Tag: 3BL

English Version

La co-digestion des matières organiques alimentaires dans les usines de traitement des eaux usées est apparue comme une approche prometteuse pour relever deux défis environnementaux importants : la gestion des déchets organiques et la production d’énergie renouvelable. Ce procédé comprend la digestion anaérobie des déchets alimentaires aux côtés des boues d’épuration traditionnelles, offrant de nombreux avantages comme une production accrue de biogaz, une meilleure valorisation des ressources et une réduction de la mise en décharge. Il s’agit également d’une occasion pour les gouvernements locaux de tirer parti de l’infrastructure existante et de réduire éventuellement les investissements pour de nouvelles installations autonomes.

Cependant, la mise en œuvre des systèmes de co-digestion présente également divers défis qu’il convient de relever pour une exploitation réussie. Ce article explore les opportunités et les défis associés à la co-digestion des matières organiques alimentaires dans les usines de traitement des eaux usées, en prenant l’installation du Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) comme étude de cas.

Opportunités

Production accrue de biogaz : L’un des principaux avantages de la co-digestion des déchets alimentaires avec les boues d’épuration est l’augmentation significative de la production de biogaz. Les déchets alimentaires ont généralement une teneur en énergie et une biodégradabilité plus élevées que les boues d’épuration seules. L’ajout de déchets alimentaires aux digesteurs anaérobies peut augmenter le rendement en méthane de 50 à 185 %. Cette production accrue de biogaz peut être utilisée pour la production d’électricité sur site, la production de chaleur, ou transformée en biométhane pour être injectée dans les réseaux de gaz naturel ou utilisée comme carburant pour les véhicules.Meilleure valorisation des ressources : La co-digestion permet de valoriser des ressources précieuses à partir de déchets alimentaires qui auraient autrement été mis en décharge. Le procédé génère non seulement de l’énergie renouvelable, mais produit également un digestat riche en nutriments qui peut être utilisé comme engrais ou comme amendements pour les terres agricoles. Cette approche s’inscrit dans les principes de l’économie circulaire, en transformant les déchets en une ressource précieuse et en réduisant l’impact environnemental des déchets alimentaires et du traitement des eaux usées.Réduction de la mise en décharge : Éviter l’enfouissement de déchets alimentaires grâce à la co-digestion dans les usines de traitement des eaux usées permet de réduire considérablement les émissions de gaz à effet de serre associées à la mise en décharge. Le méthane, un puissant gaz à effet de serre, est produit lorsque les déchets organiques se décomposent dans les décharges. En capturant et en utilisant ce méthane par digestion anaérobie, les usines de traitement des eaux usées peuvent contribuer aux efforts d’atténuation du changement climatique.Retombées économiques : La co-digestion peut apporter des avantages économiques aux usines de traitement des eaux usées grâce à l’augmentation de la production d’énergie et aux revenus potentiels provenant des frais de déversement des déchets alimentaires. L’installation du MMSD, par exemple, a bénéficié d’importantes économies et de revenus générés grâce à son programme de co-digestion.Synergies opérationnelles : L’intégration du traitement des déchets alimentaires à l’infrastructure existante de l’usine de traitement des eaux usées tire parti des actifs et de l’expertise existants. Les usines de traitement des eaux usées ont déjà mis en place des systèmes de digestion anaérobie, ce qui fait de l’ajout de déchets alimentaires un processus relativement simple qui permet d’optimiser l’utilisation des installations existantes.

Défis

Variabilité des déchets alimentaires et contrôle de la qualité : L’un des principaux défis de la co-digestion est la gestion de la variabilité de la composition et de la qualité des déchets alimentaires. Contrairement aux boues d’épuration, qui sont relativement uniformes, les déchets alimentaires peuvent varier considérablement sur le plan de la teneur en humidité, de la charge organique et des niveaux de contamination. Cette variabilité peut avoir une incidence sur la performance et la stabilité du digesteur. La mise en œuvre de processus rigoureux de prétraitement et de criblage est essentielle pour garantir une qualité uniforme des déchets alimentaires.Complexité opérationnelle : L’introduction de déchets alimentaires dans les digesteurs de l’usine de traitement des eaux usées complexifie les activités de l’usine. Les opérateurs doivent équilibrer soigneusement le rapport entre les déchets alimentaires et les boues pour maintenir une performance optimale du digesteur. La surcharge des digesteurs avec des déchets alimentaires peut entraîner une instabilité du processus, la formation de mousse et une réduction de la production de biogaz. L’usine de Milwaukee, par exemple, a dû élaborer des protocoles opérationnels et des systèmes de surveillance spécifiques pour gérer efficacement son processus de co-digestion.Exigences en matière d’infrastructure et d’équipement : De nombreuses usines de traitement des déchets alimentaires nécessitent des infrastructures et des équipements supplémentaires pour traiter efficacement les déchets alimentaires. Il peut s’agir de stations de réception, d’équipements de prétraitement, de réservoirs de stockage supplémentaires et éventuellement de digesteurs plus grands ou modifiés. L’investissement en capital requis pour ces améliorations peut être important et constituer un obstacle pour certaines installations.Conformité réglementaire : La co-digestion des déchets alimentaires dans les usines de traitement des eaux usées peut être soumise à des exigences réglementaires supplémentaires par rapport au traitement traditionnel des eaux usées. Il peut s’agir de permis pour le traitement des déchets solides, les émissions atmosphériques et la gestion du digestat. Naviguer dans ces cadres réglementaires peut s’avérer difficile et chronophage pour les opérateurs des usines de traitement des eaux usées.Développement du marché des produits finis : Bien que la co-digestion produise des produits finis de valeur tels que le biogaz et le digestat, le développement de marchés fiables pour ces produits peut s’avérer difficile. Pour l’utilisation du biogaz, les installations peuvent avoir besoin d’investir dans la modernisation des équipements ou d’établir des partenariats avec les services publics locaux. De même, la recherche de marchés cohérents pour le digestat en tant qu’engrais peut nécessiter un contrôle de la qualité et des efforts marketing importants.Perception du public et engagement communautaire : L’introduction de la transformation des déchets alimentaires dans les usines de traitement des eaux usées peut susciter des inquiétudes au sein des communautés locales en ce qui concerne les odeurs, l’augmentation du trafic de camions et les incidences potentielles sur l’environnement. Des programmes efficaces d’engagement communautaire et d’éducation sont essentiels pour répondre à ces inquiétudes et obtenir le soutien du public pour les initiatives de co-digestion.

Étude de cas : Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District

L’installation du MMSD a été pionnière dans la mise en œuvre de la co-digestion des déchets alimentaires dans son installation de recyclage de l’eau de Jones Island. Il s’agissait notamment de traiter les déchets alimentaires, en 2008, pour compléter leur processus de digestion anaérobie.

Le programme de co-digestion de l’installation du MMSD a connu plusieurs succès :

Production accrue de biogaz : L’ajout de déchets alimentaires a considérablement stimulé la production de biogaz, ce qui a permis à l’installation de produire davantage d’énergie renouvelable.Retombées économiques : Le programme a généré des revenus supplémentaires grâce aux frais de déversement et à la réduction des coûts énergétiques.Impact environnemental : En évitant l’enfouissement des déchets alimentaires, l’installation du MMSD a contribué à réduire les émissions de gaz à effet de serre dans la région.

Cependant, l’installation du MMSD a également fait face à des défis, notamment :

Ajustements opérationnels : L’installation a dû élaborer de nouvelles procédures opérationnelles et investir dans des équipements supplémentaires pour gérer efficacement le processus de co-digestion.Contrôle de la qualité : Garantir une qualité constante des déchets alimentaires entrants a nécessité des efforts constants et une collaboration avec les producteurs de déchets.Conformité réglementaire : L’installation du MMSD a dû composer avec des exigences réglementaires complexes pour mettre en œuvre et élargir son programme de co-digestion.

La co-digestion des matières organiques alimentaires dans les usines de traitement des eaux usées offre d’importantes possibilités d’accroître la production d’énergie renouvelable, d’améliorer la récupération des ressources et de réduire l’impact environnemental de la gestion des déchets. Cela permet également aux gouvernements locaux de tirer parti des infrastructures existantes et de réduire potentiellement les investissements pour les nouvelles installations autonomes. Une mise en œuvre réussie exige toutefois de relever divers défis, notamment la gestion des matières premières, la complexité opérationnelle et la conformité réglementaire. L’expérience d’installations comme celle du MMSD démontre qu’avec une planification et une gestion rigoureuses, ces défis peuvent être relevés, ce qui se traduit par des avantages environnementaux et économiques substantiels. Alors que de plus en plus d’usines de traitement des eaux usées explorent la co-digestion, la poursuite de la recherche, le partage des connaissances et le soutien stratégique seront essentiels pour réaliser le plein potentiel de cette approche novatrice de la gestion des déchets et de la production d’énergie renouvelable.

By Liz Peters

Imagine a workforce where employees are constantly fatigued, sick days pile up and productivity plummets. What if that workplace could help address these issues with something as invisible as the air they breathe? When pathogens spread through the air, economic consequences to businesses can be vast, impacting productivity, absenteeism and healthcare costs. Businesses, institutions and policymakers should recognize the hidden financial burden of inaction and the value of investing in solutions that create healthier indoor environments.

The connection between indoor air quality and economic performance is well established. Research shows that adopting healthy building practices can yield incredible benefits to individuals and the economy at large:

$200 billion in annual productivity gains from reducing Sick Building Syndrome symptoms by 20% to 50%.$38 billion in annual economic benefits from increasing ventilation rates in U.S. offices.A return of $3.48 per dollar spent on workplace wellness programs due to reduced medical costs and an additional $5.82 from decreased absenteeism.Up to 101% improvement in cognitive function, translating to employee productivity gains of $6,500 to $7,500 per person annually.A net present value of $115 per square foot over 10 years in high-performance buildings, driven by better retention and well-being.

These figures underscore the gains to be had in addressing indoor environmental quality. From acute threats like COVID-19 to long-term challenges posed by climate change, investing in resilient and healthy buildings is a critical strategy for sustaining economic growth and workforce stability.

Technology-Driven Solutions
Various innovative technologies offer financial benefits by improving operational efficiency and fostering healthier, more productive environments. By minimizing airborne and surface pathogens, businesses help mitigate absenteeism, lower healthcare costs and sustain continuous operations.

As Daryl DeJean, VP and Director of International Trade at PathogenFocus, explains, “The future of economic resilience lies in how well we manage health risks in the built environment. Forward-thinking solutions that prioritize air and surface hygiene are not just about safety—they are about sustaining operations, improving workforce efficiency and driving long-term business success. The organizations that recognize this will be the ones that thrive in an increasingly complex global landscape.”

PathogenFocus’ atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) systems minimize energy use and waste production, which may qualify businesses for tax credits and sustainability incentives. In industries like food production, it can extend shelf life, reduce product loss and preserve nutritional value.

A Call to Action
Organizations that proactively address indoor air quality and biosecurity will not only safeguard occupant health but also bolster their bottom line. The International Healthy Building Accord urges governments and businesses to prioritize health in buildings by implementing strategic policies, financial incentives and research-backed innovations that enhance indoor air quality, water quality and sustainable design.

The cost of inaction is high. As businesses, policymakers and institutions navigate an evolving economic landscape, investing in healthy, resilient buildings is an imperative step toward a more productive and financially sustainable future that also helps safeguard public health—delivering measurable benefits today and long-term returns for generations to come.

View original content here.

In this episode of ESG Talk, Cassandra Garber, chief sustainability officer at Dell Technologies joins host Mandi McReynolds. Listen in as Cassandra and Mandi discuss how the global technology leader incorporates the measurement, management, and governance of ESG priorities into both its operations and product offerings.

Listen Now

Looking for more? Subscribe to the ESG Talk podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. 

ESG Talk is brought to you by Workiva, the world’s only unified platform for financial reporting, ESG, audit, and risk. Learn more at workiva.com.

The company continues to be recognized for its response efforts

The Edison Electric Institute recently awarded Entergy with its 50th Emergency Response Award, recognizing the dedication and excellence of our power restoration workers during and after Hurricane Francine.

The Category 2 storm made landfall in Terrebonne Parish on September 11, packing sustained winds of approximately 100 miles per hour. After landfall, the center of the storm moved northward into Mississippi. In response to Francine’s widespread power outages across Louisiana, New Orleans and Mississippi, Entergy deployed specialized equipment and more than 6,400 additional field restoration workers in addition to our normal workforce to restore power safely and efficiently meeting estimated restoration times.

Hurricane Francine caused damage to approximately 1000 poles, 1,270 spans of wire, 165 transformers and 540 cross arms in Louisiana, New Orleans and Mississippi. In just three days, workers were able to restore power to 90% of customers who experienced outages which was a remarkable achievement given that restoration timelines for storms of Francine’s intensity have historically taken longer.

“Receiving our 50th award from EEI is a remarkable achievement that speaks to the culture of our company, commitment to our customers and unwavering dedication of our workforce,” said Dakin DuBroc, Entergy’s vice president of incident response. “We’re a recognized leader in storm response because our employees take our company’s mission to heart. I congratulate and applaud our team for their continued dedication to the customers and communities that they serve, and I’m honored to present them with this well-deserved award.” 

Presented to EEI member companies, the emergency response awards recognize recovery and assistance efforts of electric companies following service disruptions caused by extreme weather or other natural events. The winners were chosen by a panel of judges following an international nomination process, and the awards were presented during EEI’s annual thought leadership forum.

Other notable EEI awards received by Entergy over the years:

A 2023 mutual aid assistance award for helping Louisville Gas and Electric and Kentucky Utilities when a severe weather system containing intense damaging winds, tornados and flash flooding caused extensive damage to public infrastructure, utility distribution systems and private properties.A 2022 response award for Power Restoration After Hurricane Ida.Three response awards in 2020 for recovery efforts following hurricanes Delta and Zeta in 2020, and the February 2021 winter storm.A mutual aid assistance award in 2018 for power restoration efforts following several nor’easters.The 2015 award for exceptional power restoration efforts during five different storm events over the course of the previous year.A response award in 2006 for outstanding efforts to restore power following Tropical Storm Cindy and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

CNH’s brands, Case IH, New Holland, CASE Construction Equipment and New Holland Construction, have teamed up with FIEMG Lab, an open innovation HUB between industrial-technology startups and industries in Brazil, to boost innovation in the Minas Gerais market. The partnership, made official in February, is another collaboration signed between the company and the Brazilian innovation community.

The agreement strengthens CNH’s connection to more than 300 startups and 3000 professionals connected to FIEMG Lab. CNH believes in the open innovation model to generate value for the market.

“With this partnership, we expand our possibilities of contact with a very rich ecosystem that further strengthens our work to bring solutions, whether in the field of productivity, sustainability, technology or even management”, highlights CNH’s Innovation leader, Paulo Máximo.

FIEMG LAB is a pioneering initiative of the Euvaldo Lodi Institute (IEL), within the scope of the Federation of Industries of the State of Minas Gerais (FIEMG). The organizations believe in the impactful relationship between startups and industries as agents for building a new, prosperous and abundant economy. With the purpose of accelerating the future of the industry to increase competitiveness, through open innovation with startups, FIEMG Lab enables economic development in the innovation ecosystem for entrepreneurs and industries.

CHICAGO, February 27, 2025 /3BL/ – The Motorola Solutions Foundation, the charitable and philanthropic arm of Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI), today announced its year-end results for 2024, setting a new company record with more than 105,000 employee volunteer hours that generated more than $3.5 million* in value to organizations around the world. The Foundation also provided $10.3 million in strategic grants to more than 170 organizations across 21 countries, supporting communities in need, as well as first responders, students and teachers.

“I’m incredibly proud of how our employees are strengthening the communities in which we live and work,” said Karem Pérez, executive director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation. “These record-breaking volunteer hours and generous donations reflect our long-standing commitment to creating positive change … a commitment that’s shared by our employees around the world.”

For the second year in a row, the Foundation’s Bright Minds, Bold Futures Scholarship awarded approximately $100,000 in scholarships to 40 deserving students from Chicagoland communities who are pursuing degrees in technology and engineering. The Foundation also donated $1.4 million to programs that support families of fallen first responders.

“I’ve been able to direct my full attention to my education, thanks to financial support from the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Motorola Solutions Foundation,” said Courtney Quiroz, NFFF scholarship recipient and stepdaughter of the late Captain Anthony Lynn (Tony) Grider.

The Foundation also provided more than $420,000 in relief efforts, including grants, employee donations and Foundation matching, in support of various global disasters around the world, including Spain, Florida, North Carolina and Brazil.

“From our Foundation’s grantmaking to the dedication of employee volunteers, we’re driving meaningful change for communities,” said Pérez. “Seeing the impact of our work remains our driving force, and we’re energized for the year ahead.”

About the Motorola Solutions Foundation
As the charitable and philanthropic arm of Motorola Solutions, the Motorola Solutions Foundation partners with organizations around the world to create safer cities and thriving communities. We focus on giving back through strategic grants, employee volunteerism and other community investment initiatives, and our strategic grants program supports organizations that offer first responder programming and technology and engineering education. The Foundation is one of the many ways in which the company is helping to create safer communities. For more information on Motorola Solutions corporate and foundation giving, visit our website: www.motorolasolutions.com/foundation

*Based on a study by Independent Sector.

Media Contact
Sarah Eckhaus 
sarah.eckhaus@motorolasolutions.com 
224-329-6600

By Evelyn Mitchell | February 4, 2025

Overcoming obstacles. Inspiring teams. Empowering others. These experiences and priorities are foundational for Lieutenant General A.C. Roper – an extraordinary leader and this year’s recipient of the Regions Bank History in Motion Award.

Now in its 16th year, the History in Motion Award honors distinguished Black leaders with ties to the company’s home state of Alabama. The annual award recognizes a special individual who enriches our communities with their selfless commitment to making a difference. Previous honorees include Congressman John Lewis, Odessa Woolfolk and Dr. Richard Arrington Jr.

“Each February, we take the opportunity to recognize a Black leader in our community whose vision, example and service are impacting people’s lives for good,” said Leroy Abrahams, head of Community Engagement at Regions. “A.C. Roper is a courageous changemaker and his active example of service in law enforcement and in our nation’s military continues to make an impact and inspire the next generation of leaders. It is our honor at Regions to recognize and celebrate his many contributions.”

“A.C. Roper is a courageous changemaker and his active example of service in law enforcement and in our nation’s military continues to make an impact and inspire the next generation of leaders.”

Leroy Abrahams, head of Community Engagement at Regions

Roper made history as the first African American in the Army Reserve’s 113-year history to achieve the rank of lieutenant general. A native of Birmingham, Ala., Roper served simultaneously in the military and civilian law enforcement for more than three decades and was chief of the Birmingham Police Department for 10 years. Roper retired in 2024 after 33 years in law enforcement and 42 years of military service. In retirement, he continues to share his expertise and vision through community service and support. He credits his family members and countless others who paved the way for his own historic contributions.

“I’m very pleased to be recognized with the Regions History in Motion award and honored to be part of this longstanding program that has paid tribute to the achievements and contributions of African Americans in our community,” Roper shared. “I’m looking forward to celebrating with my family, friends and community members in the coming weeks.”

Stay tuned for a full profile on Roper later this month.

Black History Month Ecards

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Cummins

Introducing Cummins HELM platforms

In 2024, Cummins Inc. made an exciting announcement that will reshape the commercial transportation landscape. Cummins HELM™ Platforms are designed to help our customers reach their sustainability goals while meeting diverse business needs. HELM —which stands for Higher Efficiency, Lower emissions and Multiple fuels—is a critical part of Cummins’ broader Destination Zero™ strategy, which aims to reduce emissions and promote cleaner technologies across our product lineup.

Cummins has a rich legacy spanning more than a century, characterized by innovation, reliability and continuous improvements in fuel efficiency. As the world shifts toward near zero emissions technologies, Cummins continues to be a frontrunner in delivering advanced, fuel-efficient engines for today and tomorrow. The Cummins HELM platforms offer a suite of engines that include the X15, X10 and B series—each optimized for performance, sustainability and versatility in the evolving commercial vehicle market.

The Cummins HELM platforms reflect our ongoing commitment to offering cutting-edge technologies and solutions that help our customers navigate the changing transportation landscape. Each Cummins HELM engine platform and fuel type offers unique benefits, and Cummins’ customer experts are equipped to help clients choose the optimal engine solution based on their specific business needs. This flexibility is crucial at a time when businesses must balance performance requirements with sustainability targets, making Cummins HELM™ platforms ideal for companies looking to future-proof their fleets.

Higher Efficiency

Efficiency is a cornerstone of the Cummins HELM platforms. Cummins’ long history of building engines for heavy and medium duty customers has helped the company to develop expertise necessary to improve fuel efficiency even in the face of tougher emissions standards. Cummins HELM platforms provide customers with engines that not only meet today’s needs but also anticipate the demands of tomorrow. By integrating the latest transmission technologies and focusing on reducing fuel consumption, Cummins customers can maximize productivity while minimizing fuel usage.

Lower Emissions

As the industry has been faced with reducing emissions, Cummins HELM platforms have been specifically developed to meet anticipated future emission regulations. At the heart of this effort is the integration of a new Twin-module Aftertreatment system, a 48V dedicated alternator and advanced powertrain integration. These innovations allow for more efficient combustion, improved air handling, and optimized fuel systems to significantly reduce emissions.

Lowering emissions is critical not just from a regulatory standpoint but also in helping businesses achieve their own sustainability goals. Cummins HELM platforms provide an effective solution by offering lower-emission engines that meet stringent requirements without sacrificing performance. For companies committed to their decarbonization targets, this technology presents a vital opportunity to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining operational efficiency.

Multiple Fuels

One of the most exciting features of the Cummins HELM engine platforms is that each engine is specifically built and optimized to run on a specific fuel type. For example, the new X15 lineup will be available with advanced diesel, natural gas and hydrogen fuel options, offering choice for customers with diverse needs. The X10 series will feature advanced diesel at launch, with plans to incorporate natural gas in the future.

Additionally, the B-series lineup will include engines compatible with gasoline, advanced diesel and eventually hydrogen, allowing customers to scale their transition toward cleaner fuels as infrastructure and technology matures.

The capability to choose the type of fuel is a game-changer for businesses looking to adopt cleaner fuels without overhauling their entire fleet. By offering a platform that can be built to accommodate the desired fuel type, Cummins provides customers with a cost-effective way to achieve lower emissions while maintaining the power and reliability they expect from Cummins engines.

Destination Zero

Cummins HELM platforms are a key component of a broader Destination Zero strategy. This ambitious plan focuses on achieving zero emissions by investing in cutting-edge technologies and improving internal combustion engines (ICE) to reduce emissions in the near term while preparing for a zero-emissions vehicle future.

Destination Zero is built on the understanding that decarbonization is a journey, and different industries and regions will move at different speeds. Cummins has adopted a balanced approach, continuing to enhance ICE technology for immediate gains in efficiency while also investing heavily in hydrogen fuel cells, battery electric systems, and other future technologies that will drive the transition to zero-emission vehicles.

A promising future

With Cummins HELM platforms, Cummins is providing a solution for companies that look to reduce emissions while maintaining the power, performance, and reliability they have come to expect from one of the world’s leading engine manufacturers. By embracing multiple fuels and the efficiency of advanced component integration, Cummins is a critical player in the global push toward a more sustainable future. Whether transitioning from diesel to hydrogen or seeking immediate reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, Cummins’ customers can be confident that they have the tools they need to stay competitive and environmentally responsible in a rapidly changing world.

In the heart of vibrant New Orleans, where the streets were full of soulful jazz and scents of delectable cuisines, Cintas took part in the Taste of the NFL event through its partnership with GENYOUth to help support its goal of ending student hunger.

Taste of the NFL is the largest philanthropic culinary event held each year in conjunction with “The Big Game.” This event brings together celebrity and local chefs to serve delicious dishes to help raise funds for GENYOUth’s goal of $2 million. The funds will be distributed to school meal programs in Louisiana and across the country.

GENYOUth is a non-profit that empowers students to live well-nourished, active lives and ensures equitable access to school meals. It has supported over 77,000 schools nationwide and improved access to nutrition for millions of students.

“GENYOUth and Cintas both share a similar mission when it comes to helping those in their communities,” said Ann Marie Krautheim, CEO of GENYOUth. “By working together, we are helping ensure that students start their day with a healthy school meal and fuel their minds and bodies.”

Cintas supported GENYOUth by providing over 40 Chef Works coats for celebrity and local chefs, over 80 aprons for culinary students, bar towels, hand sanitizer stations and WellnessMats®. This assistance alleviated the challenges in sourcing these products and helped ensure the event ran as smoothly as possible. It also ensured that participating restaurants and chefs had the necessary supplies for safety and effectiveness while fully enjoying the event.

“Part of our culture is to do the right thing, and by partnering with GENYOUth, we are helping enrich the lives of people that live in the communities where our customers and partners operate,” said Richard Guillory, Group Vice President of Rental at Cintas. “We are excited to be here and partner with GENYOUth and some of our customers to support this mission.”

Several Cintas customers, including local restaurants from Louisiana and other major sponsors, participated in the event. They emphasized how important it is to them to see Cintas support this specific event and help give back to their community.

“It’s always good to see that the companies we do business with support the same causes that we do and that we have a shared vision,” said Ryan Hacker, Executive Chef of Brennan’s, a customer of Cintas. “Cintas has been a great partner for us and has been essential for our business.”

Customers also expressed that Cintas has been a valuable partner in helping their business operations and knowing their specific needs.

“When I found out about Cintas, it was like a match made in heaven,” said Jackie Diaz, Executive Chef of Jamaican Jerk House and Cintas customer. “Every week, they’re on time, my rugs are clean, and my towels are clean. During Mardi Gras season or special events, they remember to bring extra supplies, and I don’t even have to remind them. Cintas has been great for my business.”

The Taste of the NFL proved to be an unforgettable event that showcased the power of community and collaboration. The budding partnership between GENYOUth and Cintas exemplifies how they can make a meaningful impact together, enriching the lives of students and strengthening the communities they serve.

HAMILTON, Bermuda, February 27, 2025 /3BL/ – Family-owned Bacardi, proudly announces the launch of its Hospitality Accelerator Program, an advanced training initiative designed to elevate industry professionals and strengthen Bermuda’s hospitality sector. In collaboration with the Bermuda Government’s Department of Workforce Development, Bacardi is introducing this next-level program tailored for bartenders already working in the industry, further reinforcing career development and industry growth. These enhancements stem from valuable feedback from industry partners, who recognized the opportunity to upskill existing bartenders and create stronger career pathways within their establishments. After two successful cohorts of the Shake Your Future program, a free professional bartender training program for underemployed and unemployed young adults created by Bacardi, the company is evolving its commitment to developing hospitality talent in Bermuda.

For the first time, six leading hospitality establishments have partnered with Bacardi to support this year’s cohort. Bartenders currently employed with Rock and Barrel, Grotto Bay, Hamilton Princess, the IRG Group, St. Regis, and The Loren have been nominated by their employers to participate in the program, reinforcing a commitment to developing in-house talent. On February 27, the selected participants will travel to London to attend the prestigious European Bartender School, where they will embark on an intensive six-week training program. The curriculum includes four weeks of advanced spirits education and mixology training, followed by two weeks of professional development workshops. Graduates will earn an internationally recognized diploma, equipping them with world-class expertise and leadership skills, positioning them as future leaders in Bermuda’s hospitality industry.

“The introduction of the Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Program strengthens career pathways and ensures that participants receive world-class training while maintaining ties with their employers,” said Douglas Mello, Bacardi Limited Managing Director. “By investing in our talent and collaborating directly with hospitality leaders, we are enhancing Bermuda’s service industry and creating more opportunities for long-term professional growth.”

With Bermuda’s hospitality industry anticipating an increase in demand for bartenders due to upcoming hotel openings, the Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Program plays a critical role in addressing workforce shortages. The November 2023 Labour Force Survey Report highlights persistent unemployment challenges for young Bermudians, reinforcing the need for accessible, skill-based training programs. As Bermudians seek career advancement opportunities, Bacardi and the Department of Workforce Development are equipping young Bermudians with in-demand hospitality skills—enhancing their long-term employability in a competitive job market.

“The Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Program offers transformative opportunities, equipping Bermudians with world-class training in mixology, customer engagement, and bar management to advance their careers in the hospitality sector. This enhanced, employer-led approach ensures that participants gain internationally recognized certifications and secure real-world experience through structured employment commitments. Our ongoing collaboration with Bacardi highlights the strength of public-private partnerships and reinforces the Government’s commitment to developing Bermuda’s hospitality workforce and creating sustainable career opportunities,” said the Minister of Economy and Labour, Jason Hayward, JP, MP

About Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, D’USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 163 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs more than 8,000, operates production facilities in 11 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit http://www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.