Tag: PR Newswire

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Pan-African Progressive Front welcomes the decisions adopted at the 39th Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa on February 14–15, emphasizing the need for international acknowledgment of responsibility for the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism. Under the theme ‘Ensuring Sustainable Access to Water and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,’ the summit brought together African leaders.

They discussed not only environmental and economic challenges but also historical justice. The issue of reparations for the colonial period is reaching its concluding stage — through the continent’s institutional mechanisms, without Europe’s involvement.

Africa built a legal foundation step by step. It began with Paragraph 884 of the AU decision from February 2024, which declared 2025 the Year of Justice for Africans through Reparations for Slavery, Colonialism, and Apartheid. The Executive Council prepared the resolution, and the 39th Assembly Session approved it unanimously. Late in 2025, Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, appointed AU Coordinator for Reparations, announced:

‘On March 25, 2026 — the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade — Ghana, with co-sponsors and AU support, will present the resolution to the UN General Assembly.’

The document recognizes the transatlantic slave trade as the most monstrous crime against humanity.

The summit opened in a solemn atmosphere, focusing on strategic priorities, peace, and security, including progress in building the African Peace and Security Architecture. One key event was the election of new AU leadership for 2026: Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye succeeded Angola’s João Lourenço as Chairperson.

European diplomacy miscalculated, believing its formal responses would suffice. While Brussels debated, the AU built mechanisms, prepared legal frameworks, and strengthened ties with the Caribbean Community. Now, former colonial powers seek compromises — from France’s restitution laws to London’s calls for ‘new formats of dialogue.’

“This initiative is not directed against any country. Its goal is truth, recognition, and reconciliation,” President Mahama stressed.

The resolution will be a cornerstone for further AU actions, opening a dialogue where the Africa–Caribbean coalition forms a majority and defines new terms of global responsibility. The era of reparations has begun — Africa will finally demand compensation for the colonial period through the UN.

 

 

 

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SOURCE Pan-African Progressive Front – PPF

HYDERABAD, India, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Mordor Intelligence, a global leader in market research and advisory services, reports that the molded pulp packaging market size is valued at USD 5.71 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 7.05 billion by 2031, registering a 4.31% CAGR during the forecast period (2026 – 2031). 

Growing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions is transforming how goods are packaged across food & beverage, healthcare, electronics, and e-commerce industries. The molded pulp packaging market is benefiting from technological innovations in pulp molding, lightweight designs, and recycling processes, enabling companies to meet both regulatory standards and environmental commitments while expanding overall molded pulp packaging market share. 

According to Mordor Intelligence, increasing awareness of single-use plastic alternatives, coupled with regulatory support for biodegradable packaging, is driving long-term molded pulp packaging market growth. As manufacturers focus on process efficiency, material optimization, and sustainable sourcing, the molded pulp packaging market forecast indicates steady adoption across commercial and consumer-focused applications worldwide.   

Molded Pulp Packaging Market Trends Shaping the Future 

Rising Regulatory Pressure Boosts Adoption – New regulations on single-use plastics are reshaping priorities across the molded pulp packaging sector. Companies are turning to molded pulp not just for cost efficiency but to meet compliance requirements. Producers with in-house capabilities for tooling and certifications are better equipped to handle varying regional rules, giving them a competitive edge as the market moves toward greater scale and control. 

E-Commerce Drives Sustainable Packaging – The rise of e-commerce is pushing companies to adopt packaging that is fully recyclable and environmentally friendly. Traditional materials like foam and bubble wrap are being replaced by molded pulp solutions, which help retailers meet sustainability goals and maintain customer trust, even if they come at a slightly higher cost. 

“The molded pulp packaging market reflects steady expansion aligned with sustainability mandates and shifting material preferences across consumer and industrial applications.” says, Ashish Gautam, Senior Research Manager, Mordor Intelligence. “Our assessment applies consistent triangulation of company disclosures, trade data, and end-market indicators, offering decision-makers a transparent, comparable view grounded in verifiable evidence rather than assumption.” 

Segmentation of Molded Pulp Packaging Market 

By Fiber Type: 

• Recycled Fiber
• Virgin Fiber
• Blended Fiber 

By Product Type: 

• Trays
• Bowls and Cups
• Clamshells
• Plates
• Containers and Lids
• Other Product Types 

By Molded Type: 

• Thick Wall
• Transfer Molded
• Thermoformed
• Processed / Slim Wall 

By End-User Industry: 

• Food Packaging
• Foodservice
• Consumer Electronics
• Healthcare and Medical Devices
• Industrial Goods
• Personal Care and Cosmetics
• Other End-User Industries 

By Geography: 

• North America: 
  • United States 
  • Canada 
  • Mexico 
• Europe: 
  • Germany 
  • United Kingdom 
  • France 
  • Italy 
  • Spain 
  • Russia 
  • Rest of Europe 
• Asia-Pacific: 
  • China 
  • Japan 
  • India 
  • South Korea 
  • Australia 
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific 
• Middle East: 
  • Saudi Arabia 
  • United Arab Emirates 
  • Turkey 
  • Rest of Middle East 
• Africa: 
  • South Africa 
  • Nigeria 
  • Rest of Africa 
• South America: 
  • Brazil 
  • Argentina 
  • Rest of South America 

For a full breakdown of market size, segmentation data, and competitive intelligence, access all details of the Mordor Intelligence report: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/molded-pulp-packaging-market?utm_source=prnewswire 

Service Robotics Market Regional Outlook 
North America is seeing steady adoption of molded pulp packaging as retailers and policymakers push for sustainable alternatives to plastics. While certain applications are reaching maturity, regulations and recycling initiatives continue to support ongoing demand across the region. 

In the Middle East, growing government initiatives and sustainability programs are encouraging local investments in molded pulp production. This focus on building domestic supply chains is helping the region reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the market for eco-friendly packaging solutions. 

Leading Companies in the Molded Pulp Packaging Market 

The molded pulp packaging industry is competitive, with leading companies driving innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency.  
Major players such as:

1. BrødreneHartmann A/S 
2. Huhtamaki Oyj 
3. UFP Technologies, Inc. 
4. Sabert Corporation 
5. Sonoco Products Company  

These companies are expanding their offerings in biodegradable and recyclable solutions. These companies focus on process improvements, eco-friendly materials, and strategic partnerships, strengthening their positions in the global market and influencing overall industry growth. 

Check out related reports published by Mordor Intelligence: 

Liquid Packaging Market 

The liquid packaging market was valued at USD 406.99 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 528.4 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.36% during 2026–2031. Growth is driven by rising demand for packaged beverages and dairy products, expansion of retail channels, and increasing adoption of lightweight and sustainable packaging solutions. 

Plastic Sterilization Trays Market Growth 

The plastic sterilization trays market is expected to grow from USD 18.58 billion in 2026 to USD 25.12 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 6.22% over 2026–2031. Rising surgical procedures, infection control requirements, and expanding healthcare infrastructure are key factors supporting market growth. 

Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Market Share 

The eco-friendly food packaging market was valued at USD 211.78 billion in 2026 and is forecast to reach USD 288.33 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 6.36% during 2026–2031. Increasing environmental regulations, consumer preference for sustainable packaging, and innovations in biodegradable materials are accelerating market expansion. 

About Mordor Intelligence 

Mordor Intelligence is a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive and actionable market intelligence. Our global reach, expert team, and tailored solutions empower organizations and individuals to make informed decisions, navigate complex markets, and achieve their strategic goals. With a team of over 550 domain experts and on-ground specialists spanning 150+ countries, Mordor Intelligence possesses a unique understanding of the global business landscape. This expertise translates into comprehensive syndicated and custom research reports covering a wide spectrum of industries, including aerospace & defense, agriculture, animal nutrition and wellness, automation, automotive, chemicals & materials, consumer goods & services, electronics, energy & power, financial services, food & beverages, healthcare, hospitality & tourism, information & communications technology, investment opportunities, and logistics. 

For any inquiries, please contact: 
media@mordorintelligence.com 
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/contact-us 

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2746908/5830541/Mordor_Intelligence_Logo.jpg

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SOURCE Mordor Intelligence Private Limited

Strategic and institutional investors including Yara International back PlasmaLeap to develop Green Fertiliser Technology

• Funding supports first-of-a-kind on-farm fertiliser deployments in Australia, and advances core technology for eFuels & industrial chemicals products.
• Technology addresses emissions from ammonia and nitrogen fertiliser production, a large source of CO2 globally.

SYDNEY, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PlasmaLeap Technologies, the Australian company pioneering zero-emissions production of ammonia and nitric acid, has secured almost A$30 million (US$20 million) in new funding from a group of strategic and institutional investors, which was led by the Gates Foundation, Investible and Yara Growth Ventures, the venture arm of Yara International, a world leading integrated nitrogen fertilisers producer.

The Series A round, which closed in January, also included Twynam, GrainCorp Ventures, Uniseed/UniSuper, Artesian, SVG Ventures and Agnition Ventures, part of New Zealand fertiliser co-operative Ravensdown. The proceeds will be used to progress first-of-a-kind fertiliser hubs in New South Wales and Tasmania, expand field trials, and further develop PlasmaLeap’s core technology. Funding will also support longer-term applications in sustainable fuels and energy systems.

PlasmaLeap’s technology, which was spun out of the University of Sydney, enables farmers to produce sustainable nitrogen fertiliser directly on their farms or at local hubs, reducing emissions, input costs, and supply-chain dependency. Nitrogen fertiliser production, transport, and application accounts for a significant share of global industrial emissions (~2.5% global CO2e)^[1], driven by fossil fuel-intensive manufacturing, long-haul transport, and chemical losses at the crop. Moreover, fertiliser access and cost vary dramatically across the globe, with the retail price in certain parts of sub-Saharan Africa being nearly double the world fob^[2] price, due to issues around importation, logistics, and financing.

“The backing of these strategic and institutional investors is strong validation of both the PlasmaLeap technology and the scale of the opportunity,” said Frere Byrne, CEO & Co-founder of PlasmaLeap. “This funding allows us to move from successful trials into real-world deployment, demonstrating how clean, decentralised fertiliser and chemical production can transform agriculture, reduce emissions and guarantee sovereign security of critical resources like food and fuel.”

“PlasmaLeap has developed a breakthrough platform for fertiliser with lower CO2 emissions, delivering step-change improvements in energy efficiency. We see strong potential for this technology to scale competitively and reduce the climate impact of farming,” said Stian Nygaard, Investment Director at Yara Growth Ventures.

“Decarbonized and distributed liquid nitrogen production is the new frontier in agriculture. The PlasmaLeap technology can unlock opportunities for scaling-up fertigation and precision farming globally,” said Martin Debaig, Fertigation Director at Yara International. 

“PlasmaLeap is unlike anything we’ve seen in the green ammonia space and their technology is defining a new category in distributed sustainable fertiliser production. We first met the team through Greenhouse Tech Hub. As our tenth investment in a Greenhouse member, it reinforces our model of pairing early access and capital with a purpose-built innovation ecosystem,” said Ben Lindsay, Investment Principal at Investible.

The global market for ammonia, the primary ingredient in most nitrogen fertilisers, is worth approximately US$69 billion a year^[3], and projected to triple in size over the next 20 years.

PlasmaLeap’s patented reactor technology produces ammonia and nitrate using only air, water and renewable electricity. The company’s modular systems are scalable and designed to integrate with existing fertiliser supply chains.

The technology has the potential to improve national food security, reduce exposure to international price shocks, and reduce and stabilise input costs for growers. This capability becomes increasingly critical as resource availability and geopolitical instability continue to impact global fertiliser markets.

It is also expected to generate high quality carbon credits through the decarbonisation benefits it brings through production, transport and application-related emissions reduction. PlasmaLeap is considering a number of carbon standard methodologies that may be applied to credit generation from its technology.

PlasmaLeap continues to advance its technology platform with a focus on efficiency, scalability and commercial deployment. It also has potential to produce synthetic hydrocarbons from biogas, syngas, or other low-carbon feedstocks, supporting decarbonisation pathways for hard-to-abate sectors.

–Ends–

About PlasmaLeap:

PlasmaLeap designs, manufactures, and distributes the world’s most advanced zero-emissions modular chemical reactors for hard-to-abate industries including agriculture, energy, and transport. Our mission is to build accessible, sustainable technology for global fuel and chemical production. Headquartered in Sydney, PlasmaLeap’s state-of-the-art chemical plants are disrupting the chemical sector, using only air, water and electricity to create valuable fuels, fertilisers, and industrial chemicals with marked-leading energy performance and production rates. PlasmaLeap is a grant recipient of The Gates Foundation, the 2025 winner of SVG Thrive, a finalist in Petronas Future Tech 4.0, and a 2024 Australian nominee for the Earthshot prize.

[1] International Fertiliser Association data.

[2] Free on Board.

[3] Arkwright Market Study 2021.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/plasmaleap-raises-a30-million-to-accelerate-zero-emissions-production-of-fertilisers-and-fuels-302700996.html

SOURCE PlasmaLeap Technologies

NEW YORK, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Blueprint Capital Advisors is thrilled to announce the 2026 Power100 list of Angels. This category seeks to amplify and recognize the efforts of those that work for some of the industry’s largest and most successful asset management firms and financial institutions. These individuals are leading by example and leveraging their position and platform in ways that benefit others. They recognize that to whom much is given much is required and we deeply appreciate their courage, leadership, and dedication to reshaping our industry.

2026 Power100 Angels include:

• Kofi Ampadu, Independent
• Indhira Arrington, Ares Management Corporation
• Paula Campbell Roberts, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR)
• Michael Carmen, Wellington Management
• Michael Carter, Truist
• Ahtis Davis, Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA)
• Jack Dorsey, Block Inc.
• S. Omar Eissa, Bank of America
• Tosh Ernest, Silicon Valley Bank
• Derek Ferguson, Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA)
• Kourtney Gibson, Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA)
• Hilary Gosher, Insight Partners
• Reid Hoffman, Greylock Partners
• Megan Holston-Alexander, Andreessen Horowitz (a16z)
• Sekou Kaalund, U.S. Bank
• Josh Kopelman, First Round
• Jillian Long, The Carlyle Group
• Christopher Lyons, Andreessen Horowitz (a16z)
• Matthew McCue, FIN News
• Bryan Moynihan, Bank of America
• Colbert Narcisse, Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA)
• Racquel Oden, HSBC
• Alexis Ohanian, Seven Seven Six
• Ndu Okereke, The D.E. Shaw Group
• Shanna O’Reilly, Wellington Management
• Orley Pacheco, Independent
• Patricia Pacheco, Bank of America
• Kerone Peat Vatel, Capital One
• Ladell Robbins, BlackRock Alternative Investors
• Elliott Robinson, Bessemer Venture Partners
• Fred Royall III, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
• Mariela Salas, Colibri Strategies
• Jonathan Simon, Apollo Global Management
• Kurt Summers, Blackstone
• Fred Terrell, Wells Fargo
• Alice Vilma, Morgan Stanley
• Alan Waxman, Sixth Street Growth
• Richard Wells, Insight Partners
• Fred Wilson, Union Square Ventures
• LaToya Wilson, Morgan Stanley
• Shawn Wooden, Apollo Global Management
• Ed Zimmerman, First Close Partners

“The Angels category recognizes individuals whose influence extends far beyond capital deployment,” said Jacob Walthour, CEO at Blueprint Capital Advisors. “These leaders have consistently shown up — as backers, advisors, connectors, and believers — long before it was popular or comfortable to do so. The 2026 Angels understand that investing in people is one of the most powerful ways to shape the future of our industry.”

“The Angels category celebrates those who understand that meaningful change in private markets requires proximity, trust, and long-term commitment,” said Erica Madrid, Executive Director of Power100. “These honorees have invested not only capital, but time, mentorship, and credibility into the next generation of leaders.”

Additional Power100 categories—including Allocators, Asset Gatherers, Asset Managers, and Advisors—will be announced in the coming weeks.

The 2026 Power100 Honorees will be formally celebrated at the 3rd Annual Power100 Honoree Dinner on May 3, 2026, at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, in Beverly Hills, California. The 2026 Honoree Weekend will take place May 2–4, 2026, coinciding with the week of the Milken Institute Global Conference, but organized independently by Blueprint Capital Advisors.

Additional information about Power100 is available by visiting www.power100family.com.

About Blueprint Capital Advisors

Blueprint Capital Advisors is an investment advisory firm focused on identifying and supporting high-performing managers across the institutional investment ecosystem. Through its Power100 platform, Blueprint highlights leaders whose work continues to influence the future of capital markets.

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SOURCE Blueprint Capital Advisors

FREDERICK, Md., March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On Our Own of Frederick County announced today, that it has been approved for $192,578.32 through the Rural Advancement for Maryland Peers (RAMP) grant program administered by the Maryland Department of Labor, supporting a project titled “The Peer Empowerment Partnership: Bilingual Pathways to Recovery and Employment.” Funding February 1, 2026.

On Our Own of Frederick County will implement this project in partnership with Spanish Speaking Community of Maryland (SSCM), with a primary focus on the Maryland Frederick “ENOUGH” area in the Golden Mile economic corridor of Frederick County—strengthening rural access to peer-led recovery supports and workforce pathways, especially for individuals and families who are best served through bilingual and culturally responsive engagement.

“Peer support is built on hope, relationship, and lived experience,” said Neil Donnelly, Executive Director of On Our Own of Frederick County. “This RAMP grant helps us expand bilingual pathways to recovery and employment—so more people can access support that is welcoming, respectful, and grounded in dignity—particularly in communities where the need is high and access can be limited.”

Maria Herrera, Executive Director of Spanish Speaking Community of Maryland, added: “This partnership is about truly meeting people where they are—in their language, their culture, and within the realities they navigate every day. By focusing on the ENOUGH area of the Golden Mile, we are intentionally reaching Spanish-speaking families where trust matters most, connecting them to peer support, vital resources, and meaningful pathways toward stability, wellness, and renewed opportunity.”

The Maryland Department of Labor, Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning, approved the award and noted the program’s goal to help expand the rural peer recovery workforce and enhance access to behavioral health services across Maryland.

What this means for Frederick County and Maryland’s peer community

Through The Peer Empowerment Partnership: Bilingual Pathways to Recovery and Employment, On Our Own of Frederick County and SSCM will work to:

• Expand peer recovery workforce pathways and employment supports in rural communities
• Strengthen bilingual outreach and engagement so more individuals can access peer-led recovery support
• Increase connection to community-based behavioral health and recovery resources
• Concentrate implementation and learning in the Frederick ENOUGH area to better reach underserved residents
• Share best practices and learnings with Maryland’s peer-led network to strengthen the field statewide

“This is a meaningful win for the peer recovery movement in Maryland,” Donnelly added. “We’re grateful to the Maryland Department of Labor and to the many peer leaders and partners who make this work possible. We look forward to sharing outcomes and lessons learned with On Our Own of Maryland’s affiliated peer network so this investment can strengthen the broader field.”

Call to our peer network (On Our Own of Maryland affiliates)

On Our Own of Frederick County and SSCM will share implementation updates, learnings, and early outcomes as the project launches. Affiliates interested in collaborating, sharing best practices, or exploring bilingual peer pathway models—especially those serving similar economic corridors—are encouraged to connect.

About On Our Own of Frederick County

On Our Own of Frederick County is a peer-led Wellness and Recovery Center serving adults with mental health and substance use challenges through peer support, groups, community connection, and recovery-oriented services grounded in lived experience.

About Spanish Speaking Community of Maryland (SSCM)

Spanish Speaking Community of Maryland works to support and empower Spanish-speaking individuals and families through culturally responsive services, community connection, and advocacy—bridging access to resources that strengthen wellness, stability, and opportunity.

About RAMP

Rural Advancement for Maryland Peers (RAMP) is a funding initiative supporting expansion of the rural peer recovery workforce and improving access to behavioral health supports across Maryland.

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SOURCE On Our Own of Frederick County

TEMPE, Ariz., March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As the crack of the bat returns to ballparks across the country, Veteran Tickets Foundation (Vet Tix) is officially kicking off its 2026 baseball campaign. This launch follows a historic 2025 season in which the organization distributed over 600,000 free tickets to Major League, Minor League, and collegiate baseball and softball games.

Through its Vet Tix and 1st Tix platforms, the nonprofit provided veterans, service members, and first responders with access to everything from local community diamonds to marquee matchups, including the World Series.

“Today is my son’s 13th birthday so this game between the Dodgers and DBacks at Salt River Fields was a blessing. I would love to thank those who donated to veterans for giving us a chance to experience and the opportunity to give my son the memory of a lifetime. Once again, thank you to the big-hearted donor.” Martin, U.S. Marine 1988-92

“Baseball is a cornerstone of the Vet Tix experience,” said Michael A. Focareto, Vet Tix Founder, CEO, and U.S. Navy veteran. “With over 2.6 million members, we see firsthand how a day at the ballpark helps reduce stress and creates lasting family memories. Whether through generous team or season ticket holder donations, our goal is to ensure our heroes and their families are in those seats for the biggest moments of the 2026 season.”

The complete Vet Tix story and additional testimonials: https://ddeck.io/683e074dd34be81b3d6a59f6

As stadium lights turn on and the sound of the fans cheering echoes once again, Vet Tix and 1st Tix remain committed to expanding access and creating unforgettable moments for current serving military, Veterans, and first responder families throughout the 2026 season.

Because for our nation’s heroes, there’s nothing quite like hearing: “Play Ball”!

About VET TIX

Veteran Tickets Foundation (Vet Tix) is the largest veteran service organization in the United States. As a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Vet Tix provides free tickets to sporting events, concerts, performing arts, and family activities to veterans of all eras, currently serving military members, and immediate family members of those killed in action.

Since 2008, Vet Tix has distributed over 35 million free event tickets to over 2.5 million members. In 2018, Vet Tix launched 1st Tix, which provides the same benefit to our nation’s first responders, including current and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, and 911 Dispatchers.

These events help Vet Tix and 1st Tix members, and their families help reduce stress, strengthen family bonds, build lifelong memories, and encourage them to stay engaged with American life and their local communities. Vet Tix remains committed to fiscal responsibility, spending over 99 percent of its revenue on its programs, ensuring we give back to those who have given so much.

Visit VetTix.org (https://www.vettix.org/) and 1stTix.org (https://www.1sttix.org/) to learn more.

For more information Al Maag Vet Tix Public Relations 602-363-6038 al.maag@maagcommplus.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/veteran-tickets-foundation-gears-up-for-baseball-season-after-distributing-600-000-tickets-in-2025–302701436.html

SOURCE Veteran Tickets Foundation

Up to $500,000 Per Grant Available to Support Sustainable Five-Year Programs

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR) is now accepting applications for the Regional Recycling and Edible Food Recovery Grant, a competitive five-year grant program designed to expand edible food recovery infrastructure and support statewide recycling and waste-reduction mandates.

Through the grant program, OCWR seeks to strengthen partnerships with Orange County Edible Food Recovery Organizations (EFROs), nonprofit organizations, jurisdictions, and other eligible entities to increase the recovery of surplus edible food for human consumption, reduce landfill disposal, and support compliance with California Senate Bill (SB) 1383. The program also supports innovative recycling and waste-reduction initiatives that benefit communities throughout Orange County.

“This grant program is an important investment in the partnerships necessary to recover more edible food and get it to the communities who need it most,” said Tom Koutroulis, Director of OC Waste & Recycling. “By supporting regional collaboration and sustainable programs, we are helping to bridge gaps for Orange County cities, nonprofits, and community organizations to meet the SB 1383 mandate for edible food recovery by helping expand critical infrastructure and capacity to reduce food waste locally.”

Across a five-year grant term, up to $6 million is available over the first three fiscal years, with individual grant awards not to exceed $500,000 per project. Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to, new or expanded edible food recovery programs, cold storage and transportation infrastructure, data-tracking software and equipment, education and outreach programs, and supplies related to edible food recovery and distribution.

Key Dates for the Grant Program include:

• Application Period Opens: March 2, 2026, at 8 a.m.
• Virtual Q&A Meeting: March 19, 2026, at 10 a.m. via Zoom.
• Application Submission Deadline: April 10, 2026, at 4:59 p.m.

Interested applicants are encouraged to visit www.OClandfills.com/grants for complete program details, eligibility requirements, application materials, virtual Q&A Zoom invitation, and submission instructions.

About OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR)
OCWR serves the County’s solid waste disposal needs through resource recovery, operating public landfills, protecting the local environment, investing in renewable energy enterprises and promoting recycling to ensure a safe and healthy community for current and future generations. The department manages one of the nation’s premier solid waste disposal systems and three composting greenery sites, all serving residents and businesses in the County’s 34 cities and its unincorporated areas. OCWR’s three active landfills and compost greeneries reflect environmental engineering at its best. Learn more at www.OClandfills.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/oc-waste–recycling-announces-6m-in-grant-funding-towards-regional-edible-food-recovery-in-orange-county-302701381.html

SOURCE Orange County – OC Waste & Recycling

Up to $500,000 Per Grant Available to Support Sustainable Five-Year Programs

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR) is now accepting applications for the Regional Recycling and Edible Food Recovery Grant, a competitive five-year grant program designed to expand edible food recovery infrastructure and support statewide recycling and waste-reduction mandates.

Through the grant program, OCWR seeks to strengthen partnerships with Orange County Edible Food Recovery Organizations (EFROs), nonprofit organizations, jurisdictions, and other eligible entities to increase the recovery of surplus edible food for human consumption, reduce landfill disposal, and support compliance with California Senate Bill (SB) 1383. The program also supports innovative recycling and waste-reduction initiatives that benefit communities throughout Orange County.

“This grant program is an important investment in the partnerships necessary to recover more edible food and get it to the communities who need it most,” said Tom Koutroulis, Director of OC Waste & Recycling. “By supporting regional collaboration and sustainable programs, we are helping to bridge gaps for Orange County cities, nonprofits, and community organizations to meet the SB 1383 mandate for edible food recovery by helping expand critical infrastructure and capacity to reduce food waste locally.”

Across a five-year grant term, up to $6 million is available over the first three fiscal years, with individual grant awards not to exceed $500,000 per project. Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to, new or expanded edible food recovery programs, cold storage and transportation infrastructure, data-tracking software and equipment, education and outreach programs, and supplies related to edible food recovery and distribution.

Key Dates for the Grant Program include:

• Application Period Opens: March 2, 2026, at 8 a.m.
• Virtual Q&A Meeting: March 19, 2026, at 10 a.m. via Zoom.
• Application Submission Deadline: April 10, 2026, at 4:59 p.m.

Interested applicants are encouraged to visit www.OClandfills.com/grants for complete program details, eligibility requirements, application materials, virtual Q&A Zoom invitation, and submission instructions.

About OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR)
OCWR serves the County’s solid waste disposal needs through resource recovery, operating public landfills, protecting the local environment, investing in renewable energy enterprises and promoting recycling to ensure a safe and healthy community for current and future generations. The department manages one of the nation’s premier solid waste disposal systems and three composting greenery sites, all serving residents and businesses in the County’s 34 cities and its unincorporated areas. OCWR’s three active landfills and compost greeneries reflect environmental engineering at its best. Learn more at www.OClandfills.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/oc-waste–recycling-announces-6m-in-grant-funding-towards-regional-edible-food-recovery-in-orange-county-302701381.html

SOURCE Orange County – OC Waste & Recycling

AUSTIN, Texas, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that medical schools will soon teach nutrition after the addition of nutrition questions to licensing exams, and revealed that baby formula will be fully tested by April for PFAS, pesticides, and heavy metals at the Eat Real Food Rally presented by MAHA Action.

Watch the full rally: (Link here)

Speaking to a capacity crowd at Brazos Hall, Secretary Kennedy also announced the closure of the GRAS loophole, requiring any new food ingredient to provide proof of safety. Companies including Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks will be required to produce safety data they were supposed to have maintained. The reforms aim to ensure American foods follow the highest safety and nutritional standards globally.

“A healthy person has a thousand dreams. A sick person only has one. And right now, most of our kids only have one dream, and that’s not good for our country,” Secretary Kennedy said, calling for restoration of cooking, family meals, and human connection as a foundation for rebuilding American health.

The Secretary described the new food pyramid as a transformative document that will redirect USDA’s $405 million per day in food spending away from ultra-processed food toward real food for children, military personnel, and low-income families.

National Movement Gains Momentum

White House Senior Advisor Calley Means pointed to concrete wins previously thought impossible due to lobby power, including 25 states achieving SNAP soda removal. He noted the new dietary guidelines will shift billions of dollars away from food corporations to American farmers, with 70% of school meals currently ultra-processed.

Entrepreneur Jason Karp, founder of HumanCo, cited alarming statistics: colorectal cancer is now the fastest growing cancer and number one killer of men under 50, with cases in children up 500% in one generation.

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) reinforced these themes with her Healthy Babies Act, ensuring mothers of all income levels can feed their children real, wholesome food from day one.

“American families are ready to Eat Real Food, and tonight’s turnout proved it,” said Alex Hardy, CEO of MAHA Holdings, one of the event’s organizers. “These wins are already reaching patients in hospitals, service members on bases, and children in school cafeterias across the country.”

Texas Leads Implementation

Joe Gebbia Jr., Chief Design Officer of the United States and co-founder of Airbnb, highlighted Texas as a national model. The Make Texas Healthy Again legislative package has resulted in 80% of Texas school food now grown or grazed in-state, directing $250 million annually to local beef, dairy, produce, and eggs. Additional reforms include classroom nutrition education, additive warning labels, and removal of junk food from schools and SNAP.

The rally follows the MAHA Center’s Super Bowl message reaching over 150 million viewers, as health leaders transform grassroots support into federal policy and state-level action.

About MAHA Action

MAHA Action is a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to organizing and empowering Americans to advocate for a healthier America. Through grassroots mobilization, policy advocacy, and public education, MAHA Action supports the Make America Healthy Again movement’s mission to reverse America’s chronic disease epidemic by championing real food, metabolic health, and transparent food safety standards.

Learn more at mahaaction.com

Media Contact:
Tony Lyons
press@mahaaction.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hhs-secretary-kennedy-announces-nutrition-requirements-for-medical-licensing-baby-formula-safety-standards-at-austin-rally-for-real-food-302701305.html

SOURCE MAHA Action

AUSTIN, Texas, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that medical schools will soon teach nutrition after the addition of nutrition questions to licensing exams, and revealed that baby formula will be fully tested by April for PFAS, pesticides, and heavy metals at the Eat Real Food Rally presented by MAHA Action.

Watch the full rally: (Link here)

Speaking to a capacity crowd at Brazos Hall, Secretary Kennedy also announced the closure of the GRAS loophole, requiring any new food ingredient to provide proof of safety. Companies including Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks will be required to produce safety data they were supposed to have maintained. The reforms aim to ensure American foods follow the highest safety and nutritional standards globally.

“A healthy person has a thousand dreams. A sick person only has one. And right now, most of our kids only have one dream, and that’s not good for our country,” Secretary Kennedy said, calling for restoration of cooking, family meals, and human connection as a foundation for rebuilding American health.

The Secretary described the new food pyramid as a transformative document that will redirect USDA’s $405 million per day in food spending away from ultra-processed food toward real food for children, military personnel, and low-income families.

National Movement Gains Momentum

White House Senior Advisor Calley Means pointed to concrete wins previously thought impossible due to lobby power, including 25 states achieving SNAP soda removal. He noted the new dietary guidelines will shift billions of dollars away from food corporations to American farmers, with 70% of school meals currently ultra-processed.

Entrepreneur Jason Karp, founder of HumanCo, cited alarming statistics: colorectal cancer is now the fastest growing cancer and number one killer of men under 50, with cases in children up 500% in one generation.

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) reinforced these themes with her Healthy Babies Act, ensuring mothers of all income levels can feed their children real, wholesome food from day one.

“American families are ready to Eat Real Food, and tonight’s turnout proved it,” said Alex Hardy, CEO of MAHA Holdings, one of the event’s organizers. “These wins are already reaching patients in hospitals, service members on bases, and children in school cafeterias across the country.”

Texas Leads Implementation

Joe Gebbia Jr., Chief Design Officer of the United States and co-founder of Airbnb, highlighted Texas as a national model. The Make Texas Healthy Again legislative package has resulted in 80% of Texas school food now grown or grazed in-state, directing $250 million annually to local beef, dairy, produce, and eggs. Additional reforms include classroom nutrition education, additive warning labels, and removal of junk food from schools and SNAP.

The rally follows the MAHA Center’s Super Bowl message reaching over 150 million viewers, as health leaders transform grassroots support into federal policy and state-level action.

About MAHA Action

MAHA Action is a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to organizing and empowering Americans to advocate for a healthier America. Through grassroots mobilization, policy advocacy, and public education, MAHA Action supports the Make America Healthy Again movement’s mission to reverse America’s chronic disease epidemic by championing real food, metabolic health, and transparent food safety standards.

Learn more at mahaaction.com

Media Contact:
Tony Lyons
press@mahaaction.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hhs-secretary-kennedy-announces-nutrition-requirements-for-medical-licensing-baby-formula-safety-standards-at-austin-rally-for-real-food-302701305.html

SOURCE MAHA Action