Tag: 3BL

Originally published by HVACinformed.com

Until a couple of years ago, most of the talk about heat pumps occurred around this time of year, when more than half the planet prepares for an autumn cooldown.

These discussions were typically limited to regions that only experienced moderate winters. But as anyone who has recently perused an HVACR trade magazine or website—or participated in an industry webinar, event, or social media conversation—can tell you, the topic of heat pumps is virtually unavoidable. Not only do heat pump discussions now occur year-round, but they’ve also ascended to consistent headline status and transcended the traditional boundaries of moderate climates.

The decarbonization megatrend

One might say heat pumps have taken their place on the global stage. If you’re asking why this has happened, the answer requires just three words: the decarbonization megatrend.

However, for industry professionals looking to grow their businesses, it’s helpful to gain a deeper understanding of heat pumps—how they work, ways they are currently meeting HVACR needs, and where the technology is headed for next-generation applications. Through this understanding, members of the industry can better forecast customer needs as well as identify opportunities for expanding in both current markets and, potentially, new ones.

How heat pumps work—don’t let the name fool you

What heat pumps do and, more specifically, how they do it provides the key as to why they are now being considered a “hero” of decarbonization. The term can be misleading, because “heat pumps” do not generate heat. Because of this, heat pumps are being more widely embraced as the lower-carbon-emission alternative to combustion-based heating technology that uses, for example, fossil fuels.

Instead of creating heat, heat pumps extract heat energy from where it’s not needed and move it to where it is needed. When a heat pump is in heating mode, its refrigerant evaporates as it absorbs heat from the outside. The heat released as the refrigerant condenses is then transferred to interior spaces. In warmer weather, a heat pump kicks into cooling mode and the process is reversed, as heat is extracted inside and released outside. This non-combustion process of moving heat from one place to another provides several potential benefits to society:

Heat pumps support the megatrend toward decarbonization.They replace fossil-fuel heating with high-efficiency technology.They can be paired with lower-global-warming-potential (GWP) A2L refrigerants—such as R-454B and R-32—to further increase environmental benefits, while offering similar performance to the legacy R-410A.They offer the ability to tap into alternative energy sources, such as industrial waste heat as well as heat sourced from the air (ambient), ground (geothermal), or lakes/ponds (water).

Meeting today’s needs—these aren’t your grandfather’s heat pumps

Heat pump technology has been commercially available and in use since the 1950s. Early versions of heat pumps were essentially reversible air conditioning units, and most used traditional refrigerants—like R-22 and, more recently, R-410A. These units performed well and operated safely using lower-toxicity, nonflammable (A1) refrigerants. However, they were known to sometimes struggle at lower ambient temperatures.

As often happens in the world of science and technology, challenges drive the search for solutions. Today, we’re seeing innovations that result in efficient, effective cold-climate heat pumps that optimize various components, such as compressors, heat exchangers, expansion valves, and their controls. Thanks to these innovations and others, the U.S. and other countries are experiencing broader heat pump adoption and, in turn, supporting progress toward decarbonization.

Increasing heat pump accessibility and viability in more places and spaces is also critical to the HVACR industry’s commitments to the environment—and its need to heed regulations advancing the transition to systems reducing climate impact. Emerging systems use mildly flammable (A2L) refrigerants. They are similar in design to legacy systems and include modifications to mitigate risks associated with the change to A2Ls.

Where things are headed—heat pump technology is just getting started

Even with the significant advances we’ve seen in colder-climate heat pumps, there is still untapped potential in terms of what the technology can achieve. We can expect to see continued innovation as end-user needs and environmental priorities continue to evolve. Some foreseeable growth areas for heat pumps include:

Traditional applications—that is, moderate climatesExpansion into nontraditional climates—heating in very cold climates and cooling in hotter regionsDomestic water heating, replacing fossil-fuel systemsLeveraging a variety of heat sources—geothermal, air-sourced, and water-sourcedHarnessing waste heat generated by energy-intensive industrial processes

Use of lower-GWP A2L refrigerants

Supporting these growth areas will be innovations that optimize high-performance, high-efficiency delivery of extracted heat, using a combination of traditional and new split-ducted, ductless/mini-split, and mono-block technologies.

System optimization will also drive greater use of lower-GWP A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B, while limiting the use of highly flammable refrigerants such as R-290. Refrigerant selection will also play an increasingly important role and may offer additional opportunities for application-specific technology. As heat pump applications expand, we can expect to see greater focus on selecting the optimum refrigerant to use as the working fluid. Criteria will weigh system design, operating conditions, and other priorities against key refrigerant properties:

Physical—boiling point, vapor pressure, density, and material compatibilityThermodynamic—cooling/heat capacity, energy efficiency, pressure-enthalpy (PH) curvesEnvironmental—ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP)Safety and health—flammability and toxicity

Conclusion: There’s strong and ample reason to “stay pumped”

Over the past several years, members of the HVACR industry have enthusiastically embraced new heat pump solutions. Evolving heat pump technology and expanding applications will continue as the industry progresses along the path of more energy-efficient, lower-GWP, and more sustainable new-generation and next-generation heating and cooling.

This, coupled engineering and science that leverages untapped heat pump potential, will mean more opportunities for HVACR contractors to deliver new options to the markets they serve. With a strong understanding of their customers’ individual heating and cooling needs, climate challenges, and sustainability goals, contractors can confidently select the best heat-pump refrigerant solution.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C., January 9, 2025 /3BL/ – To empower teachers and students to explore their world, the Environmental Education Initiative offers a curated collection of free environmental education resources for K-12 classrooms. Powered by worldwide edtech leader Discovery Education, the Environmental Education Initiative is a first-of-its-kind effort that helps students engage in environment science, make informed decisions that support healthy environments, and supports civic engagement.

The Environmental Education Initiative supports learners with standards-aligned resources that explore contemporary topics in environmental studies. The captivating multimodal content created by this initiative includes videos, ready-to-use lessons, and student activities exploring subjects such as energy, forestry, clean water, and more. The newest resources include 3 generation innovation video bundles, created in partnership with Nucor, Honeywell, and Subaru of America, Inc., and 6 student-facing activities, powered by LyondellBasell.

“Research reveals that environmental education helps improve overall academic performance, enhances critical thinking skills, and helps students develop personal growth and life-building skills,” said Amy Nakamoto, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Alliances at Discovery Education. “We are proud to work alongside our partners to not only help students explore, grow, and develop academically and personally, but also to support teachers, as they help all learners explore the world around them, engage in civic life, and build healthy futures.”

The resources from the Environmental Education Initiative are created with The National Environmental Education Foundation and other partners, including Honeywell, LyondellBasell, Nucor, and Subaru of America, Inc. To access Environmental Education Initiative resources, visit environmentaleducationinitiative.discoveryeducation.com. Educators with access to Discovery Education Experience can find these resources on the Environmental Education Initiative channel.

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

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About Discovery Education 
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place. Through its award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and corporate partnerships, Discovery Education helps educators deliver equitable learning experiences engaging all students and supporting higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and trusted organizations to empower teachers with leading edtech solutions that support the success of all learners. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.

Contacts 
Grace Maliska 
Discovery Education 
Email: gmaliska@dicoveryed.com

Originally published on Geena Davis Institute 

Over the past few years as women’s basketball blossomed from an afterthought to a national phenomenon, the access to games on television and corresponding ratings, once minuscule, now rack up massive viewership numbers.

As a WNBA fan and market researcher, Charlene Polite Corley, Nielsen’s Vice President for Diverse Insights and Partnerships, had a front-row seat to the shift in data and culture. Polite Corley is delighted to see big brands, major sponsors and influential media outlets jumping aboard the women’s sports express and hails the economic opportunities accompanying this long-awaited breakthrough.

“It is super validating and almost emotional to see the audience catch up with the product on the floor,’’ Polite Corley said, noting how increased revenues have enhanced the lives of players. “To see these women getting their flowers is really, really magical.

“But also, Nielsen data shows there’s a ton of untapped opportunities. So the brands that have been very studied and investing in women’s sports along the way have a leg up. And now there’s some new joiners coming in, and so their price point is very different – as it should be.”

Indeed, potential advertisers should take note. The astonishing – but sustainable gains – for women’s sports serve as a true testament to the motto of the Geena Davis Institute: “If they can see it, they can be it.”

Or, as Polite Corley put it: “I feel like women’s sports is such a key case study for equity in media.”

Thanks to generational talents such as A’ja Wilson , Caitlin Clark, and Angel Reese, women’s basketball leads the power shift. Those stars grabbed the spotlight and kept it, attracting new audiences at an almost unthinkable rate at both the college and professional levels.

In 2024, 20 WNBA games through August averaged at least 1 million viewers, according to Nielsen’s audience measurement. The CBS Network averaged 1.10 million viewers for its eight games, up a staggering 86 percent from last year.

This is a significant development for a fan base that has long yearned for such visibility. Nielsen data shows that fans have cited lack of information and a lack of access to live airings as key barriers to keeping up with women’s sports.

Suddenly, media interest in women’s sports has grown so fast that Polite Corley sounded a note of caution.

“Wow, we got a whole bunch of new eyeballs really quickly, and everybody’s having to do a little bit of work,’’ she said. “We have to check a lot of our biases about how we report on women being women, being competitive, women being athletes, women being other than catty and jealous and all these other things. Like really broadening the lexicon of how we report and view women in these competitive settings.”

Fortunately, Nielsen executives and their sports-specific research teams have been delving into these questions for a while. Their data helps inform this golden age for women’s sports, with basketball’s success augmented by the Olympic Games in Paris, where female superstars such as Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky took center stage.

With help from Nielsen, here are some key statistics and trends among sponsors and fans when it comes to women’s sports.

WNBA fans are more likely to engage brands 

Nielsen data determined that sponsors of the WNBA received an average of 77 percent more media value year-over-year. The league’s fans were also 1.6 times more likely to follow a brand’s social media account.

What’s going on there?

“What that 77 percent is telling us is that when WNBA fans are tuned in or attending, they are hyper-aware of the brands that are also supporting their teams,’’ Polite Corley said.

In fact, she knows this dynamic first-hand.

Polite Corley attended the WNBA’s 2023 All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas. That’s where Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty broke WNBA and NBA records for most points in a 3-point shooting contest.

One of the things Polite Corley remembers most about that experience is the signage for Starry lemon-lime soda, which sponsored the action.

“Sabrina just broke all kinds of records. But I had never seen or heard of Starry,’’ she said. “So, the next time that I was traveling and encountered the brand ‘out in the wild,’ I made sure that I bought, like, two bottles.”

This is commonplace among this fan base. A whopping 60 percent of WNBA fans said they would recommend a brand sponsor to others.

“As soon as I saw this metric, I was like, ‘That’s so true,’’’ Polite Corley said. “Because I was so impressed by the show that they put on, sponsoring All-Star Weekend, and it just instantly translates to ‘that’s a brand that gets the value of this league and its fans.’

“The data shows that fans of The W are more likely to walk away saying ‘I’m going to talk to somebody about it and I’m going to purchase that brand when they show up. I think that’s a kind of widespread concept for those long-term fans.’”

The WNBA is a perfect spot for brands to demonstrate values and engage new consumers 

Nielsen’s research shows that the WNBA fan base embraces companies with a cause. The league’s supporters rank among the most supportive of social justice issues.

Polite Corley described inclusion as “the secret to growing the game.”

That’s demonstrated in the data surrounding the WNBA.

“It’s a perfect opportunity for the right brand to show up and say, ‘Hey, we care about (women’s) talent just getting the recognition it deserves, and that’s why we’re here,’’ Polite Corley said. “It’s a way to live your values with how and where brands place their sponsorships, especially because there has been such a dearth of investment for so long across multiple sports.”

Nielsen Fan Insights data found that 84 percent of WNBA fans and 74 percent of NBA fans care about combating racism.

With four new professional leagues for women coming this summer — soccer, volleyball, softball and a 3-on-3 basketball – Polite Corley expects brands to try to replicate some of the WNBA sponsorship success.

“So there’s a lot more opportunities to kind of tap into folks growing into those new avenues to support professional women’s athletes,’’ she said.

WNBA Draft viewership up 511 percent vs 2023 

The obvious follow-up question here is … wait, really? (begin italics) Five-hundred-and-eleven percent? (end italics)

Indeed, Nielsen’s data verifies the astounding year-over-year surge in interest in the night the WNBA teams get their pick of top college players turning pro.

In fact, it gets more amazing: Among girls aged 2 to 17, the viewership figure is up 668 percent.

“Yeah, this is interesting because the year prior, the WNBA Draft saw double-digit growth with female viewers,’’ Polite Corley said. “At the time, we saw an 89 percent jump so, we were like, ‘Oh my gosh, it’s fantastic!’

“It may not continue to do triple-digit increases going forward. But I do think it signals that you have a new audience who is really paying attention here.” 
 

Brands go big during the Olympics, but what are they doing in the meantime to engage? 

The Olympic Games have obvious appeal for sponsors because of their massive high-profile international exposure. But Nielsen underscored that opportunities continue for brands even during the non-Olympic years.

Polite Corley pointed to how an unlikely niche sport – women’s rugby – thrived on the media landscape this summer with help from relentlessly charismatic star Ilona Maher.

“I’m a burgeoning expert. Rugby is my new favorite,’’ Polite Corley said with a laugh. “So one of the benefits of the Olympics is we get this exposure to sports that may not be widely popular but are on the rise in our country.

“So folks have now discovered all these new sports they want to watch or learn to play. These are opportunities to place bets for the future of a growing sport, especially when it comes to women’s sports.”

For sponsors, there are also new frontiers to reach.

“I do think that it’s about keeping that momentum,’’ Polite Corley said. “The Paralympics come up right after the Olympic Games, and so that’s another opportunity to also tune in again and live those values around inclusion and support the Paralympic competitors as well.”

Conclusion: Is your brand in the right place to break through?

One of the biggest takeaways from Nielsen’s insights is that the best way to nurture a fan base is to tell more stories. Younger fans especially are open to sports-related content behind the scenes.

This interest is an opportunity to tell more stories of athletes, rivalries and triumphs across women’s sports.

Sponsors and brands, take note.

“There’s data that shows that when brands are thoughtful and show up with the right information to place these investments in women’s sports, they really do pay great dividends,’’ Polite Corley said. “It’s been a really exciting time.”

To achieve net-zero carbon by 2050, Saint-Gobain North America must reach key milestones by 2030. In our latest episode of Journey to 2030, Saint-Gobain is paving the way to a more sustainable future! 

RenuCoreTM technology can take shingle waste and recycle it into asphalt pavements instead of letting it go to landfill. Jill Betters tells us all about how Saint-Gobain is raising the roof in sustainability.

Watch the Saint-Gobain video series Journey to 2030 here

About Saint-Gobain

Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group’s commitment is guided by its purpose, “MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME”.

€47.9 billion in sales in 2023 
160,000 employees, locations in 76 countries 
Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

Home for the holidays has an entirely new meaning for Cydni O’Meally.

In early December, the U.S. Navy Veteran received a brand new, fully furnished home in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, from Operation Homefront in partnership with U.S. Bank and homebuilder Veridian Homes.

O’Meally had been living in California and moving to the new home brought her closer to her sister, who also lives in Wisconsin.

This is the fourth mortgage-free home U.S. Bank donated to veterans this year, bringing the total to 30 homes valued at a combined amount of $8.1 million since 2013. Watch the video above to see O’Meally’s story.

Global trade is the lifeblood of modern economies, but the logistics that underpin it often leave a hefty environmental and social footprint. This is especially true in emerging markets, where infrastructure gaps, socio-economic challenges, and environmental vulnerabilities collide. DP World, however, is on a mission to change this reality. Armed with an ambitious sustainability strategy and a recent Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure (SDID), we are setting new benchmarks for sustainable logistics across regions like South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Why does this matter? Because these regions are not just hubs of untapped opportunity—they’re also the frontlines for addressing global challenges such as climate change, gender inequality, and economic disparity. If the logistics sector is going to drive positive change, companies like ours must lead the charge. Here’s how we’re doing it.

Decarbonizing Ports, One Crane at a Time

As bustling hubs of diesel-powered equipment, heavy emissions, and energy-intensive operations, ports have not historically been known for their eco-friendliness. But DP World is rewriting that narrative. In Brazil, for example, we have committed over $16.2 million to electrify Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) cranes at the Santos terminal, slashing diesel consumption by up to 60%. By 2030, DP World aims to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% and 62%, respectively, aligning with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Meanwhile, in Ecuador, our Sembrando Vida project has planted over 250,000 mangrove seedlings across 105 hectares in El Morro and Puná Island. This initiative not only removes 2,460 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere but also benefits 400 local families by rehabilitating ecosystems that support their livelihoods – success that led the 2022 IAPH Sustainability Awards to award the project the Climate & Energy category.

In Argentina, we are purchasing 95% renewable energy—sourced from wind power—for operations at Terminal Río de la Plata (TRP). This shift will significantly reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, demonstrating that renewable energy is a game changer for port operations.

Empowering Local Workforces and Women

In many emerging markets, access to formal employment and technical skills remains a significant barrier to socio-economic mobility. DP World is addressing these gaps head-on. In the Dominican Republic, the Visión Futuro program in Boca Chica focuses on empowering at-risk youth through education and training. Since its launch in 2021, the program has provided technical and vocational training to 658 young people, helping them secure better job opportunities or start entrepreneurial ventures. Additionally, life skills and leadership workshops are designed to prepare participants for success in a competitive labor market.

Women’s empowerment is another critical focus of this program. Through targeted initiatives, Visión Futuro has created networks to prevent adolescent pregnancy while reaching over 1,155 young women with education and support. By addressing gender-specific challenges, DP World is helping young women in Boca Chica build more sustainable futures. Moreover, the program not only focuses on education and employment but also fosters community engagement. By encouraging the development of socially responsible microenterprises, the program has empowered 836 young people to become active participants in their local economies.

In Suriname, we’ve also made strides toward inclusion and empowerment. During International Women’s Day 2023, workshops for female employees promoted professional development and leadership. These efforts reflect DP World’s broader commitment to fostering gender equity and building stronger communities. During Global Volunteering Week in 2023, 21 volunteers renovated the Lobato School, directly benefiting 2,438 individuals. These efforts strengthen local infrastructure and create economic opportunities while demonstrating the power of collaboration to achieve sustainable development.

Tackling Waste and Promoting Circular Economies

Sustainability isn’t just about reducing emissions—it’s also about smarter resource use. DP World’s Brazilian operations are leading the way with our Zero Landfill Project. At the Santos terminal, 39% of waste is recycled, 20% is transformed into biofuel, and the remaining 41% is processed through methods like composting and wastewater treatment. In 2023, this initiative earned the terminal Brazil’s first-ever Gold Standard certification for GHG emissions inventory.

In Suriname, our Go Green Week initiative in September 2023 involved planting 50 mangrove trees as part of a broader effort to promote coastal resilience and biodiversity. Meanwhile, during World Clean Up Day, DP World volunteers cleaned the vicinity of SPS Port, contributing to healthier local environments and fostering community pride.

In the Dominican Republic, our programs emphasize the importance of sustainable practices through youth engagement. For example, the Visión Futuro program supports socially responsible microenterprises, encouraging young entrepreneurs to think beyond traditional linear production models and embrace circular economies.

Aligning with Global Goals

DP World’s sustainability efforts are not just about ticking boxes—they’re part of our broader alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From promoting gender equality (SDG 5) to fostering decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), our initiatives are designed to create systemic change.

This work is all underscored by our pioneering Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure (SDID), a framework that goes beyond traditional ESG metrics to include socio-economic impacts like job creation, education, and healthcare access. This work represents DP World’s ambition to prove that the logistics sector can be a force for good—especially in emerging markets.

For us sustainable logistics is not just a buzzword, but a business imperative.

Want to find out more about why and how? Download a copy of our Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure.

Authored by Cindy Bratel

As industries navigate through the era of technological advancement, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer an optional initiative but an essential driver of business success. Organizations across manufacturing, utility and asset-intensive sectors are witnessing a fundamental shift in how they operate, maintain assets and deliver value to customers. This transformation is noteworthy as it touches every aspect of operations from shop floor efficiency to customer service excellence while simultaneously addressing global challenges such as workforce shortages and supply chain disruptions.

The digital transformation journey begins with data as a critical success factor. Organizations are recognizing that data strategies must be considered early to ensure the successful deployment of new solutions. This understanding helps organizations evaluate and maintain their data health throughout their transformation journey.

AI usage can even enhance Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms by automating routine tasks, improving accuracy in data and providing predictive analytics for overall better decision-making. The IFS.ai platform unifies data from a variety of sources in order to enhance productivity and efficiency across operations in key industries.

Leveraging AI to streamline manufacturing 

The manufacturing sector, historically cautious in adopting technologies, is undergoing a mindset shift. Today’s manufacturing companies are embracing AI and automation solutions to address concurrent challenges. Digital innovations are helping manufacturers maintain competitive advantage while dealing with persistent challenges. Key use cases include:

Advanced predictive maintenance systems for critical equipmentAI-powered supply chain optimization to mitigate parts shortagesAutomated quality control systems leveraging machine learningDigital twins for process optimization and scenario planningRobotic process automation (RPA) in financial and administrative processesIntegrated workforce management to address labor shortagesReal-time production monitoring and optimizing systems

AI-powered insights for the utilities sector 

The utilities and energy sector faces unique challenges in balancing reliability requirements with modernization initiatives. The stakes are particularly high in this sector where service interruptions can have significant financial implications. The sector is seeing improvements through:

Failure prediction models using industrial AIAdvanced health monitoring systemsIntegrated maintenance planning platformsRapid response systems for service restorationPredictive analytics for resource allocationAI technologies for improved distribution management

Customer experience enhancement 

It is crucial that technological advancements ultimately translate into improved customer experience, bridging the gap between operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The solutions that report improvements in customer satisfaction:

End-to-end traceability systems for product trackingMobile first solutions for field techniciansReal-time status updates and communication platformsAutomated reporting and documentation systemsPredictive service scheduling based on usage patternsIntegrated customer communication platformsSelf-service portals with AI assistance

A move towards sustainability 

What’s particularly interesting is how AI is helping organizations tackle broader challenges they face today. From monitoring environmental impact to managing carbon footprint, AI is being utilized to balance operational needs with social responsibility. The public interest is becoming a key factor in how technologies are being deployed, showing a shift towards more sustainable business practices. This evolution in thinking is pushing organizations to exceed their initial expectations and redefine what’s possible in their industries.

Ready to get started? 

AI in industries is revolutionizing how businesses operate and adapt to market changes. With IFS solutions, companies can leverage AI to unlock powerful insights, automate routine tasks and maintain a competitive edge while seamlessly integrating advanced technologies into their core operations. As an IFS reseller and system integrator, Baker Tilly customizes each IFS Cloud implementation based on the client, their industry and their team’s business transformation goals. Baker Tilly believes in an ‘industry-first’ approach allowing us to work with customers to deliver maximum value with IFS solutions.

Learn more

Interested in learning more? Connect with a Baker Tilly specialist.

This article is authored by Riaz Raihan, Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer, Trane Technologies.

From big city skyscrapers and suburban shopping centers to small town storefronts and rural manufacturing facilities, commercial buildings vary widely – but there’s one thing they all have in common. They use, and can waste, a lot of energy.

Unpredictable factors such as weather conditions and building occupancy levels have long led to a building’s energy inefficiencies. Today, new technologies, including thermal management systems and thermal storage, waste heat recovery and all-electric heat pumps, are increasing buildings’ energy efficiency levels while drastically shrinking their carbon footprint.

But in a continually warming world, demand for cooling is only increasing. As such, HVAC systems play a crucial role in our shared vision for a net-zero future – and their integration of advanced AI technology is supercharging what’s possible for reducing built environment emissions.

Ironically, the keys to a not-so-distant future where commercial buildings operate more efficiently, waste less energy and reduce emissions can be found in one of the largest and fastest-growing consumers of energy: data centers.

Demand-Side Energy Management

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers consume anywhere from 10 to 50 times more energy than a typical commercial building and account for about 2% of total U.S. electricity consumption. As a result of AI, demand for energy is expected to nearly double or even triple in the next few years.

Everyone is talking about the supply side of this equation. How much power will need to be generated to meet that increased demand, how to add more renewable energy sources and how can we green the grid?

As a global climate innovator and leading provider of HVAC systems, we are focused on the generated power that’s being wasted – what we call demand-side management. We’ve done hundreds of thousands of energy audits in buildings and have found that most operate about 30% inefficiently.

Do the math. Data centers today use just 2% of our electricity supply, yet approximately 30% of the energy deployed to buildings is being wasted.

Can you imagine how much energy we could save if we solved that problem? If we could make buildings and their assets perform the way they were designed to, while improving wasted energy and overall consumption?

The great news is we can, and we are.

By connecting a building’s assets, using technology like digital twins and leveraging an experienced and vast service capability, we can keep those assets operating at their original level of performance – basically reversing the aging process. This helps our customers lower both their carbon footprint and electric bill, what our company views as tangible “green for green” action.

And, by leveraging AI and real-time data management, sophisticated controls and building automation systems and continuous commissioning – we are advancing innovative digitization technologies that are enabling even further energy and cost savings.

So, rather than focusing on how AI is using more and more energy, we need a mindset shift toward how AI can help us dramatically reduce energy demand and emissions.

While it’s easy to get lost in the numbers, the data tells a simple, but compelling, story: We can have a much greater impact by addressing energy waste and reducing energy demand – with AI serving as a major leverage point in our ability to do so successfully.

Purpose-Built AI For HVAC

Investing in purpose-built AI-for-HVAC is centered around reducing demand-side energy consumption. Of course, developing highly efficient thermal management systems that communicate with building controls to optimize the equipment and manage overall energy demand based on data is only one part of the solution.

We continuously innovate and enhance our products to operate more efficiently and lower their energy use. For many years, we’ve also used AI and structured data, such as sensor-based indoor temperature readings, to help optimize energy consumption and enable predictive maintenance. Now, we’re adding unstructured data – think weather patterns, building occupancy levels and pollution conditions – to drive even more efficiency.

Both structured and unstructured data can help reveal actionable patterns and correlations that were not previously recognizable. HVAC systems must become smarter, learning how to respond and react in real time to changing conditions, including energy pricing fluctuations. These insights can help improve decision-making, optimize performance and advance innovation.

Overcoming A Few Challenges

While the benefits of AI-driven HVAC systems are substantial, implementing these solutions is not without challenge.

One common barrier to adoption is the perception that major investment is required. While initial costs may be incurred depending on factors such as building size, system complexity and age, or data source availability, AI solutions can help enable significant, long-term energy savings and increased efficiency – often resulting in paybacks of only one to three years, based on my experience.

Collecting and managing vast amounts of data from various sensors and sources also poses challenges in terms of accuracy, security and privacy. Ensuring that the data used by AI systems is reliable and protected is crucial for the successful implementation and operation of these technologies.

The Real Value

For HVAC systems, the truest value of its technologies is the energy that’s saved, which provides a direct, immediate and positive impact on a building’s carbon footprint while also delivering lower costs. And AI technology is proving itself as a catalyst for HVAC systems to not only reduce energy waste and lower energy consumption but also reduce emissions.

Collectively, we need fresh thinking on the real value of AI. We must rethink how it can help us dramatically reduce energy demand, and emissions. This could be a win for the planet, and for business, too.

This article was originally published at Forbes.

LEEDS, England, January 9, 2025 /3BL/ – Antea Group UK is proud to announce the appointment of Kate Baker as Chair of the Society of Brownfield Risk Assessment (SoBRA) for the years 2025 and 2026.

SoBRA, a prestigious not-for-profit organization established in 2009, is dedicated to supporting professionals in the land contamination sector. Its mission is to enhance technical expertise, uphold professional standards, and promote excellence in the evaluation of land contamination risks. The society is renowned for providing accreditation and guidance to practitioners, thereby raising standards in the field of brownfield land assessment.

Kate Baker, who brings over 30 years of experience as a consultant in land contamination, will lead the SoBRA Executive Committee. Kate has extensive experience in assessing ground contamination risks for clients across various sectors, specializing in human health risk assessment. As an Accredited SoBRA Human Health Risk Assessor, she is well-equipped to guide the organization in its pursuit of excellence.

“I am honored to be appointed as Chair of SoBRA,” said Kate Baker. “Working with the Executive Committee over the past few years has been a privilege. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the outgoing Chair, Jo Wilding, for her remarkable leadership and support. During my tenure, the Executive Committee will strive to uphold SoBRA’s esteemed reputation as a source of knowledge and best practice guidance in the brownfield risk assessment sector.”

This appointment underscores Antea Group’s commitment to expertise in land contamination risk assessment. With a proven track record of addressing complex contamination challenges, Antea Group is uniquely positioned to provide tailored solutions for clients. The firm leverages the extensive PFAS expertise of Antea Group USA and the global resources of the Inogen Alliance network to effectively manage PFAS-related projects.

For more information about SoBRA and their committee, please visit https://sobra.org.uk.

About Antea Group 
Antea Group® is an environmental, health, safety, and sustainability consulting firm with operations in Europe, Asia and the Americas. By combining strategic thinking with technical expertise, we do more than effectively solve client challenges; we deliver sustainable results for a better future. We work in partnership with and advise many of the world’s most sustainable companies to address EHS-business challenges in a way that fits their pace and unique objectives. Our consultants equip organisations to better understand threats, capture opportunities and find their position of strength. Learn more at www.anteagroup.uk.

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

By Kasturi Mudulodu, President, GoDaddy Commerce 

GoDaddy’s primary goal is to empower entrepreneurs everywhere, making opportunity more inclusive for all. 

We aim to assist our small business customers in boosting sales and saving valuable time and money. 

While many recognize GoDaddy for its domain and web services, the company has evolved into so much more.

It’s why I was thrilled to showcase our latest AI-powered product suite in front of Money 20/20 USA, and share GoDaddy’s vision to revolutionize commerce for small businesses globally.

GoDaddy Airo™ simplifies commerce for entrepreneurs 

With nearly 21 million customers, GoDaddy has the unique ability to connect with entrepreneurs directly and understand their needs.

Our GoDaddy Venture Forward research indicates that nearly half of small business owners believe generative AI will help them compete with larger enterprises.

And so, at Money 20/20, we introduced attendees to Kiki, an imagined example of a small business owner based on all the challenges we know entrepreneurs face. 

We followed Kiki as she navigated the challenges of running a clothing boutique in Palo Alto. Through engaging demos, we explained how GoDaddy AiroTM, our AI-powered experience, can revolutionize the journey for entrepreneurs like Kiki.

For instance, imagine Kiki could, in a very conversational manner, share her business idea with GoDaddy Airo and have it instantly generate both a catchy domain name and a customizable website.

Or, what if Kiki could simply upload her existing product catalog and have Airo digitize it for in-person and online sales? With AI capabilities, GoDaddy Airo can and does analyze image data, create an online catalog within seconds, and provide suggestions for product descriptions and pricing.

Fortunately for Kiki and many others, these features are readily available through GoDaddy Airo, which seamlessly addresses and eliminates many of the top challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

GoDaddy Airo helps small businesses get online quickly, create marketing materials, build product catalogs, manage inventory, facilitate online and in-person sales, post on social media, and more. 

By democratizing omnichannel commerce and enhancing accessibility, GoDaddy Airo streamlines operations and enables small businesses to succeed in the digital age.

GenAI offers small business owners high growth potential 

The future of commerce is brimming with possibilities through GenAI. The developments presented at Money 20/20 highlight the transformative power of technology in driving business growth and efficiency.

In fact, GoDaddy consumer data confirmed that GoDaddy Airo users:

Earn up to 40% more in sales with automatic catalog creation.Attract up to 21% more traffic with a logo through GoDaddy Airo.Get up to 30% more Facebook page impressions with AI-generated posts.

Most importantly, GoDaddy Airo removes the often-time-consuming tasks from a small business owner’s plate and gives them time back to focus on what’s most important to them. 

Reflecting on our experience at Money 20/20, I extend my gratitude to the community for embracing our vision and eagerness to redefine commerce for small businesses.

Our steadfast commitment to helping entrepreneurs motivates us to collaborate with industry leaders and innovators, shaping a future where small businesses thrive.

Catch a glimpse of my Money 20/20 presentation, here. 

And for a more in-depth conversation, tune into the special edition episode of The Disruption is Now, live from Money 20/20’s MoneyPot Podcast studio, where I spoke with host Greg Matusky, Founder and CEO at Gregory FCA.

Join me on this journey as we continue to shape the future of commerce for small businesses globally.

Kasturi Mudulodu leads GoDaddy’s commerce division, focusing on empowering entrepreneurs with robust ecommerce platforms and innovative point-of-sale systems. These solutions, coupled with competitive payment processing services, are designed to help businesses succeed online and offline, aligning with GoDaddy’s commitment to comprehensive, accessible commerce tools.