Tag: 3BL

• Change Through Collaboration: Logitech’s Future Positive Technology Challenge invites technology and engineering disruptors to contribute innovative sustainable solutions for potential use in Logitech products.
• Winner, Jiva Materials: developing a fully recyclable and biodegradable printed circuit board substrate designed to dissolve in hot water at end-of-life.
• Winner, Flint Labs: pioneering cellulose-based paper batteries.
• Winner, Suzhou CIYI Electronic Technology: innovating with an alternative magnetic rare-earth element, samarium, which is more abundant, cost-effective, and easier to recycle.

LAUSANNE, Switzerland and SAN JOSE, Calif., September 22, 2025 /3BL/ – Logitech International (SIX: LOGN) (Nasdaq: LOGI) today announced the winners of its 3rd annual Future Positive Challenge, a global call to identify disruptive sustainable solutions in electronics. The challenge invites startups, entrepreneurs, and researchers worldwide to submit proposals for solutions tackling engineering and process design sustainability challenges across printed circuits, battery technology, materials, sustainable manufacturing, and waste management.

“The Future Positive Challenge was created to uncover breakthrough innovations capable of transforming how we reduce carbon impact across our product portfolio,” said Prakash Arunkundrum, President, Logitech for Business. “This year, we saw incredibly disruptive solutions to address the urgent challenges of carbon reduction in consumer electronics. The ideas shared represent bold steps forward in rethinking materials and processes. The next phase is collaborating with these teams to investigate the scalability of their solutions within Logitech products and across the broader industry.”

The 2025 winners are:

• Jiva Materials Ltd, a startup in the United Kingdom that has developed a fully recyclable and biodegradable substrate for printed circuit boards. The material is designed to dissolve in hot water at the end of its life, allowing electronic components and valuable metals to be easily recovered and reused.
• Flint Labs Pte Ltd., a tech impact startup headquartered in Singapore specializing in developing rechargeable paper low carbon batteries that are safer, cleaner, more flexible and cost-efficient than traditional lithium-ion and alkaline batteries.
• Suzhou CIYI Electronic Technology Co., Ltd., a Chinese company developing a Samarium Iron Nitride (SmFeN) magnet to replace Neodymium (NdFeB) for low and medium grade applications like motors and sensors. Samarium Iron Nitride is a rare-earth permanent magnet known for its strong magnetic properties, high-temperature stability, and corrosion resistance. Compared to other rare-earth elements, samarium is more abundant, less expensive, and easier to recycle.

Winners have the opportunity to work with Logitech on Proof of Concept projects to explore the scalability of their technologies and advance Logitech’s Design for Sustainability initiatives, contributing to product carbon footprint reduction or enhanced circularity. Elephantech, a 2023 winner of the Challenge, partnered with Logitech to introduce disruptive inkjet additive printing methods on circuit boards. A winner in 2024, smart technology provider Bin-e partnered with Logitech to deploy an AI-powered e-waste recycling bin in a test market.

In addition to this year’s winners, one additional company received distinguished recognition for its creative battery recycling technology.

• GRST Holdings Limited, a Hong Kong-based technology company with research capabilities in water-based manufacturing, PFAS free binders and recycling solutions of lithium-ion batteries.

About the Future Positive Challenge
Logitech continually looks for groundbreaking, next-generation materials, components, and processes to boost the company’s Design for Sustainability efforts. The Future Positive Challenge will re-open again later this year for the 2026 competition. Interested applicants are encouraged to subscribe to receive updates on timing or email FuturePositive@logitech.com for more information about next year’s challenge.

Learn more about all of Logitech’s sustainability initiatives in the FY25 Impact Report or on the website.

About Logitech
Logitech designs software-enabled hardware solutions that help businesses thrive and bring people together when working, creating and gaming. As the point of connection between people and the digital world, our mission is to extend human potential in work and play, in a way that is good for people and the planet. Founded in 1981, Logitech International is a Swiss public company listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (LOGN) and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (LOGI). Find Logitech and its other brands, including Logitech G, at www.logitech.com or company blog.

# # #

Editorial Contacts:

Marie Perriard, Head of Sustainability Communications – USA mperriard@logitech.com
Ben Starkie, Corporate Communications – Europe +41 (0) 79-292-3499

• Change Through Collaboration: Logitech’s Future Positive Technology Challenge invites technology and engineering disruptors to contribute innovative sustainable solutions for potential use in Logitech products.
• Winner, Jiva Materials: developing a fully recyclable and biodegradable printed circuit board substrate designed to dissolve in hot water at end-of-life.
• Winner, Flint Labs: pioneering cellulose-based paper batteries.
• Winner, Suzhou CIYI Electronic Technology: innovating with an alternative magnetic rare-earth element, samarium, which is more abundant, cost-effective, and easier to recycle.

LAUSANNE, Switzerland and SAN JOSE, Calif., September 22, 2025 /3BL/ – Logitech International (SIX: LOGN) (Nasdaq: LOGI) today announced the winners of its 3rd annual Future Positive Challenge, a global call to identify disruptive sustainable solutions in electronics. The challenge invites startups, entrepreneurs, and researchers worldwide to submit proposals for solutions tackling engineering and process design sustainability challenges across printed circuits, battery technology, materials, sustainable manufacturing, and waste management.

“The Future Positive Challenge was created to uncover breakthrough innovations capable of transforming how we reduce carbon impact across our product portfolio,” said Prakash Arunkundrum, President, Logitech for Business. “This year, we saw incredibly disruptive solutions to address the urgent challenges of carbon reduction in consumer electronics. The ideas shared represent bold steps forward in rethinking materials and processes. The next phase is collaborating with these teams to investigate the scalability of their solutions within Logitech products and across the broader industry.”

The 2025 winners are:

• Jiva Materials Ltd, a startup in the United Kingdom that has developed a fully recyclable and biodegradable substrate for printed circuit boards. The material is designed to dissolve in hot water at the end of its life, allowing electronic components and valuable metals to be easily recovered and reused.
• Flint Labs Pte Ltd., a tech impact startup headquartered in Singapore specializing in developing rechargeable paper low carbon batteries that are safer, cleaner, more flexible and cost-efficient than traditional lithium-ion and alkaline batteries.
• Suzhou CIYI Electronic Technology Co., Ltd., a Chinese company developing a Samarium Iron Nitride (SmFeN) magnet to replace Neodymium (NdFeB) for low and medium grade applications like motors and sensors. Samarium Iron Nitride is a rare-earth permanent magnet known for its strong magnetic properties, high-temperature stability, and corrosion resistance. Compared to other rare-earth elements, samarium is more abundant, less expensive, and easier to recycle.

Winners have the opportunity to work with Logitech on Proof of Concept projects to explore the scalability of their technologies and advance Logitech’s Design for Sustainability initiatives, contributing to product carbon footprint reduction or enhanced circularity. Elephantech, a 2023 winner of the Challenge, partnered with Logitech to introduce disruptive inkjet additive printing methods on circuit boards. A winner in 2024, smart technology provider Bin-e partnered with Logitech to deploy an AI-powered e-waste recycling bin in a test market.

In addition to this year’s winners, one additional company received distinguished recognition for its creative battery recycling technology.

• GRST Holdings Limited, a Hong Kong-based technology company with research capabilities in water-based manufacturing, PFAS free binders and recycling solutions of lithium-ion batteries.

About the Future Positive Challenge
Logitech continually looks for groundbreaking, next-generation materials, components, and processes to boost the company’s Design for Sustainability efforts. The Future Positive Challenge will re-open again later this year for the 2026 competition. Interested applicants are encouraged to subscribe to receive updates on timing or email FuturePositive@logitech.com for more information about next year’s challenge.

Learn more about all of Logitech’s sustainability initiatives in the FY25 Impact Report or on the website.

About Logitech
Logitech designs software-enabled hardware solutions that help businesses thrive and bring people together when working, creating and gaming. As the point of connection between people and the digital world, our mission is to extend human potential in work and play, in a way that is good for people and the planet. Founded in 1981, Logitech International is a Swiss public company listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (LOGN) and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (LOGI). Find Logitech and its other brands, including Logitech G, at www.logitech.com or company blog.

# # #

Editorial Contacts:

Marie Perriard, Head of Sustainability Communications – USA mperriard@logitech.com
Ben Starkie, Corporate Communications – Europe +41 (0) 79-292-3499

Key Findings from the AI-Enhanced Industry Study

The global car industry is at an inflection point with the transition to electrification of power trains as and AI system integration. The next 5 years will determine what players will thrive or disappear, with new entrances mixing up established powerhouses. A comprehensive forecasting analysis of the global automotive industry suggests significant shifts in market dynamics through 2030, with China set to increase its share of global vehicle production from over 30% to nearly 40%, while traditional companies (and countries) are facing a variety of transition challenges.

Major Market Shifts Expected
The study, which is based on historic and present data of 21 major automotive companies using advanced AI forecasting methods, projects divergent paths for different regions:

Chinese dominance is expanding: China’s vertically integrated approach—from lithium processing to battery manufacturing to final assembly—creates cost advantages and supply chain resilience that is difficult to replicate. The country’s coordinated industrial policy, the large number of engineers and infrastructure investments are expected to help China to capture the largest share of industry growth.

US manufacturers under pressure: American car makers are looking at the possibility of further decline in sales, revenues, and profitability, attributed to slow electric vehicle adoption, supply chain uncertainties and lack of competitiveness in export markets.

Europe – fragile stability: European producers are expected to maintain relatively stable positions, with premium brands providing pricing power and margin protection against low-cost competition.

Methodology and Scope
The forecasting model integrates multiple analytical approaches including S-curve modelling, linear trend analysis, mean reversion models, and machine-learning tools. The analysis incorporates historical performance data, brand power metrics, consumer perceptions, and adaptation speeds across the industry.

Tesla Valuation Concerns 
The analysis raises significant questions about market valuations, particularly regarding Tesla, which is currently valued at more than $1.1 trillion despite selling fewer than 2 million vehicles compared to Toyota’s 10 million units. The study suggests Tesla is currently overvalued by roughly 900% based on traditional automotive industry metrics.

Technology Transition Impact
The next five years will likely determine which companies successfully navigate the transition from combustion-engines to integrated electric cars, and which companies become casualties or winners of technological and market disruption, as the industry faces its most significant transformation since the advent of mass production.

Read more here: Changing seat: competitiveness-based forecasting the car industry

Limitations and Assumptions

The forecast assumes no major geopolitical destabilisation or climate-related supply chain disruptions, acknowledging that unforeseeable events are not included in the modelling.

This analysis provides insights for investors, industry stakeholders, and policymakers as the automotive sector undergoes its most dramatic restructuring in over a century.

About SolAbility
SolAbility is an ESG consultancy and research think-tank, publisher of the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index, and has designed ESG system that have made clients Global DJSI leaders.

Key Findings from the AI-Enhanced Industry Study

The global car industry is at an inflection point with the transition to electrification of power trains as and AI system integration. The next 5 years will determine what players will thrive or disappear, with new entrances mixing up established powerhouses. A comprehensive forecasting analysis of the global automotive industry suggests significant shifts in market dynamics through 2030, with China set to increase its share of global vehicle production from over 30% to nearly 40%, while traditional companies (and countries) are facing a variety of transition challenges.

Major Market Shifts Expected
The study, which is based on historic and present data of 21 major automotive companies using advanced AI forecasting methods, projects divergent paths for different regions:

Chinese dominance is expanding: China’s vertically integrated approach—from lithium processing to battery manufacturing to final assembly—creates cost advantages and supply chain resilience that is difficult to replicate. The country’s coordinated industrial policy, the large number of engineers and infrastructure investments are expected to help China to capture the largest share of industry growth.

US manufacturers under pressure: American car makers are looking at the possibility of further decline in sales, revenues, and profitability, attributed to slow electric vehicle adoption, supply chain uncertainties and lack of competitiveness in export markets.

Europe – fragile stability: European producers are expected to maintain relatively stable positions, with premium brands providing pricing power and margin protection against low-cost competition.

Methodology and Scope
The forecasting model integrates multiple analytical approaches including S-curve modelling, linear trend analysis, mean reversion models, and machine-learning tools. The analysis incorporates historical performance data, brand power metrics, consumer perceptions, and adaptation speeds across the industry.

Tesla Valuation Concerns 
The analysis raises significant questions about market valuations, particularly regarding Tesla, which is currently valued at more than $1.1 trillion despite selling fewer than 2 million vehicles compared to Toyota’s 10 million units. The study suggests Tesla is currently overvalued by roughly 900% based on traditional automotive industry metrics.

Technology Transition Impact
The next five years will likely determine which companies successfully navigate the transition from combustion-engines to integrated electric cars, and which companies become casualties or winners of technological and market disruption, as the industry faces its most significant transformation since the advent of mass production.

Read more here: Changing seat: competitiveness-based forecasting the car industry

Limitations and Assumptions

The forecast assumes no major geopolitical destabilisation or climate-related supply chain disruptions, acknowledging that unforeseeable events are not included in the modelling.

This analysis provides insights for investors, industry stakeholders, and policymakers as the automotive sector undergoes its most dramatic restructuring in over a century.

About SolAbility
SolAbility is an ESG consultancy and research think-tank, publisher of the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index, and has designed ESG system that have made clients Global DJSI leaders.

CLEVELAND, September 22, 2025 /3BL/ — KeyBank’s Key4Women and Key Private Bank will present “Empowered Futures: Building an Intentional Legacy” a free, one-hour virtual event on Tuesday, September 30^th at 1:00 p.m. EST / 11:00 a.m. MT / 10:00 a.m. PST.

Cathy O’Malley-Kearney, J.D., executive vice president, national head of Key Private Bank will be joined by three KeyBank Key Private Bank executives to bring an insightful and impactful conversation tailored to women business professionals and owners. This webinar will provide essential insights into estate and tax planning, with a focus on the unique needs of women, including what questions to ask, protecting legacy, care for loved ones, and building a succession plan that will help long after transitioning from the business.

Key takeaways from the webinar include:

• Personal Planning- understanding wills, trusts, and strategies for a secure future.
• Business Continuity- understand succession planning and tax strategies to protect assets.
• Elder Care- navigate financial planning for aging parents and long-term support, while considering personal needs for the future.
• Family Legacy- explore tools for children’s education, guardianship, inheritance, and philanthropy.

“This is the webinar we all need regardless of what business we are in, our age, or what we do in our everyday lives,” said O’Malley-Kearney. “The takeaways from this conversation with these professionals are ones that can put into action right away and help make smart decisions for the future.”

Guests joining O’Malley-Kearney are:

• Lia Jones, J.D.- Key Private Bank senior fiduciary strategist
• Suzanne Rende, CTFA – Key Private Bank senior fiduciary strategist
• Kelly Goliat, J.D. LL.M Taxation- Key Private Bank director of tax, trust, and estate planning

For more information, contact key4women@keybank.com or register online by September 29^th here.

Key Wealth, Key Private Bank, Key Family Wealth, KeyBank Institutional Advisors and Key Private Client are marketing names for KeyBank National Association (KeyBank) and certain affiliates, such as Key Investment Services LLC (KIS) and KeyCorp Insurance Agency USA Inc. (KIA). Content provided for informational and educational purposes only and is in no way to be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice. We cannot and do not guarantee its applicability or accuracy in regard to your individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes. We encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding all personal financial issues. The link(s) provided in this email are not owned or operated by KeyBank.

KeyBank is not responsible for any scheduling conflicts, cancellations, postponement, access or connectivity issues, or force majeure event whatsoever associated with KeyBank’s vendors’ or Key4Women webinars. KeyBank is not responsible or liable for, and is hereby released from, any and all costs, injuries, losses or damages of any kind, due in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, to participation in Key4Women webinars. Key4Women is a registered trademark of KeyCorp. ©2025 KeyCorp®. All rights reserved.

About KeyCorp
In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit KeyBank Heritage Center. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $185 billion at June 30, 2025. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank Member FDIC.

CFMA # 250917-3508528

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CLEVELAND, September 22, 2025 /3BL/ — KeyBank’s Key4Women and Key Private Bank will present “Empowered Futures: Building an Intentional Legacy” a free, one-hour virtual event on Tuesday, September 30^th at 1:00 p.m. EST / 11:00 a.m. MT / 10:00 a.m. PST.

Cathy O’Malley-Kearney, J.D., executive vice president, national head of Key Private Bank will be joined by three KeyBank Key Private Bank executives to bring an insightful and impactful conversation tailored to women business professionals and owners. This webinar will provide essential insights into estate and tax planning, with a focus on the unique needs of women, including what questions to ask, protecting legacy, care for loved ones, and building a succession plan that will help long after transitioning from the business.

Key takeaways from the webinar include:

• Personal Planning- understanding wills, trusts, and strategies for a secure future.
• Business Continuity- understand succession planning and tax strategies to protect assets.
• Elder Care- navigate financial planning for aging parents and long-term support, while considering personal needs for the future.
• Family Legacy- explore tools for children’s education, guardianship, inheritance, and philanthropy.

“This is the webinar we all need regardless of what business we are in, our age, or what we do in our everyday lives,” said O’Malley-Kearney. “The takeaways from this conversation with these professionals are ones that can put into action right away and help make smart decisions for the future.”

Guests joining O’Malley-Kearney are:

• Lia Jones, J.D.- Key Private Bank senior fiduciary strategist
• Suzanne Rende, CTFA – Key Private Bank senior fiduciary strategist
• Kelly Goliat, J.D. LL.M Taxation- Key Private Bank director of tax, trust, and estate planning

For more information, contact key4women@keybank.com or register online by September 29^th here.

Key Wealth, Key Private Bank, Key Family Wealth, KeyBank Institutional Advisors and Key Private Client are marketing names for KeyBank National Association (KeyBank) and certain affiliates, such as Key Investment Services LLC (KIS) and KeyCorp Insurance Agency USA Inc. (KIA). Content provided for informational and educational purposes only and is in no way to be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice. We cannot and do not guarantee its applicability or accuracy in regard to your individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes. We encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding all personal financial issues. The link(s) provided in this email are not owned or operated by KeyBank.

KeyBank is not responsible for any scheduling conflicts, cancellations, postponement, access or connectivity issues, or force majeure event whatsoever associated with KeyBank’s vendors’ or Key4Women webinars. KeyBank is not responsible or liable for, and is hereby released from, any and all costs, injuries, losses or damages of any kind, due in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, to participation in Key4Women webinars. Key4Women is a registered trademark of KeyCorp. ©2025 KeyCorp®. All rights reserved.

About KeyCorp
In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit KeyBank Heritage Center. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $185 billion at June 30, 2025. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank Member FDIC.

CFMA # 250917-3508528

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The simple corrugated cardboard box, strong and light, is a bedrock of the American economy. From big-box behemoth stores to the local mom-and-pop, almost every product sold in the United States is at some point contained in cardboard.

For many companies, used cardboard presents a headache. It piles up, sometimes by the ton, behind stores, in warehouses, stockrooms and loading docks around the country, taking up valuable real estate, impeding business and, in some cases, creating a risk to human health and a fire hazard. A store can be shut down by a health official or a fire marshal simply because there is too much cardboard piling up behind the store.

Fortunately, corrugated cardboard is also one of the most recyclable materials in use today. In 2023, 71-76 percent of cardboard was recycled. Ensuring that recycled fiber is collected and fed back into our manufacturing process is a key component of the circular product lifecycle.

At International Paper we believe in circularity—recapturing and reusing as much of the raw materials of our business as possible. The more we recycle, the fewer resources we use to create new boxes, and the more sustainable our way of life becomes. As one of the world’s largest consumers of wood pulp, and by extension recycled pulp, International Paper occupies a unique and important position in the life of a cardboard box—and in the environmental sustainability of America’s natural resources. We use virgin pulp from sustainably-managed forests, but we also source millions of tons of used cardboard from department stores, large retailers, grocery chains and others. We then transport and process that recycled material into new boxes.

It is this end-to-end circular model that sets our approach apart from almost every other cardboard recycler.

Get the full story with our free white paper on our website here.

About International Paper 
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) is the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. With company headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, and EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) headquarters in London, UK, we employ more than 65,000 team members and serve customers around the world with operations in more than 30 countries. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Net sales for 2024 were $18.6 billion. In 2025, International Paper acquired DS Smith creating an industry leader focused on the attractive and growing North American and EMEA regions. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com 

LINCOLN, Neb., September 22, 2025 /3BL/ – One New York City park sees new trees planted for the first time in two generations, thanks to the Arbor Day Foundation and Verizon. Monday’s event coincided with Climate Week NYC, a global convening of corporate and government leaders seeking to move the needle on environmental action.

In partnership with New York City Parks Tree Time initiative, volunteers planted dozens of trees in St. Vartan Park in the Murray Hill neighborhood of Manhattan. St. Vartan Park borders the Queens Midtown Tunnel, which carries approximately 80,000 vehicles per day between Manhattan and Queens. These new trees will help limit the impact of air pollution from heavy traffic, as well as provide shade for the park’s playgrounds.

The event in St. Vartan Park is the first in a series of three plantings during Climate Week NYC, supporting Verizon’s broader initiatives. This week more trees will be planted in Baisley Pond Park, along Review Avenue in Queens, and along Borden Avenue in Long Island City.

“Verizon’s leadership is making a real, lasting difference for communities. Our team at the Arbor Day Foundation has long appreciated their partnership,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “We believe trees bring people together to do great things, and this project is proof. After nearly two generations without any new trees, we’re restoring a canopy that will provide cleaner air, more shade, and endless beauty to this New York City neighborhood.”

Aside from some recent playground equipment updates, St. Vartan Park has not been fully renovated in more than 40 years. New York City Parks estimates that without this funding, there would still be no trees planted in St. Vartan Park until at least 2030.

In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help reduce high temperatures, mitigate stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health. Visit arborday.org to learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation’s work in communities and how to get involved.

About Verizon Communications 

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores.

About the Arbor Day Foundation 

The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporters united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees. For more than 50 years, they’ve answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners.

And this is only the beginning.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees. Learn more at arborday.org.

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On August 25, 2025, six employees from Monroe Drilling Operations, LLC were injured while plugging an orphan well in Independence Township, Washington County, Ohio. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), natural gas and crude oil unexpectedly surfaced, ignited, and caused an explosion.

Fire crews from Reno Volunteer Fire Department and six surrounding departments responded to the blaze deep within Wayne National Forest. Reaching the remote site required off-road vehicles and portable pumps to transport water. Although the fire was contained within an hour, plugging equipment and surrounding trees were damaged. Fortunately, there was no broader public risk.

The injured workers were transported to hospitals, with four airlifted to specialized facilities. ODNR’s Emergency Operations and Response team continues investigating.

Local fire chief Jon Bradford noted that while orphan wells are common in the region, this was the first explosion his team had encountered. He stressed the need for additional training, equipment, and funding to better prepare emergency responders as Ohio accelerates its well plugging program.

Environmental advocates echoed these concerns. Jesse Velazquez of the Ohio Environmental Council called the incident “a sobering reminder” of the risks posed by the tens of thousands of uncapped wells across the state.

The Hazards of Plugging Orphan Wells 

Plugging orphan wells is essential to reduce methane emissions, protecting groundwater, and preventing surface spills. But the process carries significant risks, especially when well records are incomplete, or infrastructure is degraded. Common hazards include:

• Unexpected gas releases – Pressurized methane or volatile hydrocarbons can escape during plugging, creating fire and explosion risks.
• Hydrocarbon migration – Crude oil and brine may leak into surrounding soils or aquifers if barriers fail.
• Remote access challenges – Isolated sites can delay emergency response and limit firefighting or medical support.
• Aging infrastructure – Many orphan wells date back decades, with deteriorated casing and cement that complicate sealing efforts.

Best Practices for Safer Plugging Operations 

As federal and state orphan well programs expand, operators and regulators are advancing safety through:

• Comprehensive site assessments with gas monitoring and subsurface evaluations prior to mobilizing plugging equipment.
• Emergency preparedness planning, including joint drills with local fire departments.
• Monitoring technologies to detect gas migration or abnormal pressures early.
• Specialized training for plugging crews and first responders on well control and hazardous materials handling.
• Investments in equipment such as portable water supplies, PPE, and air monitoring equipment.

Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Preparedness 

Beyond technical hazards, robust HSE systems are essential for protecting workers and communities. Key elements include:

• Work Permits – A Permit to Work (PTW) System ensures risks are reviewed and controls in place before any task begins.
• Job Safety Analysis (JSA) – Breaking down tasks to identify hazards and establish safe procedures, updated daily.
• Hazard Identification (HazID) – Ongoing hazard spotting by supervisors and crews.
• Stop Work Authority (SWA) – Empowering workers to halt operations immediately if unsafe conditions arise.
• Management Support – Leadership commitment to safety resourcing, training, and digital systems that make processes efficient and effective.

A Permit to Work System in particular enhances accountability by requiring safety review before planning or execution. This structured approach helps prevent incidents like the Wayne National Forest explosion.

How Antea Group Supports Safer Well Site Operations 

At Antea Group, we partner with operators and regulators to bring real-time oversight, risk management, and documentation discipline to orphan well plugging projects. Our current scope includes:

• Health and Safety Oversight – Continuous air monitoring for Lower Explosive Limit (%LEL methane-calibrated), oxygen (O2), total volatile organic compounds (VOCs), hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), and carbon monoxide (CO) within work zones. Perimeter monitoring is conducted regularly, with additional hourly checks when sensitive receptors (e.g., schools, businesses) are nearby.
• Environmental Oversight – Ensuring compliance with best management practices, including silt fence maintenance, orderly sites, and proper waste containerization to ensure corrective measures are in place in an unsuspected release occurs.
• Work Scope Documentation – Recording daily activities such as depths achieved, casing pulled, cement volumes used, and plug intervals set, ensuring accountability, quality, and regulatory compliance.

By combining technical expertise, real-time monitoring, and structured documentation, Antea Group helps clients manage the complex health, safety, and environmental risks associated with plugging orphan wells. Our approach reduces uncertainty, builds trust with regulators and communities, and most importantly, helps protect the workers and environments where this critical work takes place.

If your organization is navigating orphan well plugging or other high-risk field operations, Antea Group can help ensure the work is done safely, responsibly, and with confidence.

Reach out to our team today! 

Originally published on newsroom.marykay.com

Social media, e-commerce, AI powered solutions and digital marketing have been making a huge impact on Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants (IBCs) all over the world, with Latin America paving the way for business transformation. Laura Hiros, Sales Education Manager at Mary Kay Inc. for the Latin America region (LATAM) recently spoke at a major direct selling conference to showcase how millions of Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants have embraced a “phygital” strategy. Whether in-person or online, Laura and her team empower Mary Kay small business owners to expand their reach and engage with confidence in a new era of social connection.

To dive even deeper into this exciting transformation, we had the opportunity to interview Laura and gain insights into the new standards for blooming digital beauty, storytelling, and community engagement.

This year, you were a mainstage speaker at the Direct Selling University (DSU) in Miami (FL). Can you share with us about Mary Kay’s “Phygital” strategy in Latin America? 

• Mary Kay proudly operates in eight markets across the LATAM region, beginning its journey in Argentina, where for over 45 years, it has been empowering and enriching the lives of women with opportunity, beauty, and purpose.
• The “Empowering Mary Kay Entrepreneurs to Maximize Social Media” initiative launched in 2023 in Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, and Uruguay, and in 2024, it expanded to Brazil.
• Phygital selling combines the personal touch of physical interactions – which is the hallmark of personalized service and attention our IBCs are known for – with the convenience, scale, and speed of digital channels.
• This includes leveraging social media and e-commerce platforms to reach wider audiences and nurture new relationships, reaching new customers where they are: in-person, online, or on-the-go and, using AI powered solutions, exclusive just for her, like the Mary Kay® Skin Analyzer app or the Mirror Me™ Virtual Try-On app that create seamless customer experiences with digital ordering, follow-ups, and loyalty programs.

Why is it important for the Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants to embrace both physical and digital selling?

• “Phygital” provides more ways to connect with their customers and invites a new generation of consumers to experience our iconic Mary Kay brand and irresistible products.
• In today’s environment, our beauty entrepreneurs have the unique opportunity to expand their reach and meet customers where they are – online, on the phone, on social channels, or at home.
• It is a win-win: using multiple channels increases their visibility and allows potential customers to connect and communicate in the way they prefer most. Again, meeting consumers where they are helps break down barriers and build trust, which leads to more sales opportunities and relationship building.

Can you tell us about your most recent significant initiatives in the region? 

• Our “Mary Kay LATAM Social” Instagram page is exclusive for our IBCs. Education is key to fostering a sense of confidence on social media. Our page is a leading example of how we educate and empower entrepreneurs to navigate the digital world with confidence – using engaging video reels, inspiring stories, and practical tools. We share post examples that she can recreate in her own style and engage with her customers on her Mary Kay business channels.
• We’ve just launched our AI Foundation Finder, an intuitive technology designed to help consumers effortlessly find their foundation match, while empowering our IBCs to guide their customers in finding the right match – right from their phones! A first in the direct selling industry, this AI Foundation Finder uses advanced artificial intelligence to scan a customer’s face on their mobile phone and provide personalized shade recommendations in our flawless skin product portfolio in just seconds. An innovation which connects all the dots!
• Our IBCs are recognized in the direct selling industry and beyond, for mastering personal connection, storytelling, and community building. We are enriching this heritage with digital fluency and adaptive business strategies, equipping our Mary Kay entrepreneurs with the tools they need to feel as confident digitally as in-person. That’s the power of our Phygital strategy!

What is the digital and social media horizon for direct selling companies? 

• Shape the Future: Because when you blend high-tech with high-touch, you don’t just keep up with change – you shape it. I want to emphasize the importance of staying ahead of industry trends and continuously evolving business strategies.
• The Sky is The Limit: “Phygital” expands reach and opportunities inviting the next generation of direct sellers around the world who seek flexible selling options that align with their lives and priorities.
• Continuous Learning Creates Unstoppable Leaders: From mastering social selling and short-form video content to learning how to start organic engagement and connections with potential customers, the right education builds confidence and credibility. This is how brands can unlock the full potential of their independent sales force so that they can lead with confidence, connection, and innovation. Our Mary Kay IBCs are intentional business owners, and we want to be there for them at each step of their transformation journey.

Did You Know: 

• In 2025, Mary Kay was named the #1 Direct Selling Brand of Skin Care and Color Cosmetics in the World^[1] by Euromonitor International for the third consecutive year, and the #1 Brand for Facial Make-up and Lip products in the LATAM region.
• Mary Kay Mexico has been honored in 2025 again with the prestigious Socially Responsible Company (Empresa Socialmente Responsible) award by the Mexican Center for Philanthropy (Cemefi) and ALIARSE por México – recognizing the company’s strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and its dedication to ethical, sustainable, and community-focused practices.
• Latin America is a vibrant region for women’s entrepreneurship and for our Mary Kay small business owners. We are present in eight LATAM markets, and 2025 marked Mary Kay’s 45^th anniversary in Argentina, 37^th in Mexico, and 27^th in Brazil.

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About Mary Kay

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. Learn more at marykayglobal.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X.

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^{[1] “Source Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2025 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2024 data”}