Tag: 3BL

AUSTIN, September 4, 2026 /3BL/ – Most students will go through 13 years of school without ever growing their own food — yet research shows that’s exactly where healthy eating habits take root. Today, Whole Foods Market Foundation is closing that gap, awarding over $2.6 million in Garden Grants to 750 schools and nonprofits reaching more than 435,000 students. The grants fund K–12 edible learning spaces — from raised beds and greenhouses to hydroponic towers — where children discover the joy of fresh, nutritious food and develop healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.

A peer-reviewed study from The University of Texas at Austin found that students who participated in school gardening, nutrition, and cooking programs ate an additional half serving of vegetables per day — a meaningful behavioral change, especially in communities where access to fresh food is limited. Beyond nutrition, edible gardens support a wide range of classroom instruction, from science and math to art and cooking. “There’s something about growing your own food that makes you want to taste it — and that’s just as true for a seven-year-old as it is for the rest of us,” said Daniel Zoltani, Executive Director, Whole Foods Market Foundation. “When students spend time in edible gardens, they develop a real relationship with what they eat. With this year’s 750 grants, we’re helping grow the next generation of healthy eaters — one seed at a time.”

The 2026 grants represent the latest chapter in a program that has been building this impact for 15 years: since its inception in 2011, the Garden Grant program has awarded more than 10,400 grants, investing over $26 million and providing hands-on nutrition education to more than 5.9 million students.

Together with partners who share a commitment to growing the next generation of healthy eaters, Whole Foods Market Foundation is bringing edible education to more students. For the second year, Newman’s Own Foundation, whose priority program areas include nutrition education, school food, and Indigenous food justice, is contributing $100,000 to select Garden Grant recipients in the United States, bringing its total investment in the program to $200,000. “Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and connection of fruits and vegetables,” said Alex Amouyel, President & CEO, Newman’s Own Foundation. “Together with Whole Foods Market Foundation, Newman’s Own Foundation is investing in learning spaces that nurture the next generation of food citizens.” Also, new partner, Tower Garden, a leader in aeroponic gardening, is donating 200 tower gardens totaling $200,000 to selected Garden Grant school recipients. The vertical, aeroponic growing systems allow students to grow fresh produce year-round, even in schools with limited outdoor space. “We have long admired the work done by Whole Foods Market Foundation and the community they have created with their Garden Grant program. This is an exciting moment for Tower Garden, and we hope to unlock a love of gardening and inspire children by providing these opportunities,” said James Coffman, Vice President, Global Tower Garden. “We are proud to partner with the Foundation and work with them on our shared mission for a healthier, more sustainable future for all.”

The next round of Garden Grant applications opens in February 2027. Schools and nonprofit organizations that serve students in grades K–12 in the United States or Canada are eligible to apply. For more information, visit wholefoodsmarketfoundation.org. The Garden Grant program’s vision is a future where every student, regardless of zip code, has access to an edible garden and the knowledge that comes from growing their own food. One grant at a time, that future is already being built.

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ABOUT WHOLE FOODS MARKET FOUNDATION

Whole Foods Market Foundation is on a mission to nourish people by advancing food security, improving nutrition and strengthening resilient food systems. The registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is based in Austin, Texas. For more information on the Foundation’s work, visit wholefoodsmarketfoundation.org. For ongoing news and updates, follow Whole Foods Market Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Media Contact:
Sandra Mariscal, Director of Philanthropy
Sandra.Mariscal@wholefoods.com

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

What first inspired you to pursue a career in Software Development, and how did your path lead you to GoDaddy?

Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by computers. During summer breaks, I would spend hours glued to the computer, playing games and exploring everything I could. Over time, my curiosity shifted from simply using computers to wondering how these small machines could do so many different things.

That curiosity had a big influence on me early on. Even as a child, I knew I wanted to become an Engineer and work closely with computers. Programming felt like the natural next step because it gave me a way to understand how software works and eventually build things of my own. That interest led me to pursue Computer Science during my bachelor’s degree. Over time, Software Development became the perfect career path for me. It allowed me to turn my childhood curiosity into real-world problem solving and building.

My path to GoDaddy happened a little unexpectedly, but in the best way. I was exploring my next career move and came across a role at GoDaddy that matched my experience and interests. What made it even more meaningful is that I had already been a GoDaddy customer, and my first domain purchases were through GoDaddy.

Joining the company felt like a full-circle moment: going from using GoDaddy as a customer to contributing to the technology behind it.

Which emerging technologies or patterns do you think will matter most in the next 2 years?

AI is definitely going to continue shaping how we build software and how teams work. I think one of the biggest skills going forward will be AI fluency and knowing how to use AI tools effectively, ask the right questions, provide the right context, manage tokens and prompts, and validate the output with strong engineering judgment.

Prompt engineering is part of that, but I think it goes beyond just writing prompts. It is about understanding how to work with AI as a collaborator. The better we get at giving clear context and breaking down problems, the more value we can get from these tools.

I also think the idea of forward-deployed engineering will become more important. Engineers will need to work closer to real business and customer problems, understand the full picture, and use AI to move faster across different parts of the stack. In the past, roles like Frontend, Backend, DevOps, QA, and Platform Engineering were often more clearly separated. Those areas will still matter, but AI is already extending the boundaries of each role. A Frontend Engineer can understand backend patterns faster, a Backend Engineer can contribute more confidently to infrastructure, and teams can prototype, test, and ship ideas more quickly.

To me, the most important pattern is embracing AI as much as possible while still keeping strong fundamentals. AI can help us move faster, but good architecture, security, reliability, and problem-solving skills will continue to be critical. The Engineers and teams who learn how to combine AI with strong fundamentals will have the biggest impact over the next couple of years.

How do you create space for experimentation, and how has GoDaddy supported your personal growth and learning initiatives?

GoDaddy has supported my growth by creating space for experimentation in a very practical way. On our team, we regularly have Blue Sky days, where we get dedicated time to step away from planned sprint work and explore ideas that could improve our systems, tools, or ways of working.

This kind of space is especially important right now because AI and related technologies are evolving so quickly. We are all in a learning phase when it comes to applying AI effectively, and new tools, patterns, and best practices are emerging frequently. Blue Sky days give us the opportunity to experiment with those trends, evaluate what is actually useful, and think about how they can be applied to our own systems.

Because this time is intentionally planned, it also helps us balance experimentation with deadlines and priorities. We can stay focused on delivery while still making room for curiosity, learning, and continuous improvement.

GoDaddy also supports growth by recognizing the importance of balance and wellness. Every quarter, we have a Wellness Day where we can step away from work and prioritize our well-being. I think that matters because sustainable growth is not just about constantly learning new technologies; it is also about having the time and space to recharge. When people are given that balance, they can come back with more energy, creativity, and focus.

For me, both Blue Sky days and Wellness Days reflect a culture that encourages continuous improvement in a healthy way. We are supported in learning, experimenting, and staying current with emerging technologies, while also being reminded to take care of ourselves along the way.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy keeping a good mix of sports, travel, entertainment, and learning. I play cricket and badminton whenever I get the chance, and I enjoy going on long drives. It’s one of my favorite ways to relax and clear my mind.

I’m also a huge Potterhead, so rewatching Harry Potter is always on my list. Apart from that, I enjoy watching sci-fi series and reading research papers to stay connected with new ideas, especially around technology and emerging trends.

Travel is another big part of my life. I enjoy visiting new places, experiencing different cultures, and learning about local traditions. For me, traveling is a great way to gain perspective and appreciate how people live, think, and celebrate in different parts of the world.

Are you enjoying this series and want to know more about life at GoDaddy? Check out our GoDaddy Life social pages! Follow us to meet our team, learn more about our culture (Teams, ERGs, Locations), careers, and so much more. You’re more than just your day job, so come propel your career with us.

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Cascale recently participated in Preview in Seoul 2026, South Korea’s largest business-to-business textile trade show.

The global nonprofit alliance demonstrated ongoing commitment to the Korean textile and apparel manufacturing sector.

Represented on the ground by Peony Tam, manager, global membership development APAC, Cascale established a strategic co-presence alongside technology partner Worldly. Together, the organizations engaged directly with key regional stakeholders, including existing members, prospective partners, and the Korea Federation of Textile Industries (KOFOTI).

Key Takeaways: 

• Worldly and Cascale established a complementary joint presence at Preview in Seoul 2026, while distinguishing their unique roles.
• Readiness for incoming European regulation was among the topics of conversation.
• Cascale members – such as GG Manufacturing – were among speakers featured at Preview in Seoul.

Driving Ecosystem Clarity, Regional Engagement

During a joint seminar co-hosted by Worldly and FITI Testing & Research Institute, Worldly presented an overview introducing Cascale. The presentation highlighted the complementary roles both organizations play within the broader sustainability landscape – framing Cascale’s role in stewarding standardized tools and driving global collective action, alongside Worldly’s data hosting and software solutions, including the Higg Index.

The session featured high-level industry contributions, with speakers including Cascale members Textile Exchange, ZDHC Foundation, FITI Research Institute, Sae-A (Bureau Veritas), and GG Manufacturing. Networking was another highlight of the event; Cascale’s Tam met with members and stakeholders.

Navigating EU Policy Compliance, Future Collaboration

A primary focus of discussion during the trade show centered on regulatory readiness for the European Union’s upcoming Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and Digital Product Passport (DPP) requirements.

FITI Research Institute, supported by KOFOTI, highlighted an ongoing pilot project designed to calculate a garment’s environmental footprint by using the Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM) as primary input data. This showed how Cascale’s foundational tools support regulatory alignment. (For policy mapping, see the Global Legislative Map).

Looking ahead, Cascale and regional stakeholders discussed expanding collaboration in South Korea. To learn more about Cascale’s regional engagement and upcoming industry events, explore our latest News & Press Updates.

Business owners preparing for the next chapter of their companies will have an opportunity to gain practical guidance on succession planning, leadership transition, and preserving long-term business value during a free virtual webinar hosted by KeyBank’s Key4Women on September 9^th.

The one-hour webinar, “Beyond the Business: Planning for Ownership, Succession & Legacy,” will begin at 1:00 p.m. EST and feature a panel of leaders and advisors who will share insights on navigating one of the most significant milestones in a business owner’s journey: transitioning ownership while protecting the company’s future.

Hosted by Cathy O’Malley Kearney, National Head of Key Private Bank, the discussion will focus on how business owners can develop thoughtful transition strategies, whether they plan to pass the business to the next generation, prepare for a future sale, cultivate new leadership, or strengthen the organization for long-term success.

Joining Kearney on the panel are Kalimah White, Senior Estate Planning Advisor, and Karina Biehl, Senior Director of Business Advisory Services, who will share their expertise on succession planning, estate considerations, business valuation, and leadership continuity.

Participants will learn how to begin planning for a successful business transition, transfer leadership while preserving company culture, strengthen business valuation through strategic investments and access to capital, and avoid common pitfalls that can derail transition plans.

This webinar is designed to help business owners think proactively about their long-term goals while building a lasting legacy for employees, customers, and future generations.

The webinar is free and open to the public. Registration is required by Sept. 8^th. Interested participants can register here or contact key4women@keybank.com for additional information.

CFMA #260901-4932778

• Diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency (PI) as an infant, Nick Stacken has spent decades pursuing his passions, including competing in Special Olympics.
• Immunoglobulin (Ig) Therapy is often key to PI care, but ongoing support from pharmacists, nurses and caregivers can help patients build confidence and support their long-term health and personal goals.
• CVS Specialty/Coram supports patients receiving Ig Therapy through specialized pharmacy services, in-home nursing support, patient education and personalized care.

Originally published on CVS Health Company Newsroom

Nick Stacken loves sports. In fact, he’s been a Special Olympian in his state for two decades. Now his sights are set on participating at the national level.

Learn more about Nick’s story here.

For his mother and caregiver, Wendy Stacken, that future once seemed impossible.

“Nick was born with multiple health issues,” Wendy recalls. “He kept getting sick. We’d take him to the hospital and we’d be back again hours later. It was terrifying.” 

At 13 months old, he was diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency (PI), a group of rare disorders that impair the immune system’s ability to fight infection. 

• According to the Centers for Disease Control, people living with PI often face an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, certain cancers and other serious health complications.

The right therapy, the right support

Nick’s access to appropriate therapies and the support of trusting relationships, including with his in-home CVS Specialty/Coram nurses, have simplified his health care and supported his quality of life.

Since his diagnosis, a key part of Nick’s care has been Immunoglobulin (Ig) Therapy, administered by his CVS Specialty/Coram nurses, which provides antibodies that help protect against infections. 

• The therapy is important: Ig therapy has been shown to reduce hospitalizations by more than 50%, according to the Immune Deficiency Foundation. 

Yet for the Stacken family, Ig Therapy has only been one part of the equation. Wendy notes that the CVS Specialty/Coram nurses go beyond administering therapy. They help the family navigate treatment, monitor changes and stay connected with the broader care team. 

“Jackee, is like family,” says Wendy. “She’s been there to help us understand the therapy, answer questions and spot when something doesn’t seem right.” 

Wendy also points to the reassurance of having 24/7 access to CVS Specialty pharmacist support when questions arise. “There have been many times I’ve had to call at three o’clock in the morning,” she says. “And they answer.” 

Supporting patients beyond the prescription

“For patients like Nick, getting on the right therapy can be life-changing – and in many cases, lifesaving. But it’s often the trusted relationships around that therapy that help patients thrive,” says Lucille Accetta, Chief Pharmacy Officer and Head of CVS Specialty, who notes stories like Nick’s illustrate the broader goal of specialty care. “When patients, caregivers and care teams build trusted relationships over time they gain more than access to treatment. They gain the confidence, continuity and peace of mind that helps make everyday milestones possible.”

Today, Nick is 31 and thriving. He continues to pursue new goals and opportunities, including his aspiration to compete in the Special Olympics at the national level — a possibility that once seemed out of reach for his family.

How CVS Specialty supports patients with Ig Therapy

For people living with primary immunodeficiency and other conditions treated with Immunoglobulin (Ig) Therapy, managing care can be complex. 

CVS Specialty’s IG Center of Excellence—one of more than 30 condition-specific Centers of Excellence—brings together pharmacists, nurses and CareTeams with specialized training and experience supporting patients on Ig therapy. 

CVS Specialty/Coram support includes:

• Personalized education and support for patients and caregivers, helping them understand treatment, administration options and what to expect throughout therapy.
• End-to-end coordination of Ig Therapy, from onboarding and benefits verification to medication delivery, nursing support and ongoing patient education.
• Nursing support and training, including in-home infusion services and patient training for those who may be able to self-administer therapy at home when appropriate.
• 24/7 access to specialty pharmacists who can answer questions and provide clinical support when patients and caregivers need it.
• Digital and high-touch support options tailored to individual preferences, including refill management, delivery tracking and proactive outreach

At the heart of the model is a simple goal: helping patients and caregivers spend less time navigating the complexities of care and more time focusing on what matters most to them.

 

• Diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency (PI) as an infant, Nick Stacken has spent decades pursuing his passions, including competing in Special Olympics.
• Immunoglobulin (Ig) Therapy is often key to PI care, but ongoing support from pharmacists, nurses and caregivers can help patients build confidence and support their long-term health and personal goals.
• CVS Specialty/Coram supports patients receiving Ig Therapy through specialized pharmacy services, in-home nursing support, patient education and personalized care.

Originally published on CVS Health Company Newsroom

Nick Stacken loves sports. In fact, he’s been a Special Olympian in his state for two decades. Now his sights are set on participating at the national level.

Learn more about Nick’s story here.

For his mother and caregiver, Wendy Stacken, that future once seemed impossible.

“Nick was born with multiple health issues,” Wendy recalls. “He kept getting sick. We’d take him to the hospital and we’d be back again hours later. It was terrifying.” 

At 13 months old, he was diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency (PI), a group of rare disorders that impair the immune system’s ability to fight infection. 

• According to the Centers for Disease Control, people living with PI often face an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, certain cancers and other serious health complications.

The right therapy, the right support

Nick’s access to appropriate therapies and the support of trusting relationships, including with his in-home CVS Specialty/Coram nurses, have simplified his health care and supported his quality of life.

Since his diagnosis, a key part of Nick’s care has been Immunoglobulin (Ig) Therapy, administered by his CVS Specialty/Coram nurses, which provides antibodies that help protect against infections. 

• The therapy is important: Ig therapy has been shown to reduce hospitalizations by more than 50%, according to the Immune Deficiency Foundation. 

Yet for the Stacken family, Ig Therapy has only been one part of the equation. Wendy notes that the CVS Specialty/Coram nurses go beyond administering therapy. They help the family navigate treatment, monitor changes and stay connected with the broader care team. 

“Jackee, is like family,” says Wendy. “She’s been there to help us understand the therapy, answer questions and spot when something doesn’t seem right.” 

Wendy also points to the reassurance of having 24/7 access to CVS Specialty pharmacist support when questions arise. “There have been many times I’ve had to call at three o’clock in the morning,” she says. “And they answer.” 

Supporting patients beyond the prescription

“For patients like Nick, getting on the right therapy can be life-changing – and in many cases, lifesaving. But it’s often the trusted relationships around that therapy that help patients thrive,” says Lucille Accetta, Chief Pharmacy Officer and Head of CVS Specialty, who notes stories like Nick’s illustrate the broader goal of specialty care. “When patients, caregivers and care teams build trusted relationships over time they gain more than access to treatment. They gain the confidence, continuity and peace of mind that helps make everyday milestones possible.”

Today, Nick is 31 and thriving. He continues to pursue new goals and opportunities, including his aspiration to compete in the Special Olympics at the national level — a possibility that once seemed out of reach for his family.

How CVS Specialty supports patients with Ig Therapy

For people living with primary immunodeficiency and other conditions treated with Immunoglobulin (Ig) Therapy, managing care can be complex. 

CVS Specialty’s IG Center of Excellence—one of more than 30 condition-specific Centers of Excellence—brings together pharmacists, nurses and CareTeams with specialized training and experience supporting patients on Ig therapy. 

CVS Specialty/Coram support includes:

• Personalized education and support for patients and caregivers, helping them understand treatment, administration options and what to expect throughout therapy.
• End-to-end coordination of Ig Therapy, from onboarding and benefits verification to medication delivery, nursing support and ongoing patient education.
• Nursing support and training, including in-home infusion services and patient training for those who may be able to self-administer therapy at home when appropriate.
• 24/7 access to specialty pharmacists who can answer questions and provide clinical support when patients and caregivers need it.
• Digital and high-touch support options tailored to individual preferences, including refill management, delivery tracking and proactive outreach

At the heart of the model is a simple goal: helping patients and caregivers spend less time navigating the complexities of care and more time focusing on what matters most to them.

 

Based in Brussels, I have seen firsthand how European policy discussions move from technical debates to practical considerations for global companies, supply chains, and the people working across them, often well beyond Europe’s borders.

Today, EU sustainability policy continues to evolve across reporting, product requirements, circularity, human rights, and supply chain due diligence. One thing is certain: it’s a complex planning environment for consumer goods companies. Different policy files may move through different timelines, but many point toward a shared expectation: companies need stronger systems, better data, and clearer internal coordination to understand and respond to sustainability risks and impacts.

This was the focus of Cascale’s July EU Policy Briefing for Cascale Members, where we convened Corporate and Affiliate Members with experts from Cascale, the Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLCP), and Policy Hub to discuss what companies should be watching and preparing for next.

The Policy Landscape Is Increasingly Connected 

The EU policy agenda continues to shape expectations across many parts of business. Reporting developments, including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs (VSMEs), and the Omnibus I package, are influencing how companies understand and communicate sustainability performance. The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and related product sustainability developments, such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), point toward more structured product-level sustainability information. Human rights and due diligence developments, including the EU Forced Labor Regulation and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), reinforce the need for credible supply chain visibility and risk management. Circularity and consumer information measures, including the Circular Economy Act, Waste Framework Directive, national EPR developments, and the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive, are shaping expectations around product responsibility and claims.

Taken together, these developments show that sustainability policy is increasingly connected to how companies collect data, design products, engage suppliers, assess risk, and communicate progress.

For many companies, this means the internal response cannot sit with one team alone, as I noted in my previous blog piece. Reporting requirements may involve sustainability, finance, legal, and data teams. Product sustainability policy may require input from design, sourcing, product development, and technical teams. Due diligence and forced labor expectations may require closer coordination across human rights, compliance, sourcing, and supplier engagement functions. Circularity and consumer information requirements may also involve marketing, public affairs, and legal teams.

The companies best positioned to respond will be those that can translate policy developments into coordinated internal action.

Readiness Matters While Details Continue to Evolve

EU policy discussions are dynamic. Some requirements may be revised, clarified, delayed, or implemented in phases. That uncertainty can make planning difficult, especially for companies operating across multiple markets and complex value chains.

Still, waiting for every detail to be finalized can create its own risks. Many of the capabilities that support policy readiness are useful across multiple regulatory pathways. Reliable data, clear governance, value chain visibility, and supplier engagement will remain important even as specific timelines or technical requirements shift.

Readiness does not require companies to predict every final outcome. It requires building systems that can adapt as expectations become clearer.

For consumer goods companies, that preparation is especially important because EU policy developments can influence global supply chains, including manufacturers and suppliers outside Europe. New reporting, product, due diligence, and circularity expectations may lead to new information requests, stronger documentation needs, and closer engagement between brands, retailers, manufacturers, and other value chain partners.

A credible approach to readiness should account for those practical realities. Companies need to understand what information they may need, where that information will come from, how it will be used, and how to engage suppliers in ways that support better outcomes rather than simply shifting administrative burdens down the value chain.

Why Interpretation and Convening Matter

A crowded policy landscape can be difficult to navigate alone. Companies need timely information, but information alone is rarely enough. They also need opportunities to understand what developments may mean in practice, where uncertainty remains, and how peers and partners are thinking about similar challenges.

That is where our member engagement plays an important role.

For Cascale Corporate and Affiliate members, policy briefings provide access to expert interpretation, practical discussion, and direct Q&A with policy and subject-matter experts. They also create space to connect policy developments to the realities of operating across global value chains — from data and tools to supplier engagement, internal planning, and collective action.

This kind of engagement supports Cascale’s broader work across climate and decent work. As policy expectations evolve, Corporate and Affiliate members need to understand how emerging requirements connect to the systems and partnerships that support credible sustainability action.

Feedback from the recent webinar highlighted the value of helping Corporate and Affiliate members connect developments across different policy files and understand practical implications for their business operations.

As the EU policy landscape will continue to evolve, Cascale will continue supporting Corporate and Affiliate members through timely policy updates, expert engagement, and spaces for collective discussion — helping companies navigate uncertainty with greater clarity and confidence. By attending briefing calls, Cascale Corporate and Affiliate members help identify what to watch, where to focus attention, and how to prepare more effectively.

Continue the Conversation

Cascale Corporate and Affiliate Members: Watch the recording of the EU Policy Briefing and continue the conversation in the Policy & Public Affairs Knowledge Hub on Cascale Connect.

Interested in Cascale membership? Learn how Cascale helps Corporate and Affiliate members stay ahead of regulatory developments through policy insights, practical guidance, stakeholder engagement, and coordinated advocacy that helps bring member perspectives into relevant policy discussions.

Gabriele Ballero is manager of public affairs at Cascale. This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, compliance, or professional advice.

Based in Brussels, I have seen firsthand how European policy discussions move from technical debates to practical considerations for global companies, supply chains, and the people working across them, often well beyond Europe’s borders.

Today, EU sustainability policy continues to evolve across reporting, product requirements, circularity, human rights, and supply chain due diligence. One thing is certain: it’s a complex planning environment for consumer goods companies. Different policy files may move through different timelines, but many point toward a shared expectation: companies need stronger systems, better data, and clearer internal coordination to understand and respond to sustainability risks and impacts.

This was the focus of Cascale’s July EU Policy Briefing for Cascale Members, where we convened Corporate and Affiliate Members with experts from Cascale, the Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLCP), and Policy Hub to discuss what companies should be watching and preparing for next.

The Policy Landscape Is Increasingly Connected 

The EU policy agenda continues to shape expectations across many parts of business. Reporting developments, including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs (VSMEs), and the Omnibus I package, are influencing how companies understand and communicate sustainability performance. The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and related product sustainability developments, such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), point toward more structured product-level sustainability information. Human rights and due diligence developments, including the EU Forced Labor Regulation and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), reinforce the need for credible supply chain visibility and risk management. Circularity and consumer information measures, including the Circular Economy Act, Waste Framework Directive, national EPR developments, and the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive, are shaping expectations around product responsibility and claims.

Taken together, these developments show that sustainability policy is increasingly connected to how companies collect data, design products, engage suppliers, assess risk, and communicate progress.

For many companies, this means the internal response cannot sit with one team alone, as I noted in my previous blog piece. Reporting requirements may involve sustainability, finance, legal, and data teams. Product sustainability policy may require input from design, sourcing, product development, and technical teams. Due diligence and forced labor expectations may require closer coordination across human rights, compliance, sourcing, and supplier engagement functions. Circularity and consumer information requirements may also involve marketing, public affairs, and legal teams.

The companies best positioned to respond will be those that can translate policy developments into coordinated internal action.

Readiness Matters While Details Continue to Evolve

EU policy discussions are dynamic. Some requirements may be revised, clarified, delayed, or implemented in phases. That uncertainty can make planning difficult, especially for companies operating across multiple markets and complex value chains.

Still, waiting for every detail to be finalized can create its own risks. Many of the capabilities that support policy readiness are useful across multiple regulatory pathways. Reliable data, clear governance, value chain visibility, and supplier engagement will remain important even as specific timelines or technical requirements shift.

Readiness does not require companies to predict every final outcome. It requires building systems that can adapt as expectations become clearer.

For consumer goods companies, that preparation is especially important because EU policy developments can influence global supply chains, including manufacturers and suppliers outside Europe. New reporting, product, due diligence, and circularity expectations may lead to new information requests, stronger documentation needs, and closer engagement between brands, retailers, manufacturers, and other value chain partners.

A credible approach to readiness should account for those practical realities. Companies need to understand what information they may need, where that information will come from, how it will be used, and how to engage suppliers in ways that support better outcomes rather than simply shifting administrative burdens down the value chain.

Why Interpretation and Convening Matter

A crowded policy landscape can be difficult to navigate alone. Companies need timely information, but information alone is rarely enough. They also need opportunities to understand what developments may mean in practice, where uncertainty remains, and how peers and partners are thinking about similar challenges.

That is where our member engagement plays an important role.

For Cascale Corporate and Affiliate members, policy briefings provide access to expert interpretation, practical discussion, and direct Q&A with policy and subject-matter experts. They also create space to connect policy developments to the realities of operating across global value chains — from data and tools to supplier engagement, internal planning, and collective action.

This kind of engagement supports Cascale’s broader work across climate and decent work. As policy expectations evolve, Corporate and Affiliate members need to understand how emerging requirements connect to the systems and partnerships that support credible sustainability action.

Feedback from the recent webinar highlighted the value of helping Corporate and Affiliate members connect developments across different policy files and understand practical implications for their business operations.

As the EU policy landscape will continue to evolve, Cascale will continue supporting Corporate and Affiliate members through timely policy updates, expert engagement, and spaces for collective discussion — helping companies navigate uncertainty with greater clarity and confidence. By attending briefing calls, Cascale Corporate and Affiliate members help identify what to watch, where to focus attention, and how to prepare more effectively.

Continue the Conversation

Cascale Corporate and Affiliate Members: Watch the recording of the EU Policy Briefing and continue the conversation in the Policy & Public Affairs Knowledge Hub on Cascale Connect.

Interested in Cascale membership? Learn how Cascale helps Corporate and Affiliate members stay ahead of regulatory developments through policy insights, practical guidance, stakeholder engagement, and coordinated advocacy that helps bring member perspectives into relevant policy discussions.

Gabriele Ballero is manager of public affairs at Cascale. This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, compliance, or professional advice.

BATTLE CREEK, Mich., September 3, 2026 /3BL/ – WK Kellogg Co is celebrating National Better Breakfast Month all September long, highlighting the benefits of cereal as the backbone of a better breakfast – in addition to a healthy way to snack throughout the day.

In the U.S., millions of boxes of cereal are purchased each week, with a single serving of cereal providing hard-to-get nutrients like vitamin D, iron and B vitamins – in addition to fiber and protein.

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans¹, 95% of Americans fall short of the recommended intake of fiber. In 2025 alone, WK Kellogg Co’s cereals provided more than 6 billion² servings of fiber, reflecting the important role ready-to-eat cereal can play in helping consumers fill the fiber gap.

“As a dietitian and a mom, cereal is my go-to breakfast for my family because it can bring whole grains, iron, fiber and folate to every bowl,” said Sarah Ludmer, RDN and Chief Wellbeing & Sustainable Business Officer at WK Kellogg Co. “Once you add milk and some fruit and nuts, you’ve also got calcium, potassium, vitamin D and protein, bringing energy and balanced nutrition to each morning. The great thing about cereal is that it’s endlessly customizable to individual taste, nutrition and lifestyle needs, making it a great choice throughout the day as well.”

This year, WK Kellogg Co highlighted the importance of how its cereals make eating well easy – introducing the SPOONS on-pack nutrition guide and its commitment to bring protein to the table and serve as an outstanding source of fiber (the “P” and “O” of SPOONS). In August, the company also announced it is a full year ahead of schedule to eliminate all certified artificial colors across its full portfolio of cereals by the end of this year, reinforcing the simplicity (the “S”) in its cereals.

From its earliest days, Kellogg’s cereal has been a pioneer in advancing nutrition, with the company hiring the industry’s first in-house dietitian in 1923, introducing on-pack nutrition information in 1939 and championing the benefits of fiber, right from the start. The company continues to evolve its cereal portfolio to meet changing consumer needs by increasing whole grains and fiber, reducing sugar and sodium, and delivering essential vitamins and minerals families typically don’t get enough of.

Dating back to the 1950s, National Better Breakfast Month is observed every September as children return to school, encouraging Americans to start their day with a nutritious, balanced morning meal.

To learn more about SPOONS and check out fiber- and protein-forward recipes, visit wkkellogg.com/our-impact/make-eating-well-easy.

¹US Department of Agriculture; Agricultural Research Service. What We Eat in America: Nutrient intakes from food by gender and age. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009-10.

² Servings of fiber to consumers in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. Based on fiscal year 2025 sales volume.

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About WK Kellogg Co

At WK Kellogg Co, we bring our best to everyone, every day through our trusted foods and brands. Our journey began in 1894, when our founder W.K. Kellogg reimagined the future of food with the creation of Corn Flakes, changing breakfast forever. Our iconic brand portfolio includes Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes^®, Rice Krispies^®, Froot Loops^®, Kashi^®, Special K^®, Kellogg’s Raisin Bran^® and Bear Naked^®. With a presence in the majority of households across North America, our brands play a key role in enhancing the lives of millions of consumers every day, promoting a strong sense of physical, emotional and societal wellbeing. Our beloved brand characters, including Tony the Tiger^® and Toucan Sam^®, represent our deep connections with the consumers and communities we serve. Building on our long history of nutrition leadership, we continue to help consumers make informed choices through innovations such as our SPOONS on-pack nutrition guide, which highlights the benefits of cereal, including simple ingredients, fiber and protein. Through our sustainable business strategy, Feeding Happiness™, we aim to build healthier and happier futures for families, kids and communities. We are making a positive impact while creating foods that bring joy and nourishment to consumers. For more information visit www.wkkellogg.com.

More than 14 tons of requested medical aid departed for Nepal from Direct Relief’s Santa Barbara, California, warehouse today in response to continued health needs from last week’s flash floods that killed more than 1,100 people, damaged infrastructure, and cut off large areas of the country from road access.

More than 4,500 people are still missing, and thousands have been displaced from their homes and are congregating in schools and other sites.

Critical Medical Supplies Depart for Post-Flood Health Needs

Direct Relief has staff on the ground in Nepal and is working in partnership with local groups to prevent secondary health risks, including waterborne diseases, interruptions to primary care and maternal health services, and other health issues that arise from long-term displacement and infrastructure damage.

The emergency shipment addresses urgent health needs reported by healthcare providers operating in flood-damaged districts:

• Infection Control: Broad-spectrum antibiotics and anti-infectives to treat waterborne bacterial infections and more.
• Dehydration & Clean Water: IV fluids (Lactated Ringer’s) and water purification supplies.
• Chronic Disease Management: Insulin, diabetes supplies, COPD, asthma, and hypertension medications.
• Emergency & Triage Support: Wound care kits, first aid essentials, field medic packs, and diagnostic equipment for mobile field clinics, including care taking place in shelters.
• Sanitation & Protection: Personal protective equipment, medical-grade disinfectants, and hygiene products for displaced people.

Medical aid from Direct Relief was already pre-positioned in the country when the disaster occurred, and local groups deployed to mountain areas within hours of the disaster to provide care. One of those groups was Mountain Heart Nepal, which specializes in medical outreach to remote communities in the Himalayan foothills.

Wednesday’s 14-ton shipment will be received by the group, which is continuing to provide medical care to flood-impacted areas.

More than 21 tons of medical aid are currently in process or en route to Nepal to support health efforts in response to the flooding. Wednesday’s shipment is part of an ongoing stream of medical shipments departing from Direct Relief’s warehouse this week, as well as from the organization’s distribution center in Europe.

Emergency Funds Supporting Local Groups

In addition to medical supplies departing for Nepal, the organization has committed or disbursed $125,000 in emergency operating grants to organizations responding locally.

Groups that have or will receive emergency funds are:

• Mountain Heart Nepal, which is using funds to support emergency mobile medical teams and their immediate work of bringing medical services to areas cut off from care.
• Shanti Foundation is providing emergency flood response efforts to impacted women and children. The foundation, led by Shanti Tamang, a long-time partner of Direct Relief, will be providing hygiene supplies, child-friendly spaces in displacement centers and temporary settlements, and psychosocial support.
• One Heart Worldwide will work to maintain essential maternal and newborn health services in the flood-affected districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading, Nepal.

All three organizations were key partners of Direct Relief during the 2015 earthquake response and have continued to receive ongoing support.

NEPAL FLOOD UPDATE

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Direct Relief doing to help after the Nepal floods?

Direct Relief sent more than 14 tons of medical supplies to Nepal, working alongside local partner organizations already on the ground to prevent secondary health problems like waterborne illness and disruptions to routine and maternal care.

How much medical aid has Direct Relief sent to Nepal so far?

The September shipment totaled more than 14 tons on its own, and Direct Relief reports over 21 tons of medical aid either already delivered or in transit as part of the broader flood response, sent from both its Santa Barbara, California warehouse and its European distribution center.

What kinds of medical supplies are included in the shipment?

The aid covers five main needs: antibiotics and anti-infectives for waterborne bacterial infections; IV fluids and water purification supplies for dehydration; medications for chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, COPD, and hypertension; wound care and first-aid supplies for field clinics; and protective equipment and hygiene products for people who’ve been displaced.

Who is receiving and distributing the aid in Nepal?

The supplies are going to Mountain Heart Nepal, a local group focused on medical outreach in remote Himalayan communities. The organization had already deployed teams to affected mountain areas within hours of the flooding and continues to run mobile medical care in the hardest-hit districts.

Is Direct Relief providing financial support as well as supplies?

Yes. Direct Relief has committed or distributed $125,000 in emergency grants to three local organizations — Mountain Heart Nepal, Shanti Foundation, and One Heart Worldwide — supporting mobile medical teams, displaced women and children, and maternal and newborn health services.