Tag: 3BL

CALGARY, Alberta, December 5, 2024 /3BL/ – Benevity, Inc., the market-leading global provider of corporate social responsibility solutions, announced that over $140 million was donated to nonprofits through its platform on GivingTuesday. This marks another milestone day of donations and volunteer efforts supported on Benevity’s platform with 637 companies participating this year.

With more than 148,000 individuals coming together to support over 56,000 nonprofits across 122 countries and territories this year, Benevity saw donation dollars per donor increase by an estimated 2% year over year. The most popular causes that companies and individuals contributed to this year include St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, American Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders and United Way Greater Toronto.

“In a year marked by polarization, economic uncertainty, and an increasingly challenging social climate for companies, the corporate community has demonstrated the power of standing united in purpose and generosity, showing how collective action can bring us together,” said Christopher Maloof, CEO of Benevity. “This year’s remarkable GivingTuesday results are a testament to the corporate community’s unwavering commitment to doing good, even giving both of their wallets and time with a notable growth in volunteering time committed to nonprofits. GivingTuesday continues to inspire ongoing action, showing the powerful impact of aligning corporate influence with employee-driven purpose and passion.”

This year’s corporate efforts also went beyond employee donations and matching programs, shining a spotlight on volunteer initiatives as interest and engagement in volunteering continue to surge. Almost 260,000 volunteer hours were logged by more than 21,000 individuals – a remarkable 17% increase in individual participation compared to 2023.

“This year’s record-breaking donations and participation demonstrate the incredible power of collective action,” said Asha Curran, CEO, GivingTuesday. “Together, through our collaboration with partners like Benevity, we united millions, raising $3.6 billion in the US alone. Each donation, each act of generosity, showcases the enduring spirit of people around the world.”

To learn more about Benevity, please visit: https://benevity.com/.

About Benevity
Benevity, a certified B Corporation, is the market-leading provider of corporate social responsibility (CSR) solutions supporting corporations around the world to activate their CSR strategies and measure impact. Recognized as one of Fortune’s Impact 20, Benevity offers cloud solutions that power purpose for many iconic brands in ways that better attract, retain and engage today’s diverse workforce, embed social action into their customer experiences and positively impact their communities. Through community investment and employee, customer and nonprofit engagement solutions in over 22 languages, Benevity has processed more than $15 billion in donations and 79 million hours of volunteering time to support 470,000 nonprofits worldwide. The company’s solutions have also facilitated 1.3 million micro-actions and managed 845,000 grants worth $16 billion. For more information, visit benevity.com.

Media Contact:
press@benevity.com

The first report explores scenarios of AI’s electricity consumption over the next decade, while the second report demonstrates how AI-powered HVAC systems can improve energy efficiencyThe research was published during IEA’s global conference, where the company is in attendance

RUEIL-MALMAISON, France, December 5, 2024 /3BL/ – Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, today released two reports from its Sustainability Research Institute (SRI). These reports fill key knowledge gaps regarding AI’s impact on sustainability, particularly in energy use.

The first research, Artificial Intelligence and Electricity: A System Dynamics Approach, examines four possible scenarios for AI’s electricity consumption over the next decade. Considering the growing concern around AI’s energy consumption, Rémi Paccou, Director of Schneider Electric’s Sustainability Research Institute, and Prof. Fons Wijnhoven, Associate Professor at the University of Twente (Netherlands), have built a system dynamics model that forecasts diverse scenarios for AI electricity demand, highlighting the path forward for sustainable AI development strategies and policies to mitigate environmental impacts.

The authors construct four scenarios of AI development and their associated impacts on electricity consumption. These scenarios, which are not predictions but rather tools to understand the complex factors shaping our future, span a range of possibilities: from Sustainable AI development to Limits to Growth, including more radical scenarios such as Abundance Without Boundaries and even the possibility of Energy Crises caused by AI. Alongside these forecasts and analysis, the report also contains recommendations for policymakers and decision-makers, contributing to a thoughtful and responsible approach to development, aiming for a path that balances progress with sustainability.

The second report, AI-Powered HVAC in Educational Buildings: A Net Digital Impact Use Case, also by Rémi Paccou and Gauthier Roussilhe, Research Fellow and Doctoral Student at RMIT, demonstrates how AI-powered heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems can enhance energy efficiency and environmental conservation in buildings. HVAC systems account for 35 – 65% of total building energy consumption. The study examined over 87 educational properties in Stockholm, Sweden, over an extended period under real-world conditions. Between 2019 and 2023, the study observed a total carbon emission reduction of 65tCO2e/y, roughly 60 times the actual embodied carbon footprint of the AI system deployed.

The research reveals opportunities for even greater carbon reductions in environments with more demanding heating, cooling, or air conditioning requirements. A comparative analysis between Stockholm and Boston showed that implementing the same solution in Boston could yield carbon emission savings seven times higher than in Stockholm.

The publishing of these reports coincides with the IEA’s Global Conference on Energy & AI, where Schneider Electric is in attendance. This conference gathers experts from the energy and tech sectors, government, civil society, and academia to discuss the potential impacts of AI on global energy systems and the opportunities for leveraging AI for energy and climate goals. Schneider Electric’s CEO, Olivier Blum, and Executive Vice President of its Data Centers & Networks Business, Pankaj Sharma, will participate in a high-level roundtable later today.

“The release of our reports comes at a crucial time, as the IEA conference highlights the transformative power of AI in the energy sector. As a company and as researchers, we are committed to keep shaping the future of energy and climate solutions”, stated Vincent Petit, Climate and Energy Transition Research SVP at Schneider Electric.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider’s purpose is to create Impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency.

We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers.

We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a sustainable future for all.

www.se.com

Discover the newest perspectives shaping sustainability, electricity 4.0, and next-generation automation on Schneider Electric Insights.

At Covia, we believe in being there for our people – not just as an employer, but as a resource to support them personally and professionally. We strive to be there for our employees in both prosperous times and challenging moments, the latter of which is why we launched the Covia Cares Emergency Relief Fund.

When natural disasters strike or unexpected hardships occur, having a dedicated support system can make a massive difference. Read on to discover how the Emergency Relief Fund allows Covia to provide more direct, timely support for those affected by Hurricane Helene and other unforeseen hardships.

Adding Support Options for Employees in Times of Need

We established The Covia Foundation in 2008 to support our employees in every aspect of their lives. That commitment is why the Foundation continues to evolve as Covia’s employees’ needs change over time.

The seeds of the Emergency Relief Fund were planted in 2017 following Hurricane Harvey’s devastating impact on the Houston area. Recognizing the immediate needs of these communities, Covia established a fund to provide financial support for employees affected by federally declared natural disasters.

As the program grew, so did the desire to expand its capabilities. Covia partnered with the Emergency Assistance Foundation (EAF) so that we could provide timely support for events beyond federally declared natural disasters. This partnership allowed current employees in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada to apply for up to $1,500 in assistance for other life-changing events, such as a house fire or a death in the family. The EAF’s expertise in this area allows the Fund to turn around grants for immediate assistance.

Employees also do not need to sacrifice their privacy to benefit from this aid. All applications are handled confidentially through EAF, with Covia’s role limited to verifying current employment status. This process ensures our employees can seek assistance without hesitation when facing difficult circumstances.

Providing Immediate Support Following Hurricane Helene

While The Emergency Relief Fund gave Covia employees an avenue for support, Hurricane Helene was particularly overwhelming. Torrential rain and 100 mile-per-hour winds ravaged the Southeastern portion of the U.S., leaving entire communities without food and power. The unpredictability of the storm also made it difficult for people to properly prepare for the damage, as Helene’s path ended up impacting areas that were not originally forecast to be in its path.

“The devastating effects of Hurricane Helene challenged many people, including Covia team members in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia,” said Bruno Biasiotta, President and Chief Executive Officer of Covia. “When our people face unexpected challenges, we want them to know they’re not alone – they have the full support of the Covia family behind them.”

Covia created the Immediate Response Program (IRP) in response to Helene. The IRP provided $500 payments within 24 hours to employees affected by federally declared natural disasters. This program allowed more than 40 Covia employees who were in the path of the hurricane to focus on what matters most – caring for themselves and their families while beginning the recovery process. Navigating recovery efforts is an exhausting process, both physically and emotionally. The IRP was another step that Covia could take to prioritize the well-being of our employees.

Building a Culture of Support Throughout Covia

The Emergency Relief Fund exemplifies The Covia Foundation’s broader mission of supporting our employees and communities throughout life’s journey. While our other foundation initiatives focus on advancement and growth, the Emergency Relief Fund stands ready to provide crucial support during unexpected challenges.

We are also proud that a culture of community support is prevalent throughout our company. Covia employees were actively involved in recovery efforts, such as when Adam Beatty, Senior Plant Manager of Covia’s North American clay operations, and the team at Covia’s Hephzibah, Georgia, location rallied to support others while the region was without power for nearly two weeks. The Hephzibah team opened the plant following the storm to help employees fuel cars, and let the city borrow a front-end loader to clear fallen trees and debris blocking the roads.

While we may not be able to avoid natural disasters and other personal hardships, we do have control over how we respond to these challenging times. Our commitment to supporting our people remains unwavering, and The Covia Foundation continues to evolve as a result. The Emergency Relief Fund represents more than just financial assistance – it is a testament to our belief that we are stronger together, especially during life’s most challenging moments.

Our purpose is what unites us at Henkel North America: Pioneers at heart for the good of generations. Our pioneering spirit is reflective of the diverse backgrounds, experiences and talents of our employees and partners. They dare to make an impact on the world by collaborating to tackle challenges, find solutions and open new perspectives. Their contributions allow us to deliver products, services and innovations that enrich and improve everyday life. We invite you to “meet” our pioneers in our series, “Pioneers for Good.”

As pioneers dedicated to the well-being of future generations, we are passionate about giving back to our local community and contributing to a better world. This International Volunteer Day, Henkel celebrates our employees’ caring spirit and recognizes their impact on communities.

Volunteering is part of a legacy of care upon which Henkel was founded. It remains our call to action to reimagine what communities can look like and then work to help them thrive. Employees dedicate their time and energy to meaningful causes close to their hearts. Their commitments help to advance equity and inclusion, from STEM education to fighting food insecurity, homelessness, cancer, and more.

They organize volunteer efforts with non-profit organizations from local foodbanks to national organizations such United Way so employees have the opportunity to volunteer for a few hours or a full day.

Henkel is proud to support our employees’ volunteerism through our Make an Impact on Tomorrow (MIT) initiative which provides financial and in-kind donations to the non-profit organizations they support, as well as paid time off for employees who volunteer.

Hear From our Dedicated Volunteers:

“Henkel’s encouragement of volunteerism has shaped my experience, fostering a culture of empathy, teamwork, and impact. Community Impact Day empowers us to give back, bringing colleagues together with a shared purpose to make a lasting difference. It’s a true reflection of being pioneers at heart.” – Elif Affan, Director of Strategic Program Management, Sustainability & Employee Experience

“Being a pioneer for good means leading by example to drive positive contributions to our organization and in the community. Our culture prioritizes making strong bonds and connections within the community and inspires our employees to feel a greater purpose beyond the impact they make in their day-to-day role.”– Francis O’Hea, Director of Inside Sales, Henkel Adhesive Technologies

We’re excited to share a glimpse of our employees’ caring spirit and volunteer efforts this year and look forward to supporting more community impact in 2025!

Our purpose is what unites us at Henkel North America: Pioneers at heart for the good of generations. Our pioneering spirit is reflective of the diverse backgrounds, experiences and talents of our employees and partners. They dare to make an impact on the world by collaborating to tackle challenges, find solutions and open new perspectives. Their contributions allow us to deliver products, services and innovations that enrich and improve everyday life. We invite you to “meet” our pioneers in our series, “Pioneers for Good.”

As pioneers dedicated to the well-being of future generations, we are passionate about giving back to our local community and contributing to a better world. This International Volunteer Day, Henkel celebrates our employees’ caring spirit and recognizes their impact on communities.

Volunteering is part of a legacy of care upon which Henkel was founded. It remains our call to action to reimagine what communities can look like and then work to help them thrive. Employees dedicate their time and energy to meaningful causes close to their hearts. Their commitments help to advance equity and inclusion, from STEM education to fighting food insecurity, homelessness, cancer, and more.

They organize volunteer efforts with non-profit organizations from local foodbanks to national organizations such United Way so employees have the opportunity to volunteer for a few hours or a full day.

Henkel is proud to support our employees’ volunteerism through our Make an Impact on Tomorrow (MIT) initiative which provides financial and in-kind donations to the non-profit organizations they support, as well as paid time off for employees who volunteer.

Hear From our Dedicated Volunteers:

“Henkel’s encouragement of volunteerism has shaped my experience, fostering a culture of empathy, teamwork, and impact. Community Impact Day empowers us to give back, bringing colleagues together with a shared purpose to make a lasting difference. It’s a true reflection of being pioneers at heart.” – Elif Affan, Director of Strategic Program Management, Sustainability & Employee Experience

“Being a pioneer for good means leading by example to drive positive contributions to our organization and in the community. Our culture prioritizes making strong bonds and connections within the community and inspires our employees to feel a greater purpose beyond the impact they make in their day-to-day role.”– Francis O’Hea, Director of Inside Sales, Henkel Adhesive Technologies

We’re excited to share a glimpse of our employees’ caring spirit and volunteer efforts this year and look forward to supporting more community impact in 2025!

The Motorola Solutions Foundation is committed to solving for safer cities and equitable, thriving communities, notably through strategic partnerships with organizations dedicated to first responder programs, technology and engineering education and programs that combine both. In this new Grant Partner Spotlight Series, we’re showcasing the incredible work of our grant partners who share this mission, highlighting their stories and their impact. 

Losing a loved one in the line of duty is a devastating experience, leaving families grappling with grief and uncertainty. For surviving families, this emotional turmoil is often compounded by financial concerns, especially the cost of higher education. And as those costs continue to rise, with the average tuition cost of a public institution in the U.S. hovering at $27,100 per year,[1] support for these families becomes increasingly crucial.

This is where organizations like the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation (CFFF) and Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) bridge this gap by offering educational and vocational support.

Since its inception, the NFFF Enhanced Scholarship Initiative has helped over 1,450 individuals from diverse backgrounds and regions across the U.S. achieve post-secondary education and training. “I’ve been able to direct my full attention to my clients and my education instead of alleviating my financial burden,” said Courtney Quiroz, NFFF scholarship recipient and stepdaughter of fallen Captain Anthony Lynn (Tony) Grider.

The CFFF supports the educational aspirations of children and spouses of fallen firefighters across Canada. The program maintains a year-round application process, collaborating with fire service groups and unions to proactively identify and support families in need. Since 2010, the CFFF Education Program has awarded 12 bursaries and 18 scholarships to deserving students. Cassidy Mann, CFFF scholarship recipient and daughter of fallen firefighter Richard Mann, shared, “I am very grateful to the CFFF for generously helping me afford my education, which allows me to focus on my career goals.”

The C.O.P.S. Scholarship Program has been a cornerstone of support for surviving children and spouses of fallen police officers, awarding 626 students across the U.S. and Puerto Rico since its founding in 1993. Ashley Delorenzo, C.O.P.S. scholarship recipient and daughter of fallen Officer Jeremy Wilkins, is one semester away from her associate’s degree in nursing. “This program has carried me through my grief, and in a way, I am sad that it is almost over,” said Delorenzo.

Beyond scholarships, these grant partners are dedicated to fostering holistic student success. The NFFF Scholarship Initiative has demonstrated its positive impact on academic performance, with half of the recipients either maintaining or improving their GPAs. Furthermore, it has ignited a burgeoning interest in STEM and public safety fields. Through these efforts, they ensure consistent access to educational opportunities. Meanwhile, the C.O.P.S. Scholarship Program goes beyond financial assistance by encouraging recipients to pursue further professional development opportunities, like internships and certifications, instilling a sense of empowerment and opening doors to future possibilities for its recipients.

The NFFF, the CFFF and C.O.P.S. are beacons of hope for families navigating profound loss. By providing access to higher education, these organizations empower recipients to pursue new and fulfilling opportunities while honoring the memory of their fallen loved ones. The Motorola Solutions Foundation is proud to partner with these impactful institutions.

[1] U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics

Originally published on PSEG ENERGIZE!

It’s that time of year again: the leaves have fallen, holiday decorations are on display and while the air grows colder, our hearts grow warmer. The season of giving has arrived, reminding us that comforts we often take for granted – like a cozy home, clean clothes or a warm meal – aren’t always guaranteed for everyone.

That’s why our PSEG Foundation is proud to support a variety of organizations that have made a difference in our communities throughout the year. Keep reading to learn about a handful of the many organizations we work with to help brighten our communities.

We’re proud to stand with our veterans, honoring their service and supporting them in meaningful ways. For many veterans, finding an affordable place to call home can be a challenge. That’s where Community Hope steps in. As New Jersey’s largest nonprofit serving unhoused veterans and their families, this wonderful organization is making a real difference – and we’re thrilled to help support their mission.

Through our 2024 Neighborhood Partners Program, we’ve provided funding to help support Community Hope’s life-changing services. From transitional housing to permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention, these programs are giving veterans and their families the stability and support they deserve. Together, we’re building stronger communities – and brighter futures – for those who’ve given so much.

We’re also proud to support another incredible long-standing partner serving veterans in our community: Thomas Edison State University. With a two-year, $100,000 grant from the PSEG Foundation, the TESU Foundation’s Military and Veteran Scholarship Fund has been a lifeline for military students and veterans pursuing their education. A total of 50 scholarships have been awarded to support our heroes.

“The PSEG Military and Veteran Scholarship I was awarded for the June 2024 semester paid for the tuition and study materials I needed to enroll in a 3-credit history course,” said S. Shamy, retired Army veteran. “I am thankful for the contributions PSEG has made to help me complete my degree program!”

Additionally, we’ve been partnering with the Volunteer Lawyers for Justice since 2014 by supporting its Veterans Legal Program. This program provides free legal services, including virtual legal clinics, legal wellness checks and assists veterans experiencing legal issues. Our attorneys and support staff volunteer regularly for the program and provide life-changing services for the 338,000 New Jersey veterans they serve.

In October, Matt Jokajtys, managing counsel at PSEG, along with a small number of other pro bono leaders, was named a Defender of Justice at VLJ’s gala. Additionally, VLJ nominated PSEG, along with Gibbons and McCarter & English to receive the Pro Bono Institute’s Corporate Pro Bono Award.

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

This year’s Aflac Holiday Duck holds extra special meaning for two employees whose spicey idea helped spark the 2024 theme. Dressed as a holiday baker complete with a festive plaid apron and baker’s hat, this year’s collectible plush holds in its wings a gingerbread man cookie — something Aflac employees Judy Davis and Miguel Cubas knew over a year ago would be a-dough-rable.

In a call for ideas for the next Aflac Holiday Duck, Davis, a Quality Assurance and Risk manager, and Cubas, a Systems engineer, submitted “anything gingerbread” and “gingerbread duck” — both drawing from special memories of the holiday treat.

“My mom passed away a few years ago, and she always had a gingerbread theme for Christmas,” said Davis. “This year’s holiday duck will be one of the most memorable things of my 38 years working with Aflac.”

Cubas and his girlfriend, also an Aflac employee, have their own tradition of baking gingerbread cookies each year for the holidays.

Since 2001, net proceeds from the Aflac Holiday Duck program have contributed to more than $4 million donated to hospitals across the country that treat children with cancer and blood disorders. The 2024 Holiday Duck can be purchased, while supplies last, at AflacChildhoodCancer.org.

Z2401081 EXP 11/25

Industrial fires involving transformers, batteries, and light ballasts pose serious risks, not just during the event but also long after the flames are extinguished. These fires release hazardous substances, damage property, and disrupt operations. While prevention is crucial, it’s equally important to address the often-overlooked challenge of cleanup and remediation following such incidents.

Understanding the Hazards of Transformer, Battery, and Light Ballast Fires 

Fires involving these components can leave behind more than just physical damage:

Transformers may release harmful polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), hydrocarbons, and other toxic residues, especially if they are older models.Batteries, particularly lithium-ion and lead-acid types, can leak dangerous chemicals such as sulfuric acid or lithium compounds, which pose risks to both human health and the environment.Light ballasts, especially pre-1979 models, may contain PCBs or other hazardous materials, creating a toxic cleanup scenario.

These materials can contaminate soil, water, and air, complicating cleanup efforts and requiring specialized expertise to manage safely and efficiently.

The Complexity of Post-Fire Cleanup and Remediation 

If your business relies on transformers, batteries, or light ballasts, understanding the post-fire challenges is essential to ensure safety, compliance, and business continuity. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Hazard Identification

The first step is identifying the specific hazards left behind. Fire residues can include:

Acid leaks from lead-acid batteries that corrode surfaces and create unsafe working conditions.Thermal damage to lithium-ion batteries, which can release flammable gases or reignite if improperly handled.PCB contamination from transformers and light ballasts, requiring specialized handling and disposal processes.

Conducting a thorough environmental assessment is essential to pinpoint contamination levels and determine the appropriate response.

2. Specialized Waste Management

The hazardous nature of fire byproducts often mandates strict compliance with environmental regulations for disposal. For example:

Acid-neutralizing agents may be required to safely clean up lead-acid battery spills.Damaged lithium-ion batteries must be stored and transported in accordance with fire safety guidelines to prevent further incidents.PCB-contaminated materials must be removed by certified professionals and disposed of at authorized facilities.

Failure to adhere to these standards can result in regulatory penalties and increased liability.

3. Environmental and Operational Impact

Fires can significantly affect surrounding environments:

Leaking chemicals can contaminate groundwater or local ecosystems, requiring long-term monitoring and remediation.Airborne particulates and toxic gases may require indoor air quality assessments and ventilation system cleaning.

For businesses, these impacts can delay reopening, prolong downtime, and erode customer trust.

4. Worker and Community Safety

Post-fire environments often remain hazardous for workers and nearby communities. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE), detailed safety protocols, and clear communication plans are necessary to ensure safety during cleanup operations.

Steps to Effective Post-Fire Management 

To mitigate the long-term effects of transformers, battery, and light ballast fires, businesses should implement a structured approach to cleanup and remediation:

Engage Incident Management Experts: Specialists can assess the scene, identify hazards, and create a tailored remediation plan to ensure regulatory compliance and worker safety.Develop a Cleanup Strategy: This includes waste categorization, decontamination protocols, and the safe removal and disposal of damaged components.Restore Operations Safely: Conduct air quality testing, infrastructure assessments, and equipment replacements to ensure a safe and efficient return to business.Monitor for Residual Impact: Implement long-term monitoring programs to detect any delayed environmental or operational effects.

The Road to Effective Recovery 

Fires involving transformers, batteries, and light ballasts create complex challenges that extend far beyond the immediate event. Understanding the hazards, addressing them safely, and planning for long-term recovery are critical steps to minimizing the impact on your business and the environment. By taking a structured, informed approach to cleanup and remediation, companies can ensure a safer and more sustainable recovery process, protecting their employees, assets, and community for the future.

Navigating these complexities can be daunting, but partnering with experienced incident management professionals can make all the difference. Reach out to our Incident Management (AIM) team today!

Lenovo is committed to circularity and supporting our customers to achieve their net zero targets. That’s why we developed and launched our Certified Refurbished Solution in Denmark.

While France is leading the way when it comes to the sale of refurbished technology, mandating the need for 20% of IT devices bought by organisations to be refurbished, my own region covering the Nordic countries is also picking up steam.

We’re finding that customers want to engage with tech providers who can provide an end-to-end sustainability offering. Asset recovery services are becoming increasingly popular, as companies look to meet their own sustainability goals, with a single-source solution for the secure, documented disposal of IT hardware and data.

Lenovo’s Certified Refurbished is another step when it comes to end-to-end sustainability, making a big difference to product lifecycles by giving older devices a second or third lease of life.

The difference that refurbished equipment can make

Refurbished devices are an ideal fit for plenty of organisations or departments, specifically where huge amounts of processing power are not a requirement. This could be employees in back office jobs, managing administrative tasks, or operating from warehouses, for example.

With Lenovo’s Certified Refurbished we refurbish our best-in-class PCs and Servers, certify them, and extend their lifespan – all while retaining high levels of quality, security, and performance.

It’s a rigorous refurbishment process, with every device securely data sanitised and tested to ensure it meets Lenovo’s high standards of excellence and functionality. Once a device passes, it gets an official Lenovo Certification. This is only offered by Lenovo and accredited partners, guaranteeing that our refurbished devices can be depended on.

Devices sold through Lenovo Certified Refurbished are on average around three or four years old, but the use of original parts where necessary during the refurbishment results in an entirely new lease of life, with all our PCs being Windows-11 ready.

Lenovo Certified Refurbished devices also come with a standard one-year warranty with options to extend to up to three years, providing customers with peace of mind. This ensures reliability and access to Lenovo’s support infrastructure, along with benefit of reducing waste.

Giving a new life to older devices can make a huge difference to the environment. By refurbishing equipment, we can extend the lifecycle of technology, significantly lowering the carbon footprint of that product.

Making refurbishment more mainstream

Lenovo rolled out Certified Refurbished in Denmark earlier this year to support organisations in their drive for IT sustainability.

Denmark already has a strong commitment to sustainability, from the widespread use of sustainable energy to cycle-friendly cities. Denmark is also one of Europe’s leading recyclers, being the first country in the world to introduce a law on recycling, mandating that at least 50% of all paper and beverage packaging should be recycled way back in 1978.

This makes Denmark an ideal candidate for Certified Refurbished, but we also chose the country as a starting point as it’s currently looking to reform how organisations buy and manage older devices. Denmark’s public national procurement agency, SKI, announced a public tender in 2023 to help drive the implementation of refurbished devices, with the system set to roll out in the next couple of years.

We wanted to be at the forefront, and we are gathering feedback, learning, and adjusting our offerings all the time to meet the needs and sustainability goals of customers.

Why Certified Refurbished is important to Lenovo

Taking responsibility and helping to extend the lifecycles of our products isn’t just important from a business point of view – it’s key that whenever we sell a new device, we have the potential to give a second or third life to that device.

It’s important to our own sustainability ambitions and ESG strategy, along with making a positive difference for our customers and the environment.

At present, refurbished devices make up a small proportion of the technology market. According to Statista, the global refurbished PC market size amounted to less than five billion USD in 2022, compared to around 220 billion USD for the overall market. By 2031, the refurbished market is forecast to reach a value of 11.8 billion USD.

With Lenovo Certified Refurbished, we are adding another important building block to our overall commitment to support our customers journey towards meeting their net zero targets.