Tag: 3BL

Verizon
By: Tina Lee

Helen Mathis taught accounting as a vocational instructor for 30 years before facing a career-defining moment: The school where she worked closed and Mathis knew she needed a new plan. “I’m a firm believer that things happen for a reason,” she says of her career pivot. Mathis transformed herself into a tax-service entrepreneur, trusting both her professional skills and a family history in the accounting business: her mother, aunt and grandmother were all bookkeepers.

She started her Pasadena, California-based business in 2014, preparing tax returns for her former students and co-workers. The new enterprise quickly blossomed beyond her network via word of mouth, thanks to the genuine care and attention Mathis shows her clients. “I get so many clients looking for someone who understands them, who isn’t prejudging them,” she says.

With her business growing, Mathis took over a colleague’s lease on an office space, and Guardian, a tax solutions firm, was born. Mathis named the firm in homage to her grandmother, who was her guardian until age five, and who was a local tax expert for her community. Today, Guardian operates out of satellite offices across California, providing financial services for individuals and small to mid-sized businesses.

Always on the hunt for new resources, Mathis turned to Verizon Small Business Digital Ready. The former teacher describes the Digital Ready program as “phenomenal.”

“Not only do you learn, it tests your retention of that learning, giving you the tools to show you how it’s done,” Mathis says.

One of the most impactful strategies Mathis learned was from a Digital Ready course she took about pricing her services. “I realized I was giving away information without being compensated,” Mathis says. She revised her pricing structure to reflect the high-value expertise that she offers, which resulted in a $25,000 incremental lift to her revenue in a single quarter. 

Mathis also improved operations with time-saving solutions she learned in the Digital Ready program, including AI customer management and auto response tools that have helped her scale lead acquisition, improving her volume by 20%. “I get so many more people now who find [Guardian] through search,” Mathis says. Through Digital Ready, she also plans to learn about cybersecurity, an expertise that will enable her to serve larger business clients who are tax planning for cybersecurity costs and might qualify for new write-offs.

Mathis’ business ethos, gleaned from her family, starts with her open door philosophy with clients and extends to her participation in business communities (she joined multiple chambers of commerce after taking a Digital Ready course about the power of networking). She also has bigger dreams for Guardian, aiming to eventually expand her team to offices in every state. For this, she’ll continue to rely on learning through Digital Ready: “It’s helping me see my vision more clearly. I’m actually implementing the steps and seeing [what] I still need to do,” she says.

Mathis says she dedicates at least 200 hours annually to continual education and learning within her field. “To be the best that I can be for my clientele, you need consistent, valuable training. I want to be a resource to my clients,” she explains. She is training her staff bookkeepers to eventually take on clients for Guardian, and one day, she also hopes to leverage her Digital Ready knowledge to mentor other small business owners. “I’m getting all the knowledge and education possible to open doors not just for myself, but for my clients and other small business owners,” she says.

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready is part of Verizon’s goal to support 1 million small businesses by 2030 with free resources to help them succeed. To sign up, visit Verizon Small Business Digital Ready. Visit CitizenVerizon.com to learn more about the company’s responsible business efforts. An individual user’s experience may vary and results are not guaranteed.

Complimentary Webinar

A Blueprint for Global Water Stewardship: From Strategy and Reporting to Accountability and Assurance

Thursday, June 26 | 1:00PM ET, 10:00AM PT

For decades, the world has been focusing on reduction of greenhouse gas emissions as the sole benchmark for climate stewardship. But more recently, industry, media and academia are waking up to the notions that “water is the new carbon” and climate stewardship cannot exist in a carbon-focused vacuum. Water stewardship is quickly becoming the climate focal point that it should have always been.

Join SCS Consulting Services’ Bonnie Holman, Managing Director, and SCS Global Services’ Danielle Stapleton, Program Manager, ESG Assurance, and Lauren Enright, Program Manager, Water Certification on Thursday, June 26 for a 60-minute discussion that will provide end-to-end analysis of corporate water stewardship implementation. During this discussion we’ll cover:

• How Water stewardship fits into climate stewardship.
• Water stewardship and water metrics require strategy, risk assessment
• Importance of water baseline measurement for continuous monitoring 
• Creation of water goals pertaining to enterprise and /or site
• Water Positive goals — Water Positive verification 
• Future-proofing water availability
• Building resilience within direct operations and value chain
• Integrating water into reporting and navigating assurance

A live Q&A will follow the panel discussion.

Register Here

For inquiries, contact:

Stephanie Flynn
Marketing Project Manager, Environmental Certification Services, SCS Global Services
sflynn@scsglobalservices.com

This comprehensive guide provides an overview of PFAS, their associated risks, and effective remediation strategies.

What Are PFAS?

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. PFAS are unique in that they contain strong carbon-fluorine bonds, which make them very persistent in the environment and in the human body. This persistence is why they are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”

PFAS have been widely used in a variety of products and applications, including:

• Non-stick cookware: PFAS are used to coat pots and pans to prevent food from sticking.
• Water-repellent fabrics: PFAS are used to treat clothing, furniture, and carpets to make them resistant to water and stains.
• Food packaging: PFAS are used in food packaging materials to prevent grease and oil from soaking through.
• Industrial applications: PFAS are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as the production of semiconductors and the plating of metals.

For more detailed information on PFAS definitions, sources, benefits, and risks, please refer to this resource: PFAS Definition, Sources, Benefits & Risks 

PFAS Risks: Why Remediation Matters 

Because of their widespread use, PFAS have become ubiquitous in the environment. They have been found in soil, water, and air, and they have also been detected in the blood of most people in the United States. PFAS can enter the body through ingestion of contaminated food or water, inhalation of contaminated air, or skin contact with contaminated products.

Understanding these risks is crucial to recognizing the importance of effective remediation.

Human health risks 

PFAS exposure has been linked to a range of adverse health effects, since these “forever chemicals” can accumulate in the body over time. Some of the key health risks associated with PFAS exposure include:

• Cancer: Increased risk of certain cancers, such as kidney and testicular cancer.
• Developmental problems: Impacts on fetal and child development, including low birth weight and developmental delays.
• Immune system effects: Suppression of the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
• Liver damage: Potential for liver damage and dysfunction.

Environmental risks 

PFAS also pose a serious threat to the environment. Their persistence and mobility allow them to spread and accumulate in various ecosystems. Environmental risks include:

• Water contamination: PFAS can contaminate surface water and groundwater sources, affecting aquatic life and drinking water supplies.
• Soil contamination: PFAS can accumulate in soil, impacting plant growth and potentially entering the food chain.
• Bioaccumulation: PFAS can bioaccumulate in animals and fish, leading to higher concentrations in organisms higher up the food chain.

Learn more about PFAS risks: 

• For more detailed information on the risks of PFAS in drinking water, refer to this resource: PFAS Risk in Drinking Water
• To understand how businesses can manage PFAS risks and their environmental responsibilities, read: Managing PFAS Risks: A Business Leader’s Guide

PFAS Treatment Technologies 

Several technologies are employed to remove or destroy PFAS from contaminated water and soil. Each method has its strengths and limitations, and the choice of technology often depends on the specific type and concentration of PFAS, the scale of contamination, and cost considerations. Here’s a closer look at some key treatment technologies:

Granular activated carbon (GAC) 

GAC is a widely used adsorption technology where PFAS are removed from water by adhering to the surface of activated carbon. It is generally more effective for longer-chain PFAS due to their higher tendency to adsorb. When implementing GAC for large-scale treatment, factors such as carbon replacement schedules, pre-treatment needs to prevent fouling, and proper disposal of PFAS-laden carbon are critical.

Ion exchange resins 

Ion exchange involves using resins that selectively attract and bind to PFAS molecules, effectively removing them from water. These resins can be regenerated and reused, making the process more sustainable. Ion exchange is particularly effective for removing specific types of PFAS, especially shorter-chain varieties, and can achieve very high removal efficiencies. The selection of the appropriate resin type is key for targeting specific PFAS contaminants.

Reverse osmosis and membrane filtration 

Reverse osmosis (RO) and other membrane filtration technologies use pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane that blocks PFAS molecules. While highly effective at removing a wide range of PFAS, these methods can be energy-intensive and generate a concentrated waste stream that requires further management. Membrane fouling can also be an issue, requiring regular maintenance and cleaning.

Thermal treatment and destruction methods 

Thermal treatment methods, such as incineration and pyrolysis, involve exposing PFAS to high temperatures to break down their chemical structure. These methods can achieve complete degradation of PFAS but require careful control to prevent the formation of harmful byproducts. Emerging destruction technologies are being developed to improve energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Research is ongoing to find more sustainable and effective ways to fully destroy PFAS.

Additional resources about PFAS treatment technologies and regulations: 

• PFAS Regulations, Updates, Treatments & Impact
• Keeping Pace with Ongoing PFAS Developments & Technology

Regulatory Requirements and Compliance Considerations 

Global PFAS regulations are in constant flux as governments worldwide respond to the persistent nature and widespread presence of these chemicals. While specific policies and enforcement levels vary by region and nation, there are some common regulatory trends to take note of:

Tightening limits on drinking water and industrial discharges

Many regions, including the U.S. and the European Union, are increasingly stringent in their restrictions on PFAS levels in drinking water. Industrial facilities that release wastewater containing PFAS are likely to face stricter permitting and monitoring requirements, often dictated at the state or regional level.

Industry-specific PFAS limits 

Certain industries that rely on PFAS, such as manufacturers of coatings, textiles, and firefighting foams, encounter unique compliance challenges. These businesses must navigate sector-specific phase-outs and reporting requirements.

Expanding stormwater and waste management regulations 

PFAS contamination in stormwater runoff is an increasingly important area of regulatory focus, especially near industrial sites, landfills, and airports where PFAS-containing materials have been historically used. Some jurisdictions now mandate the use of stormwater treatment technologies to prevent PFAS from leaching into waterways. Regulations surrounding the disposal of PFAS-contaminated soil, sludge, and treatment byproducts are also evolving, with heightened scrutiny on incineration practices and landfill leachate controls.

Increasing reporting and disclosure requirements 

Businesses are subject to a growing number of reporting obligations concerning PFAS production, use, and emissions. The global supply chain is under increasing pressure to phase out PFAS due to consumer demand and corporate sustainability commitments. Many companies are voluntarily disclosing their PFAS usage to align with investor and regulatory expectations.

Regulatory pressure on PFAS is anticipated to continue increasing, regardless of political or administrative changes. Businesses should proactively:

• Closely monitor emerging PFAS limits at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Assess their operations and supply chains for PFAS use and potential liabilities.
• Implement proactive PFAS management strategies to mitigate regulatory and litigation risks.
• Stay informed about global regulatory trends, as restrictions in one region often influence policies elsewhere.

Further reading on PFAS compliance: 

• Guide to the Latest EPA PFAS Regulations
• Understanding PFAS Reporting Requirements
• Regulating PFAS in Stormwater

Challenges in PFAS Remediation and How to Overcome Them 

Understanding potential hurdles in PFAS remediation is essential for developing effective strategies to overcome them.

Cost of large-scale remediation efforts 

Large-scale PFAS remediation can be expensive, involving significant upfront investments and ongoing operational costs. These costs can include site investigation, technology implementation, waste disposal, and long-term monitoring. 

Such challenges can be overcome through careful planning and a phased approach. Exploring funding options (grants, public-private partnerships) can also help manage costs. A thorough cost-benefit analysis can ensure the selected remediation approach is economically viable and sustainable.

Monitoring and measuring PFAS levels to track treatment effectiveness 

Accurately monitoring and measuring PFAS levels is vital for determining the effectiveness of treatment efforts. This involves frequent sampling, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation. Barriers include the complexity of analyzing various PFAS compounds, the need for low detection limits, and ensuring data reliability. 

Working with accredited laboratories and establishing a robust monitoring program can help alleviate these challenges. Regular reporting and data review helps track progress so treatment strategies can be adjusted as needed.

Litigation risks tied to non-compliance or contamination liability 

PFAS contamination can lead to significant litigation risks, including lawsuits related to property damage, personal injury, and environmental harm. Non-compliance with regulations can also result in penalties and legal action. Businesses must be proactive in addressing PFAS risks to avoid legal battles.

Strategies include conducting due diligence, maintaining thorough records, and implementing robust compliance programs. Effective communication with stakeholders and transparent reporting can also minimize litigation risks.

For further insights into PFAS risk management, regulation, and litigation, explore the following resources: 

• PFAS Risk Management & Regulation
• PFAS Regulation & Litigation Updates
• PFAS Risk: Are You on Offense or Defense?

Putting PFAS Remediation into Action 

Moving from understanding PFAS risks and regulations to actively implementing remediation strategies is a critical step for businesses and communities. Here’s how to put PFAS remediation into action:

• Develop a comprehensive PFAS action plan: A well-defined action plan helps prioritize actions, allocate resources effectively, and track progress. It should include steps for site investigation, technology selection, implementation, monitoring, and long-term management.
• Prioritize first-steps regarding PFAS: Businesses and organizations should prioritize key actions to mitigate PFAS risks. These actions might include conducting a PFAS audit, evaluating supply chains, implementing best management practices, and engaging with regulatory agencies.
• Gather and organize critical data: Understanding the extent and nature of PFAS contamination is crucial. This involves collecting samples from various media (water, soil, air), analyzing them for PFAS, and interpreting the data.

For more detailed guidance on putting PFAS remediation into action, explore these resources: 

• PFAS Action Plan
• Top Actions to Take Regarding PFAS
• Digging Deeper: EPA’s Dive into PFAS Pollution Through Data Collection

Bookmark this guide as a reference for navigating PFAS remediation, and contact Antea Group to learn more about how we can assist you in managing PFAS risks.

MIAMI, June 5, 2025 /3BL/ – FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) announced that at the 34^th CNS Partnership Conference, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) recognized the FedEx Global Healthcare Quality Program with the CEIV Pharma Corporate Certification — a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to quality, compliance, and leadership in pharmaceutical logistics. This corporate-level certificate for the company’s hubs and ramps validates the strength of FedEx’s quality management system and its ability to deliver end-to-end logistic services in compliance with the increasingly complex and highly regulated pharmaceutical industry.

“This certification illustrates FedEx’s unwavering dedication to excellence in pharmaceutical logistics,” said Nick Gennari, president of global healthcare and commercial sales. “This pioneering, network-wide approach to quality showcases our commitment to complying with the highest standards in the industry for the transportation and handling of global pharmaceutical products. With over 90 percent of our global healthcare volume moving through facilities that are now CEIV Pharma-certified, we are providing our customers with outstanding quality solutions in the global pharma air space.”

The Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharma Certification sets the highest standards for the safe, compliant, and time sensitive temperature-controlled transport of pharmaceutical shipments across global air cargo network.

“The pharmaceutical industry relies on air transport for its speed and efficiency in ensuring high-value, time-sensitive, temperature-controlled products such as vaccines or medication. As global supply chains become more complex, the need for consistent, trusted standards is greater than ever for the safety of the end consumers. We are pleased to see FedEx Global Healthcare certify additional facilities with CEIV Pharma, the industry’s trusted mark of quality and excellence in the handling of pharmaceuticals,” said Frederic Leger, IATA’s senior vice president commercial products and services.

FedEx previously had its Memphis (MEM) and Indianapolis (IND) hubs CEIV Pharma-certified in 2024, along with ramps in San Juan (SJU) and Aguadilla (BQN), Puerto Rico. In addition to the corporate certificate, the FedEx Global Healthcare team also announced 15 new CEIV Pharma certified facilities, all of which will be officially certified in May 2025:

• Cologne, Germany (CGN)
• Fort Worth, Texas (AFW)
• Frankfurt, Germany (FRA)
• Greensboro, North Carolina (GSO)
• Guangzhou, China (CAN)
• Liege, Belgium (LGG)
• Los Angeles, California (LAX)
• Miami, Florida (MIA)
• Milan, Italy (MXP)
• Newark, New Jersey (EWR)
• Oakland, California (OAK)
• Osaka, Japan (KIX)
• Paris, France (CDG)
• San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO)
• Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ)

About FedEx Corp.
FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. With annual revenue of $88 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions utilizing its flexible, efficient, and intelligent global network. Consistently ranked among the world’s most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 500,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards, and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. To learn more, please visit fedex.com/about.

Click here to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

DETROIT, June 5, 2025 /3BL/ – Tandem Global announced the winners of its 2025 Tandem Global Awards during their annual conference held in Detroit, Michigan, on June 3-4. The Tandem Global Awards honor excellence in corporate conservation, with awardees representing various national and international companies across numerous industries.

The year’s top awards, recognizing leadership in corporate conservation, were won by General Motors Company and ITC Holdings.

“We’re seeing a new era of business leadership, one where conservation and corporate success go hand in hand,” said Margaret O’Gorman, CEO, Tandem Global. “Companies like General Motors and ITC Holdings exemplify how the private sector can lead with purpose, integrating innovation and conservation to drive lasting environmental impact. Their achievements reflect the growing leadership we’re seeing across industries, and we’re honored to highlight their work through the Tandem Global Awards.”

The Employee Engagement Award, given to General Motors, celebrates the exemplary contributions of one company’s employees towards their habitat and conservation education efforts.

The 2025 Gold Program of the Year Award, which honors the overall depth of one corporate conservation program, was awarded to ITC for its ITC Corporate Headquarters in Novi, Michigan.

General Motors received this year’s Corporate Conservation Leadership Award, which recognizes one company’s overall achievement in conservation and commends their corporate commitment to biodiversity, conservation education and alignment with global conservation objectives.

This year’s most honored company was General Motors. Receiving the Tandem Global Employee Engagement Award and the Corporate Conservation Leadership Award, in addition to three project awards (Deserts, Land Conservation Agreements, and Training) recognizing their species and habitat conservation efforts in Brazil and Mexico.

In addition to these corporate and program-level awards, individual projects are recognized for excellence in each of the WHC Certification, powered by Tandem Global, project themes. These award categories offer projects of all sizes the ability to compete for recognition.

The following is a complete list of 2025 Tandem Global Award Winners:

Avian Project Award
Ashland, Bird Box Monitoring | Hopewell, Virginia

Awareness and Community Engagement Project Award
Cemex, Merida = Xtepen + Caliza II | Yucatán, Mexico

Bats Project Award
WM, Monarch Hill Bat Boxes | Pompano Beach, Florida

Desert Project Award
General Motors, San Luis Potosí Complex | San Luis Potosí, México

Forests Project Award
CRH Americas, Gravette Quarry Site | Gravette, Arkansas

Formal Learning Project Award
Ontario Power Generation, Niagara Operations Sites | Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada

Grasslands Project Award 
Exelon Corporation, Morton Arboretum | Lisle, Wisconsin

Green Infrastructure Project Award 
Davey Resource Group, WSSI Native Habitat | Gainesville, Virginia

Invasive Species Project Award
CRH Americas, Gravette Quarry Site | Gravette, Arkansas 

Land Conservation Agreements Project Award 
General Motors, Toluca Complex and TREC/CCA | Toluca, Mexico

Landscaped Project Award
CRH Americas, Des Moines Asphalt and Paving | Johnston, Iowa

Mammals Project Award
Grupo México, Rehabilitación de Lobo Mexicano, Cananea | Sonora, México

Marine Intertidal Project Award
Boeing, Boeing Plant 2 | Seattle Washington 

Other Habitat Project Award

ExxonMobil, ExxonMobil Pipeline Company, St. Mary’s Island | Baytown, Texas

Other Species Project Award
Bruce Power L.P., Bruce Site, Tiverton | Ontario, Canada

Pollinators Project Award 
Boeing, Pollinator Prairie | Olathe, Kansas

Remediation Project Award
Boeing, Pollinator Prairie, CCI Remediation and Restoration Project | Olathe Kansas

Reptiles and Amphibians Project Award
Bayer, Muscatine Plant and Big Sand Mound Nature Preserve | Muscatine, Iowa

Species of Concern Project Award
Bayer, Muscatine Plant and Big Sand Mound Nature Preserve | Muscatine, Iowa

Training Project Award
General Motors Company, São José dos Campos Plant | São José, Brazil

Wetlands and Water Bodies Project Award
Ontario Power Generation, Lennox Thermal GS | Bath, Ontario, Canada

Tandem Global Corporate Conservation Leadership Award
General Motors 

Tandem Global Employee Engagement Award
General Motors 

Tandem Global Gold Program of the Year Award
ITC Holdings, ITC Corporate Headquarters | Novi, Michigan

Award finalists and winners were chosen from WHC Certification applications submitted between January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024, that were granted certification. Information on the award criteria can be found here.

About Tandem Global

Tandem Global (formerly Wildlife Habitat Council and World Environment Center), provides the know-how and the network to move business and the environment forward, together. Across sectors and at all levels of its 100+ member organizations, Tandem Global works to facilitate long-term and lasting impact on all aspects of our natural world. Tandem Global connects leading thinking with practical solutions that positively impact climate, nature, and water. From field operations to boardrooms and beyond, corporate leaders turn to Tandem Global for impact strategies and resilient solutions that can support a better future. Tandem Global is headquartered in Washington, D.C., USA, with locations across the U.S., in Latin America and Munich, Germany. For more information visit tandemglobal.org.

Written by
Juan Montojo

Our vision for 6G is an innovation platform connecting an expansive compute and intelligence fabric for the next decade and beyond. It is a new wireless system that builds on the technical foundation and deployment insights from previous generations. Although the commercialization of 6G networks and devices is not expected until 2030, a new wireless generation is not architected overnight and we have been working on advanced 6G research for many years now. With on-going work in radio technology, system architecture and core networks and protocols, we are now approaching a crucial milestone: the official beginning of the global technology standardization effort by 3GPP in June 2025.

3GPP held a 6G workshop from March 10–11 to start industry discussions and to align on the focus of the Release 20 6G Study Item. As the head of 3GPP standardization at Qualcomm Technologies, I am excited about the challenging work and industry-wide collaborations ahead. For the rest of this blog post, let me highlight the key discussions at the 6G workshop.

Global 6G technology standardization is about to get started. At the recent 3GPP 6G Workshop, mobile ecosystem leaders gathered to discuss the focus of the upcoming 6G study. This is an important moment in time that sets the stage for the global 6G standardization effort, enabling commercialization around 2030.

Highlights from the 6G workshop

The two-day 3GPP 6G workshop took place in Incheon, South Korea. As expected, it was widely attended with 1,676 registrations and 748 in-person attendees across all parts of the mobile ecosystem and vertical industries. We saw a total of 219 input contributions, including those from network operators, industry associations, hardware/software vendors, academia, system integrators and technology providers. Unlike previous generations, contributions came from all regions and from a wide range of companies, in addition to traditional cellular vendors and operators.

The 6G workshop focused on various aspects of the upcoming 6G technology standardization, spanning eight sessions over two days. These include two joint plenary sessions, five parallel radio access network (RAN) and system architecture/core network & terminals (SA/CT) working sessions and a concluding summary session at the end of the workshop. To keep the meeting efficient, only one contribution per company per topic was allowed to be submitted and presented. These sessions focused on the vision and priorities for the Release 20 6G Study Item. Here is a quick recap.

Overall vision for next-generation 6G wireless system

The plenary sessions focused on the overarching 6G standardization principles. The goal was to align on 6G’s motivations and goals, along with targeted use cases, to ensure that a global 6G standard can deliver value for the entire mobile ecosystem. In summary, 6G is expected to enable:

• New services and use cases that extend beyond communications, such as integrated sensing, immersive XR, AI-based services and compute.
• Revenue growth that monetizes network capabilities and supports diverse applications across industries, fully realizing the potential of wireless.
• AI and automation that implement an AI-native network system design, improving efficiency in network management and resource allocation.
• Enhanced system efficiency that reduces energy consumption through new system features in network design and AI-driven power management.
• New and efficient spectrum use that improve efficiency in existing lower bands (e.g., FDD), open new spectrum bands and support dynamic sharing.
• Ubiquitous coverage that seamlessly integrates terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) to deliver global coverage and resilient services.
• Reduction in total cost of ownership (TCO) that improves CAPEX and OPEX through simplified network operations and improved energy efficiency.
• Enhanced service reliability and customer experience that ensure high-quality service delivery across diverse devices and network conditions.
• Network simplification that reduces architecture complexity and improves system operational efficiency to meet use case requirements.

6G to address lessons learned from 5G

During the 6G workshop discussions, special emphasis was placed on applying lessons learned from 5G deployments to 6G design and standardization. Addressing these challenges as part of the Day 1 priority for 6G can help with the transition and adoption of the new wireless generation in 2030 and beyond. These include:

• Simplified and smoother migration: The transition from 5G NSA to 5G SA was complex, difficult and slow. 6G should focus on a single SA option with multi-RAT spectrum sharing (MRSS) and seamless 5G interworking.
• Reduced architectural complexity: An excessive number of 5G options, features and configurations led to high system complexity, impacting device capabilities and deployment efficiency. 6G should reduce system complexity to enable faster, more efficient adoption.
• Better adoption of key capabilities: Some 5G features (e.g., slicing) experienced slower-than-expected adoption. For 6G, 3GPP should analyze the underlying causes and address them with simplified system design.
• Efficient deployment: There were several issues identified during the 5G rollouts, such as network repository function (NRF) profiles inefficiencies and protocol challenges (e.g., HTTP/2 over TCP). 6G should address these.
• Enhanced network function (NF) design: Further optimization is expected to ensure efficient NF sizing with clear decoupling, while also further exploring stateless architectures.
• Optimized functionality: 6G should focus on a well-dimensioned set of functionalities, minimizing redundant options and excessive configurations to reduce complexity.

6G radio access network design considerations

The first set of parallel sessions was led by the RAN Plenary, focusing on radio technologies that are expected to come with 6G. Below is a summary of the discussions and alignment on how to approach the new 6G RAN design. The 6G radio interface should:

• Be non-backwards compatible from a device perspective to exploit the full potential of a new generation. Some air interface design (e.g., waveform, modulation, channel coding) can be enhanced, building on 5G NR.
• Deliver significant gains to justify a new 6G radio design.
• Be lean and streamlined, to have a dimension-appropriate set of functionalities, minimized adoption of multiple options of the same functionality and limited configurations.
• Target superior coverage from day one.
• Support diverse device types with scalable design based on — for example — bandwidth, data rate, formfactor, energy consumption, etc.
• Enable a harmonized terrestrial network (TN) and non-terrestrial network (NTN) design.
• Support an extensive wireless AI framework, building on 5G Advanced as appropriate. It should have native support for wireless AI lifecycle management and new use cases.

6G core network design considerations

The second set of parallel sessions was led by the 3GPP SA and CT technical Plenaries, focusing on 6G system architecture, security and protocols. As expected, the discussions were dynamic. While no official decisions were made at the 6G workshop, it is generally agreed that the 6G core network should:

• Have a single 6G standalone architecture, with SA mode as a baseline.
• Be designed to cover new 6G requirements regarding AI, connectivity, security, privacy, resiliency with possible reuse of the 5G service-based architecture framework with possible enhancements.
• Support simplification of architecture and streamlining of network function definitions and interactions, interfaces and protocols.
• Investigate new functions based on the service-based architecture to support new 6G services.
• Integrate and interoperate with various access technologies, including fixed wireless access (FWA) and Wi-Fi.
• Have a unified network exposure framework for simplifying the 3GPP-wide exposure framework to foster an API economy of scale.

What’s next?

With the 6G workshop now successfully completed, we are moving toward the official start of the first Working Group 6G Study Item as part of 3GPP Release 20. This Study Item is slated for approval in the June 3GPP Plenary meeting in Prague, Czech Republic. I am incredibly excited about this upcoming work, and I will be sharing more information soon. Stay tuned.

Learn more about the future of wireless technology, visit our new 6G website

Watch our latest wireless technology demonstrations, visit our YouTube playlist

Sign up for our wireless technologies newsletter to stay up to date

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career journey.

Hi, I’m Leia, Senior HR Ops Analyst based in the United Kingdom. If you’re a Star Wars fan, you guessed right—my brothers named me after Princess Leia. I’m married to my childhood sweetheart, and we have four amazing children. I love spending time with my family and friends. Living close to the countryside, I adore going for long walks and enjoying the beauty of nature.

I began my career in payroll and finance before venturing into entrepreneurship, where I co-owned and managed a business with my mother. During that period, I discovered my passion for fostering a positive work environment and supporting the growth and success of both people and businesses. I also developed a keen interest in HR and Employment law. After 11 rewarding years, we decided to close the business to explore new individual opportunities, which led me to a career in HR. While working in HR, I began seeking new job opportunities and came across a GoDaddy job advertisement that resonated with me.

“We also embrace our diverse culture and offer a range of Employee Resource Groups. Have a side hustle? No problem. We love entrepreneurs! Most importantly, come as you are and make your own way.”

I remember thinking, could this be true? A company that champions you for just being yourself? I am immensely proud to say that GoDaddy is a trustworthy workplace where every employee feels empowered to bring their authentic self to work, making it a fantastic place to be.

How do you keep yourself motivated and inspired in your work?

My biggest motivation is doing the right thing, ensuring that I incorporate and implement the GoDaddy values not only in words but more importantly in actions. Our employees are so valued, and it is imperative that they receive the correct HR information and HR support at the right time. I am part of an amazing HR team that enhances the employee experience which empowers all employees to focus on their roles and contribute to the success of our impressive entrepreneurs.

Our employees, colleagues, customers, and my family and friends inspire me. I believe we all share the same goal: to make the world a better place and to do what is right.

What has been your most significant learning experience within the past year?

My most significant learning experience has been thinking creatively to identify process improvement opportunities in our ever-evolving industry. This has not only enhanced the employee experience but also made my role more efficient, fulfilling, and rewarding. It is a genuine sense of accomplishment in achieving meaningful process improvements to our HR service delivery.

What aspects of GoDaddy’s company culture do you appreciate the most?

I deeply appreciate our GoDaddy values, especially the principle of ‘Joining Forces.’ It is always exhilarating to collaborate with my colleagues and other teams. The collective drive to achieve a common goal fosters a genuine sense of unity and support. Being a part of a global company brimming with innovative, solution-oriented individuals is truly inspiring.

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest HR trends?

I stay up to date with HR trends by subscribing to HR newsletters such as CIPD and regularly check the Acas and government websites. I’m always eager to research HR topics and employment laws to deepen my understanding, which enhances me to continue to support and protect our employees and business.

What’s your motto or personal mantra?

I love quotes, mottos, and mantras, and my latest favorite is: “I am perfectly unique and incomparable to others.” This nurturing and truthful affirmation reminds us that everyone possesses their own exceptional value.

As someone of dual heritage, born in the United Kingdom to a beautiful Jamaican mother and British father, the Jamaican national motto, “Out of many, one people,” deeply resonates with me. It symbolises the positive spirit that has emerged from an adverse history, emphasising our unity despite our differences. Working for a global company, I experience this unity every day. By sharing knowledge and experiences, we come together, broadening our understanding. This collaboration helps us find the best solutions for our employees and customers, ultimately enhancing their experience.

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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The Conference Board, a leading nonpartisan think tank providing independent research and insights to organizations worldwide, recently conducted a survey focused on how policy shifts by the new U.S. administration are reshaping the way companies approach sustainability. Our Top Story this issue details key findings of the survey, which showed 80% of companies surveyed are reworking their ESG strategies in response to the policy shifts.

The survey of 125 sustainability executives from large U.S. and multinational companies was conducted between March and April 2025. Findings: 52% of the executives said they are reworking their sustainability messaging, including moving away from the term “ESG.” They cited the reason as a backlash against ESG language and climate goals, with 90% believing that ESG backlash will persist or intensify over the next few years.

78% of executives say the primary driver of this expected backlash is U.S. federal policymakers and regulators. This marked a major shift from two years ago, when activists and advocacy groups were seen as the leading source of ESG backlash.

According to Andrew Jones, author of the report and Principal Researcher at The Conference Board, “recent policy shifts have turned up the heat on ESG, which had already been facing mounting scrutiny.” He does not believe companies will stop implementing ESG strategies but instead will make adjustments. “In most cases, the backlash hasn’t made companies back down, but rather pushed them to recalibrate how they approach, communicate, and integrate these issues into their businesses.”

Another key finding of the survey is the sharp impact that tariff turbulence is having on corporate sustainability strategies. 66% of executives are concerned that tariffs or future trade restrictions will impede sustainability goals, with 45% concerned that investments in sustainable operations will be delayed and 42% expecting cost pressures on sustainable materials.

The top challenge for corporate sustainability efforts is regulatory fragmentation, with 49% of executives citing widening gaps in the reporting requirements between state, federal and international regulators.

Jeff Hoffman, Interim Governance & Sustainability Center Leader at The Conference Board, said, “corporate ESG strategies are shifting into a more fragmented, risk-oriented phase. Global regulators and several U.S. states are advancing new standards, even as federal action slows.”

The G&A team is continuously monitoring sustainability regulations and reporting requirements at all levels and will continue to bring you the latest developments. We are available to answer questions and work with you to develop and implement strategies to adapt to the evolving and challenging landscape.For more information contact us at: info@ga-institute.com.

This is just the introduction of G&A’s Sustainability Highlights newsletter this week. Click here to view the full issue.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 5, 2025 /3BL/ – SmartBrief on EdTech has honored two Discovery Education services in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 presented by SmartBrief on EdTech celebrate the companies and products making a lasting impact on the education industry. Discovery Education is the creator of essential PreK-12 learning solutions used in classrooms around the world

The 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards recognize the innovative solutions, latest technologies, and pioneering problem-solving that are changing the education landscape for the better. The following Discovery Education services were selected as winners in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2025:

DreamBox Math: Math Instruction Category

DreamBox Math by Discovery Education is a K-8 online math program that supplements core instruction in the classroom or at home and is independently proven by several third-party research organizations to increase math achievement. Updated earlier this year with a host of improvements that empower teachers to create even more personalized learning experiences, DreamBox Math by Discovery Education adapts dynamically to the learner, providing tailored instruction within a highly engaging, gamified learning environment. DreamBox Math lessons are available in both English and Spanish and are standards-aligned 

Along with actionable reporting and tools that empower differentiation for all learners, DreamBox Math offers teachers content-specific professional learning and provides administrators critical insights into student progress. With DreamBox Math, every student is empowered to independently engage in interactive problem solving so they can develop conceptual understanding, apply a variety of strategies, and gain competence and confidence in mathematical reasoning and skills. 

Career Connect:  STEM and CTE Category

Career Connect promotes student curiosity by connecting classroom learning to potential careers. Through Career Connect, educators request virtual classroom visits from industry professionals, selecting from an array of job types, industries, languages, and locations. Then, students meet with professionals from industries like biotechnology, science, finance, computer engineering, human resources, education, and more, exploring potential career pathways through these interactions.

“These awards recognize and shine light on new and existing products and solutions that impact and transform education through technology. Our readers and subscribers have selected our winners as the best of the best. Every winner should be really proud of their accomplishments – a well-deserved congratulations from the entire awards team,” said the SmartBrief on Edtech’s editorial team.

Submissions were evaluated by both industry professionals and SmartBrief readers. SmartBrief is the leading digital news service for top-level education professionals in K-12, higher education, and specialized fields. Learn more about the SmartBrief Readers’ Choice Awards here.

“We are proud to be among those honored in the Readers’ Choice Awards! Thank you to the judges and educators who voted for DreamBox Math and Career Connect by Discovery Education,” said Brian Shaw, Chief Executive Officer at Discovery Education. “Every day, our team works hard to deliver to educators the solutions that will empower students to succeed. This award is a powerful validation of this work and will inspire us to continue creating the highest quality solutions for PreK-12 classroom worldwide.” 

For more information about Discovery Education’s award-winning digital resources and professional learning solutions, visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. 

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About Discovery Education 
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art, PreK-12, digital solutions support learning wherever it takes place. Through award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and strategic alliances, Discovery Education helps educators deliver powerful learning experiences that engage all students and support higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Through partnerships with districts, states, and trusted organizations, Discovery Education empowers teachers with essential edtech solutions that inspire curiosity, build confidence, and accelerate learning. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.

Contact
Grace Maliska
Discovery Education
Email: gmaliska@discoveryed.com

HOUSTON, June 5, 2025 /3BL/ – Green Mountain Energy, the nation’s longest serving renewable energy retailer, has partnered with Treehouse, a software-enabled installation platform for electrification projects including home electric vehicle (EV) charging, to make home charger installation easier and more affordable by offering discounts available exclusively for Green Mountain customers.

Green Mountain Energy customers will receive a $100 discount on their installation with Treehouse and 5% off the purchase price of a Level 2 charger. Partnering with Treehouse removes uncertainty from what can be a daunting installation process for EV owners. By leveraging proprietary technology and operating as an end-to-end platform — managing quoting and design through to permitting and installation – Treehouse delivers a delightful, streamlined experience for EV customers.

“This partnership with Treehouse is a natural extension of Green Mountain Energy’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” said Andrea Ortega-Toledano, senior director of sustainability at Green Mountain Energy. “By offering our customers an easier and more affordable option to power their EV’s, we’re helping to drive the transition to a smarter, cleaner energy landscape—one charge at a time.”

Level 2 charging (240-volt) requires a dedicated charging station or EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) but is significantly faster than Level 1 (120-volt) charging, adding about 25 miles of range per hour. The voltage requirements for Level 2 chargers are similar to what’s needed for an electric dryer or range. Installation costs vary based on a home’s age, panel location, existing electrical setup, and preferred charger location. Treehouse will review a home’s electrical setup and provide customers with a transparent, personalized quote for installation.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Green Mountain Energy to make home EV charging more accessible and affordable for their customers,” said Eric Owski, Co-Founder and CEO of Treehouse. “Installing a home charger is one of the biggest hurdles for new EV owners, and our collaboration removes that friction—delivering a seamless, cost-effective solution so more drivers can enjoy the benefits of fast, reliable charging at home.”

Green Mountain Energy customers can receive a free, instant estimate or learn more about the partnership with Treehouse by visiting https://treehouse.pro/greenmountainenergy.

ABOUT GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGY COMPANY
Green Mountain Energy is the nation’s longest serving renewable energy retailer, on a mission to inspire hope and motivate action through the use of clean energy. Green Mountain Energy offers consumers and businesses the choice of cleaner electricity products from renewable sources, as well as a variety of carbon offset products and sustainable solutions for businesses. Collectively, Green Mountain Energy customers have helped avoid over 125 billion pounds of carbon dioxide to date. Green Mountain Energy is lighting the path to a brighter future by supporting the sustainable projects of nonprofits through our charitable program, Green Mountain Energy Sun Club. To learn more about Green Mountain Energy, visit greenmountainenergy.com.

ABOUT TREEHOUSE
Treehouse is a software-enabled installation platform for electrification projects. The company’s mission is to accelerate the decarbonization of the places we live and work by simplifying the electrification journey. By operating as a centralized, end-to-end partner, Treehouse helps companies – including auto retailers and manufacturers, fleet providers, utilities, and electrification hardware manufacturers – scale electrification programs nationwide and deliver seamless, delightful installation experiences for customers. Treehouse has raised more than $25M in financing to date from investors and partners including Flourish Ventures, Eaton, Veriten, MassMutual Ventures and more. To learn more about Treehouse, visit treehouse.pro.