Tag: 3BL

With the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially beginning on June 1, many communities across the United States and Caribbean are still recovering from the devastating impacts of the 2024 storm season.

Since Hurricanes Beryl, Helene, and Milton made landfall last year, Direct Relief has provided more than $50 million in aid to affected areas—$42 million in medical resources and $9 million in financial support.

Hurricane Beryl

Hurricane Beryl broke records in late June 2024 as the earliest Category 5 Atlantic storm, tearing from Grenada and Jamaica across the eastern Caribbean, brushing Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, and finally striking Texas.

Direct Relief’s support tracked the storm from beginning to end:

• Pre-positioned aid: A hurricane preparedness pack (enough medicines and supplies for 1,000 people for 30 days) and field medic packs, staged in St. Lucia, were moved to Grenada ahead of landfall. Medical cots and large tents from Direct Relief’s Puerto Rico stockpile reached Carriacou Island on July 8, enabling the Ministry of Health to set up emergency wards and shelters.
• Caribbean Aid: Since June 2024, Direct Relief has supplied $6.7 million in medical aid—more than 1.6 million defined-daily-dose equivalents of medication. Shipments covered chronic-disease drugs, PPE, nutritionals, and targeted dengue-response supplies requested by health authorities, and field medic packs have equipped Medical Professionals on a Mission, whose volunteer clinicians reach isolated communities throughout the Caribbean. An additional $3 million grant to the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States is strengthening regional disaster-readiness and public-health capacity.
• Texas Aid: After Beryl’s U.S. landfall, Direct Relief dispatched emergency health kits, insulin and diabetes supplies, naloxone, prenatal vitamins, personal-care items, and other requested materials to clinics across the state. To date, Texas facilities have received $7.8 million in medical support, ensuring care continuity for storm-affected communities.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton

Back-to-back hurricanes struck the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic in late 2024. Hurricane Helene, a powerful Category 4 storm, hit Florida’s Big Bend region on September 29 before sweeping through Georgia, the Carolinas, and into Virginia.

Just days later, Hurricane Milton followed a similar path, exacerbating the damage left behind. Together, the storms caused deadly tornadoes, widespread flooding, and left millions without power.

Since landfall, Direct Relief has provided more than $32 million in assistance, including $27 million in medical aid and $5.8 million in financial support to health providers across the hardest-hit states.

State-by-State Support:

• North Carolina – $13.4 million worth of medical aid, $2,833,000 in financial support (Hurricane Helene)
• Florida – $8 million worth of medical aid, $2,557,000 in financial support (Hurricanes Helene and Milton)
• Tennessee – $3.2 million worth of medical aid, $350,000 in financial support (Hurricane Helene)
• South Carolina – $2.2 million worth of medical aid (Hurricane Helene)
• Georgia – $568k in product in product, $100,000 in financial support (Hurricane Helene)
• Virginia – $174k worth of medical aid (Hurricane Helene)

In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Direct Relief delivered hundreds of specifically requested shipments to more than 90 healthcare facilities across Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Supplies included antibiotics, medications for chronic conditions, epinephrine, vaccines, personal protective equipment, oral rehydration salts, and water purification tablets.

In North Carolina, Direct Relief staff personally delivered support to NC MedAssist, a statewide charitable pharmacy serving uninsured patients. The organization received tetanus vaccines for cleanup crews, epinephrine for insect-sting reactions, and field medic packs for mobile health outreach.

With many facilities damaged, staff displaced, and access to utilities disrupted, Direct Relief issued emergency operating grants to help providers maintain services. Funding supported essential supplies, staffing, repairs, and care for patients with injuries, chronic conditions, mental health needs, and disrupted prenatal care.

Though less intense than initially feared, Hurricane Milton worsened conditions in already battered communities. Power outages, flooding, and tornadoes created urgent medical needs in places like the Spanish Lakes senior community, where Oceana Community Health deployed two mobile clinics even before the storm made landfall. Direct Relief supported the response with medical supplies and emergency funding.

2025 Hurricane Season: Looking Ahead

As the new hurricane season begins, Direct Relief remains committed not only to response, but to helping communities better withstand future storms.

That commitment includes strengthening local supply chains, expanding backup power capacity at healthcare facilities, and ensuring frontline providers have access to the resources needed to safeguard vulnerable populations.

By working in close coordination with trusted local partners and building on lessons from previous responses, Direct Relief continues to invest in scalable, high-impact solutions that protect health and improve disaster readiness—before, during, and after the storm.

During Women’s History Month, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible women leading change in the tech space through Lenovo’s charitable community partnerships. These leaders are not only advocating for a more inclusive future in artificial intelligence (AI), but also helping women and girls gain access to the digital skills they need to thrive.

We sat down with three of Lenovo’s global partners to hear their insights on building gender-fair AI and advancing women’s participation in technology:

• Janine Teo, CEO of Solve Education! (Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia)
• Laura Benbenaste, Director of Ashoka’s Social Entrepreneurs Network for the Southern Cone and Global Lead of the Tech & Humanity initiative (Argentina)
• Petra Kotuliaková, Founder and CEO of Aj Ty v IT (Slovakia)

At the Lenovo Foundation, we believe that inclusive innovation starts with intentional partnerships. We are proud to collaborate with these three visionaries on responsibly and thoughtfully democratizing access to AI, as part of Lenovo’s broader commitment to Smarter AI for All – ensuring that the future of technology is shaped by diverse voices and community-driven solutions.

Can you share a specific initiative you have led or have been involved in to promote gender fairness in AI development?

Janine: “At Solve Education!, we integrate AI into our gamified learning platforms to bridge the gender gap in education and workforce readiness. We design AI-driven learning tools that strengthen girls’ literacy proficiency, a critical gateway to learning and career opportunities. We also provide fun, contextualized STEM education to prepare young women for careers in tech and innovation. And we equip learners with employability skills, including digital literacy, problem-solving, and communication, to ensure they are ready for the workforce of the future. By leveraging AI and gamification, we personalize learning experiences, making education more engaging and accessible, particularly for marginalized girls.”

Laura: “I am the director of Ashoka’s AI community, an initiative that finds, brings together and accompanies social entrepreneurs who use AI for social impact projects.

The goal is to bring the perspectives of this ecosystem to decision making spaces, companies and governments so that technology is designed to seek the common good and solve related problems. Within Ashoka’s AI Community, we support initiatives that work with artificial intelligence with a social and gender perspective. One example is DataGénero and its project AymurAI, a software designed to anonymize judicial documents and reduce gender bias in sensitive data from court rulings. This tool makes it possible to extract statistics on gender violence, promoting greater transparency in Latin American judiciaries.”

Petra:“ Aj Ty v IT focuses on increasing the presence of women in the IT sector by providing education, networking, and support. We promote gender fairness through programs that encourage girls and women to pursue careers in technology, which aligns with initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive and diverse environments in the field. In AI development we focus, for example, on fostering diverse teams, which are at the beginning of every product story.”

We know that training data determines the efficacy and expertise of AI systems, but people can forget that data sets can contain real bias: Who was included, how is the data structured, what was the data source, etc. How have you ensured that AI systems in your projects are designed and tested to avoid gender biases? 

Janine: “We actively audit and refine our AI-driven tools to ensure fairness in learning experiences. Our approach includes designing neutral and inclusive AI models that provide equitable access to learning and career guidance, especially in STEM fields. We also continuously monitor and improve fairness in our AI-driven learning interventions.”

Laura: “We work with social entrepreneurs to integrate best practices in AI development, including the use of diverse and representative datasets to avoid bias in the information processed. We also collaborate with gender equity experts to assess the impact of AI on different social groups, and provide training and sensitization to the teams developing these technologies, ensuring that they understand and mitigate gender bias in their projects. In the case of AymurAI, its design makes it possible to eliminate sensitive information that could perpetuate inequalities and help build a more equitable judicial system.”

Petra: “Our projects are in majority in the educational area. For building new streams, we assemble diverse teams of trainers and professionals and use representative datasets to avoid gender biases.”

Can you provide an example of how you have successfully increased women’s access to technology and digital skills training?

Janine: “Solve Education! is committed to expanding access to STEM education and employability skills for girls from low-income communities through strengthening girls’ literacy foundation, essential for digital literacy and career advancement. We provide gamified STEM education, breaking stereotypes and preparing girls for high-demand tech jobs. We embed workforce readiness skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, in our AI-powered learning programs. Our mobile-first learning platform ensures that young women—especially those with limited access to formal education—can develop the skills needed for the digital economy, no matter where they are.”

Laura: “50% of the community initiatives are led by women, a fact no less given that female participation is always a challenge in technology environments. The social sector has a great potential in reducing this gap since there is a large female presence and if they can use technology as a tool for their causes, it is a great revolutionary opportunity, no doubt.”

Petra: “Aj Ty v IT has trained 60,000 girls and women in digital and technology skills to date. We break down barriers to education, which are often financial and social. Our regional reach extends to the smallest villages where access to technical education for girls is very limited.”

What challenges have you faced in advancing gender fairness in AI, and how have you addressed them? 

Janine: “One major challenge is deeply ingrained societal and cultural barriers that limit girls’ access to education and workforce participation. In many of the communities we work with, girls are expected to marry young and take on household responsibilities, limiting their career prospects. To tackle this, we leverage AI and gamification to create engaging, self-paced learning experiences that keep girls motivated. We incorporate workforce skills training, ensuring that girls graduate from our programs job-ready and confident in pursuing careers in technology, business, and other fields. We also collaborate with employers, helping bridge the gap between learning and employment, and ensuring that companies have access to a diverse and skilled workforce.”

Laura: “Some challenges include lack of female representation in AI development. To counter this, we promote the visibility of women leaders in technology. There is also a gap in access to data and resources in Spanish. We have worked with entrepreneurs to develop inclusive and accessible tools. Resistance to change in some sectors has also been a barrier.

To address this, we have established partnerships with technology companies and networking spaces, allowing initiatives to connect with key players in the sector.”

Petra: “In Slovakia, we struggle with the lack of representation of women in IT and limited awareness of STEM studies and projects. We fight these issues through continuous education and advocacy across the country.”

How has your partnership with Lenovo advanced your goals of raising awareness about the importance of gender fairness in AI and technology?

Janine: “Lenovo’s support has helped us scale our impact, ensuring that more girls can access digital education, STEM learning, and career-building opportunities. Through this collaboration, we advocate for gender fairness in AI, ensuring that AI-driven education tools create equitable learning pathways for young women. We provide underserved communities with accessible technology, enabling young women to develop the digital and employability skills needed for the workforce of the future. We also conduct career workshops to expose girls to opportunities in STEM, helping them explore careers in technology and innovation and equipping them with the confidence to pursue these paths. Together, we are transforming education, promoting gender equity, and preparing the next generation for the future of work.”

Laura: “This partnership exemplifies in a very concrete way how corporate commitment can make support initiatives focused on the common good. Companies such as Lenovo, who are thinking and designing new intersections between industries and social entrepreneurs, make us hopeful for the future.”

Petra: “Lenovo provides us with resources and funding for women’s education and training programmes. For high school students, we have jointly developed the ‘Discover IT faCOOLties’ programme, which enables them to visit IT faculties. Female university students have the opportunity to be mentored by Lenovo professionals. For graduates of our academies, Lenovo has job offers that allow them to directly start their new careers in technology fields. We also strengthen our outreach efforts through joint marketing and communications strategies.”

About Solve Education!

Solve Education! is a philanthropic organization committed to enabling people to empower themselves through education. Our focus is to help children and youth around the globe receive effective and fun education. Whether these children and youth don’t attend schools or the traditional education they receive is ineffective, we are here to help.

Our team is made up of experienced educationists, technologists, and business executives. What do we have in common? Our driving passion to close the global education gap, one child at a time.

About Ashoka

Ashoka is the world’s largest network of social entrepreneurs and a global leader in social innovation. We champion social entrepreneurs who are shifting systems and creating new frameworks for society.

About Aj Ty v IT

Aj Ty v IT, a nonprofit organization founded in 2012, aims to motivate and support girls and women in the field of information technology. Our mission, expressed through the motto “Technology has no gender,” is to ensure that women do not remain on the sidelines, but instead become an integral part of the technological future.

Through its activities, Aj Ty v IT breaks down social stereotypes about women in IT, builds a supportive community, and educates girls from grade school to high school, We offer specialized career programs for adult women, and collaborate with IT faculties at universities. Over twelve years of operation, almost 55,300 girls, women, and teachers from across Slovakia have participated in our workshops, courses, and academies.

About Lenovo Foundation

Lenovo Foundation is a U.S. 501c3 charitable and non-profit arm of Lenovo. Together with Lenovo corporate philanthropy and initiatives across Lenovo’s global business, Lenovo Foundation has a mission to provide access to technology and STEM education for those who need it most. Lenovo Foundation accomplishes its mission through strategic giving, employee engagement and disaster response. Learn more at www.LenovoFoundation.com and Lenovo’s annual ESG Report.

Published by Las Vegas Sands on April 10, 2025

LAS VEGAS, May 12, 2025 /3BL/ – Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) has released its latest environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, outlining the company’s 2024 performance on the corporate responsibility priorities established for its 2021-2025 reporting period.

Most notably, Sands has surpassed two of its three primary ambitions in the areas of workforce development and community volunteerism while performing ahead of its 17.5% science-based emissions reduction target. These goals align with the company’s People, Communities and Planet corporate responsibility pillars.

At the close of 2024, Sands had spent $220 million on workforce development initiatives, accomplishing its People pillar ambition to invest $200 million by 2025. In achieving this target, Sands spent nearly $38 million in 2024 to advance job skills and career training for Team Members, hospitality industry professionals and the local labor pool in its regions.

The company also surpassed its Communities pillar target of contributing 250,000 Team Member volunteer hours by 2025, with a total of 255,955 hours amassed between 2021-2024. Sands’ Team Members logged 33,132 volunteer hours for more than 70 nonprofit organizations in 2024.

Sands’ scope 1 and 2 emissions remained below its 2025 Planet ambition of reducing emissions by 17.5% from the 2018 base year, with emissions down 50% in 2024. Implementation of energy-efficiency projects and continued purchases of energy attribute certificates drove progress in this area.

In 2024, the company also released its first low-carbon transition plan, which outlined a new 30% emissions-reduction target that complements its existing 17.5% emissions-reduction target validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Sands aims to achieve the new 30% target, which is aligned with the Paris Agreement to limit temperature increase to 1.5°C, by 2025.

In addition to these primary ambitions, the company made advancements in multiple areas under its People, Communities and Planet pillars in 2024.

People – Separate of the workforce development investment, Sands spent $3 billion to procure goods and services from local businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) around the world, contributing to its regions’ economic health and helping sustain job opportunities. The company also invested $26 million in diverse businesses. A variety of programs support workforce and local business development, ranging from Team Member and industry training to supplier advancement through procurement academies and business development opportunities.

Communities – In addition to the Team Member community service ambition, Sands provided $12 million in philanthropic contributions to nonprofit organizations and continued focusing on building their capacity through both funding and mentorship. The company’s signature capacity-building initiative, the Sands Cares Accelerator, incubates the strategic initiatives of nonprofit members and graduated its fourth member in 2024. Community revitalization was another top priority, and Sands China made significant investments in promoting key Macao landmarks and enabling local entrepreneurs to develop businesses in a culturally significant area.

Planet – In addition to maintaining achievement of its emissions-reduction target, Sands met or exceeded desired levels of progress in other areas, including increasing its 2024 operational waste diversion rate by 6% over the 2019 base year, tracking ahead of the 5% increase targeted by 2025. The company also prevented, rescued or diverted 29% of food waste, which is targeted for 25% by 2025.

Sands reduced potable water use intensity by 11% from the 2019 base year, which is ahead of its 3% reduction targeted by 2025. The company continued working toward goals of reducing single-use plastics by transitioning to 100% sustainable solutions for Sands-branded water bottles at the end of 2025, with 62% achieved in 2024, and procuring 100% cage-free eggs by 2028, increasing cage-free egg purchases from 3% of total eggs sourced in 2023 to 18% in 2024.

“In 2025, we are focused on closing the gaps around our 2025 goals and continuing to push ahead in areas where we’ve achieved our ambitions or are currently surpassing our targets,” Katarina Tesarova, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, said. “We are motivated to aim higher as we set our sights on a strong finish to our current reporting period and prepare to establish new goals for our 2026-2030 cycle.”

Underscoring Sands’ performance in 2024, the company was included in the 2024 Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America Indices, Newsweek’s 2025 America’s Most Responsible Companies list and the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025, receiving designation among the top 10% of overall global ESG scores. Sands was the only U.S.-based company in the casinos and gaming category listed in the yearbook.

For detailed information on the company’s corporate responsibility accomplishments and initiatives, read the 2024 ESG Report:https://www.sands.com/resources/reports/.

# # #

About Sands (NYSE: LVS)

Sands is the leading global developer and operator of integrated resorts. The company’s iconic properties drive valuable leisure and business tourism and deliver significant economic benefits, sustained job creation, financial opportunities for local businesses and community investment to help make its host regions ideal places to live, work and visit.

Sands’ portfolio of properties includes Marina Bay Sands^® in Singapore and The Venetian^® Macao, The Londoner Macao^®, The Parisian Macao^®, The Plaza Macao and Four Seasons Hotel Macao, and Sands^® Macao in Macao SAR, China, through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd.

Dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, Sands is anchored by the core tenets of serving people, communities and the planet. The company’s ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for World and North America. To learn more, visit www.sands.com.

Contact:

Kristin Koca, Sands

702.923.9142, Kristin.Koca@sands.com

MEMPHIS, Tenn., May 12, 2025 /3BL/ – International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC), a global leader in sustainable packaging, is proud to announce the groundbreaking of its new state-of-the-art sustainable, packaging box plant in Waterloo, Iowa.

Located in the heart of the Midwest, the new facility will primarily focus on serving the protein segment, providing tailored packaging solutions and meeting the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable packaging.

“We are thrilled to break ground and invest in our company and the city of Waterloo,” said John Berry, Group Vice President, International Paper. “This facility represents our dedication to growing in markets where we want to compete, advancing our capabilities and ensuring our customers receive quality and reliable products. We look forward to our continued future in Waterloo and are very grateful to everyone who has made today possible.”

The Waterloo box plant will feature cutting-edge technology and equipment, enabling International Paper to deliver innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. The plant’s design incorporates the latest safety practices and industry technology.

The new facility is currently scheduled to begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2026 and create an estimated 65 new jobs to the current facility with a total of 190 team members.

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

Media Contacts
Amy Simpson
amy.simpson@ipaper.com
+1 901-419-4964

April 17^th marked the 52^nd anniversary of FedEx, but it also signified 100 days since the California wildfires. To commemorate both occasions, FedEx volunteers from across the Los Angeles area collaborated with Feed the Children, World Central Kitchen, and the local nonprofit Watchitgrow Inc. to directly assist 400 families affected by the fires. The event was held in Altadena, a community where many impacted residents lived in generational family homes, a significant number of which were uninsured.

Throughout the day, the FedEx team dedicated their time to uplifting others by engaging with families and loading essential supplies into their vehicles. Each family received a shelf-stable meal kit/box designed to feed a family of four for five days, along with household necessities, Avon beauty products, and books. Additionally, a special product donation from Mattel, a Feed the Children supporter and FedEx customer, provided backpacks filled with children’s items, including Barbies and Hot Wheels.

Before departing the distribution site, families were offered a hot meal courtesy of World Central Kitchen, as well as a $100 meal voucher for a local restaurant. The community deeply appreciated the ongoing support. One recipient shared, “We were running out of food since we were victims of the Eaton Fire; [these] boxes of food and essentials [have] been a blessing.” Another individual expressed their gratitude to FedEx and the nonprofits, stating, “Our house burned and we had no insurance. With the help we received, we can save to rebuild.” Click here to see a heartwarming video.

Furthermore, the FedEx LA team worked with Operation Warm to deliver over 600 brand new shoes to students at Jackson Elementary in Altadena also impacted by the wildfires.

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

In celebration of National Nurses Appreciation Week, AEG’s LA Kings joined forces with Superfd and Melissa’s Produce to show gratitude to frontline healthcare providers at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). On Monday, May 5, 2025, LA Kings staff and mascot Bailey visited the hospital to deliver nutritious meals, snacks and fresh produce to CHLA’s RN Residents—nurses who are just beginning their careers at the renowned pediatric medical center.

This initiative honored the dedication and hard work of CHLA’s RN Residents—newly graduated nurses who are in the early stages of their professional journey. As they take on the responsibility of caring for some of the hospital’s youngest and most vulnerable patients, the support served as a meaningful reminder that their efforts are seen, valued, and celebrated by the broader community.

“The LA Kings are honored to stand alongside our partners in recognizing the incredible nurses at CHLA,” said Gabe Gelbard, Manager, Community Relations, LA Kings. “As a team rooted in Los Angeles, we know the value of strength, teamwork, and heart—and these nurses embody all of that and more. We’re honored to support them and show our appreciation for the vital role they play in our community.”

Superfd, a company specializing in performance nutrition, and Melissa’s Produce, a leading distributor of fresh fruits and vegetables, helped make the meal deliveries possible, providing nourishing food options designed to fuel the hardworking nurses throughout their demanding shifts.

Yum! Brands

May 12, 2025 /3BL/ – Yum! Brands has long prioritized the integration of sustainable practices into its development strategy. If it was simply good for the environment, it’d be a nice-to-have, but the parent company of KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill has identified both economical and eco-friendly ways to outfit its restaurants. In other words, Yum! believes that building green can help to save green.

Here’s how the company does it.

In 2014, Yum! adopted sustainable development guidelines for its restaurants that have since influenced its brands’ current standards. These guidelines took inspiration from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program and include aspects like strategically placed exhaust hoods and using appropriate lighting. But where they differ from LEED is that the Yum! guidelines leverage a scaled point system more specific to the quick-service restaurant industry with the goal of building more sustainable, energy efficient restaurants.

“We meet our franchisees where they are, so they can build according to what makes the most sense for their budgets,” said Yum! Chief Sustainability Officer Jon Hixson. “Thankfully, most of the methods we’ve identified are both good for the environment and for business.”

Recently, the brands took these guidelines one step further, with KFC evolving its Building Green Standards through the introduction of its 11 must-haves and Pizza Hut developing its Green Hut Toolkit with its own set of requirements. These standards, built on the foundation of sustainability and resilience, are aimed at being a win-win that helps conserve resources while saving franchisees money.

For Pizza Hut, optimized HVAC and exhaust hoods and efficiencies across equipment, refrigeration and lighting are all must-haves. A similar list applies to KFC’s set of standards. Habit Burger & Grill, headquartered in California, is committed to ensuring that all U.S.-based restaurants meet or exceed the California Green Building Standards Code, the first-in-the-nation mandatory green building standards code.

Successful examples range from the obvious – LED lighting that led to emissions cuts of about 5% on average across the KFC restaurant portfolio in 2024 – to focusing on HVAC systems that enable a single Pizza Hut location to achieve around 30% in energy savings and prevent approximately 7 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

The brands also continue to evolve their standards. In 2023, KFC introduced its Green Line Furniture, which is developed and finished using recovered materials while maintaining performance and durability. In addition to the pieces of furniture being more sustainable, they also weigh significantly less, which means transportation of furniture to the restaurants generates fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions – approximately 32% less!

Around the world, Energy Management Systems (EMS) are utilized by the brands to optimize operations and identify areas for further improvement. EMS provide monitoring and control services to maintain temperature and humidity in restaurants, as well as automatically adjust energy usage and identify issues or opportunities for optimization. In India, for example, EMS have been installed in 315 Pizza Hut and over 500 KFC restaurants resulting in approximately 7% savings on KFC’s electricity bill. Other brands and markets have seen similar results. Taco Bell U.S. also uses EMS to automatically control the temperatures in its HVAC and walk-in refrigerators in approximately 150 corporate locations in the highest energy use markets.

The company also takes a strategic approach to solar, analyzing the building footprint, cost of electricity and location’s access to the sun. KFC has solar panels on every continent that it operates, including one KFC in California, which operates its drive-thru entirely on solar power, saving its franchisee 20% off its energy costs.

These standards and additional efforts have helped Yum! earn external climate recognition from groups like CDP, a global organization that runs a leading sustainability disclosure system, as well as restaurants around the world becoming LEED-certified, including KFC in Thailand and Pizza Hut in Vietnam, and a KFC restaurant receiving Gold certification from India’s Green Building Council.

Because of this work, Yum! has made steady progress on its science-based climate targets. At the end of 2023, the company achieved a 28% reduction of GHG emissions per franchisee restaurants compared to 2019, and Yum! continues to see cost savings through a range of technologies and programs.

“We’ve committed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions per franchise restaurant by 46% by 2030, and we’re more than halfway to this target, thanks to our green building efforts,” Hixson said. “By saving our franchisees money and conserving energy, it’s a win for the company and our planet.”

Published by Action Against Hunger.

May 12, 2025 /3BL/ – On May 12^th, 2025, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) issued an alert that all of Gaza is at the Emergency stage (IPC Phase 4 out of 5). Over 250,000 people are currently facing starvation conditions due to a severe lack of food and diversity in nutrition, and this number is expected to double if conditions do not improve. There are currently 71,000 children under the age of five with acute malnutrition, of which 14,100 have severe cases and face the risk of death. Between now and April 2026, approximately 18,400 pregnant and breastfeeding women are expected to need malnutrition treatment to prevent irreversible and life-threatening health problems for both mothers and babies.

The IPC alert shows a major deterioration from the previous analysis in October 2024, when 93% of Gaza was classified in Crisis (IPC Phase 3 or above). Food insecurity has escalated over two months of total siege in which no humanitarian aid — including food, water, medical aid, and other supplies essential to the survival of the civilian population — has entered Gaza. If the situation continues or deteriorates, the IPC warns that famine will be imminent.

In April, Action Against Hunger assessed caregivers of over 1,000 children under five across three governorates in Gaza and measured reports of children going without food when hungry or skipping meals. In the Middle Area, one in three respondents reported that their children had recently gone an entire day without eating. Across the three governates, it was revealed that all children faced food insecurity. Alarmingly, one in two children were found to be either moderately or severely food insecure. Action Against Hunger’s teams in Gaza report that, since the beginning of April, more children have been admitted for the first time to acute malnutrition treatment programs than in the first three months of 2025 total. The rate of malnutrition in children has reached some of the worst levels the teams have ever seen.

“I work as a breastfeeding counselor with Action Against Hunger. With every consultation, my worst fear gets confirmed: there is no end to this crisis. The situation is growing more catastrophic, and the acute shortage of aid and assistance is alarming,” shares an Action Against Hunger staff member in Gaza. “Breastfeeding and pregnant women face double the risk. Their bodies are exhausted from pregnancy and childbirth while they endure prolonged food deprivation and a severe lack of all the necessities of health and nutrition.”

Since the start of the siege, over 177 community kitchens and bakeries have been forcibly closed. The cost of wheat flour – a household staple – has increased over 3,000% since February 2025, now costing between $235 USD to $520 USD per 55 pounds across Gaza. “The only thing keeping Palestinians from famine right now is humanitarian assistance,” says Natalia Anguera, Country Director for Action Against Hunger. “Our teams in Gaza have distributed the last of our remaining dry food parcels, with only items for one community kitchen remaining. Many other organizations ran out weeks ago.” Continuing to block the entrance of food will cause famine. Action Against Hunger reiterates its demands to all parties to the conflict to immediately and unconditionally re-open all border crossings, establish an immediate and permanent ceasefire, and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.

***

Action Against Hunger leads the global movement to end hunger. We innovate solutions, advocate for change, and reach 21 million people every year with proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. As a nonprofit that works across over 55 countries, our 8,900 dedicated staff members partner with communities to address the root causes of hunger, including climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. We strive to create a world free from hunger, for everyone, for good.

Action Against Hunger has been assisting the population in Gaza for more than 20 years. Responding to the escalating crisis, our teams have mobilized to provide hot meals and fresh and dry food, distribute hygiene kits, connect people with shelters, and truck clean water into communities. Since the start of the conflict, under restricted access and frequent blackouts, Action Against Hunger has assisted more than one million people in Gaza and the West Bank.

Originally published on DICK’S Sporting Goods Sideline Report

Fans and collectors gathered at DICK’S House of Sport (HOS) in Pittsburgh on Friday, May 9 to catch a glimpse of sports history. The store unveiled the one-of-one Paul Skenes MLB Debut Patch card.

HOS Pittsburgh distributed 500 wristbands to those wishing to see the card up close. Travis Rogan of Beaver, Pennsylvania, was the very first in line.

“I’m blown away by the level of care that went into this display,” Rogan said. “Getting to see the card itself is wild!”

500 wristbands were also distributed to fans on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11.

Executive Director, HOS Pittsburgh Javier Perez, said this is all much more than just a display.

“It represents DICK’S’ commitment to offering unforgettable experiences,” said Perez. “This card creates a powerful community touchpoint for Pittsburgh fans and collectors alike.”

DICK’S purchased 2024’s most coveted baseball trading card after winning an auction conducted by Fanatics Collect Premier Auction in March. It features a piece of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher’s MLB debut jersey and his autograph.

“We’re thrilled to bring this special card home,” said DICK’S Executive Chairman Ed Stack. “It enables us to celebrate Skenes’ incredible talent while giving our athletes (customers) a unique opportunity to experience a piece of baseball history up close.”

The Skenes card will live in a new space built just for it on the bottom floor of HOS Pittsburgh. The card is also a kickoff for a new collectors space, Collectors Clubhouse, which features trading cards and memorabilia to inspire the next generation of athletes and collectors. The Collectors Clubhouse is launching in Pittsburgh and four other HOS stores.

“It opens the doors for events, conversations and connections that build community and deepen our role as a destination, not just a store,” said Perez.

You can read more about DICK’S acquisition of the Skenes card here.

Written by Hilary Totin

Photos by Rebecca Hoolahan

Last week, Saint-Gobain North America, through its building materials subsidiary CertainTeed, held the United States National round of the Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest, awarding Alexander Davidson Caroll, Magnolia Moskun and Huiyun Qiu from Rhode Island School of Design the top prize for their project aimed at revitalizing the Nord Isère area in southeastern France by redesigning an abandoned school in the village of Chimilin into a multi-use building, and developing a new residential area near the Grands Ateliers, a center for experimentation and prototyping of architectural projects.

Created in 2004, the Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest is intended for university students specializing in architecture, engineering, and building design. The competition aims to showcase students’ technical and creative competencies through the development of projects that respond to the authentic needs of a neighborhood or urban area, while adhering to Saint-Gobain’s principles of sustainable construction. This year, the competition includes over 1360 students in 546 teams from 211 different universities.

Hosted at the offices of the American Institute of Architects in New York City, teams competed for the chance to represent the United States in the international competition, which will be held in Lyon, France in June. Judged by a panel of experts including Yorgo Lykouria of RainlightSTUDIO, Elzbieta Skowronek an architect and former Borough Commissioner for the New York City Building Department, and Michelle Schutt, CertainTeed’s Senior Manager of Architectural Sales, each project was judged on architectural design, technical and environmental detail, construction detail, and product usage.

“I’m deeply impressed by the outstanding quality of proposals submitted for this year’s U.S. round of the Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest. Congratulations to all participants for sharing your innovative design ideas. You are truly becoming the future leaders of our industry, and innovators in sustainable construction,” said Mark Rayfield, CEO of Saint-Gobain North America and CertainTeed. “I would like to express my gratitude to our judges for their support in showcasing the talents of this new generation of architects and look forward to seeing Alexander, Magnolia and Huiyun compete this summer in Lyon.”

As the winners of the US National round, Alexander, Magnolia and Huiyun will travel to France in June, along with their professor Jonathan Knowles, to compete among winning students from 32 other countries in the International round. Here they will receive further feedback from international judges, a tour of the subject city, and other resources to further their architectural education. Winners of the international round will receive 5,000€ for first place, 3,000€ for second, and 1,500€ for third place.

With over 160 manufacturing locations in the United States and Canada, every current and future member of the company’s team plays a vital role in achieving its sustainability goals. A current list of job openings at all Saint-Gobain locations can be found on the company’s career website.

About Saint-Gobain

Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group, celebrating its 360th anniversary in 2025, remains more committed than ever to its purpose “MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME”.

€46.6 billion in sales in 2024
161,000 employees, locations in 80 countries
Committed to achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2050

For more information about Saint-Gobain, visit www.saint-gobain.com and follow us on Twitter @saintgobain

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