Tag: 3BL

Originally published in Lenovo’s 2023/24 ESG Report

Environmentally conscious products

Product materials

Lenovo’s corporate-wide environmental standards and specifications require its product designers to consider environmentally conscious design practices to facilitate and encourage recycling and minimization of resource consumption. Lenovo’s priority is to use environmentally preferable materials whenever practical. In adhering to this precautionary approach, it supports restricting the intentional addition of materials that are potentially concerning when economically and technically viable alternatives exist. These restrictions may also include implementing concentration limits for incidental occurrences.

For materials where economically and technically viable alternatives do not exist, Lenovo collects data on usage above the defined concentration limit. This data can then be reported to customers or other stakeholders. Lenovo continues to actively search for environmentally preferable materials that can be used as substitutes and expects its partners and suppliers to demonstrate the same commitment to environmentally sound practices. See Lenovo’s Materials Management webpage for more information.

Lenovo restricts the use of environmentally sensitive materials in its products. This includes the prohibition of ozone-depleting substances in all applications; the restriction on the use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) under the Stockholm Convention; and the elimination of materials covered under European Union (EU) Restriction on Hazardous Substances (RoHS) and Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), even beyond the jurisdictions where these regulatory requirements exist. Lenovo’s implementation strategy and requirements are consistent with the requirements specified in the EU’s RoHS Directive and REACH Regulation.

Lenovo supports phasing out brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is committed to driving its supply chain toward this goal. Lenovo continues to focus on eliminating halogens from its top-selling products and across as many commodities as possible and has made progress including the following achievements:

Phasing out completely the use of BFR/ chlorinated flame retardants (CFR)/PVC in all mechanical plastic parts (such as external covers, housings, etc.) across all its productsMost of hard disk drives, optical disk drives, solid-state drives, LCD screens, memory, central processing units (CPUs), chipsets, and communication cards; and other commodities with offerings meet the International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative (iNEMI) definition3 of low halogenAll ThinkPad notebooks including printed circuit boards (PCBs) meet the iNEMI definition3 of low halogen except for cables and wires, AC adapterAll commercial monitors meet the iNEMI definition of low halogen except for their PCB assembly and cables. Furthermore, some monitors fully meet the iNEMI definition3 of low halogenAll smartphone products are free of BFR and PVC • Prohibiting the intentional addition of the following pollutants to any of its parts:Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs)Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)Deca-Brominated Diphenyl Ethers

3 Lenovo supports the definition of “low halogen” electronics as defined in the “iNEMI Position Statement on the ‘Definition of Low-Halogen’ Electronics (BFR/CFR/PVC-Free)”

Lenovo plans to use additional BFR and PVC-free parts and materials across the Think and Idea family of products as acceptable alternative materials become available, working toward the goal to phase out the use of these materials across all newly introduced products. Lenovo continues to work with its suppliers to pilot new BFR– and PVC– free applications. Lenovo recognizes that the phase-out of these materials is dependent upon the availability of suitable alternatives that meet its technological, cost, quality, environmental, health, and safety requirements.

In addition to the regulated materials, Lenovo has also identified an expanded list of materials and substances of environmental interest. These substances may be candidates for further restrictions in the future. It holds suppliers accountable for reporting the use of these materials through Supplier Material Declarations. A spreadsheet file containing the Full Material Disclosure (FMD) information, submitted via an environmental compliance analysis system, is the preferred format for confirmation of compliance to the restrictions and for reporting when substances in question are above the specified concentration levels.

Lenovo’s business unit environmental engineers utilize the environmental compliance analysis system to perform a Bill of Materials (BOM) validation to ensure every part number used in building the product has the required supplier information. Once the full BOM compliance verification is complete a detailed compliance summary report is generated to show the internal Company and external legal requirements at the full product level.

Big data set for materials and substances

As of the end of FY 2023/24, Lenovo’s Full Material Disclosures (FMD) system has accumulated an expansive data set of full material disclosure information for the business units. This information serves as a tool that can aid structural design and optimization, analyzing materials and mechanical properties, and improving product reliability.

Lenovo does not exempt any of its suppliers from providing FMD, though it does allow considerations for confidential information. Less than five percent of component suppliers do not provide FMD, usually for security or intellectual property reasons. Lenovo will continue its efforts to support FMD and those suppliers who do not provide them are requested to ensure their components’ compliance with an acceptable alternate format of materials disclosure, IEC 62474 declaration, test report, or self-declaration.

Lenovo informs its customers about the environmental attributes of its products as it relates to compliance with applicable laws and regulations through an industry-standard IT Eco Declaration form. Declarations for newly released products are posted on Lenovo’s ECO Declarations webpage.

Consistent with its precautionary approach, Lenovo continuously analyzes the regulatory environment and considers input from its customers, NGOs, and other stakeholders in the evaluation of potential health and environmental impacts of its products. Lenovo weighs these inputs to determine the restricted substances, as well as the substances of interest to be tracked for reporting and consideration of future restrictions.

Recycled materials

Lenovo continues to incorporate post-consumer recycled content (PCC) plastics, closed-loop post-consumer recycled content plastics (CL PCC), ocean bound plastics (OBP), recycled metals and it also introduced new materials such as post-consumer recycled rare earth metals into select products. These recycled materials are important to Lenovo’s product development strategy and transition to a circular economy. Using engineered plastics not only helps save the natural resources and energy that would have gone into manufacturing new plastics, but also diverts these materials from landfills. Lenovo’s increased use of CL PCC is helping to sustain the demand for recycled plastic materials from IT products. Environmental benefits are achieved while still creating a product that meets Lenovo’s high performance standards.

Lenovo currently uses PCC plastics in laptops, desktops, workstations, monitors, and accessories and is introducing its closed-loop process in more products each year.

By FY 2025/26, 100% of PC products will contain post-consumer recycled content materials. 4

4 Excludes tablets and accessories

Using PCC in IT products presents significant challenges due to the unique structural, performance, and cosmetic requirements associated with these applications. To overcome the continuing challenges of using recycled content in the design and manufacture of smart connected devices, especially notebooks, tablets, and smartphones, Lenovo’s engineers work closely with its suppliers to develop and qualify new grades of plastic resins previously unavailable to the IT industry. These materials receive environmental and performance qualifications before

For CL PCC, Lenovo’s research and development teams work with material suppliers and a third-party certification authority to build its CL PCC supplier and material process, including the “Approved Recycling Standard,” the “Quality Assurance Operation Requirements,” and the “Recovery Ratio” to validate their sources of waste and control processes using a hierarchical waste product traceability scheme. Since early 2005, Lenovo’s cumulative total use of recycled plastics in products has reached over 140 million kilograms (gross) containing PIC, PCC, and/or CL PCC, with net PCC of more than 55 million kilograms and net CL PCC of nearly 25 million kilograms.

In 2023, Lenovo’s use of plastics containing recycled content was approximately 9.7 million kilograms (gross) with a net CL PCC of approximately 6.6 million kilograms.

Lenovo’s ESG KPIs include recycled content, refer to Section 9.0. Results of Lenovo’s progress against its recycled content usage targets are available in Section 8.0.

In addition to recycled plastics mentioned above, during FY 2023/24, Lenovo continues to incorporate ocean bound plastics (OBP) and recycled metals in its products. In an effort to reduce ocean pollution, Lenovo researched and sourced OBP for use in some products.

In 2023, Lenovo’s use of plastics containing OBP was approximately 14,000 kilograms (gross) with a net OBP of approximately 700 kilograms.

This year, Lenovo introduced OBP content in the speaker enclosures of ThinkPad L13 Gen 5 and ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 5. OBP content was also introduced into the fan housing, dummy smart card, and dummy SIM cover of the ThinkPad L14 Gen 5 and ThinkPad L16 Gen 1.

Recycled metal usage also supports the transition to a more circular economy. Recycled metal usage helps reduce mining and consumption of natural resources and has potential energy and emissions savings. In FY 2023/24, Lenovo expanded the use of recycled aluminum and magnesium to more ThinkPad products and all-in-one (AIO) products, including but not limited to:

For Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-In-1 Gen 9:

minimum 75% recycled aluminum for the A cover,minimum 75% recycled aluminum or minimum 90% recycled magnesium for the C cover, andminimum 55% recycled aluminum for D cover.

For Yoga AIO 9 32IRH8:

minimum 75% recycled aluminum for the frame.

Lenovo this year also started to use:

minimum 21% recycled steel in main frame of:ThinkVision P27pz-30, andThinkVision P32pz-30,minimum 50% post-consumer recycled copper in thermal module of:ThinkPad P14s Gen 5,P16s Gen 3,T14p Gen 2,L14 Gen 5, andL16 Gen 1, andpost-consumer recycled rare earth element in the magnet for the speaker, ForcePad, and hall sensor of select ThinkPad products.

Many products contain different kinds of recycled and sustainable materials. ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 contains:

3.1% pre-consumer recycled carbon fiber in the A cover,minimum 90% recycled magnesium in the C cover,55% recycled aluminum in the D cover,85% post-consumer recycled plastic in the keycap, and90% post-consumer recycled plastic in the battery enclosure, speaker enclosure, and AC adapter enclosure.

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DENVER /3BL/ – DaVita announced performance year one clinical outcomes achieved in partnership with nearly 1,300 nephrologists across the U.S. through value-based care arrangements designed to enhance the lives of Medicare patients with kidney disease. As the broader health care community continues to explore value-based care arrangements to improve health outcomes in the U.S., DaVita commends the efforts from likeminded specialty care providers leading the movement.

These efforts have helped lead the kidney care community through scaled participation and investment in these programs, which are part of the Comprehensive Kidney Care Contracting (CKCC) option within the government’s voluntary Kidney Care Choices (KCC) model — a value-based care demonstration that began on Jan. 1, 2022, as the largest government model for kidney care.

“This program relies on the understanding that kidney care in the U.S. has been fragmented and that a system that better coordinates these care silos is better for our patients. When our patients do better, they can live a better life and cost the system less money. Those savings can be wrapped around to provide even better care — and the cycle continues,” said Dr. Gregory Spin, clinical leader for the Northern California Kidney Care Choices group and founding partner of Summit Nephrology. “We have worked hard to share best practices across our program, and DaVita has amplified that process by bringing learnings from other participants.”

Together with participating nephrologists, DaVita launched 11 value-based care arrangements in 2022 and has since doubled that footprint to 22 Kidney Contracting Entities (KCEs). An evaluation now available for the first performance year (PY1) demonstrates that these value-based care arrangements result in better patient outcomes, which, over time, should lead to decreasing cost expenditures. This includes engaging patients in their care earlier and supporting access to kidney transplants for patients managing their kidney health.

Physicians and providers in the CKCC program improved outcomes for patients through collective quality metrics, with a 16% industry increase in optimal start rates for kidney patients transitioning to dialysis. Reducing unplanned starts leads to more optimal outcomes for patients, with care teams better coordinating their kidney and non-kidney care needs as well as improving interventions to help keep them healthy and out of the hospital, while also reducing high health care costs.

“Our focus at the launch of the program was to provide robust support for our nephrology partners, and we’re encouraged by the current momentum. Though scaled transformation takes time, we continue to trend positively into the third year of the program,” said Dr. Amy Schuerman-Gen, chief medical officer for DaVita Integrated Kidney Care (DaVita IKC). “Our vision for care innovation is taking shape, with CKCC laying a vital foundation for lasting change. The model’s emphasis on care coordination and patient engagement has already led to encouraging health outcomes, and we’re optimistic about the program’s potential for continued success.”

DaVita and its nephrologist partners have already seen significant progress over the course of the CKCC program and expect the impact on outcomes and cost savings will continue to improve. Achievements include:

Embedding care team members in 68% of nephrology practices, providing care to shared patients directly at the site of care.Overseeing approximately 31,000 patients across dialysis centers of multiple providers, remotely, and in nephrologist offices.Enabling 2.4x more DaVita patients to have a planned start on home treatment through patient education, care management and transition support.Screening 67% of patients for depression remission with a baseline PHQ-9 across 11 KCEs, supporting holistic care of both physical and mental health.Increasing patient activation by 13%, indicating higher patient engagement across patient populations — inclusive of people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and people with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) who do not treat at DaVita.

Care coordination is fueled in part by DaVita’s tech-enabled platform, with more than half of participants either leveraging DaVita’s co-designed EHR with Epic or allowing DaVita access to another platform. This foundation helps to meet patients earlier with crucial identification and education to help slow progression to kidney failure and avoid dialysis. From PY1 to current year-to-date, DaVita has increased CKD education by 39% via Kidney Smart®, an award-winning, interactive community and virtual education program, for patients aligned with CKCC practices.

From coast to coast, participation in CKCC has allowed for a broad evaluation of the positive impact value-based care at scale can have for kidney patients.

“As we continue in the CKCC demonstration, I look forward to working collaboratively with our DaVita IKC partners and others to tackle difficult challenges we face in patient-centered care,” said Dr. Alec Otteman of Associated Nephrology Consultants in St. Paul, MN. “We continue to work through how to best support patients to prevent hospitalizations and readmissions, and our DaVita IKC partners can create wrap-around support for medication reconciliation and transition of care post-hospitalization.”

For more information about DaVita IKC’s programs and results, visit DaVita.com/IKC

About DaVita Inc. 
DaVita (NYSE: DVA) is a health care provider focused on transforming care delivery to improve quality of life for patients globally. As a comprehensive kidney care provider, DaVita has been a leader in clinical quality and innovation for more than 20 years. DaVita cares for patients at every stage and setting along their kidney health journey—from slowing the progression of kidney disease to helping to support transplantation, from acute hospital care to dialysis at home. As of June 30, 2024, DaVita served approximately 265,100 patients at 3,124 outpatient dialysis centers, of which 2,672 centers were located in the United States and 452 centers were located in 13 other countries worldwide. DaVita has reduced hospitalizations, improved mortality, and worked collaboratively to propel the kidney care industry to adopt an equitable and high-quality standard of care for all patients, everywhere. To learn more, visit DaVita.com/About.

Forward-Looking Statements 
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations. Various important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements, including the risks identified in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings. DaVita disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement contained in this press release, except as may be otherwise required by law.

The statements contained in this document are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of CMS. The authors assume responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the information contained in this document.

Media Contact: 
DaVita Newsroom 
newsroom@davita.com

SOURCE DaVita

Originally published on DICK’S Sporting Goods Newsroom

PITTSBURGH, February 5, 2025 /3BL/ — Today, DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) and The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation announced a commitment of more than $10 million to support communities impacted by the devastating wildfires in California and the mass destruction caused by flooding in North Carolina. These contributions, which include clothing and sporting goods equipment, supplies and monetary donations, will address both immediate emergency needs and long-term recovery efforts for those impacted.

“The devastation these natural disasters caused is heartbreaking and we’re committed to helping our athletes, communities and teammates rebuild and recover from these tragic events,” said Ed Stack, Executive Chairman of DICK’S Sporting Goods. “We thank the first responders and the many organizations who are joining in these efforts to support impacted communities in Los Angeles and Asheville in every capacity.”

DICK’S and The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation is committing its support in the following ways:

Providing in-kind donations – DICK’S is donating clothing, footwear and sporting goods equipment with a retail value of more than $8 million to those in need in Los Angeles and Asheville through their partnerships with Good Sports, 4 Good Community and others. 
 Donating to the American Red Cross – DICK’S will donate $1 million to the American Red Cross to help provide shelter, meals and resources as they aid recovery in Los Angeles, Asheville and Western North Carolina. This comes in addition to the DICK’S annual donation to the charity’s Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP) and Disaster Responder Program which helps power its preparation, relief and recovery efforts in the face of more frequent and intense disasters. 
 Supporting donations at checkout – DICK’S is offering athletes shopping its DICK’S, Golf Galaxy and Going Going Gone! stores the opportunity to make donations during checkout from Jan. 27 through Feb. 22, 2025. During this period, The DICK’S Foundation will match all donations dollar-for-dollar, with the total matching donation estimated to be nearly $1 million. All proceeds will be directed to schools and non-profit organizations in Los Angeles and Asheville. 
 ‘LA Strong’ apparel collection – DICK’S is now offering Fanatics’ ‘LA Strong’ merchandise collection that was developed in partnership with the MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL, MLS, WNBA and other major sports organizations to aid those impacted by the wildfires. 100% of the purchase price (excluding taxes and other charges) will be donated directly to the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. LA Strong merchandise can be purchased on dicks.com and at select stores.

In addition to the above commitments, DICK’S stores and GameChanger have donated needed supplies to athletes in Los Angeles and North Carolina including athletic apparel, socks, shoes, sleeping bags, blankets and fuel. The DICK’S Foundation has given $100,000 in Sports Matter grants across Asheville and its surrounding communities to help youth sports teams recover.

DICK’S is assisting its impacted teammates in both locations with financial and other support through its Teammate Relief Fund.

In the months to come, DICK’S will continue to engage in conversations with other corporate and sports partners about additional events and initiatives to support these communities. Details will be announced when available.

About DICK’S Sporting Goods 
DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) creates confidence and excitement by inspiring, supporting and personally equipping all athletes to achieve their dreams. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, the leading omnichannel retailer serves athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in more than 850 DICK’S Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, Public Lands, Going Going Gone! and Warehouse Sale stores, online, and through the DICK’S mobile app. DICK’S also owns and operates DICK’S House of Sport and Golf Galaxy Performance Center, as well as GameChanger, a youth sports mobile platform for live streaming, scheduling, communications and scorekeeping.

Driven by its belief that sports have the power to change lives, DICK’S has been a longtime champion for youth sports and, together with its Foundation, has donated millions of dollars to support under-resourced teams and athletes through the Sports Matter program and other community-based initiatives. Additional information about DICK’S business, corporate giving, sustainability efforts and employment opportunities can be found on dicks.com, investors.dicks.com, sportsmatter.org, dickssportinggoods.jobs, and on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and X.

Media Contact 
DICK’S Sporting Goods – press@dcsg.com

SOURCE DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.

Cummins

Key Points

Key highlights from the Cummins Pavilion at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025:

Introduces the innovative Cummins HELM™ engine platforms in India.Unveils the BSVI-ready L10 engine, part of Cummins’ 10-liter HELM™ platform and the base for future BSVII and Euro 7 capable products. Introduces the B6.7N natural gas engine enabling the transition of heavy-duty vehicles to CNG/LNG.Introduces Cummins’ advanced Fuel Delivery System with Type IV tanks for safe storage of Hydrogen on commercial vehicles.Demonstrates integrated powertrain capability for zero, low and reduced carbon emissions, offering Power of Choice to customers.

Today, at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, Cummins Group in India (“Cummins”), a leading power technology provider, announced the launch of its next generation HELM™ (Higher Efficiency, Lower emissions, Multiple fuels) engine platforms, with the high performance L10 engine, along with, an advanced Hydrogen Fuel Delivery System (FDS) with Type IV on-vehicle storage vessels and the innovative B6.7N natural gas engine. 

Showcased within an integrated powertrain concept, these launches underscore the company’s deep understanding of the Indian Commercial Vehicle (CV) market and its commitment to addressing current demands and future environmental requirements.

Introducing Cummins HELM™ engine platforms:

Cummins HELM™ platforms represent the company’s forward thinking-approach to engine technology, prioritizing performance, efficiency, and sustainability. The platforms deliver advanced internal combustion engine technology with fuel-type flexibility, enabling customers to choose from advanced diesel, natural gas, or hydrogen variants, to meet their diverse operational needs and sustainability goals. 

Designed to meet evolving environmental standards, the platform utilizes a common base to deliver multiple engine versions, each optimized for a single fuel type. Cummins HELM™ platforms empower customers to achieve their sustainability goals.

Highlights of Cummins product launches at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025:

Next-generation L10 engine: Built on the 10-liter Cummins HELM™ platform, this high-performance engine supports faster logistics, improved productivity and reduced emissions. This new-generation platform not only meets BSVI emissions standards but will form the base for future BSVII and Euro 7 capable engines for the Indian market. The clean sheet design underscores Cummins’ technical expertise and leadership in delivering solutions that meet current regulations, while being adaptable to future needs. 
 Fuel Delivery System (FDS): An advanced 350-bar and 700-bar hydrogen fuel delivery system, with Type IV on-vehicle storage vessels. The system marks a major step in progressing India’s hydrogen economy. The FDS facilitates on-vehicle hydrogen fuel storage, addressing a key challenge in the adoption of hydrogen powered commercial vehicles. 
 B6.7N Natural Gas Engine: Designed to provide diesel-equivalent performance with lower carbon emissions, the innovative B6.7N natural gas engine facilitates the adoption of CNG and LNG fuels in heavy-duty vehicles. The B6.7N reflects Cummins’ commitment to offer solutions that help its customers navigate the energy transition without compromising operational costs, reliability or operational efficiency for fleets.

Unveiling the new products, Jane Beaman, Vice President – Global On-Highway and Pickup Business, Cummins Inc., said, “Our world is at a pivotal moment in its journey to lower emissions. In line with our Destination Zero™ strategy, we are committed to supporting industry-wide decarbonization through a portfolio of diverse power solutions. The products on display at Bharat Mobility Global Expo are testimony to our ability to deliver advanced low-and-reduced carbon technologies today, while innovating zero carbon solutions for tomorrow. These innovations not only future proof our customers’ businesses but also set the stage for the next era of smarter, cleaner, and integrated power.” 

Nitin Jirafe, Managing Director, Tata Cummins Pvt. Ltd., and Head, Engine Business, Cummins India, added, “At Cummins, we have always believed in designing solutions that not only meet the needs of our customers but also contribute meaningfully to our country’s progress. The products launched today align with transformative Viksit Bharat and Make in India initiatives, while addressing the evolving needs of commercial vehicle industry. Collectively, these offerings will give our customers the power of choice, enabling them to select the right technology for their needs while supporting the economic and environmental aspirations of the nation.” 

At its state-of-the-art pavilion in Hall 2, Booth 2, in Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, Cummins is showcasing the widest array of low and zero emission technologies for the CV industry. The display features advanced engines seamlessly integrated with next-generation components such as aftertreatment systems, automated manual transmission, axles and power electronics, all optimized for high power efficiency. Interactive exhibits at the booth offer insights into Cummins’ advanced technologies and their transformative impact on the transportation ecosystem.

For more information about Cummins India at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, please click here.

About Cummins Group in India

Cummins Group in India is a leading provider of integrated power solutions for the industrial and automotive sectors. The company operates through thirteen entities with a wide-ranging portfolio. It is engaged in designing, manufacturing, distributing, and servicing diesel and natural gas engines and powertrain-related components, including drivetrain, braking, after-treatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, control systems, air handling systems, transmissions, and electrified power systems solutions for commercial vehicles and industrial markets. The company has a remarkable presence in the region, with state-of-the-art manufacturing plants, assembly, and distribution facilities employing over 10,000 employees committed to powering a more prosperous world.

Media Contact

Abhilasha Shukla
Communications Leader, Cummins India
abhilasha.shukla@cummins.com

Monica Iyengar (Aggarwal)
+91 9833049690
MIyengar@webershandwick.co

Originally published in Sysco’s 2024 Sustainability Report

As we collaborate with suppliers and customers, we have a unique opportunity to build shared value while setting the table for a more sustainable future.

In FY24, Sysco:

Launched our One Planet One Table assortment of 3.5K+ items in Sysco Shop, our e-commerce platform, with growth outpacing that of items outside that assortment.Exceeded our 2025 coffee commitment by sourcing 36.7% of Sysco Brand whole bean and ground coffee from certified sources and 45.8% from verified responsible sourcing programs.Continued our participation in the Southern Plains Grassland Program, in which we’ve partnered with other members to award a total of $7.4M in grants in FY2024 to support sustainable best practices for beef production. • Surpassed $1B in spending with certified diverse Tier 1 suppliers.[1]Established packaging guidelines for our suppliers and saved nearly 83K total pounds of corrugate by transitioning Sysco Brand exterior packaging from traditional white to kraft corrugate cases. Additionally, avoided ~2.3M pounds of plastic by shifting away from single-use bottles at Gilchrist & Soames, a division of the Sysco company Guest Worldwide.

[1] Tier 1 spend represents the total procurement dollars that Sysco spends directly with a certified diverse supplier.

To learn more about Sysco’s commitment to sustainability, visit our webpage.

For full details about Sysco’s 2024 Sustainability Report, visit here.

Originally published on EdWeek Market Brief

By Emma Kate Fittes

2. Upskilling Teachers For AI

By 2030, IBM predicts that around 80 percent of tasks in major employment sectors, including education, will be influenced by AI, said Justina Nixon-Saintil, chief innovation officer for the tech company.

As with any new technology, companies will encounter about a third of teachers who grasp AI very quickly and see the benefit of it, she said. Another third will be cautiously curious. And the final third will require more guidance to show them the value and bring them along.

“Just like you need to be upskilled in the workforce… teachers have to upskill themselves,” Nixon-Saintil said. “For them to understand how to use it responsibly — and also how we can make a difference for students — they need to skill themselves and understand fundamentals of AI and AI ethics.”

When asked in recent EdWeek Market Brief surveys what specific features they want in AI products, support for teachers to become adept in using the tech was a top priority for U.S. K-12 officials.

Advancements in technology are not slowing, Nixon-Saintil said during a presentation at Bett. Advanced forms of cyber technology are also evolving, and rapid gains in quantum computing are “right around the corner,” she said.

“Before you know it, we have to learn and understand what quantum is,” Nixon-Saintil said. “That’s why lifelong learning is so imperative.”

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The Global Electronics Council® (GEC) invites leading organizations to apply for the 2025 EPEAT® Purchaser Awards. The award recognizes excellence in procurement practices and celebrates organizations that have optimized their purchasing strategies with EPEAT registered products, unlocking measurable savings and efficiency gains.

In 2024, previous award recipients achieved:

$103 million in cost savings, demonstrating how purchasing EPEAT registered IT products reduce lifetime product costs, from energy consumption to waste disposal.Energy savings of 2,141 GWh, equivalent to powering 176,269 U.S. households in a year.567,188 metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions, comparable to taking 121,453 cars off the road annually.

Why should you apply for the EPEAT Purchaser Awards?
EPEAT registered products offer more than environmental benefits—they’re engineered for efficiency, durability, and reduced operational costs by companies that prioritize responsible practices, including in their supply chain. By choosing the EPEAT registered products, organizations save on energy bills, extend product lifecycles, and minimize overall product expenses. Whether it’s electronics for office use or larger investments like photovoltaic modules and inverters, the EPEAT ecolabel helps purchasers achieve more with less.

How to Qualify for the 2025 Awards
To participate, organizations must:

Purchase EPEAT registered products that meet performance and sustainability criteria.Include EPEAT preferences in procurement policies and contracts.Report on the volume of EPEAT registered purchases.

GEC provides resources to simplify the process, including templates for procurement policies, vendor engagement tips, and additional resources to help your organization expand EPEAT adoption across all product categories.

Apply Today and Stand Out
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but to qualify for the 2025 celebration, submissions must be received by April 4, 2025. Visit globalelectronicscouncil.org/epeat-purchaser-awards to start your application and discover how your organization can gain recognition for its smart procurement strategies.

Don’t miss this chance to showcase your leadership in efficient and impactful electronics purchasing.

NEW YORK, February 5, 2025 /3BL/ – The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) announced today the appointment of several new members to its Governance Council, a coalition of global thought leaders, doctors, public health professionals and business executives who uphold the integrity of the WELL Standard development process, and accelerate market transformation through expert input.

The WELL Standard is a library of over 500 evidence-based, design, policy and operational strategies that can improve the health and well-being of people. To date, WELL is being utilized across nearly 6 billion square feet of real estate globally at over 74,000 commercial and residential locations in 136 countries.

“Since 2020, IWBI’s Governance Council has served to both safeguard and accelerate the WELL movement,” said Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO, IWBI. “Its members have shaped public health and policy outcomes and informed our cutting-edge work in social sustainability, while upholding the rigor and relevance of WELL and reinforcing IWBI’s global leadership. Our exceptional new members strengthen this legacy of transformative impact. We are honored to have such esteemed professionals join us in advancing people-first places.”

New Council Members include:

Jane Burns, Enterprise Professor, The University of MelbourneRick Fedrizzi, Executive Chairman, IWBI | Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building CouncilAli Khan, CEO, SHAPE GlobalDr. Tauni Lanier, Director, Sustainability and Economic Growth/International Projects Group, BDO LLPAna Karen Mora, Sustainability Director, ESG Lead, Fibra UnoBrendan Owens, Principal, Black Vest Strategy | Former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations and Environment + Department of Defense Chief Sustainability OfficerChrissa Pagitsas, CEO, Pagitsas AdvisorsSigrid Zialcita, CEO, APREA

“The connection between mental health, well-being and the environments where we live and work has never been clearer,” said Enterprise Professor Jane Burns, The University of Melbourne. “IWBI’s mission to integrate health and well-being strategies into the fabric of organizations and communities resonates deeply with my lifelong commitment to the inclusion of lived experiences and fostering resilience. I am thrilled to join the IWBI Governance Council.”

“Throughout my career, I have been committed to solutions that equally benefit people and the planet,” said Rick Fedrizzi, Executive Chairman, IWBI, and Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “We are in a time when the health of our buildings and communities has never been more critical to the well-being of the people who occupy them. Serving on IWBI’s Governance Council gives me an additional opportunity to expand this work and continue driving meaningful change.”

“For 15 years, I’ve been dedicated to helping organizations unlock the full potential of their greatest asset—their people,” said Ali Khan, CEO, SHAPE Global. “Driving measurable flourishing by creating the conditions where people and businesses can excel paves the way for innovation and explores the art and science of the possible. I’m excited to bring this perspective to IWBI’s Governance Council.”

“As an expert in sustainable finance and environmental economics, I’ve seen how integrating sustainability into business strategies creates long-term value,” said Dr. Tauni Lanier, Director, Sustainability and Economic Growth/International Projects Group, BDO LLP. “With a focus on ensuring that sustainability indicators bring measurable value to organizations, I am pleased to serve on IWBI’s Governance Council and contribute to the organization’s expanding work in this area.”

“We know that environmental, social and governance factors can transform organizations and drive lasting impact,” said Ana Karen Mora, Sustainability Director, ESG Lead, Fibra Uno. “With experience in stewarding financing behind the first sustainability-linked bond in Latin America, it’s becoming more commonplace that sustainability and financial performance go hand in hand. I’m honored to join IWBI’s Governance Council as we work to advance the organization’s efforts in integrating ESG principles into the built environment.”

“I’ve dedicated my career to advancing sustainability, security, resilience and well-being across the built environment. Our buildings and communities should empower people to thrive, and I’ve worked to shape global green building practices and policy at the highest levels of government to achieve this goal,” Brendan Owens, Principal, Black Vest Strategy. “As a member of the IWBI Governance Council, I’m eager to contribute to furthering the organization’s mission, ensuring buildings and communities worldwide support both ecological and human health.”

“The built environment is one of the most complex and impactful sectors when it comes to driving sustainability and business growth,” said Chrissa Pagitsas, CEO, Pagitsas Advisors. “Through my work, I’ve seen how innovative social strategies can unlock new opportunities, while ensuring sustainability is at the core of long-term success. I’m excited to join IWBI’s Governance Council to help shape the future of the built environment, creating value that transcends industries and empowers communities.”

“As the real assets sector evolves, so does the opportunity to integrate well-being and performance into every facet of the built environment,” said Sigrid Zialcita, CEO of APREA. “With a focus on real estate and infrastructure, I’ve seen firsthand how innovative strategy can drive long-term value and resilience. I am honored to join IWBI’s Governance Council and contribute to shaping the future of sustainable development across Asia Pacific and beyond.”

These leaders join a distinguished group to total 18 members hailing from nearly 10 countries in every region of the world, including:

Dr. Richard Carmona, M.D., MPH, FACS, 17th Surgeon General of the United States; Chair, IWBI Governance CouncilCheryl Durst, Executive Vice President and CEO, International Interior Design Association (IIDA)Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO, IWBIStephen Huddart, Adjunct Professor, Gustavson School of Business, University of VictoriaYasushi Kinoshita, Representative Member, Eminence Partners G.K.; Co-chairperson, Green Building Japan (GBJ)Alessandro Miani, President of the Italian Society of Environmental Medicine (SIMA), Professor of Environmental Prevention, University of MilanAlison Omens, President, JUST CapitalAvi Rajagopal, Editor-in-Chief, Metropolis MagazineDavina Rooney, CEO, Green Building Council of AustraliaKhoi Vo, Chief Executive Officer, American Society of Interior Designers

Formally constituted in February 2020, the Governance Council recently ratified the WELL Coworking Rating in spring 2024. Members serve a two-year term on a volunteer basis.

About the International WELL Building Institute 
The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) is a public benefit corporation and the global authority for transforming health and well-being in buildings, organizations and communities. In pursuit of its public-health mission, IWBI mobilizes its community through the development and administration of the WELL Building Standard (WELL), WELL for residential, WELL Community Standard, its WELL ratings and management of the WELL AP credential. IWBI also translates research into practice, develops educational resources and advocates for policies that promote people-first places for everyone, everywhere. IWBI is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate citizenship initiative, and helps companies advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the use of WELL. More information on WELL can be found here.

International WELL Building Institute, IWBI, the WELL Building Standard, WELL v2, WELL Certified, WELL AP, WELL EP, WELL Score, The WELL Conference, We Are WELL, the WELL Community Standard, WELL Health-Safety Rated, WELL Performance Rated, WELL Equity Rated, WELL Equity, WELL Coworking Rated, WELL Residence, Works with WELL, WELL and others, and their related logos are trademarks or certification marks of International WELL Building Institute pbc in the United States and other countries.

Contact:

media@wellcertified.com

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International Olympic Committee news

19 January will mark one year since the Opening Ceremony of the Winter Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Gangwon 2024, the beginning of an event that highlighted outstanding athletic performances, the remarkable dedication of volunteers, and the engagement of young people in sport. K-pop performances played a prominent role in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of Gangwon 2024, as well as the Let’s Play Winter Festival, showcasing Korean culture both domestically and internationally.

The Winter YOG Gangwon 2024 brought together over 1,800 talented young athletes representing 78 National Olympic Committees (NOCs). Featuring 7 sports and 15 disciplines, the event attracted some 270,000 spectators across nine venues. Taking advantage of the winter sports legacy created by PyeongChang 2018, the organisers made use of 7 out of 12 venues from the Olympic Winter Games. The YOG were widely enjoyed by local fans, as reflected in a survey where 86% rated their experience an 8 or higher out of 10.

Gangwon 2024 not only excelled on-site, but also set new standards for digital engagement. It surpassed previous YOG records on the Olympics’ digital platforms, attracting over 810,000 online users and amassing 323 million engagements across the official @Olympics channels.

To commemorate the one-year anniversary of the YOG Gangwon 2024 and celebrate their successful hosting, Gangwon Province is organising a special “Homecoming Day” event for its volunteer community. The celebration features a variety of activities, including sports and cultural events, discussions with Olympic medallists and live concerts. Additionally, the Gangwon 2024 virtual volunteers’ community page has been launched, providing a dedicated platform for volunteers to stay connected with each other and remain engaged with the Olympic community.

Gangwon 2024 was also marked by the dedication of its volunteer community. A total of 1,984 volunteers contributed to the Games across various zones, including event and ceremony protocol, athlete support, sports management, media coordination and regional guidance. These volunteers gained invaluable experience in organising a major sporting event, while enjoying the opportunity to witness spectacular performances firsthand. The IOC President, Thomas Bach, expressed his gratitude to the “Gangwon Shine Crew” for their remarkable efforts in a video message to Gangwon 2024 volunteers.

Building on the legacy of the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Games, the PyeongChang Legacy Foundation (PLF) drove a variety of initiatives to inspire athletes and young people from around the world to engage in winter sports. These efforts led to impressive results, with 39 participants of PLF projects qualifying for the Winter YOG, two of whom, from developing winter nations, went on to win medals at Gangwon 2024. Agnes Campeol from Thailand won a silver medal in women’s monobob, while Jonathan Lourimi of Tunisia took home a silver in men’s monobob.

Among these initiatives, the “New Horizons Academy,” organised by the PyeongChang Memorial Foundation and PyeongChang County, aims to promote winter sports globally. The programme focuses on supporting athletes from countries with limited winter sports infrastructure, offering them the opportunity to train at specialised camps. Of the young athletes who attended these camps, 25 – representing five sports and nine NOCs, including Colombia, Thailand and Tunisia – went on to compete at Gangwon 2024.

The Dream Programme, a legacy initiative from PyeongChang 2018, plays an important role in bolstering sports participation and ensuring accessibility for all. Held annually for 10 days between January and February, the programme provides immersive training opportunities for youngsters aged 13 to 23 from developing countries. Since 2004, the initiative has hosted 2,500 participants from 97 nations, with 150 of them going on to become international athletes. Notably, 14 athletes who competed in Gangwon 2024 were alumni of this programme.

Since the pre-YOG period, Gangwon 2024 has prioritised introducing local youth to winter sports and providing opportunities for accessible sports practice. Since 2020, the Soohorang and Bandabi Sports Camps have engaged 30,000 students, including 12,263 in the season leading up to the Games. These camps provided equal opportunities for disabled and non-disabled participants, featuring activities such as Olympic values education, cultural immersion, and Para ice hockey.

The PyeongChang 2018 Legacy Foundation, which created tangible benefits through diverse cultural and educational initiatives ahead of the YOG, has evolved into the PyeongChang 2018 and Gangwon 2024 Legacy Foundation. This transition aims to ensure the delivery of long-term benefits of the YOG. Eight legacy programmes from Gangwon 2024 will continue, promoting sport among future generations and creating lasting benefits for the host region.

Authored by Baker Tilly’s Darren R. Jones, Mark Scallon, John A. Rogula, and Corey Parker

Life sciences companies navigate a complex industry where innovation and patient care intersect with strict regulations and financial challenges. To succeed, organizations must proactively identify, manage and mitigate risks across all facets of their operations, from research and development to commercialization. Establishing robust risk governance mechanisms not only protects value but also enables life sciences companies to focus on delivering life-changing innovations to patients.

Addressing risks with a comprehensive framework 

The dynamic nature of the life sciences industry requires a tailored enterprise risk management (ERM) framework. This framework must address the unique challenges life sciences organizations face, including regulatory hurdles, adapting to shifting market dynamics and operational complexities. By proactively identifying and addressing these risks, organizations can better navigate evolving threats and seize growth opportunities.

Financial: Examples of financial risks include cover reporting, compliance and transactional challenges. Maintaining robust internal controls and adapting to Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) compliance are essential. Effective oversight of chargebacks and rebates, transparency in financial operations and accurate reporting are critical components of financial risk management.Operational: Operational risks arise from flawed or inefficient processes. For the life sciences industry, this includes ensuring mature and scalable quality programs, managing contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) dynamics and streamlining interactions with healthcare providers (HCPs), research institutions and other stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.Regulatory: Adhering to legal and regulatory requirements is a fundamental aspect of risk management for any life sciences organization. This includes implementing controls to oversee HCP engagements and third-party relationships while ensuring compliance with disclosure and transparency mandates. Additionally, organizations must prioritize quality management, pharmacovigilance and global market access to maintain product integrity and navigate complex regulatory landscapes across regions.External: Third-party collaborations introduce unique risks that require careful oversight. This involves evaluating vendor capabilities, ensuring compliance and balancing operational efficiency with risk mitigation in outsourced research (CROs), outsourced manufacturing, co-licensing agreements and distribution arrangements. Proper due diligence and continuous monitoring are essential to maintaining quality, regulatory adherence and business continuity.Strategic: Strategic risks influence decision-making processes critical to the company’s direction. Key considerations include optimizing customer engagement, strategy implementation and balancing product pipeline priorities with trial designs and evidence generation. Additionally, addressing workforce challenges such as hiring, retention and cultivating a cohesive culture is vital. Establishing governance structure aligned with the organization’s stage of development is fundamental to long-term success.Technology: The life sciences industry increasingly relies on data throughout especially throughout drug discovery, clinical development and commercialization. As organizations navigate this data-heavy landscape, technology risks become more critical. Companies must enhance IT capabilities to support compliance, quality and regulatory processes, while protecting sensitive data with robust security and privacy measures. In markets like rare disease and specialty pharmaceuticals, ineffective use of technology and data can result in significant opportunity costs. Optimizing technology to align with focused marketing and sales efforts is essential for successful commercialization and mitigating risks.

Managing risk across the organizational lifecycle 

The risk landscape for life sciences companies evolves as they grow from research-focused startups to global commercial entities. Proactive risk management at each stage of the lifecycle ensures sustained growth and compliance.

Discovery: During preclinical and early clinical trials, organizations focus on demonstrating viability while navigating anti-kickback regulations, patient identification challenges and securing evidence to support studies.Development: As companies advance, establishing strong relationships with contract research organizations and key opinion leaders (KOLs) becomes essential. Preparing for commercialization requires developing robust governance structures.Commercialization: Post-launch, companies must scale operations while maintaining compliance. Key priorities include enhancing safety protocols and addressing risks related to market access, HCP engagement, transparency reporting and fair market value (FMV) considerations.

Scalable solutions for growth 

To navigate the complexities of risk management effectively, life sciences companies must adopt scalable solutions that adapt to their growth journey This involves:

Early risk identification: Anticipating challenges during the discovery and development phases.Governance evolution: Establishing a culture of compliance and accountability that grows with the organization.Strategic partnerships: Leveraging relationships with vendors, CROs and KOLs to drive innovation while mitigating risks.

Comprehensive ERM solutions for life sciences 

Navigating the complexities of risk management requires a strategic approach tailored to the unique challenges of the life sciences industry. With inherent industry risks and substantial nuance to strategic execution as the industry innovates new go-to-market models, building a strategic ERM program to proactively identify, categorize and prioritize risks and opportunities across the enterprise requires significant time and resources, especially without specialized experience.

Baker Tilly brings deep industry knowledge and experience in implementing ERM solutions, helping clients effectively identify, prioritize and mitigate risks while uncovering opportunities. Our objective and tailored approach, grounded in leading practices, enables organizations to connect seemingly unrelated risks and opportunities across strategy, finance, operations, technology and compliance. As a result, our clients are better positioned to minimize potential losses, create stakeholder value, maintain financial stability, and foster innovation.

Contact Baker Tilly to learn more

For more information on this topic or to learn more about enterprise risk management solutions for life sciences companies, contact a Baker Tilly specialist.