Tag: 3BL

Driving down our energy emissions is an important part of reaching our long-term goal relating to net-zero carbon. And we’re focusing on three key areas to make it happen.

First, we’re working hard to improve energy efficiency within our internal operations.

Next, we’re taking action to electrify our operations and aiming for all the electricity we’re using across our manufacturing sites by 2030 to be renewable by transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable electricity and electrification. Third, we’re increasing our use of renewable electricity.

2023 PROGRESS

2018

2021

2022

2023

Total energy consumed (GJ) (22)

17,252,000

17,382,000

17,134,000

16,771,000

Total renewable electricity (%) (22)

—

33 %

40 %

48 %

Manufacturing CO₂e emissions from energy (CO₂e market-based metric tonnes) (8)

1,325,000

1,077,000

1,005,000

871,000

CO₂e emissions reductions across our manufacturing operations (vs. 2018) (8)

—

(19) %

(24) %

(34) %

 

OUR OPERATIONS

Improving Energy Efficiency 
Focusing in our operations, we are working to make our manufacturing plants more efficient by continuously investing in advanced energy-management systems and energy efficient technologies. We’re drawing on the “eliminate, substitute, reuse, recycle” principles of the circular economy to progressively reduce our operations’ carbon intensity and drive carbon absolute reduction. Solutions already in place are energy efficiency improvements to biscuit ovens and steam boilers, including heat recovery. We also invest in higher-efficiency equipment.

Transition to Renewable Electricity and Electrification 
We have been working towards shifting away from fossil fuels as the primary source of the power we use and transferring to biofuels and renewable electricity. Electrification combined with our transition to renewable-sourced electricity are drivers of our decarbonization strategy. We implemented onsite solar panels, and signed long-term wind and solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) in several sites globally supporting new project implementation.

Increasing the Use of Renewable Electricity 
We’re working closely with governments and suppliers to promote renewable energy wherever we operate – either bought using PPAs or generated on our facilities with onsite solar panels. This approach is working. About half of the electricity we used in 2023 came from various renewable sources, increasing from the approximately 40% achieved in 2022 (22).

2023 IN REVIEW

Throughout 2023, we continued to make the important changes needed to help drive down our energy-related emissions. Our aim to deploy renewable electricity solutions aligns seamlessly with the broader sustainability agenda in our long-term growth strategy by driving decarbonization across our manufacturing footprint, making a major step forward in working towards achieving our sustainability goals.

Collaborations are vital to help deliver our carbon reduction goals and build a more sustainable snacking company and that’s why in 2023 we continued and increased our efforts to make the shift to renewable electricity for both on- and off-site, grasping new opportunities as they emerged.

For solar and wind renewable electricity, we are excited to have entered into agreements in several countries where we have invested in onsite solar panels in countries like India, Vietnam, Poland, Thailand, Egypt, Bahrain, Pakistan and Malaysia. For instance, the electricity generated from the solar panel installation at our Skarbimierz plant in Poland is fully consumed by the site. And we continue to maintain approximately 100% renewable energy sources for Khon Kaen plant in Thailand and Sucat plant in the Philippines.

As part of our focus on increasing the use of renewable electricity, we signed 10 to 12-year PPAs with multiple partners. These included contracts in Spain and in Finland. These will start to deliver additional renewable electricity over the next three years.

In 2023, we also invested in several programs to improve energy efficiency with a combined total of approximately $140 million in our European supply chain network, refurbishing ovens and introducing advanced new alternatives to decrease the impact of our outsourced manufacturing activities. This continued to help drive reductions in our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions during the year as the proportion of electricity from renewable sources continued to grow.

In Bahrain, we have an agreement to utilize thousands of solar panels for both rooftop and carport applications helping our plant to reduce and offset CO2 emissions.

In Egypt, we have been reducing our emissions by building and measuring an energy management system and integrating energy efficiency projects and cleaner energy projects into operations.

In Morocco, we signed an energy agreement in March 2023 to equip our production site with hundreds of solar panels supporting Mondelēz Morocco’s ambition to utilize more of its energy needs.

“Electrification combined with our transition to renewable electricity are key drivers of our energy efficiency strategy, further expanding the sustainability of our operations.”

Ken Sparkman 
Senior Director, Supply Chain Sustainability, 
Mondelēz International

GLOBAL LIGHTHOUSE NETWORK IN AMEA

In China, in 2023, three of our four plants joined the esteemed league of manufacturers recognized as the Global Lighthouse Network by the World Economic Forum (WEF). This prestigious label signifies their status as trailblazers in implementing Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies (4IR). These factories have reached meaningful milestones and demonstrated exceptional ability in amplifying productivity, promoting sustainability, and fortifying resilience, setting them apart as leaders in their field. In January 2023 Mondelēz Suzhou factory which includes two plants (East Suzhou and West Suzhou plant) became the world’s first “end-to-end lighthouse factory” for the snack biscuit industry, and also achieved a third-party verified Carbon Neutrality (40). Also in December 2023, Mondelēz Beijing plant joined the Lighthouse Network implementing an AI-powered dough-making lights-off workshop and gas consumption optimization with machine learning.

Also, early in 2023 Mondelēz India’s state-of-the-art Sri City factory became one of the first Indian FMCG plants awarded with the Advanced 4IR Digital Lighthouse Award by the World Economic Forum.

(8) Please see the Carbon Accounting Manual for conversion factors applied. Reported information excludes developed-market gum brands, which were divested as of October 1, 2023 (which differs from previous years). We have recalculated our base year 2018 (where applicable) and most recent years 2021, 2022 and 2023 for year-over-year comparison. Reported information based on latest estimate; independent, third-party verification in-progress. Any updates, if needed, will be included in the ESG Datasheet. Once completed, SGS verification can be found in our ESG Reporting & Disclosure Reporting Archive.

(22) Reported information excludes developed-market gum brands, which were divested as of October 1, 2023 (which differs from previous years). We have recalculated our base year 2018 (where applicable) and most recent years 2021, 2022 and 2023 for year-over-year comparison. Reported information based on latest estimate; independent, third-party verification in-progress. Any updates, if needed, will be included in the ESG Datasheet. Once completed, SGS verification can be found in our ESG Reporting & Disclosure Reporting Archive.

(40) Carbon neutrality is 3rd party verified and includes carbon offsets. Carbon offsets are excluded from the corporate end to end CO2e footprint inline with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Standard.

View the full 2023 Snacking Made Right Report

NEW YORK and LONDON, August 14, 2024 /3BL/ – 

AccountAbility, a trusted global ESG Consulting and Standards firm with a three-decade history in guiding leaders to build better companies, is pleased to announce that for the third consecutive year it has been recognized by Forbes as one of The World’s Best Management Consulting Firms, this time for 2024.

“AccountAbility is extremely grateful to Forbes, Statista, our clients, and our peers to accept the Forbes award for the third consecutive year. Our continued inclusion in this distinguished ranking reinforces the ever-growing importance of sustainability/ ESG matters and their impact on the global business universe,” said Mr. Sunil (Sunny) A. Misser, CEO of AccountAbility.

“At AccountAbility, we remain committed to delivering practical, effective, and enduring outcomes that enable our clients to succeed. Our journey is shaped by the unwavering trust and invaluable support from our esteemed clients and peers. This recognition further motivates us to remain at the forefront of sustainable business solutions and to advance good ESG practices worldwide,” Mr. Misser added.

To determine The World’s Best Management Consulting Firms 2024 list, Forbes, together with Statista, conducted an independent evaluation of thousands of multinational management consultancies across 13 industries and 14 functional areas. These firms were then evaluated based on survey results conducted among 9,000 consultants (partners and executives of management consulting firms) as well as clients (executives of large global corporations) from different geographical regions worldwide, to identify and recommend The World’s Best Management Consulting Firms 2024.

This latest recognition adds to a growing list of multi-year global business awards for AccountAbility, including a three-time winner of the Best ESG Strategy Development Partner from Capital Finance International (2021-23), and a seven-time Leading Management Consultant recipient from the Financial Times (2018-24).

AccountAbility continues its journey towards building better businesses and fostering a culture of integrity, performance, and responsibility in organizations worldwide.

AccountAbility issues an annual global report on the Top Sustainability Trends facing businesses and guides leaders on ESG matters of significant priority for the future; found below:

The 7 Sustainability Trends 2023 Report

About AccountAbility: 

AccountAbility is a leading global Consulting and Standards firm that works with businesses, investors, governments, and multilateral organizations to innovate and advance the global Sustainability/ ESG agenda by improving the practices, performance, and impact of organizations. The firm focuses on delivering practical, effective, and enduring results that enable our clients to succeed.

AccountAbility is a Public Benefit Corporation, operating globally through a highly qualified team from offices in New York, London, Riyadh, and Dubai. The firm is the recipient of multiple business awards from the Financial Times, Forbes, and Capital Finance International, and its website is archived with the United States Library of Congress. Learn more at www.accountability.org

Ms. Rachel Rose 
AccountAbility 
Head of Global Operations 
+1 646-507-5905 
Email: Rachel.rose@accountability.org 
Web: www.accountability.org

The American Chemistry Council’s (ACC) campaign, Ask a Change Maker, features Tracey Campbell, LYB Executive Vice President, Sustainability & Corporate Affairs in its latest video, explaining how circularity works in keeping plastics out of landfills or the environment. Campbell serves as vice chair of the World Plastics Council and is an executive committee member of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste.

Ask a Change Maker is a campaigns launched by the ACC to showcase innovative and sustainable solutions the chemical industry provides to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The campaign aims to inspire and engage the public, policymakers, customers and stakeholders to support the chemical industry’s efforts to create a more sustainable future.

LYB is one of the leading participants in the America’s Change Makers campaign, highlighting achievements and commitments in the areas of circularity, climate and community. Plastics are essential in creating solutions for everyday sustainable living and are key to the energy transition from the latest automotive components that enable vehicle lightweighting to integral components for wind turbines and solar panels. The story of plastic is evolving and it is being written by America’s Change Makers, who are leading sustainable change.

Read Campbell’s thought leadership piece on Plastics and Planet: Enabling a sustainable future | LyondellBasell.

Visit the America’s Change Makers website to learn more about the campaign and if you missed the spotlights on Armando Lara, site manager at the LYB Lake Charles joint venture (LKO), or Brenna Hebert, Olefins operations manager at LKO, you can find their stories on LYB.com.

August 14, 2024 /3BL/ – Top federal officials, members of the Gov. Tim Walz administration, Minnesota private sector leaders, and local labor and nonprofit representatives gathered Wednesday for a collaborative discussion about home energy and efficiency rebate programs that will be implemented by the state and funded by the federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

The event — “Maximizing Decarbonization Opportunities Through the IRA Home Energy Rebate Programs” — was convened by the sustainability nonprofit Ceres and hosted at the McKnight Foundation offices in Minneapolis. The event brought together a wide array of experts and stakeholders to discuss Minnesota’s plans for the IRA’s HOMES and HEAR programs, which use federal funds to empower states to establish new rebate programs that will help residents reduce pollution and save money by upgrading to cleaner, more efficient home appliance and system upgrades.

Participants included business leaders with companies including Franklin Energy, Johnson Controls, Samsung Electronics America, and the Minnesota Retailers Trade Association, which represented Lowe’s; government officials in the U.S. Department of Energy, the Minnesota Department of Commerce, the Minnesota Department of Management and Budget, and the office of U.S. Senator Tina Smith; and representatives from the Laborer’s International Union of North America for Minnesota and North Dakota and nonprofit organizations including Ceres, Clean Energy Economy Minnesota, Elevate, the McKnight Foundation, and Rewiring America.

The event provided an opportunity for private-sector, workforce, and consumer stakeholders to share feedback and insight with government officials on rebate program designs. Participants focused on national trends and sought to identify unforeseen challenges and best practices to maximize the climate and financial benefits of home energy and efficiency programs.

“Franklin Energy has a 30-year history of working with state government and utilities in Minnesota and across the country to implement programs that provide households with upgrades aimed at saving energy and improving quality of life,” said Lloyd Kass, vice president of strategy and market development, Franklin Energy. “We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in today’s roundtable, which demonstrates that federal officials and Minnesota’s energy office are approaching the rollout of the IRA home rebate programs in the correct way, particularly in its engagement of stakeholders such as businesses like ours.”

“Our core business is smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, and we are laser-focused on tackling the 40% of global emissions coming from buildings,” said Nicholas Harbeck, manager of environmental and regulatory affairs, Johnson Controls. “The technology we have today—energy efficiency, electrification with heat pumps, and digitalization—can create big savings for homeowners and businesses while slashing greenhouse gas pollution. Johnson Controls is excited to work with states like Minnesota to ensure home and building owners across the state can save on energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the rapid adoption of heat pump incentives funded by Inflation Reduction Act. It was our honor to meet today with peer organizations and key federal and state public officials in Minnesota, and we look forward to the strong implementation of the HOMES and HEARS rebate programs here and across the United States.”

“Minnesota retailers understand consumer trends, market dynamics, and technological progress, and are well-positioned to play a key role connecting residents with the technologies they need to efficiently and affordably operate their homes,” said Bruce Nustad, president, Minnesota Retailers Association. “We are grateful for the opportunity to bring this important perspective to today’s roundtable event and are excited to see the smart design and implementation of Minnesota’s HOMES and HEAR rebate programs.”

“Samsung is honored to be part of the discussion on implementing the Inflation Reduction Act’s home energy rebates program in Minnesota. As a leader in ENERGY STAR induction cooking products, heat pump dryers, and heat pump HVAC, which can all be incentivized through the rebate programs, we stand ready to support Minnesota and all states that seek to advance energy efficiency for consumers. We have been robustly engaged with stakeholders to try to help ensure our mutual goal of success through education and awareness, including on the importance of a retailer pathway to provide rebates quickly. We look forward to continuing to partner with retail partners, the U.S. Department of Energy, state governments, and NGOs to help realize the benefits to consumers,” said Prerna Tomar, Director, Public Policy, Samsung Electronics America.

“This week marks the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act becoming law, and today’s event is testament to its impact,” said Jenna Warmuth, senior manager for Midwest regional policy, Rewiring America. “As key programs like the HOMES and HEAR program roll out in states across the U.S., it is encouraging to see the collaboration between leaders at the federal and state levels, in labor, and in business. Events like today’s roundtable in Minneapolis will ensure residents, businesses, communities, states, and the entire U.S. fully experience the IRA’s immense economic, climate, and public health benefits.”

“The clean energy transition is happening, and I want us to lead it,” said Sen. Tina Smith. “As we make the switch to cleaner, cheaper energy solutions, we need to make sure everyone benefits. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, statewide programs will provide rebates for home efficiency upgrades in Minnesota, saving families all across the state thousands of dollars a year in energy costs while helping reduce harmful emissions.”

Ceres has convened public and private sector leaders to discuss the HOMES and HEAR programs, as well as other opportunities to maximize the historic climate investments in the Inflation Reduction Act, since it passed into law in 2022. At a Ceres-hosted event in March, seven major manufacturers met with U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and Wisconsin officials as that state charted its rebate programs, and Ceres is planning a similar event in Arizona later this month. Ceres has also hosted broader discussions between federal, state, and private-sector leaders about capitalizing on the Inflation Reduction Act in states including Pennsylvania, Nevada, and Michigan.

“Leading businesses have played a crucial role in passing and implementing the Inflation Reduction Act, and their industry expertise is highly valued at both the state and federal levels as its programs roll out,” said Mel Mackin, director of state policy, Ceres. “We are proud and grateful today to have brought so many public and private-sector leaders together for a collaborative discussion to maximize the benefits of the HOMES and HEAR rebate programs in Minnesota, and we look forward to their implementation soon.”

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

FORT WORTH, Texas, August 14, 2024 /3BL/ – American Airlines is the first U.S. airline to launch an automated tag for mobility devices, part of an ongoing commitment to improve wheelchair and mobility device handling across its network. Developed in-house by American’s Technology team, the tags are currently used in the airports where American and its regional partners operate.

“American is committed to improving the travel experience for our customers who use wheelchairs and mobility devices,” said Julie Rath, American’s Senior Vice President of Airports, Reservations and Service Recovery. “Streamlining the check-in and tagging process is an industry-leading effort that will help us further improve how we handle wheelchairs for our customers who entrust us to transport their devices on their journey.”

New automated tags, replacing the previous manual tags, feature customer- and device-specific data like itineraries, delivery points, device weight, battery type and the number of items removed and taken on board. This additional information will ensure more accurate and consistent information for team members handling the devices and provide enhanced visibility of the devices throughout customers’ travel journeys. The automation also enables the device’s information to be more easily shared across frontline team members’ applications, ensuring team members have the right information at the right time.

American has launched multiple improvements across its operation to deliver a positive, more seamless travel experience for customers with wheelchairs and mobility devices. These actions have helped American improve handling of these devices. American’s handling rate for mobility devices improved nearly 13% from the first half of 2023 to the first half of 2024.

Hands-on training for team members: With the help of an outside organization, American offers in-person mobility device training to its Airport Customer Service and Customer Operations team members and vendor partners, which supplements comprehensive web-based training delivered to all American airport team members.Investing in airport infrastructure: Wheelchair movers have been deployed and lifts are being installed at the airline’s hubs and other airports with high mobility device traffic, which helps lower the risk of damaging mobility devices and team member injury.Streamlining the traveler experience: American made it easier for customers to add and maintain wheelchairs and other mobility devices as part of their travel profiles. Starting this fall, customers can conveniently access their saved travel preferences, such as traveling with a mobility device or service animal and apply their details to any upcoming trip when managing on aa.com. Enabling customers to manage these needs digitally ensures the airline has the necessary information to safety and securely transport devices.

About American Airlines Group
To Care for People on Life’s Journey®. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL and the company’s stock is included in the S&P 500. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com and connect with American @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines.

With over 10 million social enterprises operating globally, generating US$2 trillion in revenue annually, and creating 200 million jobs, these businesses are effecting sustainable societal change by putting people and planet first.

With the world in a state of polycrisis – a term describing the simultaneous occurrence of several catastrophic events such as conflict, poverty, unemployment, and climate change – social enterprises are more critical than ever. These organizations, like Faces Up Uganda, Elli Cares, Key Farmers Cameroon, and Alexa Goodman Consulting, are a powerful force for change, and although it may seem like a recent trend, MovingWorlds reports that social enterprises have been around for over 600 years.

However, despite their growing impact, these organizations face a number of hurdles. Limited access to financing, lack of public awareness and recognition, lack of government support, inadequate legal or fiscal frameworks, and restricted access to procurement processes can all hinder their ability to thrive.

At SAP, we actively support social enterprises through our comprehensive corporate social responsibility strategy, which includes knowledge and skills transfer from employees and social procurement. Through this strategy, we facilitate pro bono consulting, mentorships, and coaching opportunities to help support social enterprises to scale their businesses, as well as connect them with new B2B markets like SAP Business Network. This approach can empower social enterprises to overcome business challenges, scale their impact, and achieve their ever-important missions.

Pro Bono Consulting: A Win-Win for Social Enterprises and SAP Employees

Building on more than a decade of experience executing pro bono consulting programs, SAP introduced a new way for more employees to share their expertise and experience with social enterprises through the Acceleration Collective initiative. The initiative is hosted on the TRANSFORM Support Hub, a global platform launched in partnership with MovingWorlds, Unilever, and the TRANSFORM program as a resource for social enterprises to access free, ongoing, bespoke support to scale their business.

Last year alone, 120 SAP employees leveraged their expertise on the platform, completing 51 projects and generating an in-kind contribution of $458,835. This initiative can not only offer growth for the social enterprises but can also foster SAP employees’ development through valuable experiential learning.

Employees Creating Change and Being Changed

SAP employees tap into skills from their day-to-day role and harness this expertise to create a solution to a real business challenge their social enterprise client is experiencing. Through this collaboration, employees contribute to the social enterprise’s mission while given the opportunity to flex and grow valuable leadership skills like cross-cultural collaboration, active listening, and a greater understanding of the challenges that small businesses face. To bring that to life, here are a few inspiring stories from employee participants of Acceleration Collective:

Collaborating with a Youth Art Education Organization on Its Strategic and Funding Plans

David Elliott, a senior user assistance developer at SAP UK, collaborated with Faces Up Uganda, a youth development NGO supporting young people from vulnerable backgrounds. The organization uses arts and crafts education to help young people overcome psychosocial challenges and develop essential personal and professional skills.

Elliott reviewed the organization’s website and strategic plan, enhancing the communication of its vision, mission, and values, and wrote grant applications to help secure funding. His work included regular meetings with the organization’s founder, Ssekitto Kalule Emmanuel, who praised Elliott for making “every word count” and inspiring the team.

“My experience with Faces Up revealed the potential of my skill set,” Elliott added. “Clarifying grammatical rules and style taught me about the impact of language in specific contexts, which has influenced my role at SAP. Seeing my work’s impact and receiving gratitude has motivated me to donate many hours to these projects.”

Partnering for Growing an App Supporting Independence for People Living with Dementia

A team of SAP employees from across the Asia, Pacific, and Japan (APJ) region – Binh Pham, senior value advisor; Sandra Chang, senior commercial business partner; and Summer Zeng, delivery manager, Product Engineering – worked alongside Elli Cares, a startup focused on supporting people with cognitive impairments. The team brainstormed with the founder, offering insights and recommendations on scaling and growing to take the business to the next level.

Pham found the experience fun, insightful, and humbling, as the team learned the challenges that startups like Elli Cares face and provided recommendations and solutions. “I was pleasantly surprised that my skill sets from my day-to-day job were transferrable and applicable to the case of this organization,” Pham said.

Enhancing the Funding Strategy for an Organization Empowering Rural Agricultural Communities

A Germany-based pro bono team – Fabio Westphal, solution advisor; Cansu Günay, enterprise customer success partner; Charlie Vu, specialist solution advisor; and Lilly Selzer, customer success partner – focused on strengthening Key Farmers Cameroon’s investor and donor outreach. This enterprise empowers rural communities through sustainable agriculture and vocational training. The SAP team refined the organization’s pitch deck and social media presence, enhancing its chances of securing funding. Westphal highlighted that he learned the importance of clear, trustful communication and concise storytelling in conveying complex ideas.

Scaling the Online Presence of a Consulting Firm Dedicated to Addressing Environmental Challenges with Creative Scientific Communication

Jaime Atilano, digital solution advisor, and Mallory Rioux, Customer Success, used their expertise in technology, brand building, and customer success to assist Alexa Goodman Consulting. Founded by scientist and environmental activist Alexa Goodman, the firm offers services in environmental education, science communication, professional development, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and team building.

The SAP team optimized the organization’s website SEO to drive traffic and grow its online presence. “This experience was eye-opening. It’s one thing to learn about moving from empathy to action, but this opportunity allowed empathy to thrive,” Atilano shared. “I learned new skills, collaborated with a great team, and supported an entrepreneur working to save our oceans and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. It brought SAP Corporate Social Responsibility to life and confirmed that there is good in this world, and we can be part of it.”

Are You a New Pro Bono Consultant?

Two of our experts share their advice:

“Have confidence in your ability to provide value where you least expect it.”
– David Elliott, technical communication specialist at SAP

“Embrace the uncomfortable. You won’t know everything, but you are there for a reason. Lean on your strengths and bridge gaps, even in small ways. Learning a new skill can seem daunting, but it’s a win-win: upskilling for you while supporting a social good endeavor. Your effort will make a difference for the client and the world.”
– Jaime Atilano, digital solution advisor at SAP

Looking Ahead

The challenges we face in today’s world may be vast, but the potential for change that is created when social enterprises and professionals come together is even greater. As we move toward solutions, social enterprises have emerged as a springboard to a more just and sustainable future. Through collaboration and the power of collective action, we can further enable these changemakers to create innovative solutions to some of the world’s biggest challenges, all while bolstering the skills and expanding the perspectives of our own employees.

Are you inspired to utilize your skills for good and join the pro bono consulting movement? SAP employees and alumni can find more information through the Acceleration Collective launch page, and professionals from other organizations as well as social enterprises can learn more through the TRANSFORM Support Hub.

Hemang Desai is global program director of the Pro Bono Consulting Portfolio for Corporate Social Responsibility at SAP.

Originially published by WardsAuto

By Marie Hattar, Senior vice president, CMO, Keysight Technologies

The driverless future of autonomous vehicles is set to transform society by reinventing the transportation industry and changing consumer behaviors forever. As a result of this seismic shift, autonomous driving technology is expected to generate up to $400 billion in new revenue by 2035, according to recent research by the McKinsey Center for Future Mobility.

When AV technology is fully developed, driverless cars and trucks will provide immense benefits for society. Imagine the roadways when nearly all serious accidents and fender-benders can be eliminated and long-haul trucks can transport goods around the clock without needing to stop for sleep.

Applications for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) will replace the average human reaction time, lowering it from 1.6 seconds to just 0.5 seconds using sensors and algorithms, saving countless lives in the process.

The knock-on effects of autonomous driving should lead to further gains in human productivity and economic growth.

Hairpin-Turn Challenges for Autonomous Driving

Most public officials support the inclusion of capabilities for advanced driver assistance systems in regulatory frameworks and statutes. Regulations already are in place to govern pilot robotaxis and robo-shuttle services in many cities across the U.S., China, Israel and Europe.

Yet the share of consumers who support government regulation of fully self-driving cars has declined 15% over the past year, and trust in the safety of autonomous vehicles is down 5%, according to McKinsey. To address these ongoing safety concerns, extensive public education and outreach programs will be needed. In addition, regulatory controls will be critical for creating a trusted ecosystem that can balance the needs of drivers, pedestrians, businesses and law enforcement.

A vehicle with ADAS features is not autonomous, because drivers can take control of some ADAS driving functions when necessary. ADAS features continue to improve with cameras and sensors that can alert drivers about other vehicles and pedestrians on the road. They can also perform adaptive cruise control and activate the brakes in an emergency.

Unlike autos with ADAS, fully autonomous vehicles are designed to manage every aspect of driving without support from a human driver whatsoever. An AV requires much more complex hardware, software and computing power, as well as testing on the road and in the lab to accommodate millions of miles of driving scenarios.

SAE International has developed different Levels of Driving Automation for the industry, ranging from Level 0 (minimal autonomy) to Level 5 (fully autonomous). Mercedes has introduced its first Level 3 autonomous system, which can drive the vehicle under limited conditions, while Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is at Level 2, featuring some autonomous support for drivers.

Following a series of recent AV crashes, a group of six U.S. senators issued a stern letter to NHTSA. The senators urged the agency to use its regulatory powers to address the dangers of automated driving systems. “Public roads are not a sandbox for manufacturers or operators to play in, and regulatory agencies like NHTSA should be highly cautious about providing lax pathways onto the road for dangerous vehicles,” the senators wrote.

Autonomous vehicles should not be regulated by the same rules that govern standard passenger vehicles, because those regulations do not address the unique safety challenges for AVs. To address these concerns, the industry will need to continue building public trust through the improved performance of AV systems, especially in controlled environments.

Next-Gen Technology for Autonomous Driving

Reaching a totally hands-off and eyes-off autonomous driving experience will require a range of next-generation technologies that are still being developed. Automakers will continue to increase the safety of autonomous vehicles by applying new technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve the performance of infrared sensors and sensors that use radio and light waves to help detect road users in all weather conditions. These technologies combine a variety of sensors that can recognize their surroundings, such as thermographic cameras, radar, lidar, sonar, GPS, odometry and inertial measurement units.

New applications for simulation, design, manufacturing, and maintenance, repair and overhaul are also creating a strong need for digital twin technology. Using a digital twin to replicate and test difficult scenarios in the real world is called edge case testing. Manufacturers are adopting emulation software and digital twin technology to accurately test and measure automotive components in the lab before launching them in the real world, helping to develop and deliver autonomous vehicles to market sooner.

The technical brain of an AV system relies on software systems that actively protect passengers. As this market grows, the costs will steadily fall for these new sensors and high-performance computers, just as safety standards will continue to make progress around the country and the world. To help build confidence in AVs, the industry will need to generate a common set of testing standards, similar to crash safety standards, that AV developers can evaluate their systems against.

The winding road to a driverless future still holds many twists and turns ahead as autonomous driving evolves. Over the next decade, our car-crazy society will be realigned through major changes to workforce commuting, car ownership and parking practices, new mobility options for seniors and the disabled, and possibly even large-scale demographic shifts away from large cities to more suburban and rural areas. It should be an exciting and wild ride for years to come as the auto industry reinvents itself with ever-increasing levels of automation.

In April, Hiring Our Heroes announced 5 grant recipients for the Small Business Award for Veterans & Military Spouses, an initiative that provides a one-time $10,000 grant for selected military-connected entrepreneurs, thanks to the generosity of the FedEx Founder’s Fund. Selected grant recipients displayed both business acumen as well as two key characteristics – a dedication to overcoming economic hardships and a commitment to giving back to their communities.

In our 5-part blog series, we’re meeting these grant recipients and learning more about the inspirational businesses that they have built and the passion that fuels them daily.

The fifth grant recipient is Your Personal Gardener & Arborist, a one-stop shop for all your lawn and tree care needs, based in East Troy, Wisconsin.

In January 2011, James and Natalie Chesebro started Your Personal Gardener & Arborist to fill the employment gap between James’ deployments. Initially a part-time landscaping business, it was founded by James, a Green Beret who served from 2002 to 2016, providing a range of lawn, landscaping, tree, and snow care services when he was home. The business quickly grew and has expanded significantly each year. With six children, two of whom now work in the business, Your Personal Gardener & Arborist continues to thrive. What sets the business apart is its comprehensive range of services, including installations, large tree removals, mulching, mowing, and much more, making it a one-stop shop for all lawn care needs.

In the early stages of the company, James and Natalie encountered numerous challenges, including disruptions due to James’s deployments. Additionally, the company struggled with a competitive job market and had difficulty finding qualified candidates for open positions. To address these challenges, James and Natalie strayed from online hiring platforms, instead implementing word-of-mouth referral programs, and actively recruiting from high schools and colleges to attract students interested in outdoor work. Demonstrating financial acumen, they invest in high-quality equipment that reduces labor demands and enhances employee satisfaction. They also provide a range of incentives and benefits, including bonuses, health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, paid training, and awesome uniforms!

James and Natalie have made significant contributions to their local economy in East Troy, Wisconsin. What started as a small operation with two individuals and a pickup truck has grown into a thriving small business employing a full staff of 22. Their marketing efforts are supported by professional affiliations, and they actively seek to hire qualified veterans. The company supports local restaurants by catering for their employees, fuels their fleet at nearby gas stations, and sources nearly all bulk materials from local vendors. Through these efforts, James and Natalie not only drive their business forward but also strengthen their community, demonstrating the spirit of local entrepreneurship.

Your Personal Gardener & Arborist demonstrates exemplary leadership and community engagement through initiatives like their annual “Tree Day of Service,” offering complimentary tree care to a selected veteran, and volunteering for Project Green Care & Snow Care to support deployed military families. Active in the Mukwonago Chamber of Commerce and recognized as Wisconsin’s Small Business Administration Veteran Owned Company of the Year, they promote veterans, social inclusion, and gender equality. As members of several professional associations and a federally certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, they truly exemplify a thriving company making a meaningful community impact.

James is looking into expanding the business even more by offering bulk materials for commercial customers, and the $10,000 grant money will be used to build a bunker for those materials. The couple was honored and flattered to be selected as it not only serves their company, but their family, employees’ families, communities, and the customers they serve.

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

We recently participated in the Cradles to Crayons Backpack-A-Thon in Wilmington, where we dedicated our time to packing backpacks with essential school supplies for children in Delaware. This event is crucial in ensuring that kids have the necessary tools for learning, especially for families who face barriers to accessing these essentials. By providing items such as notebooks, pencils, and other educational materials, we are helping to create a more equitable start to the school year for many children.

The impact of this event goes beyond just the backpacks. It represents a community coming together to support its youngest members and their educational journeys. Our efforts help alleviate some of the financial burdens on families, allowing them to focus on other important aspects of their lives. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated volunteers and Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia for their commitment to making a difference in the lives of these children, one backpack at a time. Our contributions are truly appreciated and make a significant impact on our community.

KFC Foundation

The KFC Foundation is awarding $1 million in grants to 100 community-based non-profit organizations this year. Grants are awarded quarterly, with each cycle focusing on addressing different crucial needs. This cycle, $260,000 will fund projects aimed at improving health and well-being. Each year, Kentucky Fried Wishes, one of the KFC Foundation’s community giving programs, invites non-profit organizations to apply for a grant to fund a project on their wish list.

This cycle’s grant recipients span over 19 different states and support a variety of causes and communities, including:

Count Basie Center for the Arts, located in Red Bank, NJ, is committed to generating opportunities for participation in the arts and driving regional economic prosperity. With the support of their Kentucky Fried Wishes grant, Count Basie Center for the Arts will establish a state-of-the-art, barrier-free dance studio, ensuring inclusive access to artistic opportunities.Neighbor Up Brevard, located in Melbourne, FL, implements solutions for revitalizing impoverished communities. Their Kentucky Fried Wishes project is installing a new playground and refurbishing a basketball court, providing fitness, team sports, and informal recreation to over 140 children.Treehouse Therapies, located in Redmond, OR, is dedicated to unlocking the potential of children and communities by providing care regardless of financial limitations. With funding from Kentucky Fried Wishes, they plan to transform a small farm into a pediatric therapy clinic with an outdoor space, fostering therapeutic opportunities for children with disabilities.Turnstone Center, located in Fort Wayne, IN, empowers people with disabilities to reach their highest potential through comprehensive services and programs. With their Kentucky Fried Wishes grant, Turnstone will renovate their adaptive playground and create an outdoor learning classroom.

Kentucky Fried Wishes, Cycle 2, grant recipients:

Aurora Public Library Foundation (Auora, IL)

Autism Tennessee (Nashville, TN)

Breathing Association (Columbus, OH)

Camp Jamison Corporation (Philadelphia, PA)

Caring Connection (Benton Harbor, MI)

ChildSafe Colorado (Fort Collins, CO)

Columbia County Sanctuary Movement (Hudson, NY)

Count Basie Center for the Arts (Red Bank, NJ)

Emporia Area Chamber Foundation (Emporia, KS)

Gamers Outreach (Saline, MI)

Healing Hearts Movement (Las Vegas, NV)

Identify Your Dream (Farmington Hills, MI)

Maryville Community Library (Maryville, IL)

Neighbor Up Brevard (Melbourne, FL)

One Safe Place (Fort Worth, TX)

Paulding County RCO (Powder Springs, GA)

Rocky Mountain Youth Corps (Ranchos de Taos, NM)

Sight Savers America (Pelham, AL)

Sleep in Heavenly Peace (Eugene, OR)

Therapeutic Riding At Centenary University (Hackettstown, NJ)

Treehouse Therapies (Redmond, OR)

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and Early Learning Center (Tacoma, WA)

Turnstone Center (Fort Wayne, IN)

Two Top Mountain Adaptive Sports Foundation (Mercersburg, PA)

Veterans K9 Solutions (Evans, GA)

Wears Valley Ranch (Sevierville, TN)

Kentucky Fried Wishes is just one way the KFC Foundation supports, empowers, and serves joy to KFC restaurant employees and communities. The KFC Foundation also provides programs focused on education, financial literacy, and hardship assistance for KFC restaurant employees, as well as a food donation program to fight hunger and food waste.

The next Kentucky Fried Wishes grant cycle will run from September 16 – 30 and focus on caring for the environment and animals. Non-profit organizations seeking funding for a project within that scope can learn more and apply for a grant at kfcfoundation.org/wishes.

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