Tag: 3BL

Originally published on 3M News Center

Imagine a heart surgeon who doesn’t have the technology to monitor your heart.

A similar situation is happening right now with U.S. electrical grids: Many grid operators have limited visibility to critical information about what’s happening in their networks.

Fortunately, 3M developed a technology to help solve this problem more than a decade ago. It first caught on in Europe but is now gaining traction in the U.S. amid a sharp increase in extreme weather events and new energy demands.

The innovation is an easy-to-install sensor that can transmit real-time data about vital parameters in underground medium-voltage networks. “It’s like a heart-rate monitor for your electrical system,” said Terry Collier, vice president of R&D for 3M’s electrical markets.

3M captured the attention of Powering Chicago, an electrical industry labor-management partnership that featured the technology in a recent video.

“Having this technology will show the customer that there might be some problems in their system, and they can repair that before a catastrophic failure,” said Jerry McGlynn, vice president of field operations for McWilliams Electric, in the video.

The executive director of Powering Chicago, Elbert Walters III, visited 3M’s innovation center in Austin, Texas, to see the product first-hand and talk with in-house experts.

“This technology has proven to be a difference maker for those clients that have been using it in Europe for years now,” he said in the video. “It will allow projects in the U.S. to maximize efficiency and safety.”

3M first entered the electrical industry in the 1940s with the invention of electrical tape, and now has more than 75 years of experience providing proprietary technologies to the market segment.

“As we look to better manage our electrical infrastructure, the ideal business case for grid modernization is one that combines extending the life of current assets in a cost-effective manner, while preparing for future grid opportunities,” said Collier.

SHANGHAI, April 4, 2023 /3BL Media/ – Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987, “Yum China” or the “Company”) today announced that it has published its 2022 Sustainability Report on March 31. This report outlines the progress the Company has made, as well as the commitments the Company is making, towards the Company’s ESG goals in three focus areas: Environment, Food, and People.

“Yum China continued to make progress on its ESG commitments and priorities throughout the pandemic. We also stayed true to our purpose by supporting our employees, serving our customers effectively, and giving back to our communities,” said Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China. “Although many uncertainties still lie ahead, I believe that with our key capabilities and competitive moats, Yum China is uniquely positioned to thrive both as a business and a responsible corporate citizen. We will continue to foster a culture of creativity and collaboration as we work towards our ESG goals with our partners.”

Key highlights from this year’s report include:

Supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and contributing to a circular economy: In 2022, the Company’s science-based emissions reduction targets were approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This represents an important milestone in the Company’s journey towards achieving net-zero value chain GHG emissions by 2050. The Company is committed to contributing to a circular economy by improving the efficient use of natural resources through initiatives to reduce, reuse, recycle and replace. In 2022, Yum China initiated pilot projects such as fueling its logistic fleets with biodiesel, and recycling packaging waste generated in daily operations.

Deepening efforts to offer safe and nutritious food to customers: The Company continued to invest heavily in building an industry-leading, intelligent, digitalized food safety and quality management system. Utilizing AI, IoT, and real-time monitoring and analysis, the Company has established rigorous control measures across the value chain to ensure food safety and quality. In addition to offering customers safe and high-quality food, Yum China is committed to offering a wide range of nutritious choices to customers. The recently released Yum China Nutrition and Health Policy highlighted the Company’s commitment to promoting balanced diets.

Firmly adhering to the ‘People First’ philosophy: The Company provided job security to its employees even during tough times, refrained from layoffs, increased medical coverage for eligible staff and their families, and provided them with food and medical supplies during the pandemic related lockdowns. In 2022, the Company further upgraded its employee benefits plan and established the “Yum China Employee Mutual Aid Fund” to offer financial assistance to employees in need.Serving the communities where we live and operate: Through their heroic efforts during the pandemic, Yum China’s employees continued to live out the Company’s core values. In 2022, over 4 million hours of volunteer time was recorded to support local communities. Meanwhile, Yum China’s flagship One Yuan Donation program celebrated its 15th anniversary. Through it, the Company contributes to poverty alleviation and rural revitalization by improving the diet and nutrition of children in remote areas and enhancing their access to digital education.

Yum China continues to receive recognition for its sustainability efforts and progress. The Company achieved a ‘Top 1% Global ESG Score’ in S&P Global’ s Sustainability Yearbook 2023, the only company in the Restaurants & Leisure Facilities industry to receive this recognition.

The 2022 Sustainability Report, Yum China’s sixth annual Sustainability Report, was prepared in accordance with global ESG and sustainability reporting guidelines and frameworks, including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), and Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB). It also outlines Yum China’s contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure the Company’s efforts align with the 2030 Agenda.

To learn more about Yum China’s ESG efforts, please visit: http://www.yumchina.com/respIndex.

Read the full 2022 Sustainability Report here.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We intend all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and by the use of forward-looking words such as “expect,” “expectation,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “intend,” “belief,” “aim,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “predict,” “project,” “likely,” “will,” “continue,” “should,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “look forward to” or similar terminology. These statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or assumptions will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and we disclaim any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. You should consult our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the information set forth under the captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q) for additional detail about factors that could affect our financial and other results.

About Yum China Holdings, Inc.

Yum China is the largest restaurant company in China with a mission to make every life taste beautiful. The Company has over 400,000 employees and operates nearly 13,000 restaurants under six brands across 1,800 cities in China. KFC and Pizza Hut are the leading brands in the quick-service and casual dining restaurant spaces in China, respectively. Taco Bell offers innovative Mexican-inspired food. Yum China has also partnered with Lavazza to develop the Lavazza coffee shop concept in China. Little Sheep and Huang Ji Huang specialize in Chinese cuisine. Yum China has a world-class, digitalized supply chain which includes an extensive network of logistics centers nationwide and an in-house supply chain management system. Its strong digital capabilities and loyalty program enable the Company to reach customers faster and serve them better. Yum China is a Fortune 500 company with the vision to be the world’s most innovative pioneer in the restaurant industry. For more information, please visit http://ir.yumchina.com.

Investor Relations Contact:

Tel: +86 21 2407 7556 / +852 2267 5801

IR@YumChina.com

Media Contact:

Tel: +86 21 2407 7510

Media@YumChina.com

2022 Sustainablility Highlights.pdf

Leaders of businesses, trade groups, and institutions in Arizona are gathering today in front of the Arizona State Capitol to highlight their efforts to incorporate innovative clean energy and clean transportation solutions into their operations. As representatives of major Arizona employers, participants will showcase new technologies and call on policymakers to take action to attract more clean energy investment to the state.

Organized by Ceres in partnership with the Arizona Technology Council and Plug In America, the Lawn Day event brings together more than 20 organizations that are leaders in unlocking clean energy investment, jobs, and innovation in Arizona. Participating companies include: Arizona State University, Array Technologies, American Solar and Roofing, Honeywell Aerospace, Nikola, REI Co-Op, Schneider Electric, and Siemens. Company representatives and state lawmakers will also have the opportunity to partake in a “Ride and Drive” hosted by Plug In America, to explore the latest electric vehicle models on the market.

“States are rushing to take advantage of the Inflation Reduction Act and the once-in-a-generation economic opportunity of the clean energy transition. In Arizona, leading businesses are already at the forefront of this shift, but they are limited without strong state policy to support their efforts,” said Alli Gold Roberts, senior director of state policy, Ceres. “Businesses are making these investments to optimize their operations, reduce energy costs, and provide public health benefits to their communities. We hope their leadership inspires Arizona policymakers to take equally ambitious action.”

“Supporting, investing in, and developing strong public policy initiatives for clean energy is imperative to the future of Arizona from both an environmental and economic perspective,” said Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council. “The Arizona Technology Council is proud to partner with Ceres and Plug In America in organizing Lawn Day and voicing our support for stronger state policies around attracting and growing clean energy and clean transportation solutions.”

“With billions of dollars in federal funding available for Arizona clean energy investments, this is a crucial opportunity to grow Arizona’s economy in a secure way and improve quality of life across the state,” said Ingrid Malmgren, Plug In America’s director of policy. “Arizona’s decision-makers have the opportunity today to experience the products of the growing clean energy economy in Arizona. Lawmakers are able to explore and drive electric vehicles that will drive job creation and economic development in Arizona, as well as protect Arizona’s energy security and reduce transportation costs. As electric vehicle drivers find, with instant acceleration and a smooth ride, EVs are also a thrill to drive. Through state support, we hope all Arizonans have the opportunity to ride and drive electric.”

In addition to demonstrating their own ambitious clean energy initiatives to lawmakers, the diverse group of businesses will also voice their support for supportive state policies that help Arizona take full advantage of federal investments through the Inflation Reduction Act and the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The two laws include hundreds of billions of dollars in funding for clean energy, clean transportation, and other cutting-edge technologies and practices, and are already fueling a nationwide wave of investment in domestic clean energy manufacturing.

In Arizona, for example, Lawn Day participant Siemens is serving as the lead investor and infrastructure partner for KORE Power, Inc.’s battery cell production facility in Buckeye. Now Arizona has an opportunity to seize its role as a leader in the clean energy transition by approving state policies that further harness this momentum.

“Siemens is committed to achieving net zero emissions in our own global operations by 2030 and is devoted to helping our customers along their own sustainability journeys. In order to make true progress, strong partnership between the public and private sectors is critical,” said Jim Taylor, vice president of business solutions for Siemens USA’s Grid Software division. “Now is the time to set the foundation for critical supply chains here in the U.S. while simultaneously ensuring our transportation, energy, and manufacturing infrastructure is reliable, resilient, and efficient. Available federal funding, paired with a foundation of effective clean energy policy, will create jobs and manufacturing opportunities here in the Grand Canyon State.”

State lawmakers, policymakers in the Governor’s Office of Resiliency, and officials in the Arizona Commerce Authority and the Arizona Corporation Commission have been invited to the event to meet and network with company representatives. The Lawn Day’s “Ride and Drive” program will feature demonstrations of popular passenger electric vehicle models, including the Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Tesla Model 3, Rivian R1T, Kia EV6, and the Hyundai Genesis G80, as well as Nikola and Lucid vehicles that were each manufactured in Arizona.

About Ceres 

Ceres is a nonprofit organization working with the most influential capital market leaders to solve the world’s greatest sustainability challenges. Through our powerful networks and global collaborations of investors, companies and nonprofits, we drive action and inspire equitable market-based and policy solutions throughout the economy to build a just and sustainable future. For more information, visit ceres.org and follow @CeresNews.

About Arizona Technology Council 

The Arizona Technology Council is Arizona’s premier trade association for science and technology companies. Comprised of a diverse professional business community, Council members work towards furthering the advancement of technology in Arizona through leadership, education, legislation and social action. The Council offers numerous events, educational forums and business conferences that bring together leaders, visionaries and community members to make an impact on the technology industry. These interactions contribute to the Council’s culture of growing member businesses and transforming technology in Arizona. To become a member or to learn more about the Arizona Technology Council, please visit www.aztechcouncil.org.

About Plug In America 

Plug In America is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating the use of plug-in electric vehicles in the United States. Formed in 2008, Plug In America provides practical, objective information to consumers and dealerships about EVs through various programs, including National Drive Electric Week, Drive Electric Earth Day, PlugStar.com, and other public outreach events. With Plug In America’s coalition of plug-in vehicle drivers, policy experts, and technical advisors, their expertise represents the world’s deepest pool of experience in driving and living with plug-in vehicles. The organization’s motto: “We drive electric. You can too.” Learn more at PlugInAmerica.org.

Media Contact: Helen Booth-Tobin

We’re helping solve our customers’ big challenges by innovating and delivering solutions that are better for their business – and for the environment.

Project At-a-Glance:

The opportunity: Help Derby College (UK) decarbonize its Broomfield Hall campus as a part of the United Kingdom’s Public Sector Decarbonization Scheme.

The solution: Replacing existing fossil-fueled boilers with a thermal system of cascading Trane air- and water-source heat pumps.

Sustainability outcomes:

790,000 kWh in annual energy savingsAnnual reduction of 160 tons of CO2 emissionsA People’s Choice Award from the European Heat Pump Association

When the United Kingdom’s Derby College Group (DCG) was awarded significant government funding to improve the efficiency of its buildings and reduce its carbon emissions, the network of public colleges looked for strategic, tangible ways to make operations on its four campuses more efficient, more sustainable, and healthier for the nearly 20,000 students served by its programs.

Guided by the long-term, legally binding environmental targets outlined in the UK’s Climate Change Act of 2008, DCG had already committed to taking urgent action to reduce the use of carbon and carbon embedded products and resources on its campuses. With new funding in place from the government’s Public Sector Decarbonization Scheme (PSDS), DCG chose to partner with Trane® to make its bold commitments a reality. The top priority was replacing antiquated coal-burning boilers at Broomfield Hall, a public college offering a variety of land-based programs such as agriculture, equine, and horticulture.

A thermal system of cascading heat pumps

DCG and Trane recognized that a comprehensive, state-of-the-art upgrade of the heating system was essential for preserving the efficiency and sustainability of the Broomfield Hall campus. Trane’s innovative and efficient solution was to install a combination of six air-source and three water-source heating pumps in cascade configuration. The project also provided new centralized plant and distribution pipework, upgraded controls, and thermal storage, allowing for optimized energy use and providing buildings with low-carbon heating and hot water.

In total, the new Broomfield Hall thermal system, part of a wider project that also included the installation of solar panels and new LED lights at the college, will produce 600kW of heating while saving 790,000 kWh in energy consumption and 160 tons of CO2 emissions annually.

Award-winning partnerships for a sustainable future

The positive impacts of Trane’s system upgrades to Broomfield Hall have garnered significant attention. In January 2022, the project was included in the UK government’s decarbonization summary report. And in September of that year, the Broomfield Hall project and Trane Technologies received the People’s Choice Award at the European Heat Pump Awards in Brussels.

Broomfield Hall’s sustainable upgrades highlight the far-reaching benefits of strategic partnership and alignment. Programs like the UK’s PSDS help fund capital energy efficiency and decarbonization projects with the goal of helping the UK reach its 2050 net-zero commitments. Trane Technologies’ innovative solutions advance its bold, industry-leading 2030 Sustainability Commitments.

“The quality of our estate, and the efficiency with which it is operated, can have real and measurable social, economic and educational impact,” affirms Derby College Group’s Director of Estates Iain Baldwin. “This installation is a step in the right direction for DCG and is a great example of how green, clean energy provision can be utilized on a greenfield site.”

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., April 4, 2023 /3BL Media/ – Verizon announced it will host the inaugural Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Summit, an all-day experience for small business owners to network and participate in live events designed to help them grow their businesses, in San Diego on April 13, 2023, at the FEMX Quarters. In partnership with the global professional education and networking platform Luminary, the summit aims to bring valuable business insights and strategies to small business owners.

Participants of the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready: San Diego Summit will have the opportunity to engage in robust workshops and educational sessions, with the goal of building connections and learning from subject matter experts, including local small business owners. To learn more about the event and to register, visit WeAreLuminary.com/VerizonBusinessSummits.

“The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Summit will showcase our passion for digital inclusion and commitment to the San Diego small business community,” said Dominique Cano-Stocco, Executive Director of External and Government Affairs in Southern California at Verizon. “The event will harness the power of Verizon’s comprehensive digital resources and match it with insights from some of San Diego’s most innovative entrepreneurs.”

Launched in 2021, Verizon Small Business Digital Ready is a free online resource designed to give small businesses the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital economy. Small businesses can access personalized learning through over 40 courses, mentorship, peer networking, 1:1 expert coaching and incentives such as grant funding. In partnership with LISC and Next Street, the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready portal was created with and for small businesses, with a specific focus on helping diverse and under-resourced business owners. Spanish language course offerings, coaching from experts and community events are also available.

Now through May 12, 2023, small businesses can unlock an application for the new round of grant funding by registering for Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, at www.verizon.com/smallbusinessdigitalready, and completing at least two of the following, in any combination: courses, live coaching or community events. Small businesses that complete the application will be eligible to receive a $10,000 grant.

“The grant I received will support my business growth through a visibility and marketing campaign, a retreat this summer with my clients, job creation, and tools to continue to cultivate community,” said Pam Covarrubias, founder of Spread Ideas Move People, a small business based in San Diego, CA. “Having access to the Digital Ready tools that Verizon offers allowed me to get more clarity about important steps for my business.”

This initiative is part of Verizon’s goal to support 1M small businesses by 2030 with the resources to thrive in the digital economy, as part of its responsible business plan: Citizen Verizon. Visit CitizenVerizon.com to learn more about the company’s responsible business efforts.

Media contact(s)

Bernadette Brijlall
bernadette.brijlall@verizon.com

Herbert Nyarko
herbert.aidoo-nyarko@verizon.com

Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC), the world’s leading professional services firm in the areas of risk, strategy and people, recently released its 2022 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report: Succeeding Together.

John Doyle, President and CEO, Marsh McLennan, said, “As the world faces a host of urgent issues, including geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, social inequities and the ongoing war in Ukraine, we continue to see significant opportunity to support colleagues, clients and communities with regard to environmental, social and governance issues.”

In the report, the company continues its commitment to transparency, reporting:

Global female and US ethnically and racially diverse representation data for each of the last three years;Its series of programs designed to create a diverse talent pipeline, including the RISE (Racial Inclusion and Social Equity) program, which welcomed Black fellows from more than 30 colleges and universities in the US, UK and Canada, as well as the Black Leadership Program and Accelerated Leadership Program for current colleagues;The statistical results of its annual pay equity study; andProgress to date setting low-carbon transition strategies that chart a path to net-zero across its operations by 2050, including sourcing 100% renewable electricity for its largest offices in the UK and Ireland.

“We believe the ESG strategies that we adopt – and are proud to share in this report – create sustainable long-term value for our stakeholders. If you deconstruct the term ESG, each of the individual components are risks and opportunities that we carefully consider and responsibly manage, along with other risks,” said Kate Brennan, General Counsel and Executive Sponsor, Management ESG Committee, Marsh McLennan.

Across its four global businesses, Marsh McLennan’s collective capabilities contributed to a broad spectrum of ESG issues on behalf of clients and in support of communities last year. A few highlights include:

Rallying colleagues across the world to raise $1.4 million to support the people of Ukraine through three humanitarian organizations;Developing the Marsh ESG Risk Rating tool to help clients assess the maturity of ESG within their organizations;Sharing Marsh and Guy Carpenter’s cyber insurance expertise with the US National Cyber Director to emphasize the importance of cyber insurance for cyber security and how it makes institutions and businesses more resilient in the face of cyber risk;Publishing Mercer’s Stepping Up for Equity research to help employers craft roadmaps for closing the career, health and wealth gaps of Black employees in the US workforce;Launching Oliver Wyman’s 3D carbon accounting service that allows companies to quantify and better understand their emissions; andMobilizing the insurance industry behind climate resilience solutions during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27).

Read more here: https://www.marshmclennan.com/content/dam/mmc-web/v3/esg-report-2022/Marsh-McLennan-2022-ESG-Report.pdf

About Marsh McLennan

Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC) is the world’s leading professional services firm in the areas of risk, strategy and people. The Company’s more than 85,000 colleagues advise clients in 130 countries. With annual revenue of over $20 billion, Marsh McLennan helps clients navigate an increasingly dynamic and complex environment through four market-leading businesses. Marsh provides data-driven risk advisory services and insurance solutions to commercial and consumer clients. Guy Carpenter develops advanced risk, reinsurance and capital strategies that help clients grow profitably and pursue emerging opportunities. Mercer delivers advice and technology-driven solutions that help organizations redefine the world of work, reshape retirement and investment outcomes, and unlock health and wellbeing for a changing workforce. Oliver Wyman serves as a critical strategic, economic and brand advisor to private sector and governmental clients. For more information, visit marshmclennan.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Media Contact:
Amelia Woltering
Marsh McLennan
+1 347.703.5358

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There is still time to register for the 2023 Global Inclusive Growth Summit livestream on April 13!

The 2023 Summit—presented by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth and The Aspen Institute, with our media partner Devex—will feature a dynamic and diverse group of global leaders, innovators and game-changers to shine a spotlight on innovative solutions to build an inclusive and sustainable economy for everyone, everywhere. 

Featured speakers include:

Trevor Noah; Comedian, Best-Selling Author, Producer & PhilanthropistMelinda French Gates; Co-Chair, Bill & Melinda Gates FoundationSamantha Power; Administrator, USAIDAde Adepitan; TV Presenter, Paralympic Medalist, Journalist, BBCMichael Miebach; CEO, MastercardLilly Singh; Founder, Unicorn Island Fund

And many more!

Check out our full speaker lineup and .

 

Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth 
The Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth advances equitable and sustainable economic growth and financial inclusion around the world. The Center leverages the company’s core assets and competencies, including data insights, expertise and technology, while administering the philanthropic Mastercard Impact Fund, to produce independent research, scale global programs and empower a community of thinkers, leaders and doers on the front lines of inclusive growth.

The Aspen Institute 
The Aspen Institute is a community-serving organization with global reach whose vision is the creation of a free, just, and equitable society. For 70 years, the Institute has driven change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the world’s greatest challenges. With headquarters in Washington, D.C., the Institute has offices in Aspen, Colorado and New York City, as well as an international network of partners. Learn more at www.aspeninstitute.org.

Devex 
Devex is the world’s leading independent news organization covering global development. Devex journalists deliver insider reporting from front lines of the fight to achieve the SDGs—driving the most important debates, providing the most critical analysis, and backing it all up with the events, career information, and funding opportunities professionals require. To keep up to date with the must-read global development coverage, join their global community.

AccountAbility is featured in the just published Spring 2023 issue of CFI.co and includes the firm’s comprehensive perspective on ESG matters.

Please click the link for the article here: AccountAbility CEO Sunny Misser Leading the Charge in a Changing ESG Universe

This follows recognition of the award-winning consulting and standards firm as Best ESG Strategy Development Partner Global 2022 by Capital Finance International (CFI.co) in October, 2022.

 

Please see article highlights below:

AccountAbility CEO Sunny Misser Leading the Charge in a Changing ESG Universe

The days of turning a blind eye to the impact of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) matters are over. Today, organisations of every scale, across industries and in all geographies are active in moving the ESG agenda forward in ways that are transparent, meaningful and have genuine impact.

Against this backdrop, corporate purpose, social impact, stakeholder engagement, environmental action, geopolitical implications, and good governance are all intrinsically tied to a company’s economic performance. Certainly, in the year ahead, sustainability will be impossible for business to ignore.

AccountAbility is at the very centre of this ESG universe. After close to three decades helping organisations meet their sustainability goals, the international advisory and standards firm has seen a transformational operating shift from a well-intentioned environmental and social movement to a de-facto global business priority. Today, the sustainability agenda is central to business operations, and ultimately performance. Leaders recognise the financial imperatives of moving to a more sustainable economy and the commercial opportunities this presents.

“At AccountAbility we believe that doing well and doing right are not mutually exclusive outcomes”, comments AccountAbility CEO Sunil (Sunny) A. Misser, a pioneer in the field of mainstreaming ESG back when sustainability was a developing academic platform that few companies recognised. “With decades of global experience in helping organisations meet their strategic goals, we understand how to deliver practical, effective and enduring ESG solutions that enable our clients to succeed.”

Today, the consulting and standards firm is recognised around the world as an award-winning leader in the ESG ecosystem. The firm has a centred purpose – to innovate and advance the global sustainability / ESG agenda by improving the practices, performance, and impact of organisations – and operates globally with businesses, investors, governments, and multi-lateral organisations through a highly qualified team from offices in New York, London, Riyadh, and Dubai.

Importantly, Misser distinguishes AccountAbility’s proven corporate mandate. “We are not an advocacy platform or an activist forum – we are an expert ESG advisory firm that provides objective counsel to CEOs and Boards on how to improve their business performance.”

Misser is a tireless and passionate advocate for leadership and collaboration to address the challenges before us and the opportunity to create a more sustainable future. “A successful ESG strategy is more than a “tick-the-box” exercise. We are living in a changed world, and the leaders who step up with clear thinking, smart ideas and practical solutions will shape and architect the successful organisations of the future. We need to adopt a mindset – to plant trees under whose shade future generations will rest”, says Misser. Inspiring words indeed.

Leveraging its global research and advisory experience, AccountAbility has identified 7 priority trends for 2023 to help leaders stay ahead of the curve on sustainability matters for the years ahead.

 

7 Sustainability Trends That Will Shape Business In 2023

1. Navigating the Net-Zero Landscape – Against an unprecedented volume of climate pledges and commitments, net-zero has taken centre stage. But what is it, and how can organisations take meaningful, effective, and transparent climate action?2. Stakeholder Activism is Getting Louder – As businesses face increasing pressure to take a stance on a range of sustainability issues, investors are leveraging their influence to demand that companies act on ESG matters. How can business leaders best respond to this reality?3. Geopolitics: The New “G” in ESG – As Geopolitical instability increasingly cuts across the ESG landscape, how can businesses deal with this additional “G” while staying focused on their sustainability goals?4. Building a Diverse, Prepared and Future-Focused Board – Driven initially by stakeholder activism, how can changes in board composition unleash the power of re-framed governance – to improve effectiveness and shape corporate action?5. Next Generation ESG Disclosure and Reporting – Consolidation of global ESG standards, and a shift from voluntary to mandatory disclosure are set to heighten attention on corporate sustainability disclosure practices. How will these changes impact ESG reporting?6. The Road to a Sustainable Value Chain – For value chains to create competitive business advantages, they must incorporate ESG transformation towards a viable and sustainable future. How can sustainable procurement help value chains responsibly adapt to this next normal?7. Nature Based Assets will Drive Valuations – Nature based reporting, target-setting, and asset valuation frameworks are coming. How will they provide a path forward for companies as they consider the impact they have on Earth’s natural systems across their value chains?

Consumers and society, as a whole, are expecting more (and different) from business – in an atmosphere of low trust and high expectations. This is compounded by a pace of sustainability change that can be dizzying, and sometimes confusing.

Yet, it is possible to advance the Sustainability/ESG agenda – with careful consideration of focus and balance.

This article originally appeared in the Spring 2023 print and online editions of CFI.co. 
 

We are privileged to participate in this important market dialog and will continue to focus on serving the needs of our clients and stakeholders while advancing the global ESG agenda. 

Contact:
Mr. Jon Packer
Head of Marketing and Communications
AccountAbility
T. +1 646-507-5917
jon.packer@accountability.org 
www.accountability.org

 

About AccountAbility 
AccountAbility is a 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. We focus on delivering practical, effective, and enduring results that enable our clients to succeed. AccountAbility operates 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. Learn more at www.accountability.org.

 

About Capital Finance International

Capital Finance International (CFI.co), is a London-based print journal and online resource that reports on business, economics, and finance. CFI.co combines the views of leading multilateral and national organizations such as The World Bank, United Nations, International Finance Corporation and European Union bodies with top tier thought leadership, coverage, and analysis of the drivers behind change to report on the forces influencing and reshaping the global economy.

PITTSBURGH, April 3, 2023 /3BL Media/ — The PNC Foundation today continued its longtime alliance with DonorsChoose by flash funding every pre-K and Head Start teacher request in PNC’s markets.

Across 30 states and Washington D.C., today’s flash fund fulfilled 3,054 teacher requests that had been posted on DonorsChoose, an education nonprofit that connects individual donors with public school classrooms. It supported 88,601 pre-K and Head Start students, for a total of $1.96M in classroom dreams brought to life.

The flash fund kicked off Great Month at PNC, which the company celebrates each April to raise awareness of PNC Grow Up Great® and the importance of high-quality early childhood education. Launched in 2004, the $500 million, bilingual initiative supports programs, resources and experiences that help to prepare children from birth through age 5 for success in school and life.

“There’s no better way to kick off Great Month at PNC than to help teachers obtain the classroom resources they need,” said Sally McCrady, chair and president of PNC Foundation. “Through our work with DonorsChoose, which has ranged from flash funds to matching donations to providing all 61,000+ PNC employees with gift codes to donate to a classroom project of their choice, we can make a direct impact on pre-K teachers’ ability to help their students reach their fullest potential.”

PNC Foundation to Match Donations to Pre-K and Head Start Requests

Following the flash fund today, the PNC Foundation will also match, dollar for dollar, donations that support pre-K and Head Start projects listed on DonorsChoose in the PNC footprint, subject to restrictions and a maximum dollar amount. The match is designed to encourage others to help support preschool programs in public or charter schools and Head Start classrooms. The duration of the match campaign depends on the number of project requests and donations; for specific guidelines, visit donorschoose.org.

Expanding the Impact for Early Childhood Educators

The PNC Foundation’s support of DonorsChoose began in April 2017 with an initial flash fund of $504,000, which fulfilled 849 teacher requests in public and charter pre-K classrooms in 22 states and Washington, D.C. Since then, the PNC Foundation has funded over $14 million in pre-K and Head Start projects, supporting nearly 60,000 teacher requests across the company’s footprint.

The PNC Foundation’s initial grant funding to support pre-K classrooms in 2017 enabled DonorsChoose to expand its education funding platform to include project requests from Head Start teachers for the first time. It was the first expansion to reach a new audience of teachers in the 17-year history of DonorsChoose. Since that time, the number of pre-K projects posted in the PNC footprint has grown by 258%, and pre-K projects posted within the PNC footprint outpaced general projects posted by nearly two times.

Resources such as art supplies, technology, books and field trips can enhance the preschool learning environment, but many teachers find that funding these resources can be difficult. Recent research from the National Education Association found that well over 90% of teachers spend their own money on school supplies and other items their students need to succeed. One analysis estimated that, in the 2022-23 school year, educators would spend more than $820 out of pocket on school supplies.

About DonorsChoose
DonorsChoose is the leading way to give to public schools. Since 2000, over 5 million people and partners have contributed $1.4 billion to support 2.5 million teacher requests for classroom resources and experiences. As the most trusted crowdfunding platform for teachers, donors, and district administrators alike, DonorsChoose vets each request, ships the funded resources directly to the classroom, and provides thank yous and reporting to donors and school leaders. Charity Navigator and GuideStar have awarded DonorsChoose, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, their highest ratings for transparency and accountability. For more information, visit www.donorschoose.org.

About PNC Foundation
The PNC Foundation, which receives its principal funding from The PNC Financial Services Group (www.pnc.com), actively supports organizations that provide services for the benefit of communities in which it has a significant presence. The foundation focuses its philanthropic mission on early childhood education and community and economic development, which includes the arts and culture. Through PNC Grow Up Great, its signature cause that began in 2004, PNC has created a bilingual $500 million, multi-year initiative to help prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life. For more information, visit http://www.pncgrowupgreat.com.

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CONTACT
Angie Carducci
(412) 762-9186
media.relations@pnc.com 

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