sanctuary, Ellsworth; Fort Kent Public Library; Ark Animal Sanctuary, Houlton; Greater Androscoggin Humane Society, Lewiston; Travis Mill Foundation, Mt. Vernon; Oxford School Age Child Care; McAuley Residence, Portland; Maine Needs, Portland; Homeless Services of Aroostook, Presque Isle; The Ecology School at River Bend Farm, Saco; Spirits Place, Saint Albans; PL Services STRIVE, South Portland; The Come Spring Food Pantry, Union; Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals, Windham; Yarmouth Community Services.

About the author:

Tony DiSotto serves as KeyBank Market President and Key Private Bank Market Leader in Maine and Vermont. He can be reached at KeyBank’s Portland office at (207) 874-7102 and Anthony_disotto@keybank.com.

HOUSTON , July 10, 2024 /3BL/ – The Baker Hughes Foundation announced Wednesday a $75,000 grant to the American Red Cross Greater Houston Chapter to support those impacted by Hurricane Beryl, which lashed through southeast Texas and left behind a path of destruction July 8. A day after the storm, over 1 million households were still without power, and life-threatening heat is anticipated across the city for the next three days.

The American Red Cross has multiple shelters open and others on stand-by in the impacted area, along with over 400 volunteers deployed to support with recovery efforts. This donation will help provide comfort, shelter, and supplies to over 10,000 people in the impacted area.

“We are committed to helping our community recover as quickly as possible in the wake of Hurricane Beryl,” said Baker Hughes Chairman and CEO Lorenzo Simonelli. “We understand recovery and rebuilding can take weeks or months, and we support the American Red Cross’ mission of providing people with clean water, safe shelter and food when they need them most.”

The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Baker Hughes is committed to supporting communities where employees live and work, and for a long time has supported those in need through a variety of charitable giving and volunteering programs.

About the Baker Hughes Foundation:

For 30 years, the Baker Hughes Foundation has been a steward of charitable resources for meaningful community impact. The Foundation seeks to advance environmental quality, education, health, safety, and wellness around the world by supporting organizations with shared values, demonstrated leadership, evidence of impact, financial soundness, and the capacity to implement initiatives and evaluate their success. The Baker Hughes Foundation makes strategic philanthropic contributions, matches Baker Hughes employee contributions, and awards volunteer recognition grants for outstanding employee community service.

About Baker Hughes

Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions to energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.

###

For more information, please contact:

Media Relations

Adrienne M. Lynch 
+1 713-906-8407 
adrienne.lynch@bakerhughes.com

Mastercard

After many conversations with governmental, non-profit, and business leaders last week during London Climate Action Week, one thing is clear: there is an incredible opportunity for all organizations to leverage their resources to support the demand-side shift to a sustainable economy.

Here are some key takeaways from Mastercard’s LCAW2024 engagements:

Cities can be an incredible incubator for innovation and sustainable behavior change. As Wayne Hubbard FCIWM, CEO of ReLondon noted, cities are the engine room of the circular economy, they are hope for humankind. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan and the mayors comprising C40 Cities serve as a strong example of how transforming cities to more sustainable systems can create economic and job opportunities and increase connectivity and inclusion.

People want to make more sustainable choices, but they need to be offered products and services that are intuitive, accessible, useful and joyful. From buy-back and trade-in programs, to better for the planet products, to sharing-economy marketplaces, these types of choices are being introduced by leaders and organizations like IKEA, Sea Forest, turn.eco, MY WARDROBE HQ, Library of Things, Brompton Bicycle, and Vivobarefoot.

When people realize that others around them care about the same issue, like climate change, they are more inclined to make a change. And when people are provided fun, integrated ways to get involved around the things they are most passionate about, like sports or music, they are even more inclined to take action. Whether it is gamifying everyday climate action through Pledgeball and UEFA, or donating to restore a tree with the Priceless Planet Coalition and Conservation International, it’s clear that collective engagement can make a significant impact. 

Let’s continue to work together, share our successes, and inspire, inform, and enable one another to shift towards a more sustainable economy.

About Mastercard

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

Originally published by Mastercard

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

WAKULLA SPRINGS, Fla., July 10, 2024 /3BL/ – The Florida State Parks Foundation yesterday joined Duke Energy Florida and its foundation, along with the Friends of Wakulla Springs State Park, to unveil a new, state-of-the-art accessible playground at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park near Tallahassee.

The new playground, located a short distance from the park’s beachfront along the Wakulla River, includes several accessible play elements and a wide path to accommodate mobility devices.

The playground’s centerpiece is a large glider styled in the fashion of the park’s iconic river tour boats.

“Seeing a replica of the Wakulla Springs boat and all of the other fun playground experiences here brings a huge smile to my face,” said Kathleen Brennan, president of the Florida State Parks Foundation board of directors. “Thanks to Duke Energy Florida and the amazing Friends of Wakulla Springs, this beautiful new playground will welcome smiling faces for many, many years to come.”

Playground materials and installation costs totaled $72,204. Duke Energy Florida donated $44,000 toward the project, while the Friends of Wakulla Springs State Park contributed $15,000 and the Foundation funded the remaining balance.

The playground is open during regular operating hours and access is included with park admission.

“The Foundation is constantly seeking opportunities to expand accessibility in our state parks, and we are proud to have played a part in creating a playground for all children who visit Wakulla Springs,” said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation.

This is the latest in a series of collaborations between the Foundation and Duke Energy Florida to benefit Florida state parks.

In recent years, Duke Energy Florida and its foundation have donated more than $300,000 to state parks amenities and projects, including all-terrain beach and trail wheelchairs, a new strike team trailer for the Florida Park Service’s emergency response teams, and more than 100 water bottle refilling stations at parks across the state.

“Vibrant communities do not happen by accident. They are the result of hard work, intentional investments and collaboration with key organizations to solve challenges and nurture the places where we live, work and play,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We are proud to support the Florida State Parks Foundation and all they do to protect Florida’s most-treasured parks and expand access to outdoor recreation opportunities for all.”

The Foundation also unveiled the “Great Blue Heron” hybrid-electric tour boat at Wakulla Springs State Park late last year. The boat includes an extended dock ramp and wide spaces to accommodate people who use mobility devices.

“We are committed to providing inclusive recreational experiences for all of our visitors, and we are so pleased to offer these new accessible features at Wakulla Springs,” Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher said. “This new playground will create fun park memories for our youngest guests, and we hope that it will help inspire a lifelong love of Florida’s natural resources.”

Florida State Parks Foundation

The Florida State Parks Foundation, founded in 1993 as Friends of Florida State Parks and renamed in 2018, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation whose mission is to support and help sustain the Florida Park Service, its 175 award-winning parks and trails, local Friends groups and more than 20,000 park volunteers.

It does this through programs that preserve and protect state parks, educate visitors about the value of state parks, encourage community engagement and active use of state parks, and advocacy. These projects were completed through the Florida State Parks Foundation Services LLC, which is a limited liability company affiliate of the Foundation.

The volunteer board of directors represents private and public sectors as well as local and statewide interests.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.

Media contact: Audrey Stasko 
Media line: 800.559.3853 
Twitter: @DE_AudreyS

Florida State Parks Foundation media contact: Tim Linafelt 
850.566.6118 
tim@floridastateparksfoundation.org

View original content here.

WAKULLA SPRINGS, Fla., July 10, 2024 /3BL/ – The Florida State Parks Foundation yesterday joined Duke Energy Florida and its foundation, along with the Friends of Wakulla Springs State Park, to unveil a new, state-of-the-art accessible playground at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park near Tallahassee.

The new playground, located a short distance from the park’s beachfront along the Wakulla River, includes several accessible play elements and a wide path to accommodate mobility devices.

The playground’s centerpiece is a large glider styled in the fashion of the park’s iconic river tour boats.

“Seeing a replica of the Wakulla Springs boat and all of the other fun playground experiences here brings a huge smile to my face,” said Kathleen Brennan, president of the Florida State Parks Foundation board of directors. “Thanks to Duke Energy Florida and the amazing Friends of Wakulla Springs, this beautiful new playground will welcome smiling faces for many, many years to come.”

Playground materials and installation costs totaled $72,204. Duke Energy Florida donated $44,000 toward the project, while the Friends of Wakulla Springs State Park contributed $15,000 and the Foundation funded the remaining balance.

The playground is open during regular operating hours and access is included with park admission.

“The Foundation is constantly seeking opportunities to expand accessibility in our state parks, and we are proud to have played a part in creating a playground for all children who visit Wakulla Springs,” said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation.

This is the latest in a series of collaborations between the Foundation and Duke Energy Florida to benefit Florida state parks.

In recent years, Duke Energy Florida and its foundation have donated more than $300,000 to state parks amenities and projects, including all-terrain beach and trail wheelchairs, a new strike team trailer for the Florida Park Service’s emergency response teams, and more than 100 water bottle refilling stations at parks across the state.

“Vibrant communities do not happen by accident. They are the result of hard work, intentional investments and collaboration with key organizations to solve challenges and nurture the places where we live, work and play,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We are proud to support the Florida State Parks Foundation and all they do to protect Florida’s most-treasured parks and expand access to outdoor recreation opportunities for all.”

The Foundation also unveiled the “Great Blue Heron” hybrid-electric tour boat at Wakulla Springs State Park late last year. The boat includes an extended dock ramp and wide spaces to accommodate people who use mobility devices.

“We are committed to providing inclusive recreational experiences for all of our visitors, and we are so pleased to offer these new accessible features at Wakulla Springs,” Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher said. “This new playground will create fun park memories for our youngest guests, and we hope that it will help inspire a lifelong love of Florida’s natural resources.”

Florida State Parks Foundation

The Florida State Parks Foundation, founded in 1993 as Friends of Florida State Parks and renamed in 2018, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation whose mission is to support and help sustain the Florida Park Service, its 175 award-winning parks and trails, local Friends groups and more than 20,000 park volunteers.

It does this through programs that preserve and protect state parks, educate visitors about the value of state parks, encourage community engagement and active use of state parks, and advocacy. These projects were completed through the Florida State Parks Foundation Services LLC, which is a limited liability company affiliate of the Foundation.

The volunteer board of directors represents private and public sectors as well as local and statewide interests.

Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.

Media contact: Audrey Stasko 
Media line: 800.559.3853 
Twitter: @DE_AudreyS

Florida State Parks Foundation media contact: Tim Linafelt 
850.566.6118 
tim@floridastateparksfoundation.org

View original content here.

Originally published in the SEE Impact Report 2022

CRYOVAC® Brand Recycle-Ready Barrier Display Films 

Food packaging designed for recycling 

To optimize varying recycling compatibilities throughout Europe, SEE developed CRYOVAC® brand recycle-ready barrier display films. Designed for recycling, these ultra-thin overwrap shrink films maintain product integrity and shelf life and offer a 90% plastic weight reduction compared to thick thermoforming materials. The ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH)-containing films (BDF20M and BDF21) demonstrate compatibility with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) streams.  These films have been internally tested for recyclability following various international protocols published by the Association of Plastics Recyclers, Plastic Recyclers Europe (RecyClass), or Institut cyclos-HTP GmbH.  The degree of recyclability of the final package depends on the scope and availability of appropriate local recycling facilities.

CRYOVAC® Brand Darfresh® Systems Low-Carbon Solution 

Less plastic, more functionality 

CRYOVAC® brand Darfresh® vacuum skin packaging systems offer advanced packaging technologies that are more cost-effective and sustainable when compared to traditional modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) systems, while also increasing consumer appeal in the retail environment. The DARFRESH® packaging process uses a specially formulated top and a multilayer semirigid thermoformable bottom film to create a vacuum skin consumer pack that fits around the product like a second skin. The finished pack reduces material consumption from downgauged top and bottom films using 25% less plastic versus standard skin packaging, along with reduced secondary packaging and plastic scrap waste up to 40% compared with standard thermoforming skin systems.

CRYOVAC® Brand OptiDure Gen 2 Barrier Bag 

Less material lowers environmental impact 

CRYOVAC® brand OptiDure vacuum shrink bag and shrinkable rollstock is the f irst available recycle-ready Flowvac capable material in the market designed to run on fully automated packaging systems. The lightweight solution is 20% thinner when compared to standard vacuum thermoforming packs and lowers the environmental impact by reducing excess packaging around the product. The second-generation bags deliver improved oxygen barrier versus CRYOVAC® brand OptiDure 4005 to fill the gap for fresh meat applications with a 30% increase in shelf life. The bags have also been internally tested for recyclability following various international protocols published by the Association of Plastics Recyclers, Plastic Recyclers Europe (RecyClass), and Institut cyclos-HTP GmbH. 

Liquibox® VINIflow® Short Back-End Dispensing Tap 

Less plastic, more functionality 

The Liquibox®* VINIflow® short back-end dispensing tap has all the functionality of its predecessor—the VINIflow self-closing, top-pull tap for bag-in-box and stand-up pouch—but is designed with a shorter back end that uses 26% less plastic. The shorter back-end design is not only more sustainable, but also minimizes the risk of oxygen exposure to keep liquid products safe and extend shelf life, which is especially beneficial for preserving wine quality. The fitment can be produced in a natural color to eliminate carbon black, which may contaminate the recycling stream. *SEE acquired Liquibox in February 2023.

Liquibox® Recycle-Ready Urn-liner 

Recycle-ready solution reduces environmental impact 

For quick-service restaurants seeking recyclable solutions, Liquibox® developed a recycle-ready version of its patented urn-liner. Urn-liners offer improved efficiencies, as well as a reduction in bacteria growth. Urn-liners fit inside of beverage urns and utilize a tube that feeds through the urn spigot, keeping the liquid product from coming in contact with the urn or spigot when dispensing the product. The Liquibox® recycle-ready urn-liner is comprised of an all-polyethylene bag and adapter with a removable thermoplastic elastomer tube. The tube is easily separated from the urn-liner so the mono-material bag can be recycled. The urn-liners also reduce the environmental impact of beverage dispensing by eliminating the water and energy that would be needed during the urn cleaning process.

SEALED AIR® Brand TempGuard Gusset Insulated Bag 

Recyclable, fiber-based solution for temperature assurance 

Since its inception, SEE’s original SEALED AIR® brand TempGuard insulated box liners, an all-paper construction made from fibers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, have been a popular curbside recyclable insulation choice for meal kit providers and other customers seeking up to 48-hour protection of perishable and other temperature-sensitive items during transit. SEE’s latest version of TempGuard, a gusseted bag with an expanded honeycomb paper insulation core, was developed to increase filling volume and provide a higher product-to-package ratio with a shorter pack-out time. Compared to a similarsized metallized bag, the TempGuard gusseted bag is curbside recyclable and helps avoid more than 154 metric tons of nonrecyclable plastic waste going to landfills in Australia and New Zealand. The solution earned silver place in the renewable materials category at the 2023 Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design Awards. It is currently available in Australia and New Zealand and will be sold globally in the near future.

SEALED AIR® Brand Bags Made From Ocean-Bound Plastics 

Converting plastic waste into packaging without compromising performance 

To contribute to a cleaner ocean environment, SEE has united with our suppliers to reuse ocean-bound plastics collected by our partners. The lowdensity polyethylene (LDPE) bag comes from abandoned plastic waste located within 50 kilometers from shore in communities and areas where waste management is nonexistent or very inefficient. To maintain packaging integrity and quality, the resins made from ocean-bound plastics are strictly selected, tested, and qualified so that the final ocean-bound plastic LDPE bag maintains the comparable performance and appearance as virgin LDPE. The ocean-bound plastic bag is comparable in strength and resilience to normal LDPE bags and complies with Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) and Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). ocean-bound plastic bags can be used for a variety of applications, including electronic devices and accessories, retail fashion, cosmetics and personal care, books and audio, and third-party logistics.

Korrvu® Digital Manufacturing Processes 

Digital operation reduces material use 

Using digital technology, SEE has been able to switch from the traditional die- cutting process to laser cutting for the corrugate sheets that are a primary component of SEALED AIR® brand Korrvu® retention and suspension packaging. Laser cutting removes the need for tooling and traditional wood or steel dies, which results in less material consumption. In addition, the laser process preserves the strength of the corrugate, allowing for the same performance from thinner materials, which further reduces overall material use.

Recycle-Ready Mail Lite® Cushioned Paper Mailers 

Recycled-content material offers source reduction 

The new generation of BUBBLE WRAP® brand Recycle-Ready Mail Lite® mailers are made with 100% recycled paper. The mailers can be recycled by easily separating the paper outer layer from the inner bubble cushioning and recycling each in their appropriate waste stream. By using recycled paper for the outer layer, we are helping to protect natural resources. The inner bubble contains a minimum of 60% recycled content, making the total recycled content a minimum of 85% by weight. The pick-pack packaging format replaces a standard corrugated carton box with four cardboard trays overwrapped with CRYOVAC® brand high-performance shrink film at just 14 microns and an easy-open tear tape. These features enable more cartons per pallet, reduce the number of trucks on the road and associated CO2 emissions, and save on shipping costs. The Mail Lite® cushioned mailers pick-pack format won in the Resource Efficiency Award category at the UK Sustainable Packaging News Awards.

Read the full SEE Impact Report 2022