Tag: 3BL

At Agritechnica 2025, CNH brand, STEYR Traktoren, is underlining its customer promise to be ‘Your Partner To Rely On’, and its commitment to products born in Austria, displaying tractors across its product range – including a significant new introduction. STEYR^® can be found in Hall 3 on Stand B21 at the exhibition in Hanover, Germany, from November 9-15.

A dedicated #FriendsOfSTEYR corner will allow STEYR fans to engage with the brand and produce social media contents. There will also be a display illustrating the STEYR Sustainability project in partnership with German forestry organisation – AGDW (Federation of German Forest Owner Associations). In addition, visitors can expect one more significant item of tractor news to be revealed at the show.

A key highlight will be the 340hp 6340 Terrus CVT, from a range recently refined to further boost convenience, with new technology bundles and a revised joystick option that can now control both front and rear linkages. The latest 302hp (max) 6280 Absolut CVT will also be shown, now including a new armrest, screen and advanced suspension.

Among the developments will be a new 6200 Impuls CVT, top of a three-model line which has undergone a radical restyle that encompasses a full redesign within. Impuls tractors now benefit from a completely revised operator environment, while a new front axle enhances driveability.

Read more here.

Nearly two decades ago, leading furniture manufacturers founded the Sustainable Furnishings Council with a simple but powerful vision: to transform the home furnishings industry through sustainability.

Today, on behalf of our Board of Directors and SFC voting members, I am proud to share that our mission is stepping onto the global stage.

By joining forces with Cascale — the global alliance empowering collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry — we are unlocking new opportunities for the furniture industry to lead in climate action and social responsibility.

This is not the end of SFC’s story — it is a powerful next chapter that evokes exciting new opportunities within the consumer goods industry. 

SFC’s services will be delivered by Cascale, while SFC continues as a membership organization for a transitional period. This means SFC members benefit from the same trusted brand, but with expanded support from Cascale.

Our tools, programs, people and community are now part of a larger ecosystem where the impact will be broader, deeper, and global.

Our Journey: From Grassroots to Industry Leaders

Since our beginnings in 2006, SFC has been the voice for sustainability in the home furnishings industry. What started as a grassroots effort by concerned furnishings stakeholders at High Point Market (one of the largest home furnishings markets in the world) has grown into a respected industry-wide coalition.

Together, we’ve:

• Championed responsible wood sourcing, spotlighting third-party certifications such Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, to fight against illegal logging which decimates our climate and contributes to biodiversity loss.
• Through education, we helped members eliminate chemicals of concern in their materials, incorporate fair labor practices across the value chain, and develop circular business models.
• Created signature tools like the Wood Furniture Scorecard with partner National Wildlife Federation (NWF) along with our exclusive member Eco-Insight Assessment Tool, both of which empower companies to be transparent, measure, improve, and share their progress.
• Called attention to the staggering waste problem, with millions of tons of furniture (often called “fast furniture”) discarded each year.

Looking back, it is remarkable how far we’ve come — and humbling to see how our members’ leadership has transformed consumer awareness and industry standards.

Why Cascale? Why Now?

Cascale is uniquely positioned to take our mission to the next level. Formerly the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cascale rebranded in 2024 to reflect its expansion into consumer goods industries beyond fashion — including furnishings. With over 300 global members representing brands, manufacturers, retailers, and NGOs, Cascale is a proven force for systemic change, catalyzing collective action at scale.

Through tools like the Higg Index, and the Better Buying supplier surveys of buyer purchasing practices, which it acquired earlier this year, Cascale has helped companies worldwide measure their environmental and social impact. Now, by bringing SFC’s assets and expertise into the alliance, the home furnishings industry will gain access to these robust global frameworks — while Cascale gains the insights, relationships, and tools SFC has built over nearly two decades.

To emphasize, this marks a strategic fit for all organizations and comes at a prime moment, especially witnessing the momentum first-hand atCascale’s flagship Annual Meeting, where members get together to solve systemic challenges. While our industry’s sustainability challenges are complex, together we can accelerate solutions at scale.

What This Means for Our Industry and Our Members

• For SFC members: The SFC services will be delivered by Cascale, while SFC continues as a membership organization for a transitional period. This means SFC members benefit from the same trusted brand but with expanded support from Cascale.
• For Cascale members: Over time, as the integration process progresses, SFC’s key assets will be accessible to Cascale members.
• For the industry: While Cascale is acquiring the SFC brand, SFC will continue to use its logo and branding to ensure ongoing recognition amid transition.
• For consumers: The work we’ve done at SFC to educate and inspire more conscious purchasing will now resonate even more powerfully, as global brands and retailers align around shared standards under Cascale’s mission.

Looking Forward: A Call to Action

I invite every one of you — members, partners, and friends of SFC — to stay ambitious and engaged with us in shaping this next chapter. Together, we are scaling our vision and impact in ways that will define the future of our industry.

As I reflect on 19 years of SFC’s journey, I am grateful for the passion and persistence of our founders, members, partners, and supporters. Together, we’ve proven that sustainability is not a trend — it’s the future of furnishings.

In this episode, we will hear from Nadine Hönighaus, Global ESG Governance Lead, KPMG International and Partner, KPMG in Germany and Pilar Galán, Partner, Head of Financial Services Legal, KPMG in Spain, and Legal Lead, Global ESG, KPMG International — who will share insights about a recent report launched by KPMG International discussing incentivizing long-term value creation by linking sustainability metrics to board members’ pay.

Click here to listen to episode 40 of ESG voices

By Anthony Samadani, Co-Owner, Good News Network

As co-owner of the Good News Network, I have long believed in shining a light on solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities. That same conviction led me to serve as a commissioner on the Global Commission on Healthy Indoor Air, an International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) initiative announced yesterday that represents the world’s foremost alliance of global leaders working to advance healthy indoor air. I am deeply passionate about advancing healthy indoor air because it affects every one of us, every single day, in all the buildings where we spend our time.

That’s why I’m especially excited to talk more with one of the Commission’s co-chairs and leaders, a true pioneer in indoor air science: Dr. Lidia Morawska, a Distinguished Professor and Australian Laureate Fellow in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

From her base in Brisbane, Australia, Dr. Morawska has become one of the world’s foremost authorities on indoor air quality. For decades, her groundbreaking research has revealed how the air we breathe inside homes, schools and workplaces affects our health, learning and productivity. Long before indoor air was widely acknowledged as a global health concern, she was documenting its central role and urging governments to take it seriously.

Now, as co-chair of the newly launched Global Commission on Healthy Indoor Air, Dr. Morawska is channeling her life’s work into a coordinated international movement. I spoke with her about how the science has evolved, why this moment matters and why this first-of-its-kind commission represents a turning point for global public health.

Q: Early in your career, indoor air quality wasn’t seen as a major scientific priority. What changed?
Dr. Morawska: “When I began my career, few people outside the scientific community considered the air inside buildings to be a matter of serious scientific inquiry. Outdoor pollution captured headlines, but what happened inside, where we spend 90 percent of our lives, remained largely overlooked or neglected. Over the years, my colleagues and I have shown, through painstaking research, that the quality of indoor air significantly influences our health, our well-being, our learning and our productivity. The science has steadily built a case that clean indoor air is not an amenity but a critical component to our health.”

Q: Why does the creation of a Global Commission on Healthy Indoor Air feel so significant right now?
Dr. Morawska: “Today, the science has brought us to a turning point. I’m leading the Global Commission on Healthy Indoor Air because I see an opportunity to elevate decades of research into a coordinated global movement. This Commission represents something we need right now: a gathering of leaders who will not only affirm that indoor air matters, but also work to transform policies, standards and investments so that we can deliver on our shared goal of making healthy indoor air a reality for everyone.”

Dr. Morawska’s leadership underscores the need for action: the science is no longer in doubt. Indoor air quality is one of the most powerful, yet overlooked, determinants of human health. The Global Commission on Healthy Indoor Air exists to act on that evidence—mobilizing leaders, shaping policy and driving solutions that can touch everyone’s life and deliver incredible public health benefits all around the world.

View original content here.

Covia team members work hard to provide high-quality minerals and material solutions for our customers. When you ask Bleve Willoughby what drives Covia’s success, he doesn’t talk first about equipment or output. He talks about people.

As plant manager for Covia’s Elco and Tamms facilities in Illinois, Bleve oversees a team of driven employees who play a major part in Covia’s outstanding service to customers and our commitment to excellence.

A Career Built on Curiosity and Growth

Bleve’s career path took a few turns before he made his way to the minerals industry. After graduating from college, his early career included stints at a nuclear power plant, a vegetable oil facility, and a graphite electrode manufacturer before finding an opportunity in 2014 to become the plant superintendent at the Elco plant.

It didn’t take long for Bleve to progress in his Covia career. He was offered a position as plant manager at Covia’s Troy Grove, Illinois, plant in 2016, where his responsibilities allowed him to learn more about different aspects of the business ranging from safety to finance.

After spending a year in Troy Grove, he headed to southern Illinois to serve as plant manager for both Elco and the nearby Tamms plant. His role requires him to oversee operations for both facilities, handling everything from production to budgets for a pair of sites located roughly five miles apart.

The two plants are located near each other, but they produce different materials. The Elco plant mines a unique deposit of microcrystalline silica and processes it into IMSIL® microcrystalline silica fillers, and the Tamms plant processes nepheline syenite into MINEX® functional filler and MINBLOC® HC High-Clarity Antiblock additive. The dual nature of these plants requires Bleve to manage different customers, safety processes, and other key differences for each plant, a balancing act that he successfully navigates every day.

A Culture of Growth and Assistance

Managing both plants adds some complexity to his job, but Bleve knows he has plenty of support at Covia. Bleve emphasized that leadership training and direct customer interactions were valuable learning experiences that have proven beneficial in his current role. He’s also appreciative of other people who are ready to support him, whether it’s his fellow team members at Elco and Tamms or other individuals throughout Covia.

“There’s always help available for us,” Bleve said. “You don’t feel like you’re trying to run this plant on your own without support. If I need some help, I can call someone, and support will be there.”

Bleve also has a special form of support within the company – his dad. Bleve’s father worked for Covia for 30 years before retiring a few years ago. While the two of them never worked in the same plant together, his father still offers plenty of insight from his years of experience.

“When I got hired at Elco, my dad worked at the McIntyre plant in Georgia,” Bleve explained. “It was nice to have him available for questions, so I would send a message or call him from time to time to see what he’d think or how he did things at his plant.”

Quality People, Quality Results

For Bleve, success at Elco and Tamms always comes back to the 55 individuals there who make it possible. Whether it’s running complex equipment, solving problems for customers, or looking out for one another’s safety, the team takes ownership of their work and their impact.

“The people are the plant,” he said. “The equipment’s there, but it doesn’t run itself, even with some automation. People are what makes us successful.”

The team’s commitment to success is shown in the team’s track record: more than a decade without a lost-time incident, process changes that boosted output by 20%, and a reputation for premium quality products. It also extends beyond the plants, as team members volunteer as local fire chiefs, serve as mentors, and find other ways to strengthen the communities where they live and work.

Outside of work, Bleve stays just as committed to his own team at home – his three kids. Between school sports, trips to the lake, the occasional round of golf, and deer hunting in the winter, family life keeps him grounded and reminds him why the work he and his colleagues do matters.

Together, Bleve and the Elco and Tamms teams embody the best of Covia’s strengths: a culture of accountability, pride in quality, and a shared belief that what they do matters both on site and at home.

Cascale has co-signed a new joint statement urging the European Union to ensure that the Omnibus I Package advances responsible business conduct in global supply chains.

This action follows a joint statement issued in March 2025, which called to protect corporate due diligence in response to the EU Omnibus proposal.

The current statement, signed by Cascale and amfori, the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI), Ethical Trade Norway, Ethical Trade Sweden, Fair Labor Association, Fair Wear Foundation, Green Button, and the Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLCP), calls on EU institutions to negotiate the simplification of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Director (CSRD) in a way that maintains alignment with international standards, including the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and ILO Conventions.

Specifically, the signatories urge EU policymakers to:

• Embed risk-based due diligence and reporting obligations so companies can focus on the most severe and likely risks to people and the environment, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Enable collaboration across supply chains to collect necessary data for effective due diligence, avoiding rigid caps that could hinder transparency, responsible business practices, and meaningful engagement.
• Ensure legal certainty and policy stability, so that businesses can plan, invest, and act confidently with global partners.

Read the joint press release here.

Risk-based due diligence allows companies to prioritise the most severe risks, build resilient supply chains, and contribute meaningfully to the EU’s climate and social goals. Simplification of due diligence and reporting, the signatories stress, must not come at the expense of robust corporate sustainability standards or alignment with the UN Guiding Principles, OECD Guidelines, and key ILO Conventions. The group stands ready to support the EU institutions in delivering a framework that is ambitious, risk-based, and fit for purpose.

T-Mobile employees across network engineering, public safety, community support and field ops prepare year-round for the moments that matter most. When the unexpected hits, their training, new tools and hard-earned experience come together to keep families and first responders connected — fast and with compassion.

That preparation came into action when Monika Thornton, Program Manager for T-Mobile’s Consumer Group, was deployed to St. Louis after a tornado.

“When we arrived at the fire station with our community support truck, the firehouse told us, ‘We don’t actually need the Wi-Fi. But this community does,’” Thornton said. “And then we joined them, going house to house, inviting neighbors to use our charging stations and Wi-Fi. Later, the first responders showed us a block where homes had collapsed — families were eating dinner outside because they had nowhere else to go. We were able to give them power, and the firehouse gave them hope.

“That night, we were more than a network. We were a neighbor.”

September’s National Preparedness Month is a reminder that readiness can save lives. And for T-Mobile, that means constantly evolving the technologies and playbooks that keep families, first responders and communities connected when it matters most.

“Connectivity is more than calling loved ones, it’s an essential service,” says Nicole Hudnet, Industry Segment Adviser for T-Mobile for Business. “It enables 911, power restoration, road clearing, prescription access and even grocery transactions. We don’t just restore signal. We help restore life as people know it.”

The goal is simple: keeping communities and first responders connected. The approach is layered, with our largest ever mobile cell sites on heavy duty trucks and drones that provide temporary coverage, software that reroutes network traffic during congestion and conserves power, hardened sites with batteries and generators and satellites in low earth orbit linking directly to smartphones — all led in the field by T-Mobile’s experienced and compassionate emergency response teams. And with 50% more drones, more satellite trucks and trailers, and nearly double the number of VSATs — small portable satellite antennas that provide temporary wireless service — T-Mobile is equipping teams to move faster, go farther and reach more people when disasters hit.

An Evolving Tool Kit

“There isn’t a one size fits all in disaster recovery,” says Stacy Tindell, Senior Director of National Operations at T-Mobile. “You have to have a lot of different tools in the tool kit to respond to different types of situations that happen on the ground.”

A key part of that toolkit is an expanded drone program, which is transforming disaster response by providing critical coverage, situational awareness and communications access in areas unreachable by ground vehicles.

The various drones available provide a range of important functions in disaster scenarios. For example, heavy-lift drones have a 60-minute battery endurance for multi-mile range use and 100 lb. payload, which is perfect for rapid deployable communications tools and cargo drops.

“Some of the drones that I’m flying, like the tethered drone systems, are capable of reaching 400 feet high to operate as a mobile coverage source on T-Mobile’s 5G network, creating a coverage bubble of about two miles,” says Kris Rhoades, Senior Disaster Recovery Manager at T-Mobile. “That lets us reach areas without ground access and provide that critical communications piece for first responders.”

In addition to coverage, search and rescue drones are equipped with thermal imaging, high-resolution cameras and AI tools to help locate missing persons or give first responders aerial visibility of areas needing support.

Smart and Self-Healing: The Self-Organizing Network (SON) Another innovation powering T-Mobile’s readiness is the Self-Organizing Network (SON), which uses automation, AI and machine learning to monitor the network and make real-time adjustments — no human intervention needed. SON can automatically tilt antennas to strengthen coverage, reroute signals around outages and scale back non-essential services to conserve power when running on backup generators or batteries, keeping people connected as long as possible.

Leveraging the Network

Another key part of T-Mobile’ s disaster response strategy is T-Priority, the cutting-edge public safety solution that combines a dedicated 5G network slice with an ecosystem of tools including drones and deployables. The slice helps provide public safety agencies with lower latency and faster speeds more consistently with the highest priority across all 5G bands. So, the essential tools that firefighters, paramedics, utility crews and healthcare teams depend on every day — like smartphones, tablets, thermal imaging and radios — run on a network that keeps up with them.

“Technologies like T-Priority and network slicing will continue to help create a streamlined and effective way to keep connectivity happening in real time during high stress situations,” says Luis Reyes, Vice President of Field Engineering for the West Region at T-Mobile.

T-Mobile’s direct-to-cell satellite solution, T-Satellite with Starlink, is another critical component of its disaster response playbook.

“T-Satellite is a game changer,” Tindell says. “We first turned it on during Hurricane Helene in 2024 and then put those lessons to work when Southern California faced devastating wildfires. Across those events, it carried more than 1 million texts — including to 911 — and over 200 Wireless Emergency Alerts.”

Satellite texting, including the ability to text 911, is now available for almost every smartphone, with data use for select apps already available on Pixel 10. This has been especially useful in areas where cell towers are down or inaccessible.

Proven Tools and Community Commitment

These advancements build on T-Mobile’s on-the-ground response including deployable units, power redundancy and community outreach. Deployable assets like SatCOWs (Satellite Cell on Wheels) and SatCOLTs (Satellite Cell on Light Trucks) can be quickly dispatched to restore coverage when infrastructure is damaged.

“These are cell sites on wheels. We roll them in to provide temporary coverage after an event,” says John Melbert, Manager of Emergency Operations. “It’s like picking the right tool from a toolbox — you don’t always need a bigger hammer. We assess the need, then assemble the right assets.”

“As satellite tech advances, each truck can do more,” he adds. “We can offer services from a single vehicle that weren’t possible before.”

And sometimes, the right tool is meeting people where they are.

“When we were in Malibu during the devastating fires in January, a man walked up needing power banks, not for himself, but for six people staying in his home who had lost everything,” Thornton recalls. “Our team gave him chargers and Wi-Fi so they could file insurance claims, reach out to loved ones and feel safe. It reminded me that the most difficult situations can bring out the best in people — and our role is to support that goodness.”

Learn more at T-Mobile.com/news/emergency-response.

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T-Satellite: Available with compatible device in most outdoor areas in the U.S. where you can see the sky. Satellite service, including text to 911, may be delayed, limited, or unavailable. Included with Experience Beyond; or $10/mo.; auto renews monthly. Cancel anytime. T-Priority features available for eligible emergency response organizations on select plans. Capable device required. Performance baseline commits available network resources to help maintain threshold throughput, even in times of congestion. See 5G device, coverage and access details at T-Mobile.com.

WASHINGTON, D.C., September 25, 2025 /3BL/ – The Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP), a nonprofit organization that mobilizes philanthropy to support recovery from disasters, today announced $6.8 million in funding for community-led recovery efforts as part of the second round of grants from its Truist Foundation Western North Carolina Recovery and Resiliency Fund to support ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. This investment in recovery is part of Truist and Truist Foundation’s $725 million Truist Cares for Western North Carolina initiative.

“We know that when local communities and organizations are at the center of efforts to rebuild, leading the way with their knowledge and dedication, long-term recovery is more sustainable and effective,” said Patricia McIlreavy, President and CEO of CDP. “Thanks to Truist Foundation’s support, we are proud to stand alongside the people and organizations of Western North Carolina as recovery from Hurricane Helene continues. The strength and creativity of local leaders inspire us, and we are committed to supporting their vision for a recovery that includes everyone. Together, we can help ensure that every community has the resources and support it needs to rebuild and thrive.”

In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina with damaging winds, unprecedented levels of flooding and landslides. The storm killed 108 people, including 100 from Western North Carolina, and destroyed dozens of homes, businesses, and other critical infrastructure in the area. A year later, the community continues to rebuild and experience the lasting impacts of Helene’s devastation, even as several encouraging recovery efforts are underway.

In January 2025, Truist Foundation announced the launch of CDP’s Truist Foundation Western North Carolina Recovery and Resiliency Fund, a partnership that is part of a $725 million commitment from Truist and Truist Foundation called Truist Cares for Western North Carolina. Through the Fund, CDP addresses medium- and long-term needs to help strengthen the region’s housing and small businesses. In June 2025, CDP announced that the first $3.3 million in grants had been awarded to four organizations actively leading recovery efforts.

“At Truist Foundation, we believe that community investment is most impactful when it’s rooted in the voices and leadership of local communities,” said Lynette Bell, president of Truist Foundation. “Guided by Truist’s purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities, we are proud to partner with the Center for Disaster Philanthropy to support organizations that are driving long-term recovery across the region. This second round of grants reflects our continued commitment to helping Western North Carolina rebuild in ways that are inclusive, adaptive and forward-looking.”

CDP’s grantmaking is guided by its assessment of damages, systemic marginalization, community capacity and unmet needs to support the area’s equitable recovery.

Learn more about the Round 2 grantees below:

• Appalachian Community Capital Development Foundation was awarded $1 million to advance small business recovery and resilience in Western North Carolina through their connection to community development financial institutions (CFDIs) and direct small business grant opportunities. Funds will also support technical assistance and organizational infrastructure development to sustain operations and strengthen planning around future disasters.
• Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Commission Foundation received $250,000 for long-term economic recovery and small business resilience in Ashe, Avery and Watauga Counties. The funding will support direct subgrants and recovery training programs for small businesses.
• Carolina Farm Stewardship Association received $200,000 to support independent farmers through its Western North Carolina Food System Recovery and Resilience Initiative. Funding will support small business grant opportunities, technical assistance and tools and resources for farms impacted by Helene.
• Children and Families Resource Center received $100,000 to support long-term housing recovery and supportive services through their disaster case navigation program in Henderson County.
• Colaborativa La Milpa, as a fiscal sponsor for PODER Emma, received $500,000 for long-term housing recovery in the Carolina Wren Housing Cooperative in the unincorporated Buncombe County community of Emma. The funding will support mobile home replacement and refurbishment, first-time homebuyer education and economic recovery initiatives.
• High Country Caregiver Foundation received $350,000 to support housing repair and replacement in Avery, Mitchell and Yancey Counties. The funding will support dozens of families enrolled in the organization’s kinship care case management system by repairing heavily impacted homes, including mobile homes. The initiative aims to stabilize housing to allow families to remain together and more fully participate in the organization’s support programs.
• Madison Alliance for Rebuilding Communities, through fiscal sponsor Community Housing Coalition of Madison County, received $488,625 for its Rebuild and Fortification Program. The funding will support direct repairs, rebuilds and mitigation, along with associated case management services, in rural Madison County communities.
• Mennonite Disaster Service was awarded $300,000 to support the renovation of a church into a dormitory to house cohorts of up to 40 skilled volunteers who will deploy throughout the impacted region to repair and rebuild homes and private-access bridges.
• Mitchell County Development Foundation received $510,000 to advance small business recovery. The funding will support small business grant opportunities in Spruce Pine and throughout the county to allow businesses to reopen or sustain operations.
• MountainTrue was awarded $750,000 to support waterway cleanup in Helene-impacted waterways. The initiatives will support small businesses that drive the outdoor recreation economy, monitor and help restore river water quality, and enhance resiliency.
• The National Community Pharmacists Association Foundation received $300,000 to support independent community pharmacies throughout Western North Carolina as they recover from Helene. This funding will support equipment, technical assistance, certification and access to workforce development resources that will increase community resilience.
• Northwestern Housing Enterprises, Inc., also known as Northwestern Regional Housing Authority (NWRHA), received $750,000 for long-term housing recovery. Funding will support the development of two affordable-housing communities in Yancey and Avery Counties.
• Pisgah Legal Services received $400,000 to provide no-cost disaster-related legal services to survivors and eligible disaster-impacted nonprofit organizations across 18 counties in Western North Carolina.
• Swannanoa Communities Together, via fiscal sponsor Asheville Creative Arts, Inc., received $300,000 for housing recovery, case navigation services and community-led disaster recovery initiatives for the unincorporated Swannanoa Valley.
• Transylvania Habitat for Humanity received $585,000 for housing recovery and case navigation services in Transylvania County. The funding will support sustainable long-term housing by delivering disaster-resilient housing solutions and reinforcing community infrastructure.

CDP funds a wide range of critical programs in communities devastated by wildfires, hurricanes, flooding and other natural hazards, as well as humanitarian crises. These efforts include mental health initiatives, housing repair, food access and other essential services. CDP also offers free educational resources and advises corporations, foundations and individual donors to ensure that they can more effectively support equitable, community-led disaster preparedness and recovery.

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About the Center for Disaster Philanthropy

CDP mobilizes philanthropy to strengthen communities’ ability to withstand disasters and recover equitably when they occur. It provides expert advice and educational resources, supports diverse coalitions and manages domestic and international disaster funds on behalf of corporations, foundations and individuals through targeted, holistic and localized grantmaking. Find out more at disasterphilanthropy.org and on X and LinkedIn.

About Truist Foundation

Truist Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation’s (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. The foundation, an endowed private foundation established in 2020 whose operating budget is independent of Truist Financial Corporation, makes strategic investments in a wide variety of nonprofit organizations centered around two focus areas: building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses to ensure all communities have an equal opportunity to thrive. Embodying these focus areas are the foundation’s leading initiatives — the Inspire Awards and Where It Starts. Learn more at Truist.com/Foundation.

Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) programs are vital for safeguarding employees, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining uninterrupted business operations. Navigating the complexities of EHS regulations can be a formidable task. This guide cuts through the complexity, outlining the core elements of an effective EHS strategy and providing actionable insights to move your business toward proactive risk management.

Table of Contents

• Understanding EHS Regulations and Standards
• Building an Effective EHS Program
• Leveraging EHS Management Systems
• Compliance and Risk Management Strategies
• Strategies for Fostering an EHS-Focused Workplace Culture
• Emerging Trends in EHS

Understanding EHS Regulations and Standards

Establishing a strong EHS program starts with understanding the regulatory framework that governs workplace safety and environmental protection.

Overview of key regulatory bodies

While EHS regulations can vary by region and industry, several prominent organizations set the standard for environmental health and safety practices. Key regulatory bodies include:

• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) focuses on ensuring employee well-being in the United States
• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) addresses environmental protection and pollution prevention.
• For multinational organizations, aligning with international frameworks like the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) can provide consistent guidance across global operations.

Navigating regulatory uncertainty: Why best practices matter

The EHS regulatory environment has always been subject to shifting political priorities, economic pressures, and public demands. In times of regulatory upheaval, businesses that maintain high EHS standards are better positioned to safeguard their workforce, protect surrounding communities, and maintain public trust.

Proactive EHS practices can:

• Reduce operational risks: Strong EHS protocols minimize the likelihood of incidents that could lead to reputational damage, legal penalties, or operational downtime.
• Strengthen employee retention and morale: Proactive EHS practices signal a commitment to employee well-being, boosting morale and reducing turnover.
• Preserve community trust: Companies that demonstrate environmental responsibility are more likely to build positive relationships with stakeholders and avoid public backlash.

To stay informed on evolving EHS regulations, businesses should designate a compliance lead or team responsible for tracking regulatory updates. Subscribing to updates from governing bodies such as OSHA, EPA, and ILO can provide timely insights. Industry associations often deliver guidance on best practices and regulatory trends, while EHS management software can automate compliance tracking and alert teams to important changes.

Related resources:

• Changes to Your Business? How to Know What Your Environmental, Health, and Safety Obligations Are
• OSHA Ramping Up Enforcement of Workplace Safety Violations

Building an Effective EHS Program

Developing an effective EHS program requires a structured, strategic approach. While the following is by no means a comprehensive plan, this list can act as a framework for building a highly effective EHS program:

Conduct a thorough EHS risk assessment

• Identify potential hazards in the workplace, including physical, chemical, ergonomic, and biological risks.
• Conduct site audits and employee interviews to uncover risks that may not be immediately obvious.
• Use risk assessment tools to prioritize threats based on severity and likelihood.

Related resources:

• Exploring Lab Safety: An Interactive Guide to Identifying and Managing EHS Hazards
• 7 Steps for Conducting Ergonomic Assessments in Lower-Risk Facilities
• Ensuring Workplace Safety: The Importance of Office Risk Assessments
• An EHS Checklist for Low-Risk Technology Facilities

Develop clear EHS policies and procedures

• Establish clear protocols for safety procedures, emergency response, and employee conduct.
• Ensure policies are well-documented, easily accessible, and consistently updated.
• Align EHS policies with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

Related resource: The Complete Guide to Creating an EHS Policy

Establish emergency response and incident reporting processes

• Develop a detailed emergency response plan that outlines evacuation procedures, medical response protocols, and communication plans.
• Train employees on how to respond to emergencies through regular drills.
• Implement an incident reporting system to track and investigate workplace incidents.

Related resources:

• The Role of EHS in Workers’ Compensation and Workplace Incident Management
• Not If, But When: Is your emergency response plan adequate, and are you ready to respond?
• Emergency Incident Response Best Practices: 5 Key Strategies

Develop ongoing training programs

• Create interactive training sessions that engage employees and reinforce safety concepts.
• Tailor training to specific roles, ensuring workers understand the risks most relevant to their tasks.
• Provide refresher courses to ensure EHS knowledge remains top of mind.

Related resources:

• Adapting EHS Training for Engaging Learning in the Digital Age
• EHS Training Camp: 5 Tips to Sharpen Your Team’s Skills

Create KPIs to measure EHS efforts

• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) that track progress, such as incident rates, audit scores, and training completion rates.
• Use EHS data to identify trends and proactively address potential risks.

Related resource: Tips for Effectively Communicating ROI to Secure the EHS Budget You Need

Make EHS a core organizational value

• Encourage senior management to actively participate in EHS initiatives and communicate the importance of safety to all employees
• Foster a safety-first culture where employees feel empowered to report risks and suggest improvements.
• Highlight the role of leadership in driving accountability and ensuring long-term EHS success.

Related resources:

• Workplace Culture Surveys: How to Measure and Improve Employee Health and Well-Being
• EHSxTech: Fostering a Strong Company Culture Through EHS

Leveraging EHS Management Systems

EHS management systems provide structure for organizations to build, monitor, and improve EHS performance. These systems centralize critical safety data and streamline compliance reporting, enabling proactive risk management.

Key features often include incident tracking to document and investigate safety incidents, compliance management tools that track regulatory requirements and deadlines, and training management features that monitor employee certifications and training progress.

To evaluate the effectiveness of EHS software, businesses should track key performance indicators such as incident reduction rates, audit completion rates, and training completion metrics. Monitoring these metrics allows organizations to assess program success, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate compliance during regulatory reviews.

Related Resources:

• Steps to Build a World-Class Health and Safety Management System
• EHS Technology: Learn About Key Workplace Safety Innovations

Compliance and Risk Management Strategies

Integrating proactive risk management strategies with compliance efforts helps EHS teams create safer work environments while maintaining operational efficiency.

The importance of proactive risk management

Waiting until an incident occurs to address safety risks can lead to costly fines and, most importantly, harm to employees. Proactive risk management ensures that potential hazards are identified, evaluated, and mitigated before they escalate.

Part of this management approach involves staying ahead of regulatory changes. This ensures businesses are always prepared, minimizing the risk of enforcement actions or the need for last-minute compliance adjustments.

Perhaps most importantly, a strong risk management strategy supports business continuity, keeping operations running smoothly even in the face of regulatory shifts or unexpected disruptions.

Balancing compliance with broader organizational goals

EHS compliance should not be viewed as a standalone function but rather as a core component of your business. When safety and environmental initiatives reinforce corporate priorities such as sustainability or efficiency, they contribute to long-term success.

Compliance data can also serve as a valuable business tool, offering insights into operational inefficiencies and highlighting areas for improvement. When leadership actively prioritizes EHS, it reinforces a culture where safety becomes second nature rather than an obligation. Investing in scalable EHS solutions further strengthens compliance efforts to create a safer, more resilient workplace.

Related resource: Risk Management vs. Compliance: Key Differences & Strategic Impact

Strategies for Fostering an EHS-Focused Workplace Culture

A strong EHS program does more than protect employees—it also strengthens morale and retention. When workers see that their employer is committed to their well-being, they are more likely to feel valued and engaged.

How do leaders accomplish this?

• Lead by example: When executives and managers follow safety protocols and participate in EHS initiatives, it reinforces their importance.
• Encourage open communication: Creating a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting hazards or suggesting improvements helps prevent incidents before they occur.
• Recognize and reward safe behaviors: Acknowledging employees who prioritize safety reinforces a positive, proactive approach to EHS.
• Integrate EHS into onboarding and training: Ensuring new hires understand safety expectations from day one helps build long-term compliance.

In industries where there is a lot of competition for talent, a reputation for prioritizing workplace safety can also serve as a differentiator, attracting skilled professionals who seek a responsible and supportive employer.

Emerging Trends in EHS

As workplace risks evolve, organizations must stay ahead of emerging challenges that impact employee safety and environmental responsibility.

The impact of climate change on workplace safety

Extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and worsening air quality are introducing new hazards that demand proactive safety measures. Heatwaves increase the risk of heat stress for outdoor and industrial workers, severe storms and flooding can disrupt operations and create hazardous conditions, and air quality concerns from wildfires or industrial pollution make respiratory protection and indoor air quality management critical priorities.

Organizations must continually assess climate-related risks and adapt their EHS protocols to safeguard employees and maintain business continuity.

Related resource: Bring on the Heat: Get Ahead of Summer EHS Hazards

How sustainable practices combat those risks

As climate change spurs greater environmental threats, sustainability is becoming a core component of EHS programs, with businesses recognizing the need to minimize their environmental footprint while staying compliant with evolving regulations.

Many companies are reducing emissions, improving waste management, and adopting energy-efficient practices. Sustainable procurement policies, such as prioritizing eco-friendly materials and ethical supply chains, are also gaining traction. Businesses that integrate sustainability into their EHS programs will be better equipped to navigate both environmental challenges and regulatory pressures in the years ahead.

Related resource: Navigating EHS and Sustainability in 2025: What to Expect from the Incoming U.S. Administration

The rise of smart EHS technologies

Advancements in technology are transforming how organizations manage EHS programs, making compliance tracking, risk assessment, and incident prevention more efficient.

Some of the most impactful advancements in smart EHS technology are transforming workplace safety by providing real-time monitoring, predictive insights, and streamlined compliance management:

• Wearable safety devices: Smart helmets, biometric sensors, and connected PPE monitor worker health and alert teams to potential hazards in real time.
• AI-powered risk analytics: Predictive analytics tools analyze historical safety data to identify patterns and potential risks before incidents occur.
• IoT-enabled environmental monitoring: Sensors track air quality, temperature, and noise levels, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and improving worker conditions.
• Cloud-based compliance management: Digital platforms centralize regulatory requirements, training records, and incident reports, simplifying compliance tracking and reporting.

These technologies are helping organizations shift from reactive safety management to proactive risk mitigation.

Related resource: EHS Technology: Learn About Key Workplace Safety Innovations

Whether you’re refining your compliance strategy or exploring new technologies to enhance workplace safety, expert guidance can help you navigate the complexities of EHS management.

Learn more about EHS auditing and compliance best practices by visiting Antea Group’s EHS Auditing and Compliance page.

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

By Allison Stowell

Whether you have children starting a new school year or not, September brings “reset” vibes. We finally take on that stack of papers that was pushed aside to relish summer days. And we return to a regular pattern of grocery shopping and cooking as summer travel wanes. With wellness in mind, let’s embrace a fresh start this fall.

Menu Reset

The unofficial end of summer brings a menu shift. Maybe it’s due to the end of summer hours at work, the start of a school year, or less travel. Whatever the reason, it’s time to review the calendar and menu plan to match your new schedule. Return to regular grocery shopping. Choose new “ingredient prep” days—slice and dice fresh produce, and grill or roast proteins and vegetables. Keep whole grains and other starches in the pantry, and you’ll have everything you need to round out meals. Use these versatile ingredients to bring easy meals together as you adjust to a new schedule. And make meals easier with slow-cooked dishes and make-ahead meals.

Exercise Reset

It’s time to settle back into a pattern of regular fitness. This may mean a different approach than what has worked over the summer, especially for families adjusting to a new fall schedule. Remember that the priority is consistency and doing something most days of the week. If timing is tight, embrace fitness apps that make workouts more effective. You can use them at home, in the gym, or even on the sidelines of your child’s sports practice.

Nutrition Reset

This may be the perfect time to focus on your diet, especially if you enjoyed more take-out and seasonal treats this summer. Focus on meeting your nutrition goals as you shop and menu plan. For most of us, this means consuming less sodium, added sugar, and saturated fat. Rely on Guiding Stars to help. Guiding Stars evaluates food labels for you so you can quickly fill your cart with nutritious, star-earning foods that align with your goals. By doing so, you’ll be able to engage in a fresh start this fall with less effort and more ease.

Wellness Reset

Have other aspects of your wellness been neglected over the summer? Maybe it’s your sleep hygiene, regular stretching, hydration, or commitment to safely reducing stress. “Dry January” works for September too. If your summer pace was fun, but not centered around wellness, this is the moment to return to better balance.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

*Image by Freepik