Tag: 3BL

 We’re excited to bring you an inside peek into the state of EHS in Latin America. In this conversation, recorded live at our Associates meeting in Costa Rica, we explore what our experts see as the most important points for companies to understand if they operate or do business in their country or across the region. The Latin America region continues to play an increasingly vital role on the global stage — from powering supply chains and producing essential food and agricultural products to driving innovation in renewable energy. Understanding the local environmental, health, safety, and sustainability landscape has never been more important for global businesses.

 

Listen now on: 

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

YouTube

 

With local insights from our experts across the region, in this bonus episode each answers the question: What’s most important for businesses to know about EHS in your country?

Hear from: 
– Noah Koolik, VP of Business Development, IEMS Americas
– Miguel Ego Aguirre, Environmental Consultant, EAS
– Jose Dengo, Partner, CDG Environmental Advisors
– Hilton Lucio, CEO, Antea Brasil
– Ivan Angel, Environmental Senior Consultant, CAO Consultores

EMERYVILLE, Calif., November 18, 2025 – SCS Global Services announces that Taylor Shellfish Farms, a supplier of farmed shellfish, has achieved certification against the rigorous Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Standard. With over 15,000 acres of tidelands in the state of Washington, they are the largest producer of oysters in North America.

This new certification includes the following species now available on the market:

• Ostrea lurida (Olympia oyster)
• Crassostrea sikamea (Kumamoto oyster)
• Crassostrea virginica (Eastern oyster)
• Mytilus galloprovincialis (Mediterranean mussel)
• Veneripus philippinarum (Manila clam)
• Panopea abrupta (Geoduck clam)
• Crassostrea gigas (Pacific oyster)

“We believe true sustainability means caring for both people and the planet,” said Jada Brown, Marketing Manager, Taylor Shellfish Farms. “Our new ASC certification is a badge of that belief – recognizing our responsible farming practices, commitment to clean water, and the fair, empowering workplaces we’ve built for our teams across Washington’s coastlines. From the South Sound, Samish Bay, and beyond, this milestone celebrates the harmony between our farms, our people, and the waters that sustain us all.”

The independent audit consisted of several days with SCS’ team of auditors, with visits across six different regions within Washington state (Discovery Bay, Puget Sound, South Sound East and West, Willapa Bay, and Hood Canal) and over 200 aquaculture concessions.

“With this certification, Taylor Shellfish becomes the first and only bivalve farm to achieve ASC certification in the United States, and just the fifth U.S.-based farm to join ASC’s leading global program,” said Erica Tardiff, U.S. Market Development Manager, ASC. “This demonstrates their leadership and commitment to responsible aquaculture right here at home. Many U.S. consumers opt for local seafood and Taylor’s certification is an important step to expanding regional ASC-labeled options, as awareness and demand for sustainable seafood grows among shoppers, diners and communities.”

“Taylor Shellfish Farms’ commitment to continuous improvement and ecosystem health reflects the evolving role of aquaculture in climate resilience and food security,” said Caio Della Colleta Vianna, Senior Technical Specialist, Aquaculture, SCS Global Services. “They have a great passion for farmed shellfish and are willing to go the distance in order to ensure their products are of the highest quality and adhere to safety and social guidelines.”

As a family-owned business, Taylor Shellfish Farms has deep roots in the Pacific Northwest, having farmed shellfish there since 1890. Their product line includes geoduck, mussels, Manila clams, and a variety of specialty half-shell oysters.

About SCS Global Services

SCS Global Services is an international leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verification, certification, auditing, and standards development. Its programs span a cross-section of industries, recognizing achievements in climate mitigation, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, forestry, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe, and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to companies, agencies, and advocacy organizations due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS is a California-chartered Benefit Corporation, reflecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. SCS is also a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact and adheres to its principles-based approach to responsible business. For more information, visit www.SCSGlobalServices.com.

 

Media Contact:
Madhumita Mohan
Marketing Manager
mmohan@scsglobalservices.com

Viatris takes a multi-pronged approach to actively engage in addressing AMR, both by providing access through our portfolio of more than 90 antimicrobials and in partnership with others, including as a founding member and active board member of the AMR Industry Alliance (AMRIA).

In 2024, the UN General Assembly convened a high-level meeting among heads of state to secure the highest level of political commitment to address AMR globally through the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the Political Declaration on AMR. Contributing to these ongoing political discussions, global news organization Foreign Policy, Viatris and other stakeholders co-hosted the “A World Without Antibiotics – Confronting the Global AMR Challenge” simulation. This meeting convened leaders and experts from government, industry and civil society to work through a simulation exploring solutions to avert the potentially devastating outcomes of unchecked AMR. During the event, Viatris and AMRIA called on member states to ensure universal, equitable, affordable and sustainable access to quality assured appropriate antibiotics and diagnostics as well as to prevent and address the drivers, sources and challenges of the environmental dimensions of AMR.

As the co-chair of the AMRIA Access working group, Viatris led the development of the AMRIA Equitable and Responsible Access Roadmap, published in February 2024, through a consultative and evidence-based process. The roadmap is a global policy tool focusing on increasing global access of people to appropriate and high-quality antibiotics. It highlights key barriers to diagnostics and antimicrobial access and outlines solutions to tackle the global barriers of regulatory issues, demand forecasting, and procurement challenges.

Promoting a Scalable Model in the Fight Against AMR

In 2024, Viatris collaborated with BBC Storyworks to raise awareness about PLATINEA (PLATform for INnovation of Existing Antibiotics), a unique multi-stakeholder collaboration in Sweden that includes academia, healthcare, public health authorities, public payers and regulators and the pharmaceutical industry to find solutions to AMR. The campaign highlighted the PLATINEA model beyond Sweden, sparking discussions within and beyond the policy and medical communities about replicating this initiative in other regions and driving global momentum in the fight against AMR.

Combating Antimicrobial resistance via Responsible Manufacturing

Viatris is a founding member of AMRIA, an active member of its Manufacturing working group and is committed to partnering across the industry to collectively advance initiatives addressing AMR.

Beyond working to provide access to a broad portfolio of antimicrobials and promoting appropriate use, Viatris is committed to responsible manufacturing. We are compliant with AMRIA’s Antibiotic Manufacturing Standard for our own operations and committed to implementing it across our external supply chain.

In 2024, we continued to conduct assessments of our top antibiotic suppliers’ management and performance on the AMRIA Manufacturing Standard, in accordance with our five-year plan. We completed 84% of the planned audits by the end of 2024.

Read the 2025 Wesco Sustainability Report here

Supporting Employee Health and Wellbeing 

Wesco is committed to supporting the overall health and wellbeing of our employees through comprehensive resources and programs. Employees have access to local Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) which can offer advice on legal matters, counseling, health and fitness coaching, family issues, stress and financial matters privately and confidentially.

Additionally, employees have access to Passport, our online eLearning tool that offers a variety of wellbeing and lifestyle courses to support personal and professional growth. These resources are designed to promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle for all employees.

Health and Safety Training

In 2024, our global Wesco team completed approximately 75,000 hours of health and safety training.

Other training channels include daily safety huddles, safety alerts, safety stand-downs, where employees stop working and meet to discuss a safety concern to either prevent it from happening or a reoccurrence, and monthly safety talks focused on trends and relevant safety topics.

Operational leaders receive new training content each week via email or through a push notification on a newly launched mobile app for company communications called Wesco NOW, along with monthly compliance topics delivered through Passport, our online training system. With the help of our learning and development partners, we continue to develop our health and safety training programs by updating and adding content within Passport and the newly introduced Axonify, a learning platform offering daily learning assignments for operations employees. These platforms enable targeted training content for specific job categories, reinforcing our culture of safety.

Occupational Health Services

We use occupational health services to provide employee care and proactive injury and case management. These health services provide the services of qualified and accredited individuals.

We aim to provide our employees with access to occupational health services in the manner that is most convenient and suitable to them, including in- person assessment at their workplace, family doctor, or occupational health service provider’s premises, as well as a telephone consultation. Employees anywhere in our operating countries can access these services during working hours, conducted in their local language. We consult with external occupational health experts to guide us in hazard elimination, risk reduction, workplace adjustments and return-to-work planning in the case of long-term absences.

Personal data obtained from occupational health services is stored, processed and handled in accordance with our Data Privacy Notice and applicable data protection and privacy legislation. Per our Global Code of Business Conduct, we do not use employees’ personal health-related information or their participation in any such services or programs for any favorable or unfavorable treatment.

To learn more, download the 2025 Wesco Sustainability Report here.

About This Report

Unless otherwise stated, this report covers activities, data and initiatives from our fiscal year 2024.

We also regularly engage with our investors, employees, customers, regulators, ratings agencies and others on ESG and business issues. Additional information about Wesco can be found in our public financial filings— including our annual report and proxy filings—as well as on the Security and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov or on the Investors page of our website at Wesco.com.

In today’s fast-changing business landscape, CSR, ESG, and sustainability initiatives are no longer “nice to have.” They’ve proven to be essential to long-term success. Yet, many companies face a common challenge: how to maintain momentum when there are shifts in staffing compositions, key team members are on leave, new initiatives grow unexpectedly, or when specialized expertise is needed temporarily.

That’s where CSR Talent Group’s fractional staffing solutions come in.

What Is Fractional Staffing?

Fractional staffing is a flexible, strategic way to fill temporary or part-time roles with seasoned CSR, ESG, and sustainability professionals. 

Instead of pausing progress or overburdening your team, you can bring in an experienced professional who integrates quickly, keeps your programs on track, and helps you meet your goals.

How CSR Talent Group Can Help

Leading organizations turn to CSR Talent Group when they need trusted experts who can hit the ground running. We specialize in connecting companies with professionals who bring deep, real-world experience in CSR, ESG, and sustainability initiatives. 

Our clients often seek fractional or part-time support for roles that don’t require a full-time hire, such as:

• CSR Director (full-time for 6 months) –  to cover a maternity leave and maintain strategic initiatives.
   
• Employee Engagement Expert (10 hours/week for 6 months) – to support engagement efforts across multiple U.S. offices.
   
• Community Program Strategist (20 hours/week for 12 months) – to help design and launch a new signature program.
   
• Program Manager (variable hours) – to provide additional capacity for large-scale ESG or sustainability initiatives.

The list is exhaustive.

The Benefits of Fractional Talent

• Continuity & Stability: Your programs keep moving forward, even during staff transitions.
   
• Flexibility: Scale talent up or down based on your evolving needs.
   
• Specialized Expertise: Access professionals with years of hands-on experience in CSR, ESG, and sustainability strategy and execution.
   
• Cost Efficiency: Gain senior-level insights without the long-term commitment of a full-time role.

Ready to strengthen your team with flexible, expert support? Visit CSR Talent Group to learn more about our fractional staffing solutions and how we can help your organization achieve its impact goals: www.csrtalentgroup.com.

The Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy® today released its tenth U.S. Dairy Sustainability Report, capturing the dairy community’s collective achievements from 2023 to 2024. The biennial report tracks industry-wide performance across three priority areas – Advance Well-being, Regenerate the Environment, and Care for our Animals and Communities – and includes the first progress update on the industry’s 2050 Environmental Stewardship Goals.

At its core, the report demonstrates how the U.S. dairy community is nourishing people while advancing solutions for a more sustainable, resilient food system. Through the U.S. Dairy Stewardship Commitment, farmers, cooperatives and processors representing more than 77% of U.S. milk production align to a single framework that drives accountability, transparency, and measurable action. 

“Our role in a sustainable food system begins with what we do best — nourishing people,” said Barbara O’Brien, President and CEO of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. “The U.S. dairy community is connecting the science of nutrition with the responsibility of stewardship, proving that progress for people and the planet can go hand in hand.”

Highlights from the report include:

Advance Well-Being: 
U.S. dairy continues to expand access to nutrient-rich dairy foods, delivering 1.5 billion servings through its partnership with Feeding America in 2024. With dairy milk’s 13 essential nutrients and emerging science around personalized wellness, dairy foods remain central to affordable, accessible nutrition.

Regenerate the Environment: 
U.S. dairy is making measurable progress toward its 2050 Environmental Stewardship Goals through science-based innovation and industry-wide collaboration. Between 2020 and 2025, the sector reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity by approximately 2.5%, while increasing milk production by 4.7%, an indicator of improved efficiency. Since 2007, on-farm GHG intensity has declined by 14.7%. The industry continues to advance environmental performance across multiple areas, including water stewardship, through the strategic use of science, data, and partnerships.

Care for our Animals and Communities:
With 99% of U.S. milk production participating in the FARM Animal Care Program, and strong commitments to workforce development and food safety, the industry embeds care and accountability throughout its value chain.

“On farms and across the dairy community, our progress moves at the pace of technology and investment,” O’Brien said. “Our focus is on making every dollar and every innovation count, translating today’s breakthroughs into lasting benefits for people, animals, and the planet.”

For more information, please visit www.usdairy.com.

###

Founded by dairy farmers in 2008 through their checkoff, the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy® is a national forum that unites leaders from across the entire dairy value chain – farmers, cooperatives, processors, customers, and allied industry – to work together on precompetitive priorities that build a stronger, more trusted food system.

Media Contact:
Joe Micucci, Vice President, Corporate Communications
847-627-3732

Read More

As COP30 brings global attention to climate leadership in Brazil, DP World demonstrates how sustainable ports can power greener trade.

As world leaders gather in Belém for COP30 (November 10–21), DP World is spotlighting sustainability in action at its port terminal in Santos – one of Latin America’s most advanced ports. The company’s new video, “Sustainability in Action at DP World in Brazil,” highlights how innovation, clean energy, and community empowerment are transforming logistics for a low-carbon future.

From renewable power and waste reduction to ecosystem restoration and gender equity, the Port of Santos is proof that trade and sustainability can move forward together. These initiatives build on DP World’s global “Our World, Our Future” strategy, which aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 while ensuring lasting community and environmental impact.

As COP30 reinforces the world’s focus on climate solutions, DP World in Brazil is showing what action looks like on the ground – through cleaner operations, greener energy, and empowered communities.

Learn more: DP World Sustainability Initiatives

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

COLUMBUS, Ga., November 18, 2025 /3BL/ – In collaboration with bestselling children’s book Author Sheri Fink and Research Astronaut Kellie Gerardi, Aflac Incorporated released today a new children’s book highlighting the power of empathy, kindness and compassion for loved ones, especially children, facing health challenges.

Award-winning author Fink introduces readers to Buddy, a bear cub who struggles to find the right words to comfort his friend, Bunny, who is in the hospital. As Buddy’s imagination takes flight, readers follow his intergalactic space adventures with new friends who help him understand that sometimes it’s not what you say, but what you do — beyond words — that matters most when someone is in need.

“Beyond Words” is an extension of Aflac’s longtime culture of care, inspired by My Special Aflac Duck^®, a robotic duck given free of charge to provide comfort to more than 40,000 children (ages 3 and up) with cancer and sickle cell disease across the U.S., Japan and Northern Ireland since 2018. The My Special Aflac Duck program is part of Aflac’s philanthropic efforts through the Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation and a 30-plus year commitment to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, with nearly $200 million in support.

“For more than 30 years, Aflac has supported children and families during their cancer journeys, providing them with opportunities for new treatments and, ultimately, better chances of survival,” said Aflac Chairman and CEO Dan Amos. “Yet, we thought we could do more by helping those surrounding the affected children who may struggle with how to provide comfort during challenging times. ‘Beyond Words’ is a beautiful expression of love and compassion.”

To write “Beyond Words,” Fink drew on her experience as a No. 1 bestselling author of more than 15 children’s books and her mission to inspire, delight and educate children. Through her work, Fink often gives back by visiting schools to speak to students about kindness and overcoming adversity — and reading her books to patients at children’s hospitals.

“Aflac’s heartfelt mission to help children experiencing childhood cancer and blood disorders — and those surrounding them — through a children’s book exemplifies the company’s commitment to make a tangible difference in children’s care,” said Fink. “With ‘Beyond Words,’ I was inspired to share the many ways we can express love and friendship, even when we don’t know the perfect thing to say. Buddy reminds us that there is infinite power in kindness and compassion.”

To illuminate the theme of “Beyond Words,” full of space adventures and interplanetary travel, Aflac asked Kellie Gerardi, a multi-mission research astronaut and mother, to provide the book foreword and be the voice of the audio version of “Beyond Words.” The audio version and free downloadable coloring sheets featuring Buddy and a few of his special friends are available by scanning the QR code on the last page of the book.

“I am proud to join Aflac on its mission ‘Beyond Words’ and to support such an important cause,” said Gerardi. “Whether I am spending time with my daughter or preparing to travel to space, Buddy’s reminder of the importance of showing up for the people we care most about through action, even if we don’t have the perfect words, is something I’ll continue to carry with me.”

The “Beyond Words” story was enriched by the imaginations of children from Mathews Elementary School in Columbus, Georgia, and patients at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, who participated in focus groups to help shape the storylines and illustrations. Mary Webb, a childhood cancer survivor and former patient at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, provided the illustration for the “Why This Book Matters” page.

Visit Aflac.com/BeyondWords for purchase options, including Archway Publishing, from Simon & Schuster, and Amazon.com. The hard cover book is $21.99, and soft cover is $12.99, with 100% of net proceeds benefiting childhood cancer and blood disorders research and treatment through the Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation.

ABOUT AFLAC INCORPORATED

Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL), a Fortune 500 company, has helped provide financial protection and peace of mind for nearly seven decades to millions of policyholders and customers through its subsidiaries in the U.S. and Japan. In the U.S., Aflac is the No. 1 provider of supplemental health insurance products.³ In Japan, Aflac Life Insurance Japan is the leading provider of cancer and medical insurance in terms of policies in force. The company takes pride in being there for its policyholders when they need us most, as well as being included in the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for 19 consecutive years (2025) and Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies for 24 years (2025). In addition, the company became a signatory of the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) in 2021 and has been included in the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index (2024) for 11 years. To find out how to get help with expenses health insurance doesn’t cover, get to know us at aflac.com or aflac.com/español. Investors may learn more about Aflac Incorporated and its commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability at investors.aflac.com under “Sustainability.”

Media contacts: Stephanie Wilken, 706.905.5818 or swilken@aflac.com

Analyst and investor contact: David A. Young, 706.596.3264 or dyoung@aflac.com

¹ LIMRA 2024 US Supplemental Health Insurance Total Market Report

Aflac’s family of insurers include American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus and American Family Life Assurance Company of New York.

Aflac | WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

SOURCE Aflac

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have the potential to transform our world for the better, but their rapid expansion is accompanied by a growing environmental footprint. This is notably attributed to the significant energy and water demands of large-scale data centers and the resource consumption associated with hardware production.

However, materials innovators are developing solutions to help address these impacts by extending performance longevity, improving energy efficiency and supporting the infrastructure resiliency of the AI ecosystem. For example, through advanced materials science, Dow offers technologies that enhance thermal management and reduce energy consumption in data centers compared to those using air cooling for thermal management, helping to curb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

These efforts exemplify how targeted innovation can address the environmental impact of AI, paving the way for a responsible and sustainable digital transformation.

What is the AI ecosystem?

The interconnected global network of technologies, data centers, infrastructure, organizations and processes that take part in the development and use of artificial intelligence is increasingly referred to as the AI ecosystem. 

Key takeaways

• AI and ML are transforming industries, but their rapid expansion is creating substantial environmental impact and that footprint is growing.
• A major portion of data center energy consumption—up to 40%—is dedicated to cooling systems. Efficient thermal management is critical to reducing GHG emissions and operational costs.
• Organizations are adopting sustainable AI practices, such as designing energy-efficient networks, using renewable energy sources and incorporating recycled materials into hardware.
• Companies are also exploring advanced nuclear technologies, a clean, reliable and nearly net-zero emission source, to help meet increasing energy demand.
• Dow’s advanced materials—like thermal management solutions for consumer devices, data center solutions for cooling systems and silicone-based adhesives, sealants and interface materials for telecom infrastructure—play a crucial role in enabling a sustainable AI ecosystem.

What are the environmental impacts of AI?

The environmental impacts of AI extend across the entire lifecycle of AI systems, encompassing aspects like energy and water consumption and waste generation.

Data centers that power AI operations consume substantial amounts of electricity. Their global electricity consumption combined is expected to be close to 1,050 terawatt-hours by 2026. To put that into perspecive, if data centers were a country, they would be the 5th largest energy consumer globally—less than Russia but more than Japan.¹ This energy demand can result in higher GHG emissions if the energy is primarily sourced from fossil fuels.

In addition to energy, AI systems also consume water, primarily to cool data center operations. Projections for data centers’ global combined annual water use could reach 4.2 to 6.6 billion cubic meters by 2027.² It would take the entire city of London over 4 years to use that much water based on the city’s current consumption.³

The rapid pace of technological advancement can also produce more electronic waste when devices and components become obsolete and are replaced to run more sophisticated AI models. The hardware and other equipment that is used to train generative AI models and run AI applications could produce up to 5 million tons of electronic waste by 2030.⁴

Addressing these challenges is vital for ensuring that the benefits of AI are not undermined by unsustainable practices—guiding both industry leaders and policymakers toward sustainable approaches.

• AI and energy consumption
  A significant amount of electricity is needed to train and run advanced AI systems. Notably, cooling systems alone can account for up to 40% of total power consumption in AI data centers⁵, especially in high-density server environments. This can compete with existing energy demands. Addressing these issues involves improving algorithm efficiency, using renewable or clean energy sources, and developing more energy-efficient hardware solutions.
• AI and water demand
  AI systems consume significant water resources primarily for cooling data centers and the energy generation facilities powering the infrastructure required for large-scale computations. As AI adoption increases, managing and reducing its water footprint is crucial for sustainable development.’
• AI and land usage
  The increasing demand for AI integration comes with increased demand for data center infrastructure, which can lead to land conversion, habitat disruption, and higher resource consumption in previously undeveloped areas.
• AI and climate change
  AI has the potential to positively influence climate action efforts by improving energy efficiency, forecasting weather patterns and optimizing resource use. However, increased energy demands to support AI systems can add to global GHG emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable AI development.

Exploring sustainable AI

AI and sustainability are increasingly intertwined as the demand for advanced digital solutions grows alongside the potential environmental impact.

The vast computational power required by expansive artificial intelligence models drives significant energy requirements for powering the computational and cooling equipment, which in turn can place strain on electrical grids and contribute to GHG emissions if not managed responsibly. The sourcing and manufacturing of key components, such as semiconductors and high-performance processors, depend on resource-intensive mining and processing operations, raising issues around habitat disruption, water use and other environmental impacts.

As technological trends continue, it is crucial to address the entire lifecycle of AI systems, from design and materials to system deployment and end-of-life management.

“Our customers understand that achieving long-term resilience and enhanced sustainability requires innovation at the materials level. That’s why they collaborate with us to develop and implement innovative solutions that can stand up to the demands of AI and other advanced technologies.”

– Brendy Lange, President, Performance Materials & Coatings

Enhancing the sustainability of AI innovation through materials science and responsible resource strategies is vital for realizing a future where artificial intelligence aligns with global environmental and sustainability practices.

AI ecosystem solutions in action

Innovative materials play a critical role in enabling the sustainable evolution of AI networks and infrastructure, particularly as next-generation smart connectivity becomes more widely adopted.

For example, Dow’s advanced thermal management materials help ensure that high-performance computing systems work efficiently, optimizing heat dissipation across densely packed electronic components, thereby reducing energy waste and the risk of overheating. Silicone adhesives and sealants further contribute to system reliability by providing robust protection against moisture, dust and mechanical stresses, which can extend the operational lifespan of devices and minimize maintenance needs.

Liquid silicone rubbers are employed to improve critical components found in edge devices and data center equipment. They provide sealing solutions for data centers in the form of O-rings and gaskets due to their combination of thermal performance and low volume change in a variety of fluids. In compact, high-performance applications, liquid silicone rubbers enable flexibility and the miniaturization of electronic products through attributes like thermal stability and electrical insulation and the ability to be applied through precision molding.

The innovations in the segments below collectively help enable AI-powered networks to meet the demands for faster, more secure smart connectivity solutions while mitigating the environmental impact of those endeavors.

Consumer devices

Modern consumer devices, such as smartphones, drones, and wearable technology, increasingly rely on advanced materials to deliver greater performance and reliability.

Dow innovations contribute to enhanced thermal management in these compact electronics, ensuring efficient heat dissipation and preventing device overheating—crucial for supporting demanding applications powered by artificial intelligence. The use of lightweight, durable silicones and adhesives helps extend the lifecycle of consumer devices, reducing the frequency of repairs and replacements, and helping to avoid electronic waste.

By integrating materials designed for recyclability or biodegradability into device components, manufacturers are better equipped to address environmental concerns associated with end-of-life disposal. DOWSIL™ TC-3015 Re-workable Thermal Gel is an award-winning thermally conductive gel formulated to dissipate heat in electronics applications, like smart phones and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). It is part of Dow’s Circulibrium™ portfolio of materials that enable reusable, repairable, or recyclable consumer and industrial products and processes.

Materials like this enable the development of smarter, longer-lasting consumer technology that aligns the performance expectations of users and evolving sustainability standards.

Take a 3D tour of consumer device solutions here

Cloud and data centers

Excessive heat can compromise system reliability, lower energy efficiency, and accelerate hardware degradation, thereby increasing both the operational costs and GHG emissions of digital infrastructure.

Our portfolio of cooling solutions addresses these challenges by providing cutting-edge thermal interface materials and heat transfer fluids. Dow’s specialized silicone adhesives, and innovative encapsulants are each designed to optimize heat transfer away from sensitive components and enable stable, high-performance operation. DOWFROST™ LC 25 Heat Transfer Fluid, a propylene glycol-based fluid, supports direct-to-chip (D2C) liquid cooling with efficient heat removal, exceptional corrosion protection and biostatic nature—requiring minimal maintenance after commissioning. Silicone-based DOWSIL™ immersion cooling fluids help reduce power consumption, extend equipment lifespan, and support sustainable data center operations by enabling energy-efficient cooling. DOWSIL™ thermal interface materials are engineered to meet the demands of high-performance computing environments—delivering long-lasting, reliable cooling across a wide range of applications.

Integrating these advanced materials in data center cooling systems supports reduced energy consumption while preserving equipment longevity, thus aligning with broader sustainability and resource efficiency goals.

Deploying Dow solutions allows data center operators to manage the rising energy demands of modern AI workloads sustainably and support the transition toward energy-efficient and resilient data center operations.

View our cloud computing hardware solutions

Read more on data center cooling technology

Telecom infrastructure

Telecom equipment operates in demanding environments where exposure to temperature fluctuations, moisture, dust, and mechanical stress is commonplace. High-performance, durable materials are essential for ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and long-term system reliability.

Our advanced materials portfolio includes robust silicone-based adhesives, sealants and protectives specifically engineered to protect sensitive electronic components against the rigors of outdoor and remote installations. These solutions offer superior thermal management and electrical insulation properties, which helps prevent overheating and electrical failures that could disrupt critical communications infrastructure.

Dow wire and cable innovations play a critical role in powering and connecting data centers by enabling high-performance materials for fiber optic cable jacketing, protective conduit and low-voltage to high-voltage cable systems. These solutions—such as AXELERON™ Telecom Cable Compounds and ENDURANCE™ Compounds for Cable Systems—support reliable data and power transmission through insulating fiber cable deployments and durable cable systems. Incorporating cross linked polyethylene and circular compounds like REVOLOOP™ Recycled Plastics Resins can help data centers meet performance, safety and sustainability targets.

By integrating these innovative materials into telecom hardware, manufacturers and network operators can extend the operational lifespan of their systems while simultaneously minimizing maintenance requirements and unplanned downtime. Such advancements contribute to a telecommunications ecosystem with enhanced sustainability, supporting the global demand for resilient, high-capacity networks that enable the next generation of smart connectivity and AI-driven applications.

Learn about telecom infrastructure equipment

Further examples of sustainable AI practices

Sustainable AI practices are increasingly emerging as organizations seek to address environmental impact while leveraging AI innovation to meet the world’s biggest challenges.

One notable example involves the design of energy-efficient networks, which use optimized algorithms and hardware to significantly reduce energy consumption. Additionally, companies are adopting renewable energy sources—such as wind and solar power—to sustainably run their data centers and reduce the GHG emissions associated with the energy demands of extensive computational workloads. Some enterprises are also incorporating recycled materials in the assembly of hardware that powers AI, supporting circular economy initiatives and promoting responsible resource use.

Lifecycle analysis and transparent supply chain monitoring have become integral strategies for identifying and mitigating environmental impacts, ensuring that sustainable AI can thrive across industries.

These approaches collectively underscore the importance of integrating the best environmental practices into AI development, fostering a more resilient and ethical technological future.

Meeting AI energy demands with nuclear power

Major tech companies are investing in advanced small modular nuclear reactors to power their growing data center operations.⁶

These tech giants are turning to nuclear energy to meet surging electricity demands driven by AI in locations where renewable energy like solar and wind alone may not suffice. Small modular reactors enable access to a clean and reliable energy source that is also nearly net-zero GHG emissions.

Dow has engaged in a similar endeavor to potentially deploy advanced nuclear technology to provide industrial steam and electricity at Seadrift Operations manufacturing site on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Together with X-energy, a leading developer of advanced small modular nuclear reactors and fuel technology, we aim to reduce the site’s GHG emissions when the technology becomes fully operational.

Advancing sustainable AI innovation

Integrating sustainable practices into the growing AI ecosystem is essential for ensuring the longevity and ethical impact of technological advancements. Organizations are taking significant steps, such as creating energy-efficient networks, using renewable or clean energy sources, and employing innovative materials, to minimize environmental impact and promote responsible resource use.

As AI becomes more prevalent in various sectors—from consumer electronics to telecom infrastructure and cloud computing—the need for sustainable strategies is critical. By using advanced materials and thoughtful design, companies not only enhance the performance and reliability of AI-powered systems but also contribute to a sustainable technological future.

These efforts highlight the vital role of sustainability in the evolution of AI, paving the way for innovations that can meet both the needs of the planet and the demands of a rapidly digitizing world.

View original content here.

About Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) is one of the world’s leading materials science companies, serving customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications. Our global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation, leading business positions and commitment to sustainability enable us to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. We operate manufacturing sites in 30 countries and employ approximately 36,000 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $43 billion in 2024. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. Learn more about us and our ambition to be the most innovative, customer-centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world by visiting www.dow.com.

About the article

This case study was developed by a cross-discipline team representing sustainability, materials and market expertise across Dow. To learn more about the breadth of our innovative products and technologies made possible through science and collaboration, visit dow.com.

Sources

1. Zewe, A. (2025, January 17). Explained: Generative AI’s environmental impact. MIT News.
2. Gupta, J. (2024, May). AI’s excessive water consumption threatens to drown out its environmental contributions. UN Sustainability Development Goals.
3. Water resources. (2025). Greater London Authority.
4. Crownhart, C. (2024, October 28). AI will add to the e-waste problem. Here’s what we can do about it. MIT Technology Review.
5. Offutt, M. C. and Zhu, L. (2025, August 26). Data Centers and Their Energy Consumption: Frequently Asked Questions. Library of Congress.
6. St. John, A. and McDermott, J. (2024, October 16). Amazon, Google make dueling nuclear investments to power data centers with clean energy. AP.

Import distribution centers are reshaping how major retailers move products across the country. These large facilities receive imported goods from ocean carriers and prepare them for transport to stores and customers across the United States. When located near a port, import distribution centers generate concentrated economic activity, create permanent jobs, and attract substantial commercial investment.

New Orleans East is a competitive location for this type of project. The area offers significant advantages–proximity to deep-water port access, interstate highway connections, and a strong regional workforce. Import distribution centers act as magnets for private investment by creating jobs and increasing economic activity throughout the region. With available land and the infrastructure needed to support development, the project will attract new businesses, stimulate commercial and retail growth, and support neighborhood revitalization.

“When infrastructure grows, opportunity grows,” said Istvan Molnar, director of economic development at Entergy New Orleans. “Projects like this create high-impact job opportunities and attract new private capital, which expands economic mobility for families in New Orleans East.”

Bringing an import distribution center to the city will deliver measurable benefits for residents. It will increase tax revenue, support commercial investment, and create accessible career opportunities. Many roles do not require a college degree and provide clear paths for skill development and advancement. These facilities also encourage auxiliary growth such as retail, housing, and service businesses, strengthening long-term neighborhood stability.

Entergy New Orleans will continue to collaborate with partners and developers committed to bringing this project to New Orleans. We remain committed to driving economic growth and expanding opportunity for the communities we serve.

View original content here.