Tag: PR Newswire

Steady operating performance, innovation-driven growth, and ESG integration reinforce long-term value creation

ZHENGZHOU, China, Jan. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Yutong Bus (“Yutong”, SHA: 600066), a global commercial vehicle manufacturer, delivered steady and sustainable operating performance in 2025 as it continued advancing the global transition toward low-carbon public transportation. In 2025, Yutong Bus delivered 49,518 vehicles, marking a 5.54% year-on-year increase. 

Robust Business Performance and Win-Win Partnerships with Public Transport Operators

In 2025, Yutong continued to expand its investments across Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. By establishing direct service stations and regional spare parts centers, the company enhanced post-sales vehicle reliability and operational uptime. The launch of its service brand, EnRoute+, demonstrated Yutong’s commitment to providing more efficient, intelligent, and scenario-specific support throughout the whole vehicle lifecycle.

Innovation-Driven Achievements

Building on its solid operational track record, Yutong maintains annual R&D expenditures above 5% of its operating revenue. The company launched its EV Long-life Tech, which achieves a breakthrough lifespan of 15 years or 1.5 million km for pure electric buses through key innovations in batteries, motors, and electronic control systems. Meanwhile, Yutong’s product innovation has also gained industry recognition. At the 2025 Busworld Europe in Belgium, the Yutong T14E and U15 models were awarded the “Grand Award Coach ” and the “Grand Award Bus” respectively.

Product performance and operational reliability were validated through international market applications. In the Philippines, Yutong’s C12Pro model recorded a 12% reduction in fuel consumption per 100 km compared with the previous generation. In Europe, the IC12E battery electric intercity bus completed 1,200 km of full-scenario testing across four Nordic countries, demonstrating adaptability under diverse operating conditions. In Ghana, Yutong V6 van achieved a combined fuel consumption of 9.2 L/100 km. In Kazakhstan, the maximum operating mileage of a single Yutong C12Pro vehicle can reach 2 million km.

Collaboration and Shared Growth with Society

Yutong works hand-in-hand with operators worldwide to deepen cooperation, achieving a strong integration of corporate and shared social commitment.

In Central Asia, Yutong’s cumulative bus deliveries have exceeded 10,000 units. In Pakistan, 400 pure electric buses were delivered in 2025; in Chile, 372; and in Greece, 100. In the fourth quarter, Yutong delivered 723 buses in Morocco for the African International Sports Tournament to support event transportation. At the same time, the company actively promotes global localization and employment, creating a range of stable local jobs and continuously strengthening ties with host communities.

Long-Term Practices in Sustainable Development

Yutong values ESG management and is committed to driving sustainable development through systematic and long-term practices. In 2025, the company received an 81‑point EcoVadis Gold rating, reflecting strong performance across sustainability, ethics, and responsible supply chain management.

Environmental initiatives included the continued expansion of Yutong’s “Net Zero Forest” project, supporting the planting of approximately 47,000 trees across China, Chile, the United Kingdom, and Mexico, fulfilling its green commitment of “One Bus, One Tree.” The company also deepened community engagement through public advocacy and education programs, including” Let’s Go Green” campaign to promote public transportation in countries like Greece and “School Bus Safety Tour” initiatives in Kazakhstan, promoting road safety awareness and responsible mobility for children.

In 2026, Yutong will always remain committed to its mission of “Bring enjoyable travels to the public and create greater value for customers”. Together with global partners, the company remains committed to advancing sustainable public transportation systems and contributing to a greener, more inclusive future for global mobility.

For more info, please visit https://en.yutong.com/.

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SOURCE Yutong Bus

TOKYO, Jan. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Polyplastics Co., Ltd., a global leader in engineering thermoplastics, has developed two new DURAFIDE(R) polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) grades made of mechanically recycled content. The 40% glass fiber-reinforced grades, DURAFIDE(R) rG-PPS 1140A1R00 and 1140A1R30 (with 100% and 30% recycled glass fiber-reinforced PPS content, respectively), are set for launch in the next few months.

Image: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M100475/202601202736/_prw_PI1fl_5M5BC94J.jpg

The new offering is part of Polyplastics’ DURACIRCLE(R) initiative, which strives to achieve 100% circularity for engineering plastics. These new grades are offered through the company’s re-compounding service, which utilizes process scrap collected from customers as raw material under its “Open PIR Mechanical Recycling Scheme.”

High-quality product manufacturing is achieved by collecting glass fiber-reinforced PPS process scrap from partner companies meeting high standards. After rigorous inspection, sorting, and reformulation, the materials are compounded under optimal conditions and undergo the same quality assurance as virgin materials. Polyplastics will sell these materials through its global sales network. Currently, collection targets are limited to specific grades of glass-filled DURAFIDE(R) PPS materials.

For the re-compounding business and the establishment of the “Open PIR Mechanical Recycling Scheme,” developing new applications and securing collection routes are essential. The company is targeting initiatives that envision collaboration not only with existing customers but also with companies in various waste-to-value industries.

Polyplastics is exploring adding new mechanically recycled PPS grades to its lineup in response to market needs. The goal is to build self-contained “local production for local consumption” recycling chains within each country and region worldwide. Simultaneously, by expanding the range of constituent materials to include PCR materials, Polyplastics will enhance its supply capacity for high-quality, reliable recycled materials. This will further reduce environmental impact and enhance the ability to meet customers’ diverse needs.

For more information, visit: https://www.polyplastics.com/global/s/ourapproach/a5nRB000001nik7YAA/225?language=en_US

About Polyplastics

Polyplastics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in the development and production of engineering thermoplastics. The company’s product portfolio includes POM, PBT, PPS, LCP, PET, COC, and LFT, with global-leading market share for POM, LCP, and COC. With more than 60 years of experience, the company is backed by a strong global network of R&D, production, and sales resources capable of creating advanced solutions for an ever-changing global marketplace.

DURAFIDE(R) and DURACIRCLE(R) are registered trademarks of Polyplastics Co., Ltd. in Japan and other countries.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/polyplastics-develops-new-durafider-pps-grades-with-mechanically-recycled-content-302671907.html

SOURCE Polyplastics Co., Ltd.

DALLAS, Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — reVolver Podcasts, the Dallas based audio on demand content creator and multicultural podcast network, announced today that Cine Papis is officially joining the reVolver Podcasts network. Hosted by Eddin Martinez, Juan Bago, and Jaime Fernandez, Cine Papis brings together three passionate film enthusiasts with a shared love of Latino cinema, production, and of course movie theatre popcorn. The show blends entertainment commentary with comedy and culture, delivering weekly conversations that connect deeply with Latino audiences while keeping the tone fun, authentic, and unapologetically real.

New episodes of Cine Papis are released every Monday, with episode runtimes ranging from approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

“Cine Papis is the kind of show that represents everything we stand for at reVolver Podcasts: culturally rooted storytelling, bold personality, and a strong connection to the audience,” said Jack Hobbs, President of reVolver Podcasts. “They’ve built a loyal community by talking about film through a Latino lens with humor and honesty, and we’re excited to welcome them into the reVolver family and amplify their voice even further.”

A recent episode highlight includes Episode 17: Encanto feat. Lizbel Ortiz, featuring an in depth conversation about Encanto and its cultural resonance, including themes such as generational trauma, first generation identity, family expectations, healing, and the nuances of Latino household dynamics. The episode explores why the story connects so strongly with audiences, beyond the music and visuals.

With Cine Papis joining its lineup, reVolver Podcasts continues to strengthen its position as a leading home for multicultural creators and culturally driven entertainment programming.

reVolver Podcasts is a leading force in digital audio content, dedicated to providing diverse, innovative, and engaging podcasts across various genres. With a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, reVolver Podcasts continues to shape the future of digital storytelling, programming is free to millions of listeners in the U.S. and around the world across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Deezer, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, also available for download on the reVolver Podcasts App through the Samsung Galaxy Store available in the reVolver Podcasts App on Roku streaming devices and at www.revolverpodcasts.com.

About reVolver Podcasts
reVolver Podcasts is the leading multicultural, audio-on-demand content creator and distributor in the U.S. Home to Erazno y La Chokolata, El Show de Piolín, The Shoboy Show, Panda Show – Picante, and Don Cheto Al Aire, plus more than 70 additional programs spanning sports, music, finance, entertainment, lifestyle, health and wellness, inspiration, news, branded content, and live events, distributed across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, Pandora, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, also available for download on the reVolver Podcasts App through the Samsung Galaxy Store and on Roku streaming devices and at reVolverPodcasts.com. For more information about the company, visit www.revolverpodcasts.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/revolver-podcasts-welcomes-cine-papis-to-its-growing-podcast-and-expanding-the-networks-entertainment-lineup-302671890.html

SOURCE reVolver Podcasts

DALLAS, Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — reVolver Podcasts, the Dallas based audio on demand content creator and multicultural podcast network, announced today that Cine Papis is officially joining the reVolver Podcasts network. Hosted by Eddin Martinez, Juan Bago, and Jaime Fernandez, Cine Papis brings together three passionate film enthusiasts with a shared love of Latino cinema, production, and of course movie theatre popcorn. The show blends entertainment commentary with comedy and culture, delivering weekly conversations that connect deeply with Latino audiences while keeping the tone fun, authentic, and unapologetically real.

New episodes of Cine Papis are released every Monday, with episode runtimes ranging from approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

“Cine Papis is the kind of show that represents everything we stand for at reVolver Podcasts: culturally rooted storytelling, bold personality, and a strong connection to the audience,” said Jack Hobbs, President of reVolver Podcasts. “They’ve built a loyal community by talking about film through a Latino lens with humor and honesty, and we’re excited to welcome them into the reVolver family and amplify their voice even further.”

A recent episode highlight includes Episode 17: Encanto feat. Lizbel Ortiz, featuring an in depth conversation about Encanto and its cultural resonance, including themes such as generational trauma, first generation identity, family expectations, healing, and the nuances of Latino household dynamics. The episode explores why the story connects so strongly with audiences, beyond the music and visuals.

With Cine Papis joining its lineup, reVolver Podcasts continues to strengthen its position as a leading home for multicultural creators and culturally driven entertainment programming.

reVolver Podcasts is a leading force in digital audio content, dedicated to providing diverse, innovative, and engaging podcasts across various genres. With a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, reVolver Podcasts continues to shape the future of digital storytelling, programming is free to millions of listeners in the U.S. and around the world across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Deezer, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, also available for download on the reVolver Podcasts App through the Samsung Galaxy Store available in the reVolver Podcasts App on Roku streaming devices and at www.revolverpodcasts.com.

About reVolver Podcasts
reVolver Podcasts is the leading multicultural, audio-on-demand content creator and distributor in the U.S. Home to Erazno y La Chokolata, El Show de Piolín, The Shoboy Show, Panda Show – Picante, and Don Cheto Al Aire, plus more than 70 additional programs spanning sports, music, finance, entertainment, lifestyle, health and wellness, inspiration, news, branded content, and live events, distributed across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, Pandora, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, also available for download on the reVolver Podcasts App through the Samsung Galaxy Store and on Roku streaming devices and at reVolverPodcasts.com. For more information about the company, visit www.revolverpodcasts.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/revolver-podcasts-welcomes-cine-papis-to-its-growing-podcast-and-expanding-the-networks-entertainment-lineup-302671890.html

SOURCE reVolver Podcasts

DALLAS, Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — reVolver Podcasts, the Dallas based audio on demand content creator and multicultural podcast network, announced today that Cine Papis is officially joining the reVolver Podcasts network. Hosted by Eddin Martinez, Juan Bago, and Jaime Fernandez, Cine Papis brings together three passionate film enthusiasts with a shared love of Latino cinema, production, and of course movie theatre popcorn. The show blends entertainment commentary with comedy and culture, delivering weekly conversations that connect deeply with Latino audiences while keeping the tone fun, authentic, and unapologetically real.

New episodes of Cine Papis are released every Monday, with episode runtimes ranging from approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

“Cine Papis is the kind of show that represents everything we stand for at reVolver Podcasts: culturally rooted storytelling, bold personality, and a strong connection to the audience,” said Jack Hobbs, President of reVolver Podcasts. “They’ve built a loyal community by talking about film through a Latino lens with humor and honesty, and we’re excited to welcome them into the reVolver family and amplify their voice even further.”

A recent episode highlight includes Episode 17: Encanto feat. Lizbel Ortiz, featuring an in depth conversation about Encanto and its cultural resonance, including themes such as generational trauma, first generation identity, family expectations, healing, and the nuances of Latino household dynamics. The episode explores why the story connects so strongly with audiences, beyond the music and visuals.

With Cine Papis joining its lineup, reVolver Podcasts continues to strengthen its position as a leading home for multicultural creators and culturally driven entertainment programming.

reVolver Podcasts is a leading force in digital audio content, dedicated to providing diverse, innovative, and engaging podcasts across various genres. With a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, reVolver Podcasts continues to shape the future of digital storytelling, programming is free to millions of listeners in the U.S. and around the world across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Deezer, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, also available for download on the reVolver Podcasts App through the Samsung Galaxy Store available in the reVolver Podcasts App on Roku streaming devices and at www.revolverpodcasts.com.

About reVolver Podcasts
reVolver Podcasts is the leading multicultural, audio-on-demand content creator and distributor in the U.S. Home to Erazno y La Chokolata, El Show de Piolín, The Shoboy Show, Panda Show – Picante, and Don Cheto Al Aire, plus more than 70 additional programs spanning sports, music, finance, entertainment, lifestyle, health and wellness, inspiration, news, branded content, and live events, distributed across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, Pandora, iHeartRadio app, Amazon Music, also available for download on the reVolver Podcasts App through the Samsung Galaxy Store and on Roku streaming devices and at reVolverPodcasts.com. For more information about the company, visit www.revolverpodcasts.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/revolver-podcasts-welcomes-cine-papis-to-its-growing-podcast-and-expanding-the-networks-entertainment-lineup-302671890.html

SOURCE reVolver Podcasts

JACKSON, Mich., Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As organizations across the United States face mounting pressure from rising PPE costs, supply chain volatility, and increasing sustainability expectations, Libra Industries continues to lead the industry in nationwide glove and PPE cleaning and recycling services.

With more than 55 years of experience, Libra Industries has set the standard for professional PPE cleaning and reuse long before reusable PPE became a focal point of environmental or financial strategy. Today, organizations across manufacturing, government, healthcare, construction, and food processing rely on Libra’s established nationwide infrastructure to safely extend the life of gloves and protective equipment while reducing waste and controlling costs.

“For decades, organizations have trusted us because we put customers and their safety first,” said Beth Yoxheimer, president of Libra Industries. “Our leadership in PPE cleaning and recycling comes from experience, consistency, and our unwavering commitment to protecting workers.”

Libra Industries’ glove and PPE cleaning and recycling program is built on a closed-loop, safety-first process designed to meet strict hygiene and performance expectations across industries. Used PPE is sent from customer facilities and cleaned using EPA-registered sanitizers, controlled multi-cycle wash formulas, and non-hazardous cleaning solutions. Every item is inspected, metal-detected if required, and evaluated before being returned to service. PPE that cannot be safely restored is returned to the customer for review, ensuring full transparency.

“If PPE doesn’t meet our standards and the customer criteria, it doesn’t go back into circulation,” Yoxheimer added. “That’s how trust is built.”

This disciplined approach allows organizations to:

• Reduce PPE and MRO costs by up to 80%
• Maintain consistent safety and compliance standards
• Improve PPE availability during supply chain disruptions
• Significantly reduce landfill waste and environmental impact

Just in the past 5 years, Libra Industries has helped customers remove nearly 12 million pounds of PPE waste from landfills and generate more than $159 million in documented cost avoidance through PPE reuse programs.

Libra Industries supports organizations across the U.S. with scalable, consistent PPE cleaning and recycling programs tailored to industry-specific needs. Whether supporting a single facility or a multi-location operation, the company delivers uniform safety standards and predictable outcomes nationwide.

“Our customers operate in complex, regulated environments,” Yoxheimer said. “They choose us because we understand those demands and deliver the same level of service and accountability across every location.”

To help organizations evaluate PPE cleaning and recycling within their own operations, Libra Industries offers a risk-free 90-day trial. During the trial, PPE reuse rates, waste reduction, and cost savings are tracked and reported. If measurable savings are not demonstrated, the first month is refunded in full.

“The data tells the story,” Yoxheimer said. “The trial gives organizations confidence that this is a solution built to perform in real-world conditions.”

To learn more about Libra Industries’ nationwide glove and PPE cleaning and recycling services, or to start a risk-free trial, visit: https://www.librami.com/readyship-glove-and-ppe-recycling

About Libra Industries
For more than 55 years, Libra Industries has been a national leader in professional glove and PPE cleaning and recycling. Serving organizations across the United States, Libra Industries delivers safe, compliant, and data-driven PPE solutions that reduce costs, protect workers, and minimize environmental impact.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Devon Roof
Epic Blue Marketing
517-474-1573
DevonB@epicblueofficial.com  

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/libra-industries-remains-longstanding-leader-in-nationwide-ppe-cleaning-and-recycling-services-as-organizations-seek-more-sustainable-cost-solutions-302671810.html

SOURCE Libra Industries Inc.

Master Meter Distributor, Odessa City Manager and Odessa Director of Billing Added as New Defendants

ODESSA, Texas, Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Potts Law Firm, a leading plaintiffs’ litigation firm serving West Texas, announced today that it has filed an amended petition in the ongoing lawsuit challenging the City of Odessa’s water billing practices and is adding new Defendants. The additions are based upon recently obtained information.

The underlying claims remain unchanged, and plaintiffs continue to seek to stop unlawful billing practices and obtain appropriate relief for affected residents.

Addition of Certain City Officials for Injunctive Relief
The amended petition names certain City officials solely in their official capacities to ensure the court can grant effective injunctive relief if warranted. Under Texas law, when plaintiffs seek to halt an ongoing governmental practice, any court order must be directed at the officials responsible for carrying out that practice.

Specifically, the lawsuit names Rogelio F. Salcido, Director of Billing and Collection for the City of Odessa, and Aaron Smith, City Manager for the City of Odessa. Their inclusion ensures that the court has the proper parties before it to order future relief if necessary. These officials are best positioned to implement any court-ordered changes related to the delivery of water services, billing procedures, and reimbursement of incorrectly billed water services.

Substitution of the Master Meter Distributor Who Contracted With The City
The amended petition substitutes Performance Services for Master Meter since it was the distributor who contracted with the City related to the water system modernization project. Performance Services entered into a $42 million contract with the City of Odessa in 2023 to modernize the City’s water infrastructure and reduce water loss. The project includes replacing outdated water meters with smart meters, implementing advanced monitoring technology to more accurately track water usage, and making system improvements intended to improve billing accuracy, system reliability, and customer service.

Case Positioned to Move Forward
Overall, the amendments streamline the case, reduce distractions, and allow the litigation to proceed efficiently. Plaintiffs remain focused on stopping unlawful billing practices and obtaining appropriate relief for affected residents.

About Potts Law Firm
Potts Law Firm is a nationally recognized law firm with deep roots in West Texas, serving clients from offices in Midland, Big Spring, and Colorado City. The Firm’s attorneys have extensive experience handling complex litigation, including class actions, consumer protection matters, and personal injury cases. Potts Law Firm is committed to standing up for individuals, families, and communities across Texas.

Media Contact
Megan O’Neal
832-583-6360
moneal@potts-law.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/potts-law-firm-adds-new-defendants-to-water-billing-lawsuit-302671669.html

SOURCE Potts Law Firm

Eligible Customers May Receive Up to $1,800 in Combined Bill Credits through REACH and Match My Payment Programs

OAKLAND, Calif., Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is committing $50 million in 2026 to help customers pay overdue energy bills through its Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH) and Match My Payment programs. 

PG&E is expanding REACH benefits this year. Eligible customers can receive up to an $800 bill credit, an increase from up to $300 last year, if they have received a disconnection notice. 

Match My Payment matches eligible customer payments dollar-for-dollar, up to $1,000. Payments must be at least $50 toward a past-due balance of $100 or more. Customers can receive multiple matches during the year. A disconnection notice is not required for customers to qualify. 

REACH recipients are also prequalified for up to $1,000 on a past-due balance through Match My Payment, for a combined benefit of up to $1,800 while funds last. 

Eligibility for both programs is based on federal income guidelines.  For example, a family of four earning less than $128,600 may qualify for the Match My Payment program, which has higher income limits than the REACH program. 

In 2025, the two programs provided approximately $23 million in assistance to over 64,000 customers. 

“We receive heartfelt messages from our customers every day about how much these programs mean to them. These stories remind us of the real impact our programs have on the lives of our customers, and we are committed to continuing to make a difference,” said Vincent Davis, Chief Customer Officer and Senior Vice President, Customer Experience.

Both programs are funded by PG&E and provided on a first-come, first-served basis. The company contracts with the nonprofit Dollar Energy Fund (DEF) to process customer applications.  

Stabilizing Prices

PG&E’s $50 million commitment comes after the company cut residential electric rates for customers who receive energy supply and delivery from PG&E by 5% January 1, 2026. This is the fourth electric rate decrease in two years, reinforcing the company’s promise to stabilize energy costs for customers. 

PG&E residential electric rates are 11% lower than in January 2024, or about $20 less on a typical residential monthly bill. 

Other Income-eligible Assistance Programs  

PG&E has other assistance programs to help income-eligible customers pay their energy bills:  

• California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program: provides a monthly discount of 20% or more on gas and an average of 38% on electricity (compared to non-CARE bundled customers). 
• Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program: eligibility guidelines provide a monthly discount of 18% on electricity regardless of household size.  
• Low Income Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) program: a federally funded assistance program overseen by the state that offers a one-time payment up to $1,500 on past due bills to help low-income households pay for heating or cooling in their homes.
• Arrearage Management Plan (AMP): a debt forgiveness plan for eligible residential customers.   
• Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) program: provides energy-savings improvements at no charge.  

Other programs include Medical Baseline, which offers a reduction on energy bills for customers who depend on power for certain medical needs. Visit pge.com/billhelp to learn more.

Additional Support Available

PG&E offers a variety of ways to save energy and reduce monthly bills. Customers are encouraged to:

• Sign up for a free personal energy coach with the HomeIntel program
• Enroll in the Budget Billing program
• Get personalized recommendations for financial assistance, bill management programs and other resources by using an online Savings Finder tool

About PG&E  

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news    

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SOURCE Pacific Gas and Electric Company

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Counter Forced Labor Technologies (CFLT), a woman- and disabled veteran-owned technology firm dedicated to eradicating forced labor in global supply chains, is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Prevention & Awareness Award by A21 and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The honor recognizes CFLT’s groundbreaking contributions to global anti-trafficking efforts, including the development of its industry-leading Global Rizk Assessment Technology™ (GRAT) and its transformative work helping corporations identify, mitigate, and prevent forced labor in their supply networks.

The Prevention & Awareness Award acknowledges organizations making measurable, innovative, and high-impact contributions in the fight against human trafficking and forced labor. CFLT was selected based on the strength of its global reach, the sophistication of its AI-driven risk analytics, its partnerships with governments and international agencies, and its rigorous evaluation methods that turn opaque supply chain data into actionable, life-protecting intelligence.

“This award is a powerful affirmation of our mission and the belief that businesses can be catalysts for global human rights,” said Linda Rizk, Founder and CEO of Counter Forced Labor Technologies. “Prevention begins with visibility. When companies can clearly see the risks within their supply chains, they can take decisive action to protect workers, transform operations, and advance a more ethical global economy. We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from A21 and the U.S. Chamber, and we remain committed to driving industry-wide change.”

CFLT’s proprietary Global Rizk Assessment Technology™ (GRAT) is redefining how corporations operationalize due diligence and human rights compliance. By leveraging advanced AI modeling, predictive analytics, geospatial intelligence, and multi-tier supplier mapping, GRAT provides unparalleled insight into labor practices at every stage of production. The platform not only identifies risk hotspots but also generates targeted corrective-action frameworks, benchmarking tools, scorecards, and follow-up audit pathways—giving companies a measurable and repeatable method to drive continuous improvement across complex supply chains.

The company’s award-winning submission highlighted its global prevention strategy, measurable outcomes, and a compelling case study demonstrating significant improvement in compliance for a mid-sized manufacturer following the implementation of GRAT and CFLT-guided corrective actions.

As the nation recognizes National Human Trafficking Awareness Month this January, CFLT is also proud to debut its newest Exclusive Winter Journal, which underscores the critical importance of informed leadership and transparent supply chains in combating exploitation. This edition features data-driven insights including How Young Consumers Are Reshaping Supply Chains, which explores the mounting influence of Generation Z buyers in demanding accountability and ethical sourcing. The journal also presents an in-depth examination of Cotton and Child Slave Labor, providing a clear-eyed analysis of how one of the world’s most widely used commodities continues to mask extensive forced and child labor risks. By releasing the Winter Journal during a month dedicated to national awareness and prevention, CFLT reinforces its mission to equip businesses, policymakers, and consumers with the intelligence needed to identify vulnerabilities and drive meaningful systemic change.

“This recognition reflects the hard work of our global team, our partners, and the companies that choose to lead with integrity,” said Rizk. “Forced labor is a global challenge, but prevention is within reach when technology, collaboration, and accountability come together.”

CFLT will continue to expand the capabilities of its GRAT platform, strengthen global partnerships, and support corporations in advancing transparency and responsibility throughout their supply chains.

For organizations seeking to strengthen their compliance posture or improve visibility into high-risk sourcing regions, CFLT invites business leaders to engage with our GRAT platform, explore our Winter Journal, and join us in advancing ethical, accountable global commerce.

For more information about Counter Forced Labor Technologies and its award-winning solutions, visit www.counterforcedlabor.com.

Media Contact:  Press@counterforcedlabor.com 

About Counter Forced Labor Technologies

Counter Forced Labor Technologies (CFLT) is a woman- and disabled veteran-owned technology firm focused on eradicating forced labor, slave labor, and human trafficking from global supply chains. Through its proprietary Global Rizk Assessment Technology™, advanced analytics, global risk assessments, and advisory services, CFLT provides comprehensive due diligence and compliance solutions that equip businesses to lead with transparency, integrity, and measurable impact.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/counter-forced-labor-technologies-wins-prestigious-prevention–awareness-award-from-the-us-chamber-of-commerce-and-a21-302671575.html

SOURCE Counter Forced Labor Technologies

Highlighting 2025 Community Impact Report

CAMDEN, N.J., Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organization established by American Water (NYSE: AWK), the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., today announced that it awarded a combined total of $5.7 million to organizations across the U.S., supporting communities served by American Water in the 2025 Community Impact Report.

Through the American Water Charitable Foundation’s Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, $4.7 million was awarded to more than 350 eligible non-profit organizations across the country. The Foundation also provided nearly $1 million through its Employee Matching Gift and Rewards Programs, reflecting engagement from over 4,700 employees and benefitting 2,600 public charities.

Following are a few examples of how the American Water Charitable Foundation is making a difference nationwide:

• “Shirley Heinze Land Trust is proud to partner with the American Water Charitable Foundation on our Ivanhoe South Community Development and Education Initiative in the City of Gary,” said Kris Krouse, Executive Director, Shirley Heinze Land Trust (Indiana) and 2025 Foundation Water and Environment grantee. “This project will create walkability, safety, a gathering space, engagement programming, and a fund to ensure the improvements made are lasting at the Ivanhoe South Nature Preserve, a globally rare dune-and-swale habitat. We are grateful for this phenomenal support from the American Water Charitable Foundation to make Ivanhoe South a community asset to be proud of, improve overall community of life, and make this significant land and water resource relevant to the surrounding community.”
• “We extend our sincere thanks to the American Water Charitable Foundation for its support of the Weinberg Northeast Regional Food Bank… This generous investment helps ensure that individuals and families across our region have reliable access to nutritious food and essential resources,” said Jennifer Warabak, Executive Director, Commission on Economic Opportunity (Pennsylvania) and 2025 Foundation State Strategic Impact grantee. “We are deeply grateful for the Foundation and Pennsylvania American Water’s ongoing partnership and commitment to strengthening our communities.”
• “On behalf of North Scott High School, we are incredibly grateful to receive this grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation in collaboration with Iowa American Water,” said Andrew Lehn, principal of North Scott High School (Iowa) and 2025 Foundation STEM Education grantee. “This funding will significantly help enhance our STEM programs, specifically our robotics team at the high school level. It will allow us to purchase the resources necessary to have the best hands-on learning opportunity possible. Thank you for not only investing in our school district, but for investing in our students and their future!”

“The American Water Charitable Foundation’s grant programs help drive meaningful impact across American Water’s nationwide footprint. Through our mission to Keep Communities Flowing, we empower community partners to create lasting, positive change,” said Carrie Williams, President of the American Water Charitable Foundation. “We’re equally proud to amplify the charitable efforts of American Water employees through our matching gift and rewards programs.”

Since 2012, the American Water Charitable Foundation has supported worthy causes in communities served by American Water, providing over $25 million in grants and matching gifts, including funding for eligible organizations important to American Water employees.

Learn more about the American Water Charitable Foundation here.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About American Water Charitable Foundation
The American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organization established by American Water, focuses on three pillars of giving: Water, People, and Communities. Since 2012, the Foundation has invested over $25 million in funding through grants and matching gifts to support eligible organizations in communities served by American Water. The Foundation is funded by American Water shareholders and has no impact on customer rates. For more information, visit amwater.com/awcf.

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SOURCE American Water