CSRwire Press Releases, Events and Reports

National NeighborWoods Month Exceeds Expectations

2009-11-20 15:28:48 -0500

In October, The Home Depot® Foundation worked with the Alliance for Community Trees to sponsor National NeighborWoods Month, a month long series of tree planting events by 24,000 volunteers in 231 cities across the country. As a result, more than 36,000 trees were planted in just one month. In addition to the NeighborWoods Month tree planting projects, volunteers also provided tree maintenance tips, training activities and educational seminars to improve urban communities. Team Depot volunteers were a critical part of National Neighborwoods Month. They led and participated in many of the projects across the country:

In Asheville, NC, 24 Home Depot associates volunteered their time to plant more than 100 oak, dogwood and fruit trees and sixty holly shrubs at the Dearview Apartments.
In Albuquerque, NM, 30 Home Depot volunteers planted a total of 300 trees at 100 homes in the Sawmill neighborhood and several other affordable housing communities.
In Pittsburgh, PA, 50 Home Depot volunteers planted 20 trees throughout the East Liberty development.

The Home Depot Foundation is committed to efforts that support environmental stewardship and provide proactive solutions to helping create healthy sustainable communities and affordable housing. "Trees are an important component of responsible design to ensure that homes are affordable, energy efficient, safe and healthy," said Kelly Caffarelli, president of The Home Depot Foundation. "By partnering with ACT and local NeighborWoods organizations, The Foundation is able to further its goals of investing in the overall health and success of our communities." Many American cities have shrinking tree canopies, because it is difficult and expensive to maintain older shade trees and plant new ones, however many mayors have recognized that urban forests are an integral part of a city's infrastructure just as roads, buildings and bridges. Trees reduce cooling bills in summer with shade trees, help reduce greenhouse gases and make low-income neighborhoods more inviting. "This year's outstanding NeighborWoods Month celebration is a reflection of that growing movement for green cities. A dozen major cities have declared city-wide tree canopy goals, involving residents and the private sector to plant and care for trees," said Alice C. Ewen, executive director of the Alliance for Community Trees. "People everywhere are looking for simple, affordable ways to go green and improve their communities. Just by shading a home, you can cut summer energy use by a third, eliminating emissions that contribute to global warming. What's more, that same shade tree will clean the air, save you money, and enhance your home's curb appeal. Those are great benefits everyone can appreciate." For additional information about the 2009 National NeighborWoods Month events, please visit: www.neighborwoodsmonth.org. About The Home Depot Foundation The Home Depot Foundation was created in 2002 to further the community building goals of The Home Depot. The Home Depot Foundation is dedicated to building affordable homes for working families that are healthy to live in and affordable to own. To make homes healthy and affordable, the Foundation encourages developers to incorporate responsible design and use durable and quality materials to ensure that homes are more energy and water efficient, have good indoor air quality, and provide a safe and healthy space to live. Since its formation, The Home Depot Foundation has granted $120 million to nonprofit organizations and supported the development of more than 65,000 affordable, healthy homes. For more information, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org. About Alliance for Community Trees The Alliance for Community Trees was incorporated in 1993 as a problem-solving center for leaders of community-based urban forestry groups. Its founders shared a vision of healthy, functioning urban ecosystems nurtured by a broad base of community stewards. Today, ACT is a growing network of more than 150 organizations engaged in tree planting, care and education. Its members are involved in grassroots community greening, public education, policymaking, job training, and other activities to support urban forest stewardship. Together, they have planted 14.9 million city trees by engaging more than 4.3 million volunteers. Information on ACT and its members can be found at www.actrees.org.

USAID, Walmart, TransFair USA and SEBRAE-Minas Gerais Sponsor Brazil Coffee Cupping Competition

2009-11-20 12:33:12 -0500

Winners for this week's Brazilian Fair Trade Certified coffee cupping competition have been announced. Sebastiao Reguim of the producer association, Unipcafem, and Marcos Antonio Nali of the producer association, Pro-nova, won first place in the natural and semi-washed coffee categories. The competition, which is a specialized tasting process to assess quality, capped off several months of intensive quality training for farmers and was attended by high-ranking Brazilian and U.S. officials, representatives of the Brazilian coffee industry and international coffee buyers. The event was sponsored by U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Walmart, TransFair USA and the Brazilian non-profit SEBRAE, as part of the Responsible Sourcing Partnership project to benefit farmers throughout Brazil. The project aims to expand and improve the quality of Fair Trade Certified coffee supply though investments in infrastructure, technical assistance with production and postharvest processing, as well as training in coffee quality management. "The 2009 Fair Trade Cupping Competition is an important milestone of the Responsible Sourcing Partnership Project," said Lisa Kubiske, Charge d' Affaires a.i. for the U.S. Embassy in Brazil. "The competition recognizes and rewards premium quality coffee and demonstrates how the Brazilian producers are taking advantage of the economic, social and environmental benefits resulting from the adoption of Fair Trade practices." USAID, Walmart, TransFair USA and SEBRAE have partnered together on a three-year, public-private responsible sourcing partnership program. From 2007 - 2010, program partners will commit $1.9 million in investments and technical support to help 5,000 farmers from the Brazilian states of Sao Paolo, Minas Gerais and Espiritu Santo increase coffee quality, improve cooperative management and enhance marketing. "We want to congratulate the farmers that participated in the competition and appreciate them for their tireless efforts to bring our members the highest quality coffee," said Jill Turner-Mitchael, senior vice president of Merchandising, Sam's Club. "We are proud that through this partnership, we are giving these farmers the opportunity to continue to improve their operations, compete in the global market and provide a better life for their families and their communities." Producers and their families benefit from increased employment opportunities, expanded access to new domestic and international markets, increased use of environmentally-sound farming methods, better prices for their coffee beans and overall improvements in their quality of life. "These coffee farmers have spent the past two years tirelessly working to improve the quality of their crops. They have participated in training sessions, attended specialty coffee conferences, and for the first time, many of their cooperatives have skilled, inhouse cuppers," said Paul Rice, president and CEO of TransFair USA. "Because of the Responsible Sourcing Partnership Project, some of the best specialty coffee in Brazil has been uncovered, and we are so proud to say that it is Fair Trade Certified." In 2008, imports of Fair Trade Certified coffee into the United States grew more than 30 percent. Fair Trade Certification provides higher prices, support for sustainable agriculture and funds for democratically-elected development projects. The Responsible Sourcing Partnership Project is an innovative public-private union designed to amplify the benefits Brazilian farmers gain from Fair Trade, increasing their incomes and capacities going forward. About USAID/Brazil USAID is an independent federal government agency receiving overall foreign policy guidance from the Secretary of State. Our work supports long-term and equitable economic growth and advances U.S. foreign policy objectives by supporting global health, economic growth, agriculture and trade, democracy, conflict prevention, and humanitarian assistance. In Brazil, USAID supports Brazilian efforts towards sustainable socio and economic development, while strengthening the partnership between the United States and Brazil. For more information about USAID, visit brazil.usaid.gov About Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT), or "Walmart," serves customers and members more than 200 million times per week at more than 8,000 retail units under 53 different banners in 15 countries. With fiscal year 2009 sales of $401 billion, Walmart employs more than 2.1 million associates worldwide. A leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity, Walmart ranked first among retailers in Fortune Magazine's 2009 Most Admired Companies survey. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting www.walmartstores.com. Online merchandise sales are available at www.walmart.com and www.samsclub.com. About TransFair USA TransFair USA, a FLO member organization, is the only independent, third-party certifier of Fair Trade Certified™ products in the United States. TransFair USA audits and certifies in accordance with FLO's internationally agreed standards, monitoring transactions between U.S. companies and their international suppliers to guarantee that the farmers and workers producing Fair Trade Certified goods were paid fair prices and wages. TransFair USA certifies coffee and more than 20 other product categories. For more information about TransFair USA, visit www.FairTradeCertified.org About SEBRAE The Service of Support for the Micro and Small Companies of the State of Minas Gerais -SEBRAE-MG was created in 1972. Its mission is to promote the competitiveness and the sustainable development of the micro and small companies as well as to promote the entrepreneurship in the State of Minas Gerais. It offers entrepreneurial orientation, promotes courses, lectures and projects of managerial training, encourages the formalization, approaching micro and small companies with the market and stimulates the generation of business. SEBRAE-MG, thus, contributes to induce the socioeconomic development of the State of Minas Gerais with the generation of revenue, work, income and better life conditions for the population.

CVS/pharmacy Kicks Off Annual Thanks and Giving(R) Campaign for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

2009-11-20 09:06:24 -0500

CVS/pharmacy kicks off its annual in store fundraiser for the sixth year to support the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Thanks and Giving campaign, beginning this Sunday and running through December 12. CVS/pharmacy store colleagues will encourage customers to add $1 to their purchase at the register to support the lifesaving research of St. Jude, one of the world's premier centers for the research and treatment of pediatric cancer and other catastrophic childhood diseases. In the first five years of the campaign, CVS/pharmacy and its customers raised more than $13 million for the hospital. "We are thrilled that CVS/pharmacy is once again a part of our annual Thanks and Giving campaign," said Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director. "Their dedication to the campaign has an enormous impact on the lives of countless children and their families in communities across the country who benefit from their caring and generous spirit." Funds raised by CVS/pharmacy for Thanks and Giving support the CVS Caremark Rehabilitation Services Center at St. Jude. Children with catastrophic diseases like cancer may experience developmental, cognitive or physical impairments as a result of their illnesses as well as the treatments used to save their lives. The new facility, which opened this summer, doubled the space dedicated to providing audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology services to St. Jude patients. "We are delighted that our partnership with St. Jude has made it possible for us to support some extraordinary children to reach their greatest potential on their road to recovery," said Eileen Howard Dunn, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications and Community Relations, CVS Caremark. About St. Jude St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in finding cures and saving children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. St. Jude is the first and only pediatric cancer center to be designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute. Founded by late entertainer Danny Thomas and based in Memphis, Tenn., St. Jude freely shares its discoveries with scientific and medical communities around the world. St. Jude is the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance. No child is ever denied treatment because of the family's inability to pay. St. Jude is financially supported by ALSAC, its fundraising organization. For more information, please visit www.stjude.org. About CVS/pharmacy CVS/pharmacy is the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS). The Company operates more than 7,000 CVS/pharmacy and Longs Drugs stores. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those we serve by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at www.cvscaremark.com.

Universal Children's Day Commemorated With New Research: 300 Million School Children Worldwide Lack Acces To Clean, Safe Drinking Water

2009-11-20 08:00:07 -0500

In recognition of Universal Children's Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly as a day to promote the protection, welfare and education of the children of the world, Global Water Challenge (GWC) today released "Clean Start: Focusing on School Water, Sanitation and Hygiene." The report identifies the challenges and solutions associated with the global water crisis and its effect on children. It identifies access to clean drinking water as one of the leading health threats to children around the world today and the cause for millions of deaths and education loss each year. Every day, more than 300 million children attend schools without safe drinking water or access to a clean toilet. Without clean water, children cannot wash their hands and disease travels rapidly through crowded classrooms, causing sickness and forcing kids to miss and often drop out of school. In the long term, educational achievement is one of the most important determinants of health, life expectancy, economic productivity and the well-being of future generations. Those most burdened by this crisis are women and girls who are oftentimes forced to walk 6 km (3.7 miles) each day to secure water that is likely unsuitable for drinking. Girls who have to help their mothers fetch water often arrive to school late, or not at all. There are solutions available to help combat this crisis. GWC currently supports school programs that provide clean and safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene to communities around the world. Where schools lack access to water, GWC assists through the collection of rainwater - known as rainwater harvesting - or by building wells. If the school has access to only dirty water, GWC works to provide water filters and chlorine tablets. These current programs are taking place in countries around the world such as Kenya, Tanzania, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua. Schools are one way to reach thousands of children each day with these common-sense inputs for improved health. "It is clear that access to clean water, safe sanitation and hygiene are building blocks for healthy schools. With 300 million children in school and enrollment growing everyday, Global Water Challenge believes that it is imperative that governments work to scale up the most effective and sustainable solutions," said Dr. Tanvi Nagpal, director of water and sanitation programs at Global Water Challenge. This Universal Children's Day, GWC is urging people around the world to become part of the solution. On April 18, 2010, GWC will join Live Earth and Dow to host the Dow Live Earth Run for Water, a historic movement to help put an end to the global water crisis. The event will consist of a series of 6 km run/walks (the average distance many women and children walk every day to secure water) taking place over the course of 24 hours in countries around the world, featuring concerts and water education activities aimed at igniting a tipping point to help solve the water crisis. Ten percent of registration fees from run/walk events taking place in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York City and Washington D.C. will be donated to GWC to support water projects, including those that bring clean, safe drinking water and sanitation education to school children worldwide. For more information on registering for a run or donating funds, please visit http://liveearth.org/run. "This event will encourage the global community to take action on one of the most serious environmental issues today, the global water crisis," said Kevin Wall, founder and CEO of Live Earth. "It will raise the profile of this issue, educate the world’s citizens about its challenges and bring resources and solutions to the nearly one billion people around the world who lack access to clean, safe drinking water." The Dow Live Earth Run for Water will take place in hundreds of countries around the world, participants of the Dow Live Earth Run for Water are encouraged to RUN in a run/walk in their community or organize their own run/walk through the Friends of Live Earth program, SAVE water in their home and local community through conservation efforts, GIVE money to support clean, safe water projects and SPEAK UP by signing the Live Earth petition to express your support that eeveryone should have access to clean water, adequate for the health and well-being of the individual and the family. "Dow is committed to being a leader in addressing the global water crisis," said Ian Barbour, general manager at Dow Water & Process Solutions, a business unit of Dow. "As a company, we are developing innovative water treatment technologies, reducing water use at our manufacturing facilities and initiating creative partnerships like the Dow Live Earth Run for Water to ensure children and adults worldwide have access to this basic human necessity." For more information on the GWC White Paper, please visit http://action.globalwaterchallenge.org/childrensday. For more information on the Dow Live Earth Run for Water, please visit http://liveearth.org. About Global Water Challenge GWC is a diverse coalition that consists of leading organizations working to provide creative and sustainable solutions for universal access to safe drinking water and sanitation. GWC's mission is to generate a global movement to meet the urgent need for safe water and sanitation by spurring collective awareness and investment in water supply/sanitation innovation by corporate, public, and nongovernmental actors. Our challenge is to reach people with the tools and education they need to empower themselves. Access to clean water and sanitation leads to healthier, longer and more productive lives, and breaks the cycle of poverty. Water and sanitation are not just human rights, they are human necessities. More information about Global Water Challenge can be found at http://www.globalwaterchallenge.org. About Live Earth Founded by Emmy-winning producer Kevin Wall, in partnership with former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, Live Earth was built upon the belief that entertainment has the power to transcend social and cultural barriers to move the world community to action. A for-profit company, Live Earth seeks to leverage the power of entertainment through integrated events, media and the live experience to ignite a global movement aimed at solving the most critical environmental issues of our time. More information about Live Earth can be found at http://liveearth.org. About The Dow Chemical Company With sales of $58 billion in 2008 and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. On April 1, 2009, Dow acquired Rohm and Haas Company, a global specialty materials company with sales of $10 billion in 2008 and 15,000 employees worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.

The Levi's(R) Brand Announces charity: water as $100,000 Green Charity Winner

2009-11-19 19:56:32 -0500

The Levi's® brand is proud to announce charity: water as the winning charity of its recent GO IV Fortune $100,000 green charity giveaway. Beginning in mid-October, GO IV Fortune players nominated hundreds of charitable organizations with a commitment to sustainability and the environment. The list was narrowed down to ten finalists and thousands of gamers voted for the charity they felt best embodied the Levi's® brand's pioneering spirit and rich legacy of promoting sustainability. Today charity: water was announced as America's choice. charity: water (www.charitywater.org) is a non-profit organization that brings safe and clean drinking water to people in developing nations. Almost 1 billion people on the planet don't have clean water - one in eight people don't have access to the most basic of human needs. In three years, charity: water has raised more than $11 million and funded 1,549 water projects in 16 countries. 100 percent of public donations to charity: water goes directly to fund these important water projects. The charity: water team rallied their followers and fans to join in the movement to bring water to developing nations and used social networking and word-of-mouth efforts to encourage people to vote for them in Levi's® GO IV Fortune challenge. "We're thrilled to accept the generous $100,000 charitable gift from Levi's. Almost a billion people on the planet currently lack access to clean drinking water, and 100 percent of the money will be used to bring clean and safe water to 5,000 people in need," says Scott Harrison, president and founder of charity: water. Levi Strauss & Co. is an industry leader in promoting sustainability issues. From pioneering labor and environmental guidelines for suppliers, to supporting more sustainable ways to grow cotton - values guide everything the company does. charity: water shares Levi's® passion for pioneering positive change and commitment to making our world a better place. The Levi's® brand is honored to support charity: water's mission to provide safe and clean drinking water to people in developing nations. The GO IV Fortune interactive challenge wraps up later this week and another $100,000 will be awarded to the player who cracked the final cipher on Tuesday, November 17. The winner, who will be announced next week, will go to an undisclosed location on Saturday, November 21 to dig up the buried $100,000 prize. About the Grayson Ozias IV Fortune Challenge Launched October 5, 2009, at levi.com/goforth, this interactive challenge invites participants to solve mysteries as they unfold, keep up with other players or go for the gold themselves with the final cipher. It is a mystery, wrapped in a puzzle and an adventure across our country. The narrative behind the challenge follows Grayson Ozias IV, a fictional character based on the Levi's® brand's pioneering and innovative spirit, on his adventures across America until his 1896 disappearance into the wilderness, after hiding his considerable fortune. The game's scavenger hunt lead to many cities and towns across America, each a part of Grayson's journey and tasks players to step out from behind their computers and the hunt will lead some lucky player into the real world directly to the buried treasure. Each task at each city or town triggers the next clue in the challenge. The ongoing puzzle, an elaborate cryptogram, requires a combination of knowledge, skill and determination. The players will be receiving clues and pieces of the puzzle from launch to finish. The first player to crack the final puzzle and send it to the Levi's® game team will win Grayson Ozias's buried fortune. Players can also win other great prizes throughout the journey. The hidden fortune is the third expedition from Levi's® Go Forth campaign, first launched July 1, 2009. The campaign has been supported heavily in digital social media (Facebook, Twitter), online via rich media and offline (ESPN The Magazine). The first two expeditions-the New Declaration and the New Americans-were an homage to today's America. About the Levi's® Brand The Levi's® brand epitomizes classic American style and effortless cool. Since their invention by Levi Strauss in 1873, Levi's® jeans have become the most recognizable and imitated clothing in the world - capturing the imagination and loyalty of people for generations. Today, the Levi's® brand portfolio continues to evolve through a relentless pioneering and innovative spirit that is unparalleled in the apparel industry. Our range of leading jeanswear and accessories are available in more than 110 countries, allowing individuals around the world to express their personal style. For more information about the Levi's® brand, its products and stores, please visit http://levi.com.

UPS Tops 'Climate Counts' Scorecard For Consumer Shipping

2009-11-19 15:41:11 -0500

UPS (NYSE:UPS) has earned the top score in the consumer shipping sector of the annual "Climate Counts" scorecard and also was rated No. 11 among all 143 ranked companies. UPS ranked No. 1 in the consumer shipping sector, leaping ahead of competitors Deutsche Post World Net/DHL, the U.S. Postal Service and FedEx. Climate Counts ranks the world's largest companies based on 22 criteria that focus on measuring and reducing climate impact, corporate support of public policy initiatives on climate change and openness and transparency in reporting. The Climate Counts ranking is just the latest in a long list of honors for environmental leadership received by UPS in recent months. Other recent honors include: Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index's "Top 50 Global Companies," the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay Excellence Award, and Newsweek's Greenest Companies in America. "Increasingly consumers are choosing to spend their money with companies that are environmental leaders. The Climate Counts scorecard helps consumers find those leaders," said Bob Stoffel, UPS senior vice president of supply chain, strategy, engineering and sustainability. "UPS's top ranking highlights the major strides we've taken to credibly report and minimize our environmental impact. For example, in 2009 we introduced several new green packaging and shipping services including the UPS carbon neutral program, the first such option available to offset the climate impact of shipping within the United States." The Climate Counts scorecard can be found at www.climatecounts.org. More information about UPS's sustainability initiatives is available at www.responsibility.ups.com/sustainability.

SC Johnson Reaches Ingredient Transparency Ahead of Schedule...With More to Come

2009-11-19 13:54:20 -0500

Just nine months after launching an industry-leading ingredient communication website, SC Johnson today announced it has already completed the task of populating the U.S. site with more than 200 products and their ingredients. The site, www.WhatsInsideSCJohnson.com, now includes 129 SC Johnson air care products and 76 home cleaning products, as well as explanations of the 169 ingredients that comprise these products. The company also today announced a soon-to-launch Spanish-language version for the U.S. "Today's families want to know what's in the products they use in their homes," said Chairman and CEO Fisk Johnson. "For us, it's about living up to the trust our consumers put in us." What's Unique about WhatsInsideSCJohnson.com SC Johnson’s ingredient disclosure site includes the company's lineup of air care and home cleaning products, each with a consumer-friendly list of ingredients, a more technical list of ingredients using the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) and an explanation of each ingredient's purpose. Additionally, the site lists out each of the dyes used in the product, and by January 1, 2012 will also provide preservative and fragrance ingredients as well. This is a departure from an industry right-to-know initiative announced in late 2008, which does not require the listing of dyes, fragrances or preservatives. However, SC Johnson wanted to do more. "Transparency doesn't mean cherry-picking which things to share and which things to hide. It means opening the door and letting people see what you’re made of," noted Johnson. "We have already included in our ingredient communications the dyes we use in products, and we're committed to communicating the fragrance ingredients and preservatives as well." SC Johnson's ingredient disclosure plan also differs from the industry initiative in terms of how information is communicated. To comply with the industry effort, companies will need to provide ingredient information through at least one form of communication: online, on product labels, via toll-free number or using some other non-electronic means. SC Johnson is making its information accessible in not one but three ways: the dedicated Web site (www.WhatsInsideSCJohnson.com), the company’s toll-free number (1-800-558-5252), and on product labels that will be phased in for home cleaning and air care products by January 2012. Early in 2010, the company will launch a Spanish-language version of its WhatsInside site, to make its information more accessible for its Spanish-speaking consumers in the U.S. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2007, there were 35 million U.S. residents who speak Spanish at home.* SC Johnson: History of Doing What's Right SC Johnson's ingredient communication leadership extends the company's long history of doing what’s right for people and the planet. In this decade alone, the company developed its Greenlist$trade; process to classify raw materials according to their impact on the environment. Using our Greenlist™ process, over the last five years SC Johnson cut nearly 48 million pounds of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from its products. SC Johnson also is known for slashing coal-fired energy dependence at its manufacturing facilities. Since 2003, the company has used cogeneration with methane from a local public landfill to produce green energy for its largest global manufacturing plant. Last spring, SC Johnson also struck a five-year deal to source nearly half of the power for its second-largest North American plant from wind power. In Medan, Indonesia, the company has cut its use of diesel fuel by 80 percent by burning waste palm shells as a fuel source. And at SC Johnson's largest European manufacturing facility, located in Mijdrecht, The Netherlands, the company built a wind turbine that is expected to eliminate about 3,900 tons of carbon dioxide annually and allows the facility to use 655,000 kilograms less coal. About SC Johnson SC Johnson is a family-owned and managed business dedicated to innovative, high-quality products, excellence in the workplace and a long-term commitment to the environment and the communities in which it operates. Based in the USA, the company is one of the world's leading manufacturers of household cleaning products and products for home storage, air care, and insect control. It markets such well-known brands as GLADE®, OFF!®, PLEDGE®, RAID®, SCRUBBING BUBBLES®, SHOUT®, WINDEX® and ZIPLOC® in the U.S. and beyond, with brands marketed outside the U.S. including AUTAN®, BAYGON®, BRISE®, ECHO®, KABIKILLER®, KLEAR®, and MR. MUSCLE®. The 123-year old company, with more than $8 billion in sales, employs approximately 12,000 people globally and sells products in more than 110 countries. For more information, please visit www.scjohnson.com

Global Stakeholder Influence Examined in New Boston College Report

2009-11-19 13:31:21 -0500

The Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship today released a timely review of the influence of stakeholders and pressure groups in nine countries. The research reflects dynamics such as the spread of market capitalism, increasing wealth and power of business, the mounting pressure for companies to take on greater social and environmental responsibilities and the growing public distrust of business. The report "Mapping Stakeholder Landscapes" describes how stakeholder groups differ around the world and the need to balance the variation at the local level with interests shared globally. The report is the result of a one-year research project by the Global Education Research Network (GERN), a network of 12 global institutions, including the Boston College Center, focused on responsible business working together. Funded by the UPS Foundation, this is the second report on global corporate citizenship produced by the GERN. While many business practices are shared universally, social and political realities that can affect the way business is managed can vary greatly among countries. The new report helps corporate social responsibility (CSR) leaders understand differences such as:

The U.K. government appears to be the most supportive of CSR, while the U.S. government is much less involved.
Developing countries such as Chile and South Africa are deeply influenced by international organizations such as the U.N. Global Compact, while these organizations hold less influence in the United States and Italy.
Business associations play a large supportive role in South Africa, but hold little power or credibility in Mexico.
The influence of the socially responsible investment (SRI) market is growing in developed countries such as the United States and United Kingdom, but remains almost non-existent in countries such as Chile and the Philippines.
Italian media seems to have the greatest appetite for CSR news, while the role of media is rather minimal in Chile, the Philippines and South Africa

"This is essential reading for business leaders," said Chris Pinney, director of research and policy for the Boston College Center. "Companies that understand where the support and pressure for corporate citizenship is coming from are better able to map strategies and devise programs that meet the interests of the company and key stakeholders." Key findings include:

Government is the most powerful and positive force for corporate citizenship globally.
Mainstream investors do not yet appreciate or understand the financial value of corporate citizenship.
Many stakeholders - especially employees and consumers - are "on the fence" due to a lack of awareness about corporate citizenship and weak social movements advancing these issues.
Developing countries differ from developed countries in the influence of certain stakeholder groups such as socially responsible investors and ethical consumers.

The report also provides details, analysis and charts for each country regarding how stakeholders influence issues ranging from market entry to production practices, advertising, community relations and employment. The nine countries examined are: Chile, China, Germany, Italy, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa, United Kingdom and United States. It also provides country-specific analysis of the levers of influence used by groups as diverse as government, investors, nongovernmental organizations, labor, media and consumers. The authors of this report are Sylvia Kinnicutt, Philip Mirvis, Ph.D. and Rene Carapinha. Bradley K. Googins, Ph.D. is the principal investigator for the project. Download the report for free (registration required). The Global Education Research Network (GERN) is a network of 12 global institutions focused on responsible business working together to advance research and education that will build the capacity of businesses worldwide to maximize their benefit to society. It connects academics and researchers who take specific interest in application of corporate citizenship principles, and can offer perspectives from developing and developed economies on issues related to responsible business practice. Its goal is to deconstruct and unpack everyday questions on the role of business in society in a manner that can result in practical application. GERN members who participated in this report are: AIM-Ramon V. del Rosario Sr. Center for Corporate Responsibility at the Asian Institute for Management; the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship; the Doughty Centre for Corporate Responsibility, Cranfield University School of Management; IDEARSE Center for Corporate Sustainability and Responsibility at Anahuac University; the Center for Corporate Citizenship Deutschland (CCCD); the Center for Responsible Leadership, University of Pretoria; ALTIS, Catholic University of Milan; and Vincular, Center for Corporate Social Responsibility at Catholic University of Valparaiso. The Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship is a membership-based research organization associated with the Carroll School of Management. It is committed to helping business leverage its social, economic and human assets to ensure both its success and a more just and sustainable world. As a leading resource on corporate citizenship, the Center works with global corporations to help them define, plan, and operationalize their corporate citizenship. Through the insights of its 350 corporate members, the Center creates knowledge, value and demand for corporate citizenship.

International Youth Foundation Announces Recipients of 2009 StarbucksTM Shared PlanetTM Youth Action Grants

2009-11-19 12:38:04 -0500

With support from the Starbucks™ Shared Planet™ Youth Action Grants program, 20 youth-led initiatives in 12 countries will expand the impact of their social change work. The grants, ranging from US$7,500-$10,000, will support youth-led projects such as efforts to influence the legislative agenda in Kenya, equip disadvantaged women in the Philippines with income-generating skills, and raise awareness of solutions to climate change. The Youth Action Grants program is a key component of the Starbucks™ Shared Planet™ commitment to communities. Grant recipients were chosen by Starbucks and the International Youth Foundation (IYF) in order to make funding available to young leaders who have completed IYF’s YouthActionNet® Global Fellowship. The Fellowship seeks to develop a new generation of socially-conscious global citizens who create positive change in their communities, their countries, and the world. "The diversity of projects led by this year's grant recipients testify to the tremendous drive, creativity, and compassion of today's young social entrepreneurs," said IYF President and CEO William S. Reese. "Through this much-needed support, Starbucks is enabling these youth to realize their visions of a better world - and inspire others in the process." "We congratulate each of these young leaders for their hard work and innovative solutions to local challenges," said Ben Packard, Starbucks vice president, Global Responsibility. "Through Starbucks™ Shared Planet™ commitment to communities, we seek to celebrate, support, and spread this spirit of innovation and service in addressing community needs." Among the 20 projects to receive a total of US$200,000 in StarbucksTM Shared Planet™ Youth Action Grants are: Family in Need Trust, Zimbabwe: The Trust, established by Jack Bbabbie Mukulu, 29, will provide vocational training and HIV/AIDS prevention education to 50 women caretakers of orphans and vulnerable children. Human Artificial Vision, Mexico: Developed by Luis Octavio Ortigoza Ayala, 27, Human Artificial Vision will train 500 visually-impaired individuals in the use of a prosthesis enabling them to perceive images. Sri Arunodayan Charitable Trust, India: Under the leadership of Iyyappan Subramanyan, 29, the Trust will construct a physiotherapy room serving 90 children with intellectual disabilities. Youth Action for Change (YAC), Italy: Founded by Selene Biffi, 26, Youth Action for Change will publish an online youth magazine, Young Innovations Europe, aimed at showcasing youth-led innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity. Fired Up Media, United States: Launched by Richard Graves, 26, Fired Up Media will form seven new media teams, one from each continent, to report on the most compelling climate change stories in the world related to the UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen in December 2009. A committee comprised of IYF staff and Starbucks partners (employees) selected the final grant recipients. To learn more about the Starbucks™ Shared Planet™ Youth Action Grants program and the planned activities of all 20 grant recipients, visit www.youthactionnet.org. About YouthActionNet® Launched in 2001, YouthActionNet® seeks to develop a new generation of socially-conscious global citizens who create positive change in their communities, their countries, and the world. Through its fellowship programs, national institutes, dynamic website, grants, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities, YouthActionNet® offers young change makers ideas, resources, and connections to like minds around the world. To date, YouthActionNet® has launched national programs in Australia, Brazil, Israel, Mexico, and Spain. For further information, visit http://www.youthactionnet.org. About the International Youth Foundation (IYF) The International Youth Foundation (IYF) invests in the extraordinary potential of young people. Founded in 1990, IYF builds and maintains a worldwide community of businesses, governments, and civil society organizations committed to empowering youth to be healthy, productive, and engaged citizens. IYF programs are catalysts of change that help young people obtain a quality education, gain employability skills, make healthy choices, and improve their communities. To learn more, visit www.iyfnet.org. About the Starbucks™ Shared Planet™ Youth Action Grants Program The Starbucks&trae; Shared Planet™ Youth Action Grants program helps young people realize their natural potential to reinvent their local communities. The program is the primary vehicle through which The Starbucks Foundation invests in communities globally as part of the Starbucks™ Shared Planet™ commitment to communities. Since launching the grants program in 2007, more than $1.5 million has been invested in youth-led initiatives around the world. The program is integral to the company achieving its goal by 2015 of engaging 50,000 young social entrepreneurs to innovate and take action in their communities. For more information, please visit www.starbucksfoundation.com/sef.

Corporate Impact Awards Recognize Companies' $1 Million-Plus Annual Gifts to American Cancer Society

2009-11-19 11:51:05 -0500

The American Cancer Society's nationwide Corporate Impact Awards were presented today to 16 corporations during the organization's 96th Annual Meeting in Los Angeles. The awards recognize businesses' and their employees' financial as well as in-kind contributions of $1 million or more during the past year. These donations were raised to support the fight against cancer through a variety of means, and they represent these corporations' dedication to the Society's lifesaving vision of a world with less cancer and more birthdays. The companies honored for their substantial gifts to the Society were: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP; Best Buy; Curves International; dressbarn inc.; HairUWear; International Business Machines (IBM); Merrill Lynch & Co.; Novartis Corporation; Oracle; PartyLite Gifts, Inc.; Pfizer Inc; The Pampered Chef, LTD; UAL Corporation and United Airlines; Walgreen Co.; Walmart; and WellPoint, Inc. "Through their generous contributions to the American Cancer Society, these companies and their many employees have demonstrated their commitment to our mission of saving lives by helping people stay well, by helping people get well, by finding cures and fighting back against a disease which has taken too much from too many," said American Cancer Society Chief Executive Officer John R. Seffrin, Ph.D. "During these challenging economic times, the level at which each of these 16 companies has contributed to the cancer fight is extraordinary." Initiated in 2006, the Corporate Impact Awards commend companies' significant financial contribution to the Society, generated through employee workplace giving, corporate philanthropy, in-kind support, cause branding, corporate promotions, event sponsorship and team fundraising. The awards are presented annually as part of the Society's Corporate Initiative, a project which creates meaningful, long-term relationships with corporations and employers of all sizes by engaging them in delivery of the Society's lifesaving mission and support for its numerous programs and services. The American Cancer Society Corporate Initiative helps companies implement scientifically-sound, comprehensive health and wellness programs and provides information and high-quality support for cancer screening and care. "The Society is extremely grateful to these companies for their investment in enabling the substantial progress that continues to be made against the disease. In engaging the fight against cancer, these compassionate organizations and their like-minded employees are helping to substantially ease the burden on those diagnosed with cancer as well as their families and caregivers," said George W.P. Atkins, 2009-10 national volunteer chair, American Cancer Society Board of Directors. AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP is in the midst of a five-year, $10 million pledge to accelerate development of at least 50 new Society-operated Patient Resource Navigator Program sites throughout the U.S. to help guide cancer patients through the process of planning and receiving their cancer treatments. AstraZeneca also has supported three of the Society's Hope Lodge® facilities, which provide cancer patients and their caregivers with free, extended-stay accommodations during treatment. In 2008, AstraZeneca helped sponsor the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network's (ACS CAN) "Fight Back Express" national bus tour that highlighted the crucial role elected officials play in supporting laws and policies that benefit cancer patients. In 2009, Best Buy employees organized nearly 600 Relay For Life® teams and generated more than $820,000 in grants to recognize employee volunteerism. The company also became a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® National Team Program partner. Best Buy retail employees have expanded their support of the Society by organizing local volunteer teams and leveraging the company's dollars for doers program, TagTeam Awards. Curves International, through its four million members and thousands of locations worldwide, is a veteran supporter of the American Cancer Society and its National Corporate Team Programs. In 2008, Curves formed more than 850 Relay For Life teams and raised in excess of $900,000 and formed 500-plus teams which raised more than $400,000 for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. As well, through cause marketing events at its nationwide health clubs, Curves raised an additional $115,000. dressbarn inc., which includes the dressbarn and maurices brands, has contributed more than $6 million to the American Cancer Society. Over the past seven years, the company has been a Relay For Life National Corporate Team Program member, and the dressbarn inc. Foundation has provided registration fee funding for each of the company's Relay teams, which, in 2009, numbered 300. Additionally, the net profits from selected dressbarn and maurices in-store cause-related promotional items have been donated to the company's Relay For Life effort. dressbarn inc., is an active participant with the Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer initiative as well as with the Workplace Wellness Program. An Impact Award recipient for the fourth consecutive year, dressbarn inc., contributed more than $1 million to the Society in 2009. HairUWear has been a generous supporter of the American Cancer Society since 2003 and has donated more than 44,000 wigs, valued at $6.4 million, which have been distributed to Society wig banks nationwide. Through these generous donations, tens of thousands of women facing cancer have been provided with these products that they otherwise might not have been able to afford. For more than a decade, International Business Machines (IBM) employees have generously donated to the American Cancer Society, with the IBM Employee Contribution Campaign having yielded the second-highest level of corporate-driven payroll deduction donations. In 2008, 13,621 employees pledged more than $2.5 million to the Society. Also, for the fourth consecutive year, the company has employed an American Cancer Society-provided enterprise class computer server to deliver 24 hours per day, seven days per week operation of the IBM World Community Grid's (worldcommunitygrid.org) "Help Conquer Cancer" project. Merrill Lynch & Co., employees, thanks to a matching gift from the company's Merrill Lynch Foundation, contributed more than $4.3 million to the American Cancer Society in 2008. The company is an active participant in the Relay For Life National Corporate Team Program, and Merrill Lynch continues to support various collaborative efforts focused on educating and supporting the needs of underserved populations. Thanks to the generous support of Novartis Corporation, the American Cancer Society's Latin America Best Practices Award program has, for the last two years, recognized regional patient support groups with financial aid for their projects. Novartis has provided matching gifts in support of employee contributions through Relay For Life, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Daffodil Days. Domestically, through integrated, in-store promotion of its nicotine replacement therapy products, the company has worked with four of its major retail chain accounts to encourage customers to quit smoking. Robert Pelzer, Novartis' president and chief executive officer, is co-chair of the American Cancer Society Eastern Division's CEOs Against Cancer® initiative. Oracle actively addresses improving the quality of life in communities within which it does business. Oracle Giving awarded a $1 million Oracle Commitment Grant to benefit a two-year American Cancer Society project designed to expand evidence, improve planning, and promote action for cancer control in the African countries of Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania. The company has also, for the past two years, underwritten or sponsored an American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) breakfast at Oracle's Redwood City, Calif., headquarters. PartyLite Gifts, Inc. made the American Cancer Society its charity of focus 11 years ago, and the company's employees and independent PartyLite consultants have contributed more than $11 million. PartyLite fundraising efforts range in size from backyard sales to conferences attended by thousands. Additionally, the Party Lite Change the World™ program encourages customers to round up their purchase prices to the nearest dollar, or up to $10, with the difference benefitting the Society. Also, PartyLite is active with the Relay For Life National Corporate Team Program and most recently ranked fourth nationally, with 426 teams and $506,000 in contributions. Pfizer Inc, along with the Pfizer Foundation, have supported the American Cancer Society with $1.6 million in grant funding as well as technical assistance for regional cancer and tobacco control programs in Latin America, Southeast Asia and North Africa. In Latin America, grant money is supporting regional trainings and information sharing as well as early detection and cancer screening projects. In Southeast Asia, Pfizer funding is helping to improve local access to cancer control services through training and country-specific projects. In North Africa, Pfizer aid is supporting anti-tobacco youth advocacy leadership training, and the region’s national governing organizations are receiving assistance for training programs in Istanbul, Turkey, that share best practice measures from successful, smoke-free environments. The Pampered Chef, LTD began its collaboration with the American Cancer Society in 2000, and has since raised more than $7.6 million through its Help Whip Cancer campaign. Independent Pampered Chef consultants have raised funds through the sale of pink, limited-edition products and through cooking shows, and they have helped increase awareness of breast cancer and have promoted the importance of cancer prevention and early detection. In 2008, Pampered Chef became a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer National Team Program participant and raised more than $325,000 - marking its place as the nation's third-largest fundraising team. UAL Corporation and United Airlines began their alliance with the American Cancer Society in 2007, when chairman, president and CEO Glenn Tilton and his wife, Jackie, co-chaired an event that raised more than $2 million. Tilton also serves as chair of the CEOs Against Cancer program in the Society's Illinois Division, and in 2009, he co-chaired the Society's inaugural national Corporate Impact Conference in Chicago. A marketing program was launched two years ago, whereby United frequent travelers were encouraged to donate their earned miles and/or make financial contributions to provide cost-free transportation for children needing cancer treatment. The campaign has generated more than $3.1 million in miles and promotional support, in addition to $360,000 in cash donations that have helped provide Gund® teddy bears for nearly 18,000 children. During its nearly two-decade alliance with the American Cancer Society, Walgreen Co., has contributed more than $17 million through a variety of programs. This year, Walgreens offered customers point-of-checkout donation opportunities in exchange for coupon booklets redeemable for future purchases - an initiative which raised nearly $750,000. The company has been active with the Relay For Life National Corporate Team Program, engaging 600 teams and 5,000 employees. Last year, Walgreens engaged the Society's tobacco-cessation program, with nearly 2,500 company employees calling the program's information line for help in quitting tobacco. In 2009, Walgreens was the recipient of the Corporate Impact: Award of Excellence at the Society's Corporate Impact Conference. Walmart raised more than $8 million for the American Cancer Society in 2008, through contributions to the National Corporate Team Programs for Relay For Life and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, and through other Society community events. Additionally, the hourly, in-store Walmart TV delivery of the Society's lifesaving public service announcements reached more than 128 million shoppers each month. Walmart and Sam's Club also provided associates with payroll deduction contribution opportunities through the company's Associate Giving Program. In 2009, Walmart received the Corporate Impact: Employee Engagement award at the American Cancer Society's Corporate Impact Conference. WellPoint, Inc., and its employees have been active participants in local Relay For Life events across the country. In 2008, the WellPoint Foundation assisted with the buildout of the American Cancer Society Patient Resource Navigator Program in six of the Society’s 13 Divisions. Additionally, in 2009, the WellPoint Foundation committed its financial support to the Society’s Hope Lodges in Marshfield, Wis., Cleveland, Ohio, and Lexington, Ky. The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, we fight for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. We save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; by helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing about $3.4 billion, we turn what we know about cancer into what we do. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year. To learn more about us or to get help, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

Ten Schools Recognized for High Achievement through the 2010 MetLife Foundation-NASSP Breakthrough Schools(TM) Program

2009-11-19 11:00:29 -0500

Ten middle and high schools are being recognized for academic success through the 2010 MetLife Foundation-National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Breakthrough Schools program. The schools will be honored at the annual NASSP Convention, which is being held in Phoenix, AZ, March 12-14. Established in 2007, the program recognizes middle level and high schools that are high achieving or are dramatically improving student achievement and serve large numbers of students living in poverty. The diverse set of schools being recognized -- public, charter, and private schools in urban, suburban, and rural communities -- share the common trait of having an economically diverse, high-achieving student population. Not surprisingly, the schools also share common strategies -- collaborative leadership; alignment of curriculum, instruction, and assessment; and a highly personalized, caring environment. These factors reflect the priorities of . "These schools are testaments to the fundamental principle that collaborative leadership and high-quality instruction in a personalized environment are essential to academic achievement," said NASSP Executive Director Gerald N. Tirozzi. "I applaud these schools for their focused efforts and we look forward to spotlighting them as models of success in the coming year." The ten schools being recognized are: High Schools

Brentwood High School, Brentwood, NY, Thomas P. O'Brien, Principal
Franklin Towne Charter High School, Philadelphia, PA, Patrick Field, Chief Academic Officer; Jason Kegel, Principal
Park View High School, Sterling, VA, Virginia Minshew, Principal
San Diego Met High School, San Diego, CA, Mildred Phillips, Principal
San Miguel High School, Tucson, AZ, Bro. Nick Gonzalez, FSC, Principal

Middle Schools

Fieldale-Collinsville Middle School, Collinsville, VA, Moriah L. Dollarhite, Principal
Mater Academy Charter Middle School, Hialeah Gardens, FL, Judith C. Marty, Principal
Menominee Indian Middle School, Neopit, WI, Stephanie Feldner, Principal
Ravenswood Middle School, Ravenswood, WV, Gary Higginbotham, Principal
Tefft Middle School, Streamwood, IL, Lavonne Smiley, Principal

"Effective education is a collaborative venture," said Dennis White, president and CEO of MetLife Foundation. "We commend the principals of these Breakthrough Schools for providing leadership that helps teachers, parents, students and communities work together to succeed." Selection criteria are based on a school's documented success in implementing strategies aligned with the three core areas of NASSP's Breaking Ranks framework for middle level and high schools. Success in implementing the strategies is documented and verified through school site visits. For more information about the program, visit www.principals.org/breakthrough. About MetLife Foundation MetLife Foundation supports programs that increase opportunities for young people to succeed, create connections between schools and communities, and develop leadership of teachers and principals throughout their careers. The Foundation works with national nonprofit organizations, including NASSP, to improve education, often by addressing findings from the annual MetLife Survey of the American Teacher. For more, please visit www.metlife.org. About NASSP In existence since 1916, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) is the preeminent organization of and national voice for middle level and high school principals, assistant principals, and aspiring school leaders from across the United States and more than 45 countries around the world. The mission of NASSP is to promote excellence in school leadership. NASSP administers the National Honor Society®, National Junior Honor Society®, National Elementary Honor Society™, and National Association of Student Councils®. For more information about NASSP, located in Reston, VA, visit www.principals.org.

IFC-ILO Better Work Conference Promotes Improved Labor Standards, Increased Competitiveness

2009-11-19 10:37:30 -0500

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and the International Labour Organization are meeting today with governments, garment industry leaders, and labor-related organizations to promote labor standards for millions of workers and expand efforts to increase companies' competitiveness in global markets. IFC and ILO are hosting a conference, Harnessing Global Incentives for Development, to discuss lessons learned in the past decade from experiences of Better Factories Cambodia, an initiative under the joint IFC-ILO Better Work partnership program. Launched in 2006, Better Work seeks to improve labor standards and competitiveness in global supply chains. The conference highlights successful elements that led to the growth of Cambodia's textile sector, such as increasing dialogue at the factory level, implementing dispute settlement mechanisms, building mature industrial relations, and improving the investment climate. "Collaboration among government, local industry leaders, and international brands continues to be instrumental in achieving the success that Better Work Factories and Better Work have experienced in the last 10 years," said Greg Radford, IFC Director for Environment and Social Development. "While millions of workers are benefiting from these commitments, companies are becoming more competitive in the global marketplace and more likely to weather the financial crisis." Major apparel companies that support the Better Work program also are attending the conference, including American Eagle Outfitters, Gap Inc, Jones Apparel, Levi Strauss & Co, Martha Stewart Living, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Walt Disney, and Wal-mart. The valued supporters will contribute a multistakeholder perspective. "Better Work is supported widely by international buyers and local suppliers. This has made a significant impact on the lives of workers and their families, the performance of enterprises, and the economic and social development of the countries involved," said Ros Harvey, Global Director for the Better Work program. IFC is the only international financial institution focused exclusively on the private sector, the engine of sustainable development in emerging markets. Along with IBRD, it is currently seeking a capital increase to strengthen its ability to create opportunity for the poor in developing countries-including by helping improve labor standards to benefit millions of workers and businesses worldwide. About IFC IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, creates opportunity for people to escape poverty and improve their lives. We foster sustainable economic growth in developing countries by supporting private sector development, mobilizing private capital, and providing advisory and risk mitigation services to businesses and governments. Our new investments totaled $14.5 billion in fiscal 2009, helping channel capital into developing countries during the financial crisis. For more information, visit www.ifc.org. For more information about ILO, visit www.ilo.org. For more information about Better Work, visit www.betterwork.org.

Kraft Foods Eliminated More Than 50 Million Truck Miles Since 2005 Through Focus on Transportation Sustainability Efforts

2009-11-19 09:56:18 -0500

Everyone hates traffic. It eats up time, wastes energy and emits harmful carbon dioxide. As population and urbanization increase, experts say traffic is only getting worse. Kraft Foods is addressing this challenge by finding alternatives to trucking and making its distribution network more efficient. Since 2005, innovative sustainability projects have saved the company more than 50 million miles (80 million km) in its global transportation and distribution network. That's the same as driving from Madrid to Beijing more than 8,500 times! "We think about miles, piles and idles when moving our product," said Steve Yucknut, Vice President, Sustainability. "We're finding ways to drive fewer miles, reduce inventory piles and eliminate idling trucks. We're collaborating with customers and suppliers. And we're using a number of high-tech innovations for our trucks and warehouses to reduce energy and CO2 emissions." Following are examples from Kraft Foods operations around the globe: Riding the Waves (and Rails) to Environmental Efficiency

In North America, Kraft Foods saved more than a million miles (1.6 million km), replaced 10,000 truck shipments and reduced 2,000 tons of CO2 emissions by shipping wheat via waterways to its Toledo, Ohio, flour mill. Now, ships make bigger deliveries less frequently.
In Brazil, employees saved nearly 250,000 miles (390,000 km) and reduced 300 tons of CO2 emissions by using boats to send products to distribution centers. In just six months, the change saved more than 125 truck shipments.
In Germany, Kraft Foods transports coffee beans from Bremen to its Berlin roasting plant, saving about 1.8 million miles (2.8 million km) and eliminating 2,300 tons of CO2 emissions. And the project took 7,000 trucks off the road.
In Austria, Kraft Foods saved more than 150,000 miles (nearly 250,000 km) by sending products in refrigerated containers on railcars, eliminating 400 truck shipments and reducing 250 tons of CO2 emissions.
In the United Kingdom, the company now sends products to one of its key customers by train instead of truck, saving more than 40,000 miles (nearly 70,000 km) and eliminating 120 truck shipments.

Fewer, Faster and More Fuel-Efficient Deliveries

In Europe, Kraft Foods is modernizing its transportation network by establishing a single hub in Bratislava, Slovakia to make 20 percent fewer trips between its European plants and distribution centers. And in the Philippines, the company now uses a national distribution center so customers receive shipments 20 percent faster than before, saving miles and fuel.
In North America, Kraft Foods has purchased 11 hybrid direct store delivery vehicles for frozen products. The hybrid power train and electric refrigeration technology use up to 30 percent less fuel than a traditional truck. And in Mexico, the company has pioneered a double-decker transport system that allows trucks to safely carry up to 56 pallets in one load - twice as many as before.

Deploying Smarter Technology

Kraft Foods has been working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to benefit from the latest technology and share best practices. Earlier this month, the EPA awarded Kraft Foods for its environmental excellence, innovation and creativity. As part of its participation in the EPA's SmartWay Transport Partnership (www.epa.gov/smartway), the company has adopted no-idle engine policies at its shipping locations, piloted a hybrid frozen delivery truck program and increased its use of intermodal (rail and barge) transport.
Using Oracle®* Transportation Management to create Project MOST (Management of Optimized Sustainable Transportation), Kraft Foods measures truck movements and designs new trip segments to minimize "empty miles," eliminating more than 500,000 miles (800,000 km) last year. Now, Kraft Foods' private fleet and its top 50 carriers use the software and Oracle has recognized the company for its work with its 2009 "Enable the Eco-Enterprise" award. *Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation and/or its affiliates.
Kraft Foods' 20 largest plants and distribution centers in North America use software from Transportation/Warehouse Optimization to maximize product per truckload, taking the equivalent of 1,500 trucks off the road and more than a million miles
(1.6 million km) off the highway system.

About Kraft Foods Kraft Foods (www.kraftfoodscompany.com) makes today delicious in 150 countries around the globe. Our 100,000 employees work tirelessly to make delicious foods consumers can feel good about. From American brand icons like Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings, Maxwell House coffees and Oscar Mayer meats, to global powerhouse brands like Oreo and LU biscuits, Philadelphia cream cheeses, Jacobs and Carte Noire coffees, Tang powdered beverages and Milka, Cote d'Or, Lacta and Toblerone chocolates, our brands deliver millions of smiles every day. Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT) is the world's second largest food company with annual revenues of $42 billion. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Standard & Poor's 500, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index. For more details on the company's sustainability focus and progress, please visit www.kraftfoodsbetterworld.com. - make today delicious - Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link. Steve Yucknut https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=90658

WWF And Forum For The Future Lead The UK Environmental NGO Market

2009-11-19 04:00:06 -0500

To help CSR Directors select suitable partners to support their climate change, sustainability and environmental goals a new report from independent research firm Verdantix compares 12 environmental NGOs on 35 criteria. The report finds that WWF and Forum For The Future lead the UK market and 10 NGOs, including Business In The Community, the Carbon Disclosure Project, The Climate Group and Oxfam offer specialised services which differentiate their value. "Environmental NGOs provide a wide range of advisory, thought leadership, partnering and brand-credibility services to UK corporates" commented Verdantix Director Rodolphe d'Arjuzon. "The realisation by CSR Directors that they needed to take action on climate change resulted in an influx of new NGOs into the UK market, but there is intense competition to get the attention of sustainability leaders. As a result, successful NGOs have developed either a remarkable issue-based focus or specialist expertise and stakeholder networks. For example, Green Alliance has a strong position in shaping environmental policy decisions and the Forest Stewardship Council achieves incredible leverage over business decisions with its product certification scheme." The Verdantix report, Green Quadrant: Environmental NGOs UK, launched today, applies the proprietary Green Quadrant methodology that helps sustainability decision-makers to compare and shortlist potential suppliers. The 3 month study included 30 interviews with FTSE 100 CSR Directors and in-depth discussions with 12 senior managers at NGOs. The analysis compares NGOs such as Fauna and Flora International, Tomorrow's Company and The Earthwatch Institute on their capabilities to provide CSR Directors with services that help them achieve their environmental business goals. The study found that: WWF is a Leader due to the breadth of its capabilities and resources. The 250 employees of WWF UK score highly on thought leadership, communication and awareness building, advisory services, partnerships and investment in sustainability projects outside the UK. By working with firms on a selective basis it maintains strong brand credibility - which is highly valuable for CSR Directors at firms with consumers brands like HSBC, IKEA, Marks & Spencer and SABMiller. Forum For The Future is a Leader due to its consulting prowess. This London-based charity is distinguished by its strong business alignment, reflected in its customer base: BP, BT, Eurostar, PepsiCo and Unilever. The 70-strong staff at Forum For The Future, which was founded in 1996, help businesses plan for the future by envisioning scenarios and promoting innovation to address strategic issues like climate change. Issue-specific specialists offer valuable niche expertise. The detailed assessment of 10 other NGOs found each occupies a specialist domain. For carbon management advice CSR Directors turn to the Carbon Disclosure Project, for forestry issues the FSC, for policy advice the Green Alliance, for best practice sharing Tomorrow's Company and for bio-diversity Fauna & Flora International. "Our survey of 30 CSR Directors in FTSE 100 firms found that the environmental agenda has progressed beyond climate change awareness building" continued Rodolphe d'Arjuzon, author of the report. "What are the NGO growth areas for 2010? We heard that running a sustainable business, water management and climate change adaptation top the list. Fifty per cent more CSR directors plan to work with an NGO on water scarcity in 2010 compared to 2009. And 57% of respondents intend to launch NGO-related activities on climate change adaptation in 2010 compared to just 40% in 2009." Quashing the hopes of Board room influence, very few FTSE 100 CSR Directors, speaking on an anonymous basis, consider NGO engagements achieve deeper CEO engagement on environmental issues. The consensus is that the primary business benefit from working with NGOs is their ability to validate and challenge sustainability strategies which reflects the perception that environmental NGOs are an independent, external stakeholder in the successful delivery of climate change and sustainability strategies. The Verdantix report, Green Quadrant: Environmental NGOs UK, launched today is available to buy online and Verdantix clients can download the report at www.verdantix.com. About Verdantix Verdantix is an independent business research firm focused on climate change, sustainable business and energy management. Visit: www.verdantix.com

Traditional Medicinals(R) First U.S.-Based Manufacturer to Introduce New FairWild(R) Certified Herbal Products

2009-11-18 19:52:13 -0500

AmeriCares and Boeing Deliver Emergency Relief Supplies to the Philippines

2009-11-18 19:35:30 -0500

AmeriCares and Boeing today delivered an emergency shipment of medical aid to the Philippines, where thousands of people are still reeling from the devastation caused by back-to-back storms this fall. Floodwaters from Typhoon Ketsana and other storms have been slow to recede, creating a breeding ground for waterborne diseases. With tens of thousands still homeless and living in crowded evacuation centers, the threat of infectious diseases spreading remains high. Today's shipment includes antibiotics to fight infections and treat waterborne diseases, as well as pain relievers, medical supplies and personal hygiene items. "With thousands of people homeless, crowded into temporary shelters, survivors have an increased risk of developing serious, potentially life-threatening diseases," said AmeriCares President & CEO Curt Welling. "The medicines and supplies we delivered today will keep families in the Philippines healthy as they rebuild their homes and their lives." The medical aid, valued at over $120,000 and weighing nearly 7,000 pounds, was transported to the Philippines in the cargo hold of a brand new Boeing 777 through a partnership with Boeing and Philippine Airlines. "It is our great hope that this collaborative effort will bring some comfort to the flood victims during this very challenging time," said Fred Kiga, vice president, State and Local Government Relations and Global Corporate Citizenship for the Northwest Region, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Today's shipment brings the total value of AmeriCares aid to the Philippines to nearly $5 million since Typhoon Ketsana made landfall on Sept. 26. About AmeriCares AmeriCares is a nonprofit international disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization which delivers medicines, medical supplies and aid to people in crisis around the world. Since it was established in 1982, AmeriCares has distributed more than $9 billion in humanitarian aid to 137 countries. For more information, go to www.AmeriCares.org

Leonardo Academy Announces Opportunities to Participate in Development Process for Emissions Inventories, Offsets and Reduction Credits Standard

2009-11-18 15:54:02 -0500

Leonardo Academy, a charitable nonprofit organization that works to advance sustainability, announced today five opportunities to participate in the development of the Emissions Inventories, Offsets and Reduction Credits Standard (LEO-5000). Interested parties can: (1) Apply for membership on the standard development committee, (2) Apply to be an observer of the standard development process, (3) Sign up to pilot test the draft standard, (4) Sign up to use the standard once it is approved as an American National Standard and (5) Make a charitable donation to support the development of the standard. Visit the Leonardo Academy web site at: http://www.leonardoacademy.org/programs/standards/emissions-standards.html to learn more about how to engage in the LEO-5000 standard development process. Objectives of the Standard The objectives of LEO-5000 are to: (1) Provide transparent reporting of the scope of emissions sources being addressed and how emissions, sequestration and offsets are calculated, in order to help companies and consumers make sense of claims made by businesses about their emission reductions and offset achievements. (2) Provide an alternative methodology to the traditional one-dimensional approach of targeting single emissions by addressing the full range of emission types, including those that adversely affect climate and those that adversely affect human health. (3) Fill in the gap left by current climate emissions standards by addressing carbon sequestration in existing forests. Need for the Standard A wide variety of reporting methodologies are used around the globe to track emission inventories, offsets and reduction credits. However, current methodologies frequently address a relatively narrow range of both emission types and sources of emission reductions. The LEO-5000 standard proposes to provide a multi-pollutant approach that will help companies and organizations that implement energy efficiency, renewable energy and other emission reduction actions to calculate and earn reduction credits for all types of pollutants reduced, including carbon, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter and mercury. Furthermore, the need for alternative approaches with regard to what qualifies as an appropriate emission reduction source is supported by growing recognition that maintaining existing forests is a key component to effectively addressing climate change. The recent UN-REDD (the UN's Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries) discussions seek to provide recognition and rewards for the carbon-storing benefits of preserving rainforests. The LEO-5000 standard proposes to develop a systematic approach to addressing carbon sequestration in all types of forests. Michael Arny, President of Leonardo Academy, said, "Approximately 25% of global carbon dioxide emissions are attributed to forest destruction. It is imperative that we fix the hole in our carbon bucket by systematically addressing the benefits of carbon sequestration in existing forests. Additionally, we need to expand our focus on emissions to encompass a more broad and integrated approach that covers the full range of emissions and emission reduction sources. The LEO-5000 standards development committee will seek to accomplish these goals." How to Engage in the LEO-5000 Standard Development Process

a. Joining the LEO-5000 email list b. Pilot testing the draft standard c. Using the final standard

About Leonardo Academy Leonardo Academy is a charitable nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing sustainability by leveraging innovative tools and information to motivate the competitive market. By utilizing an interdisciplinary approach to sustainability education and implementation, we strive to make sustainability practical for everyone. We develop integrative sustainability solutions designed to enhance the environmental stewardship, social responsibility and economic prosperity of organizations, corporations and individuals. We envision a world filled with sustainable opportunities that can transform the way we live today and ensure the prosperity of future generations. About Leonardo Academy Sustainability Standards Development As an ANSI-accredited standards developer, Leonardo Academy is actively engaged in the development of voluntary consensus standards - an important tool for driving sustainability objectives through the marketplace. Leonardo Academy develops Leonardo Academy-ANSI standards and also provides process administration support to other organizations that develop sustainability standards. Our current standard development activities include: Emissions Inventories, Offsets and Reduction Credits; Sustainable Gaming; Sustainable Agriculture; Life-Cycle Impact Profile Declaration; Sustainable Vehicles; Sustainable Organizations and Sustainable Events. Learn more about these standards at: http://www.leonardoacademy.org/programs/standards.html.

Ben and Jerry’s, Eileen Fisher and Stonyfield Farm Join BICEP Coalition

2009-11-18 14:06:48 -0500

Ceres president Mindy Lubber announced today that three new companies - Ben & Jerry's, Eileen Fisher and Stonyfield Farm- have joined the business coalition, Business for Innovative Climate and Energy Policy (BICEP) that is calling for strong climate and energy legislation from Congress in 2009. The new members were announced as the U.S. Senate considers a comprehensive climate and energy legislation and as world leaders prepare to meet in Copenhagen next month to negotiate a new international agreement on climate change. "These companies know that there is no distinction between what is good for business and what is good for the environment," said Lubber, whose group helps coordinate BICEP. "We welcome these new BICEP members and look forward to their contributions in achieving strong Congressional action to catalyze a clean energy economy." Launched last November, BICEP includes 16 of the nation's largest consumer brands, including founding members Nike, Starbucks, Levi Strauss & Co., Sun Microsystems and The Timberland Co. "Supporting positive change has always been important at EILEEN FISHER. We are honored to join the collective voices of BICEP and support the work of our U.S. legislators to develop climate policy," said Eileen Fisher, CEO of the clothing company based in Irvington, NY. This wave of companies joining BICEP comes against the backdrop of growing momentum for strong nationwide energy and climate policies. Last month, as part of Ceres' and Clean Economy Network's "We Can Lead" effort, more than 150 companies from 30-plus states came to Capitol Hill to advocate for comprehensive climate and energy policies. Business leaders from a variety of sectors brought the message to Washington that strong climate and energy legislation would create over 1.7 million new jobs, cut global warming pollution, restore America's competitiveness and provide for our economic and national security. "Stonyfield rejects the notion that aggressive climate action is going to be costly," says Gary Hirshberg, CEO Stonyfield Farm, an organic yogurt company headquartered in New Hampshire. "Based on our experience, climate action offers economic opportunity rather than economic penalty. With global warming now approaching dangerous levels, Congress must look less at economic models and more at economic reality - what the actual, on-the-ground experience of pro-active entities like the BICEP companies shows." BICEP's core principles include stimulating production of renewable energy, promoting energy efficiency and clean energy jobs, requiring the auction of all carbon allowances and limiting new coal-fired power plants to those that capture and store carbon emissions. Details on BICEP's principles and members can be found at www.ceres.org/bicep. "Ben & Jerry's believes in the power of grassroots activism to create positive change. By working cooperatively with our consumers, we can tell our Congressional representatives that strong climate-change legislation is critical. Together, with our consumers and the BICEP coalition, we have a much better chance to pass meaningful climate-change legislation," said Walt Freese, CEO of Vermont-based Ben & Jerry's. The new BICEP companies all have long track records of making sustainability a central component of their business models:

Eileen Fisher is using innovative solutions to reduce the environmental impact of its clothing through all four stages of its life cycle: raw material, production process, product use and disposal.
To help reduce its own contribution to global warming, Stonyfield has dramatically improved efficiency in its production and distribution, offset all of the CO2 emissions generated from its facility energy use for well over a decade and made several investments in renewable energy.
To get a clear picture on generation of company greenhouse gases, Ben & Jerry's continues work on a carbon inventory of United States operations to identify the best areas for reducing climate impacts and offset 100% of emissions associated with the Vermont manufacturing facilities for the seventh consecutive year.

About BICEP

www.ceres.org/bicep

About Ben & Jerry's

www.benjerry.com

About Eileen Fisher

www.eileenfisher.com

About Stonyfield Farm

www.stonyfield.com/about_us

NBC Universal Goes "Green Behind The Scenes"

2009-11-18 12:52:13 -0500

NBC Universal is making "green production" easier for its televisions shows by integrating environmental sustainability into its core production culture. As part of an ongoing goal to implement eco-friendly practices across the company, NBC Universal has launched a green production initiative to deliver a comprehensive combination of environmental tools and resources to its crews and staff to facilitate a move towards more sustainable production. "Over the last few years, we've been committed to changing the way we do business so that we can lessen our impact on the environment and do our part to help our industry operate more sustainably," said Beth Colleton, VP of Green Is Universal. "By making green practices a part of our work culture, we can make significant strides in reducing the environmental footprint of our shows as well as the entertainment sector." In partnership with "Green Is Universal," NBCU's company-wide environmental initiative, NBCU's television production arms, Universal Media Studios (UMS) and Universal Cable Productions (UCP), have developed a series of best practices and educational materials that are being put to use on all productions. Highlights include: Green is Universal Film and Television Production Guides: NBCU has published step-by-step instruction guides that detail environmental best practices specific to film and TV production - from location scouting to set design construction to vendor selection to wrapping and locking a set. These guides, which can be found on www.greenisuniversal.com, are not only available for use within the company, but are also available to the industry at large. "Green is Universal" will soon publish additional guides specifically geared towards television news, cable originals, award programs and special events. "Green 17": A baseline commitment to 17 green goals produced by UMS and UCP are currently implementing that cover key areas of environmental impact including recycling and repurposing, alternatives to VOC paints and toxic cleaners, paper use reduction and digitization and water bottle removal. Many productions already go above and beyond the baseline goals, with shows like "Saturday Night Live" and "Psych" using sustainable wood and rechargeable batteries for sound equipment (respectively). Dedicated and experienced personnel: In addition to the resources and support of the company's "Green is Universal" and operational staff, NBCU has a Manager of Sustainable of Production who liaises with both film and television productions to help implement and track green best practices and assist shows to transition to more sustainable operations. NBCU continues its commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of its films and TV shows all the way through the DVD release process. In early 2009, Universal Studios Home Entertainment transitioned to a DVD case that uses 20% less plastic than the standard DVD case. Approximately 60 million of these cases will be used in 2009, resulting in a 1.8 million pound reduction in C02 emissions. NBCU is also pursuing other innovative ways to "go green". Earlier this year, the company implemented a "closed loop" recycling system at its 30 Rockefeller Plaza corporate headquarters in New York where more than 50 tons of paper trash has been recycled and converted into cardboard DVD cases and boxes for company use. About "Green is Universal" Launched in May 2007, "Green is Universal" is NBC Universal's ongoing environmental initiative dedicated to raising Green awareness, effecting positive change to the environment, and substantially greening its own operations.

"Green Is Universal" Launches "Green Counts Here," A New Campaign Designed To Activate Consumers Around Green

2009-11-18 12:43:08 -0500

"Green Is Universal kicks off its annual "Green Week" November 15th, demonstrating a continued company-wide commitment to raise environmental awareness and activate consumers around ways to preserve the environment. For the third straight year, over 40 NBCU brands will feature environmentally themed programming across the company's television and digital platforms. The centerpiece of this year's "Green Week" is the "Green Counts Here" campaign, a cross-platform initiative that invites NBC Universal audiences to make green count, by pledging to make small green changes in their daily lives. The sum of these pledges will illustrate to consumers' the collective impact of their environmentally friendly actions. Throughout "Green Week", both on-air and online promotion for "Green Counts Here" will appear across many of NBCU's properties, inviting consumers to make an online pledge to adopt an eco-friendly habit. For instance, USA Network will encourage viewers to power down their computers, iVillage will promote shopping with reusable bags, The Weather Channel will ask people to turn down the thermostat and Syfy will suggest carpooling to work or school. The pledges can be made on each brand's website, and a running tally of these commitments will be featured online. "While the challenges facing the planet can seem vast, we can all make small green changes that cumulatively add up to make a huge difference," said Beth Colleton, Vice President of Green is Universal. "Through this program we hope to mobilize our audiences in pledging to green just one aspect of their daily routines. Together we can have a meaningful impact on the environment." Talent across all NBCU networks will play a significant role in encouraging viewers to be greener, through a series of environmentally themed "The More You Know" PSAs. Topics include how to conserve water, use less energy and recycle. Following are "Green Week" Highlights: NBC Sports: "Green Week" kicks off during NBC's "Football Night in America," where viewers will see highlights of past and upcoming "Green is Universal" programming. NBC News: The TODAY show will feature a weeklong look at innovative and cost-efficient ways for families to live greener lives. Additionally, in a three-part series, "Nightly News" Environmental Correspondent Anne Thompson will travel to Greenland, Arizona and Denmark, examining everything from melting ice cores to drought-stricken areas to new green energy sources for the home. David Gregory will also discuss the environment with his guests on "Meet the Press." NBC Primetime: Green themes will be woven into the storylines of "Heroes," "The Biggest Loser," "Community," "The Office" and "30 Rock." "The Jay Leno Show" will feature Ed Begley, Jr. in the "Green Car Challenge," as well as a green-themed "Jaywalking" segment and a green comedy piece with correspondent Brian Unger. NBC Late Night will feature green segments on "The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien" and "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon," while Carson Daly will host "Last Call with Carson Daly" from green locales throughout the week. CNBC: Several programs, including "Fast Money" and "The Suze Orman Show," will feature green stocks to watch and discuss the role of green companies in the economy. MSNBC will feature the next installment of its "Future Earth" series with Jeff Corwin's documentary, "100 Heartbeats," which chronicles the global environmental crisis and the impact on animal and plant species. The Weather Channel will air segments on climate change throughout the week. Viewers will also have the opportunity to see the first installment of MSNBC's documentary series "Future Earth" about the melting of the Arctic Ocean. USA Network will celebrate characters who are making a difference to help save the environment, with a green-themed vignette as well as an updated "Ecoist Corner" on www..green.usanetwork.com. Bravo will re-air environmentally themed episodes of "Top Chef," "The Real Housewives of Orange County," "Shear Genius" and "Project Runway" with contestants using environmentally conscious and organic products. The network will also air Green Week vignettes featuring personalities numerous Bravo shows. BravoTV.com will run features including "10 Simple Ways to Be More Green," "10 Ways to Green Your Kitchen" and "10 Must-Have Green Buys." Oxygen's "The Naughty Kitchen With Chef Blythe Beck's" Blythe Beck will talk about the sustainable practices at Central 214, a Kimpton Hotel Restaurant, where she is the Executive Chef, including its use of organic, locally grown produce and its zero carbon footprint water filtration system. Syfy will feature several environmental specials including a full day of "Earth in Peril" themed films, detailing potential future natural disasters. Telemundo: "Levantate," "Al Rojo Vivo con Maria Celeste" and "Noticiero Telemundo" and the network's sports shows will feature segments on global warming, recycling, and other ways to improve the planet. mun2 will air its original documentary entitled "Toxic City: This is Where I Live," an exploration of Latino communities and the effects of daily exposure to environmental hazards of air pollution, water contamination, as well as other health risks. Universal Studios Theme Parks and Resorts will show highlights from MSNBC's "Future Earth: 100 Heartbeats" at the Animal Actors attraction and CityWalk. NBC Local Media Television Stations will also incorporate environmentally- themed stories into their newscasts. NBC Universal Domestic Television Distribution: "Access Hollywood" will report on the latest Hollywood celebrities making an environmental difference. "The Martha Stewart Show" will showcase green tips and gardening techniques that highlight the importance of cultivation and conservation. "Maury," "The Jerry Springer Show" and "The Steve Wilkos Show" will encourage viewers to conserve energy by turning out the lights when leaving a room. iVillage will feature new content to provide the latest green trends in beauty and style, home and garden, entertainment, and health - with a focus on helping moms make a green lifestyle work for them and their families. The site will also host a month-long Green Community Challenge, with daily tips and assignments that will help users live more eco-friendly lives. NBCU Volunteers will host environmental community service projects in Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, Washington D.C. and New York. Also in New York, employees will work with acclaimed environmental artist Tom Deininger to create a 3D eco-trash art installation from recycled, reclaimed and re-purposed materials from NBCU's headquarters. The NBC Universal Foundation will award a series of "green" grants to non-profits that promote environmental education in underserved communities. About "Green is Universal" Launched in May 2007, "Green is Universal" is NBC Universal's ongoing environmental initiative dedicated to raising Green awareness, effecting positive change to the environment, and substantially greening its own operations.

Thanks for Giving 2009

2009-11-18 12:09:36 -0500

WHAT: The Center for Family Resources Thanks for Giving 2009 Food Distribution WHO: The Center for Family Resources (CFR) has been providing Thanksgiving boxes to families in need in Cobb County for more than 20 years. CFR is different from shelter-based holiday programs in that CFR preserves family traditions and treasured time together by providing everything each family needs to enjoy a meal at home together. WHY: CFR has seen a 49 percent increase in need during the first half of 2009 and has set a goal to provide boxes to 1,500 families! The effort each year is made possible through corporate and community support. Support from corporate sponsors including UPS and Lockheed Martin ensures CFR meets its goal. The effort takes more than 65,000 food items and 300 volunteers to be successful as families pick-up their boxes and head home to cook their holiday meal. The 2009 effort will make organizational history as CFR serves more families than ever in the program's 24-year history. Visit www.TheCFR.org to find out more about Thanks for Giving 2009. WHEN: Monday, November 23, 2009 from 1p.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, November 24, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. WHERE: Cobb County Civic Center 548 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta, GA 30060 MORE: Since 1960, CFR has helped tens of thousands of low-income families with employment, education, and housing services; leadership development programs; mentoring opportunities; and temporary financial and food assistance. Guided by organizational values of Family, Integrity, Results, Service and Teamwork, the staff at CFR is committed to breaking the cycle of poverty by helping families acquire the resources they need to become independent and self-sufficient. www.TheCFR.org

Earth Advertising marks a 10-year benchmark with new communication tools:

2009-11-18 11:36:29 -0500

Earth Advertising marks a 10-year benchmark with new communication tools: interactive CSR reports, web series, and games. (See "Selling Without Selling Out" web series trailer: above) Earth, the ad agency best known for its supporting role in the growth of eco-preneurs, celebrates 10 years today at a time when sustainability marketing is booming. "At the beginning, we were the only green marketing agency in the U.S., according to Adweek." said Martha Shaw who founded Earth's studio eFlicks Media in 1999. "Now, corporate America is embracing environmental issues and that's good for our entire industry. A rising tide floats all boats." With its 360° approach to pr and media, the agency has a history of hitting the sweet spot where creative messaging, brand authenticity and new media tools converge. That approach has worked to put many of today's leading green companies, organizations and issues in the limelight, including clean technologies, organic foods, car concepts, and non-toxic household goods. Beyond commerce, Earth has worked to empower women scientists, support local living economies, and promote renewable energy. Selling Without Selling Out: Eco-preneurs and Wall Street A recent Earth Advertising e-series is Selling Without Selling Out. The web commentary features some of the most prominent environmental entrepreneurs of our time, sharing their challenges of gaining distribution, market share and capital. These often lead to mergers with multinational corporations, where contrasting priorities play out. These founders offer their experiences and discoveries. “Hold on to your principles and be willing to walk away from the deal," says CEO and Founder Gary Hirshberg of Stonyfield Farm, an organic producer and distributor of yogurt, milk and other dairy products. Selling without Selling Out also features the founders of Honest Tea, Odwalla, Dagoba, and other leading brands, including the board of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. CSR Reports: Corporate transparency, accountability and new regulations. "CSR reports are a relatively new communications tool," says Stuart Ross, Communication Director at Earth Advertising who came from Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), and has a history with corporate marketers including PepsiCo. "Increasingly, CSR reporting is becoming legally mandated. We can help clients get to where they want to be from a reporting standpoint, and then share their best practices with the world." Regulators aren't the only ones asking for CSR reports, all stakeholders are asking questions, he noted. Earth creates multi-media CSR reports that convert to video, web content, lobby and tradeshow displays, commercials, training tools, and interactive games for setting internal goals and measuring achievement. A whole new language that explains and entertains with CSR. CSR has its own vocabulary and it's universal. As more companies share their best practices with the world, the greater the groundswell. CSR reports identify new metrics of sustainability, from impact, footprints, resource consumption, waste diversion, energy consumption, offsets and product lifecycle, and social and environmental justice. The digital footprint. One project of the firm is helping to measure the environmental impact of the industry itself. A friend of Earth Advertising, SustainCommWorld founder Lisa Wellman said, "Advertising can educate and inform, and can be a powerful driver for positive action - or not." Don Carli, Fellow of the Institute for Sustainable Communication is an advisor to Earth and agrees, "By its very nature, advertising itself calls into play a great deal of energy and materials. It's good to see agencies like this taking it on." One of Earth's media directors has been a producer of games for children since the first interactive products, bringing hundreds of interactive products to the marketplace for AT&T, Simon & Schuster and Paramount. "Earth has some interesting interactive projects in development that are proprietary," says Diane Strack who believes in the power of gaming to create behavior shifts. "We're in the early stages of one game that is competitive, reaps instant rewards and makes it fun to know about trash." New media partner for Green Drinks. When commerce and environment come together, great things can happen. Earth Advertising is a founding member of SBNYC and media partner with Green Drinks, the watering hole of NYC’s green jet set that has been unifying the community for 8 years, and is now in 650 cities. The big holiday party is featuring the great aquanaut and heroine of the sea, Sylvia Earle. "We've been connecting people to collaborate on business, make friends, find jobs and experience moments of serendipity," says Margaret Lydecker, Founder of Green Drinks NYC. "Don't miss it on December 8th." Talented people join the agency to work on marketing they care about. The company was formed to concentrate marketing experts and talent with common interests under one logo, including moms. This has meant creating an environment that has room for family. Like others on the team, brand strategist Nancy Orem Lyman brings a wealth of experience from a career with multinational brands. "To work with companies and organizations just starting to embrace a sustainability agenda, and those who are leading the way, is rewarding." says Nancy, who is also founder of the Women's Climate Initiative. "When you take the power of advertising and apply it to brands and initiatives that motivate others, change can happen very quickly." LINKS Zmags is a leader in Interactive Collateral Materials and Management--reducing print and distribution costs while presenting content in an engaging format that is user-friendly. Zmags sample of Earth's work" http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/440142a6 Earth Advertising on JustMeans: http://www.justmeans.com/companies/earth-advertising/139192.html Shop Green Mall, green retailers pooling their resources and keeping cash in the community : http://www.shopgreenmall.net

America's Promise Alliance and the ING Foundation Partner to Recognize the 100 Best Communities for Young People

2009-11-18 10:56:25 -0500

The America's Promise Alliance (the Alliance) today announced a three-year partnership with the ING Foundation to recognize the 100 Best Communities for Young People (100 Best). Launched in 2005, the 100 Best competition celebrates communities that have made the well-being of young people a top priority through programs that help them reach their potential, prepare them to graduate high school, and succeed in the 21st century workforce. Last held in 2008, the 100 Best competition has been updated for 2010 to include more specific selection criteria on how communities address their high school dropout rates and will include local celebrations in each of the 100 winning communities. "The no. 1 predictor of whether a young person succeeds is whether they receive a high school diploma. Our 100 Best communities understand this and are working every day to help children and youth in their communities overcome challenges and reach their potential," said Marguerite Kondracke, president and CEO, America's Promise Alliance. "This work isn't easy, but it's essential, and that's why we’re thrilled to partner with the ING Foundation - a longtime supporter of our Alliance - to recognize outstanding large cities and small towns and share their great example with the rest of the nation." The 2010 100 Best competition will serve as a key component of the Alliance's Grad Nation Campaign, which has a goal of helping the nation cut the high school dropout rate in half by 2018. Communities will not only be judged on the success of dropout prevention initiatives, but also on their delivery of the "Five Promises": caring adults, safe places, a healthy start, an effective education, and opportunities to help others - holistic support resources that research shows increase a young person's chances of success and will help achieve the Grad Nation goal. "ING is committed to children's education, and joining with America's Promise to recognize communities that share in our goal of empowering young people to achieve a better future is a natural extension of our partnership," said Rhonda Mims, president of the ING Foundation and senior vice president, ING Office of Corporate Responsibility and Multicultural Affairs. "We are excited to learn about and celebrate modeling programs around the country that are helping to reduce the high school dropout rate." To participate in the 2010 competition, applicants must submit a research-based application early in 2010, which will be judged by a distinguished panel of civic, business and nonprofit leaders, as well as young people who are part of the Alliance’s Impact Network. Previous selection panel judges have included such well-known figures as the former mayors of Indianapolis and Denver, the First Lady of West Virginia, leadership from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and United Way, and the late Tim Russert. The 2010 application drive will be announced in February 2010. The previous 100 Best competition was the most competitive in the initiative’s history, with nearly 750 applicants from more than 300 communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. To learn more about 100 Best or read about prior winners, visit: www.americaspromise.org/100best. About America's Promise Alliance America's Promise Alliance is the nation's largest partnership organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth. Through the collective power of our partner network, we raise awareness, support communities and engage in nonpartisan advocacy to ensure that young people receive more of the fundamental resources they need to graduate high school prepared for college, work and life. Building on the legacy of our Founding Chairman General Colin Powell, the Alliance believes the success of our young people is grounded in the Five Promises-caring adults; safe places; a healthy start; an effective education; and opportunities to help others. For more information about America's Promise Alliance, visit www.americaspromise.org. About ING ING is a global financial institution of Dutch origin offering banking, investments, life insurance, and retirement services to over 85 million residential, corporate and institutional clients in more than 40 countries. With a diverse workforce of about 115,000 people, ING is dedicated to setting the standard in helping our clients manage their financial future. In the U.S., the ING (NYSE: ING) family of companies offers a comprehensive array of financial services to retail and institutional clients, which includes life insurance, retirement plans, mutual funds, managed accounts, alternative investments, direct banking, institutional investment management, annuities, employee benefits, financial planning, and reinsurance. ING holds top-tier rankings in key U.S. markets and serves nearly 30 million customers across the nation. ING's diversity management philosophy and commitment to workplace diversity, diversity marketing, corporate citizenship and supplier diversity fosters an inclusive environment for employees that supports a distinctive product and service experience for the financial services consumer. For more information, visit www.ing.com/us. About the ING Foundation The ING Foundation's mission is to improve the quality of life in communities where ING operates and its employees and customers live. Through charitable giving and employee volunteerism, the foundation focuses on programs in the areas of financial literacy, children's education, diversity, and environmental sustainability. For more information, visit www.ing-usafoundation.com. Notice to U.S. Persons This document shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. If and when the upcoming rights offering is launched, ING will arrange to send you the prospectus it expects to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission if you request it by writing to ING Group Investor Relations, Location code IH 07.362, P.O. Box 810, 1000 AV Amsterdam or by calling +31 20 541 5419.

BJ’s Charitable Foundation Donates More Than $492,000 Dollars to 68 Nonprofits that Provide Basic-need Services

2009-11-18 10:15:31 -0500

BJ's Charitable Foundation distributed 68 grants totaling $492,700 to nonprofit organizations that focus on providing services in the areas of hunger prevention, self-sufficiency, health care, and education to children and families in need that reside in the communities BJ's Wholesale Clubs serve. "BJ's Charitable Foundation is proud to continue supporting some of the best organizations in our communities who focus on social services," said Jessica Newman, manager of community relations for BJ's Wholesale Club. "We are especially happy to give back during the holiday season to assist the nonprofits with their increased demand for donations." Below is a list by state of the 68 organizations that received grants through BJ's Charitable Foundation: Connecticut Community Soup Kitchen (New Haven) - $5,000 to support a portion of the general operating costs of the soup kitchen, which is expected to serve more than 70,000 meals in 2009. Connecticut Food Bank (East Haven) – $15,000 to support warehousing and transporting of donated food. Through warehouses in East Haven, Fairfield, and Waterbury, and distribution sites in New London and Stamford, CFB provides 31 tons of food products to more than 650 soup kitchens, shelters, food pantries and daycare programs daily in Fairfield, Litchfield, Middlesex, and New Haven, New London, and Windham counties. The Open Door Shelter (Norwalk) - $10,000 to stock their chest freezers and storage pantry with non-perishables and frozen meats. During 2008, they served 191,594 soup kitchen meals and 179,493 food pantry meals to homeless and working poor men, women and families throughout the state of Connecticut, with the majority of clients coming from Norwalk. Village for Families & Children, Inc. (Hartford) - $10,000 for clothing, food, sheets, pillows, blankets, sports equipment, and after school activity supplies for the Safe Home Program, which is a short term residential facility for children, between ages birth to 12, who have been removed from their families for the first time. Delaware YWCA Delaware, Inc. (Wilmington) - $5,000 to purchase food and clothing for clients at its Home-Life Management Center, which is a temporary housing program that provides safe and secure housing with individualized skills training to homeless families. Florida Daily Bread Food Bank (Miami) - $15,000 to leverage their bulk buying power to purchase nutritious food such as rice, beans, peanut butter, tuna and beef stew. The Daily Bread Food Bank distributes food to 800 member agencies serving approximately 146,653 unduplicated individuals per year. HandsOn Jacksonville (Oviedo) - $5,000 to purchase backpacks, educational books and toys to be given out at their 2009 annual literacy event being held in 16-18 of their most challenged elementary schools. Hope Foundation for the Homeless (HOPE), Inc. (Oviedo) - $5,000 to be expended in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank for volume basic food item purchases to meet the needs of over 30,000 individuals and also enable granting a full bag of food basics to needy individuals and families this coming Christmas. South Florida Cancer Association (Doral) - $7,500 for Project SCREEN, which provides breast cancer screenings to underserved women residing in the Miami Dade and Monroe Counties. Sulzbacher Center (Jacksonville) - $10,000 to provide nutritious meals to the homeless men, women and children of Northeast Florida. The funds will be used to buy food and paper products necessary for giving nutritional meals to the hungry. Teaching Tools for Hillsborough Schools (Tampa) - $5,000 to purchase supplies for its "supply store" that more than 2,000 teachers from Title I schools and educational sites are eligible to shop, once a month taking up to $280 of free school supplies back to their classrooms. Title 1 schools are the largest federal funded education program authorized by Congress that provides supplemental funds to school districts to assist eligible public and private schools with the highest student concentration of poverty to meet school educational goals. Volunteers of America Florida (Miami) - $10,000 to purchase food and supplies for individuals and families that are experiencing homelessness and other economic hardships or disabilities. Women's Center of Jacksonville, Inc. (Jacksonville) - $5,000 for program administration, student supplies, babysitting, transportation assistance costs, and a classroom instructor to increase the number of women served for The Expanded Horizons Program, which assists women who are 18 years old and above who need assistance with reading, basic math, English as a Second Language, GED preparation and computer skills. Georgia All Grown Up, Inc (Stockridge) - $5,000 to purchase supplies, cover field trips costs, facility fees and personnel expenses to operate after-school programs to 75 at-risk girls. Atlanta Community Food Bank (Atlanta) - $5,000 to purchase nutritious food that will provide more than 23,000 meals for the growing numbers of unemployed and low-income families in the community. Everybody Wins! Atlanta (Atlanta) - $5,000 to go toward serving 2,000 students for both the Power Lunch Program and StoryTime Literacy initiative during the 2009-10 school year in public elementary schools throughout the Metro Atlanta region. Program expenses include the cost of training mentors and buying children’s books and other materials Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta (Atlanta) - $10,000 toward fuel and truck maintenance expenses of the nonprofit’s two, 24-foot box trucks that pick up donations of essential household furnishings Monday through Friday for individuals and families moving out of homelessness. Maine Child Health Center (Auburn) - $5,000 to fund their Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program, including healthy snacks and activity boxes that contain items such as basketballs, board games, books and craft materials. Southern Maine Agency on Aging (Scarborough) - $5,000 to provide one month of meals to more than 100 homebound older people in Portland. This program serves over 800 people every weekday in 51 towns. Maryland Bright Beginnings, Inc. (Washington DC) - $5,000 to support a portion of the salaries and benefits for teachers, speech pathologist, OT, High/Scope Trainers as well as staff training, classroom supplies and space rental. The nonprofit addresses the special needs of homeless children ages six weeks to five years and their parents through extensive support and innovative educational, therapeutic, and family social services. Massachusetts A Place To Turn (Natick) - $7,200 to the "Healthy Learners: Feed the Body, Feed the Mind" initiative within their food pantry. This initiative targets families with young students in school who need certain nutrients for healthy development. The grant will impact 800 families during a 6-month period. A Suitable Image, Inc. (Framingham) - $5,000 for the Men's Clothing Distribution program providing low-income clients, who are referred from job training or educational programs, with free "gently used" quality business attire and accessories appropriate for job interviews. Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (Boston) - $7,000 for its Family Teen Program, which conducts outreach work to family shelters, domestic violence shelters and daycare centers delivering healthcare and supportive services to homeless families. Funds will be used to purchase diapers, over-the-counter medications, and formula and transportation vouchers for 200 family members. Boston Medical Center (Boston) - $10,000 to hold a free cancer screening on a Saturday morning that will cover the costs of EMS services, testing supplies, advertising, refreshments and entertainment. Boston Learning Center (Lynn & Revere) - $5,000 to fund the "Smart is Cool America" program for 150 students, including instructional materials, community outreach efforts, food and refreshments for participants, incentives and personnel. The workshop helps 6th-12th grade students who are typically failing core subjects or repeating a grade by showing them that they can do well in school, while still having fun and being themselves. Center for New Americans (North Hampton) - $5,000 to go towards teacher salaries for both the English as a Second Language and technology classes, impacting about 200 students over the course of the year and its funds will be matched by a Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Community Health Center of Cape Cod (Bourne) - $10,000 to fund the education, screening, assessment, clinical services through the Family Resource Center, which was established to improve the health and well-being of children and adolescents and their families by providing access to mental health services. Cradles to Crayons (Quincy) - $10,000 toward the Gearing Up for Winter initiative, which will provide 400 children with winter packs filled with one week's worth of warm clothes, boots, coats, and other supplies necessary to stay safe and warm during the New England winter. Henry Lee Willis Community Center (Worcester) - $5,000 to purchase 2,084 meals for the pantry. The organization serves more than 11,000 individuals and families annually. The services they provide at their center include emergency food pantries, case management services, emergency clothing and assistance with a job search and placement. Jewish Family & Children's Services of Greater Boston (JF&CS) (Waltham) - $10,000 to purchase food for the pantry that currently serves almost 500 individuals on a monthly and emergency basis to individuals and families in need. JFCS also reaches approximately 800 individuals annually through the Nutrition Services educational programs. Natick Visiting Nurse Association (Natick) - $5,000 to help defray the costs of medical supplies used for healthcare services to patients in their homes. New Hope (Attleboro) - $10,000 for partial cost of the Bilingual Crisis Intervention Specialist as well as hotline and training costs. The nonprofit is a domestic violence and sexual assault agency that serves 54 cities and towns in Central and Southeastern Massachusetts. Reach Out and Read (ROR) (Boston) - $10,000 to purchase books for children to take home at each well-child pediatric visit from ages 6 months to 5 years, and trainings for medical providers. ROR serves 3.8 million children annually at over 4,500 clinics, hospitals and health centers across the country. Rosie's Place (Boston) - $10,000 to purchase food for both the Dining Room Meal Program that provides lunch and dinner daily, 365 days a year and a Food Pantry that allows nearly 1,300 poor and homeless women a month to take home 20-40 pounds of food for their families. The Salem Mission (Salem) - $5,000 to support the Community Meals Program expenses including food, food preparation and supplies that serve 300 meals a day, 7 days a week to shelter guests and members of the community. New Hampshire Corpus Christi Food Pantry and Assistance (Nashua) - $5,000 to support the cost of purchasing food for the Food Pantry and to augment the demand for emergency grants within the Assistance Program. In 2008, Corpus Christi provided combined assistance to a total of 15,729 individuals. New Jersey Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children of Monmouth County (Eatontown) - $3,000 to recruit, screen, train and support volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children within the court system that are in out-of-home placement. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children of Ocean County, Inc (Toms River) - $3,000 to enable two training programs, which will educate 15-18 volunteers and will serve a total of 20-25 individual abused and neglected children within the court system that are in out-of-home placement. The funds will be utilized specifically toward training space, supplies, refreshments and guest speaker fees. Dress for Success Mercer County (Hamilton) - $5,000 toward management and administration costs of their boutique and its Professional Women's Group (PWG). PWG offers supportive services of consulting, coaching and clothing selection for disadvantaged women. The grant will impact 350 women in the coming year. Francis House (Camden) - $5,000 to provide community service opportunities and meals through 2009-2010 fiscal year for those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. Francis House serves as a safe haven for persons with the virus and provides them with companionship, nutritious meals, and an opportunity to develop trusting relationships with folks who can assist individuals and families addressing and managing their disease. Ladacin Network (Wanamassa) - $10,000 toward the Specialized Clinic Program to support psychiatry, neurology, and nutrition clinics to children and adults with disabilities at no cost. Literacy Volunteers in Mercer County, Inc. (LVMC) (Hamilton) - $5,000 to support Turning Volunteers into Tutors, their tutor in training program. LVC provides free, confidential tutoring to help increase basic literacy for adults and ESL clients. Jersey Battered Women's Service (Morristown) - $10,000 for food and household items as well as apartment refurbishment upon a client’s departure at The Simon House - the organization's transitional living program for abused women. Womanspace, Inc. (Trenton) - $5,000 to purchase supplies for the nonprofit's Barbara's House, which is a short term housing option of 3-to-6 month stays for individuals impacted by domestic and sexual violence. New York Cayuga/Seneca Community Action Agency (Auburn) - $5,000 to purchase both diaper wipes and creams for its Healthy Families Program, which focuses on care and basic needs for children of low-income families. The grant will impact 50 families. Food Bank for New York City (New York) – $15,000 to purchase food that will be distributed among its 1,000 member food providers that serve approximately 300,000 meals a day to New Yorkers in need. Green Guerillas (New York) - $10,000 to provide urban agriculture internships for teenagers in Central Brooklyn. These funds will help boost the harvest of local fresh food Central Brooklyn neighborhoods like Stuyvesant and Brownsville. The food is distributed to both local families and local food pantries and the job creation provides career direction for teenagers. Notre Dame Learning Center (Rochester) - $5,000 to purchase educational materials, math and reading workbooks, computer and printer supplies for approximately 150 economically and educationally disadvantaged children each year. Project Hospitality (Staten Island) - $10,000 to maintain The Moveable Feast. This mobile unit will serve 14 communities of need that were previously under-served or un-served. Project Hospitality plans to serve over 2,000 individuals annually through this service. Rochester Education Foundation (Rochester) - $5,000 to purchase the books, blankets, and ribbons for the Book & A Blanket holiday season project. This is a program that gives more than 4,000 pre-kindergarten to second graders a book and a handmade fleece blanket for the holidays. The Children's Village (Dobbs Ferry) - $5,000 to support a portion of the salary for a Youth Advocate from its StreetWise Street Outreach Program. The Program consists of a team that makes three outreach trips per week in the evening hour to help street-involved youth access safe, long-term housing so they can leave the streets. Youth Advocates have first hand knowledge of life on the streets and are former or current clients of the program North Carolina Cabarrus Partnership for Children (Concord) - $5,000 to purchase new activity kits, children's books, and professional development materials for early childhood teachers for their Mobile Resource Center, that is equipped with a wide variety of early education materials for early childhood educators and families with young children. Meals on Wheels of Rowan, Inc. (Salisbury) – $5,000 to pay for three Third Party Pay clients (who are unable to pay anything) to have meals for an entire year. This equals to three meals a day for an average of 22 delivery days a month. Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina (Charlotte) - $10,000 to purchase food for five proposed mobile pantries to be held in rural counties with high poverty rates and will deliver food to approximately 1,500 families. Ohio Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank (Akron) - $5,000 to purchase 5,293 pounds of bulk cereal product which will create 4,135 meals. Cleveland Foodbank (Cleveland) - $5,000 to purchase food that will be distributed to their network of agencies, which serves 450 hunger programs. Pennsylvania Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland & Perry Counties (Carlisle) - $5,000 toward shelter utilities, a 24-hour telephone hotline, food, client prescriptions and transportation for adult victims of domestic violence and their children. More than 125 adults and children will benefit from this grant. Garage Community and Youth Center (Kennett Square) - $5,000 to purchase school supplies for students, including materials for school projects, conduct background checks on volunteers and staff and a small portion to help pay salaries for after-school program staff. The Mentoring Program provides students with academic and graduation project support, internship searches, jobs, and help changing negative behavior into positive. Maternal and Child Health Consortium of Chester County (West Chester) - $5,000 to help fund the salaries of the Parent Educators who address roadblocks to care for low-income women and their children. These include linguistic and cultural barriers, lack of health insurance and delayed or no prenatal care. Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County (Allentown) – $5,000 to subsidize meal costs for clients (1,587 meals) whose incomes are below the poverty level and pay their lowest fees. This year they are delivering meals to more than 450 clients each week. Meals on Wheels of Northampton County (Bethlehem) -$5,000 to subsidize the cost of 4,274 meals among the 430,000 they prepare annually. Meals on Wheels fills 43 routes daily from 1,100 volunteers to deliver meals throughout Northampton County, serving more than 780 clients each day. The Children's Hospital Foundation (Philadelphia) - $20,000 to fund medical supplies for the Homeless Health Initiative, which provides medical care to homeless children. Rhode Island RI Mentoring Partnership (Warwick) - $5,000 to help the organization conduct an intensive statewide campaign to recruit, screen, as well as train and match 500 volunteer mentors with at-risk youth across the state. They will recruit, match, and support 4,400 mentoring relationships this year alone. Rhode Island Community Food Bank (Johnston) - $15,000 to offset the escalating transportation costs associated with food distribution. At the end of this fiscal year they will have distributed more than 9 million pounds of food including meat, fresh fruits and vegetables as well as canned goods. Visiting Nurse Services (VNS) of Newport and Bristol Counties (Portsmouth) - $5,000 toward the salaries and benefits of employees who work in VNS Maternal Child Health Program. The program serves low income and under-served children and families with preventive care, health screenings, and education. Virginia Bethany House of Northern Virginia, Inc. (Alexandria) - $5,000 to cover several months of the mortgage and heating for their largest shelter that serves battered spouses and their children, who are homeless and destitute because of abuse. Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia (Norfolk) - $10,000 to provide backpacks containing food to 50 children at risk of hunger with food to take home during the school year. The program seeks to ensure youth have nutritional meals over weekends and during holiday breaks. The backpacks are provided to the students once a month for 9-11 times a year. Sudden Infant Death Services (SIDS) Mid-Atlantic (Haymarket) - $10,000 for 200 new, portable cribs to needy families through its Cribs for Kids program. About BJ's Charitable Foundation BJ’s Charitable Foundation was established with the mission to enrich every community BJ's Wholesale Clubs serve. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that primarily benefit the underprivileged in the area of basic needs (hunger prevention, self sufficiency, education and health). For more information about BJ’s Charitable Foundation please visit, www.bjs.com/charity.

IBM Launches Consulting Service for Sustainable Assets

2009-11-18 08:50:53 -0500

IBM (NYSE: -- Property carbon footprinting -- Property carbon audit; -- Travel carbon footprinting; -- Project-based travel tracking and analysis; -- Workplace transformation; -- Consolidated real-time property-related data reporting; -- Product and service lifecycle carbon analysis; -- Data center management Sustainable Asset Analytics is supported by a number of key IBM offerings, services, software tools and products, including: -- IBM Maximo Property Performance Management Solution software, which is designed to extract and consolidate key property data from across all of a client's real estate to help assess and manage true total cost of ownership and environmental performance for buildings and other tangible assets; -- The Green Sigma™ consulting offering, which is based on Lean Six Sigma methods, tools and advanced analytics to help clients measure and reduce energy and water use, waste and greenhouse gas emissions. After the data are collected and analyzed, the information is presented on a dashboard that allows the client to understand where consumption and waste are occurring; -- Strategic Carbon Management, which uses a Component Business Model approach to help analyze CO2 emissions and energy use in any part of a client's business or an entire operation. This allows the client to prioritize where to make changes that will lower environmental impact and reduce costs. -- IBM's strategic information management and analytics tool, Cognos, which is being integrated with many of our offerings in the sustainability arena: notably with both IBM Maximo and Green Sigma. This will allow powerful, flexible, customizable queries across the entire set of asset-related sustainability data. To hear a podcast about this new offering visit: www-03.ibm.com/press/feed/audio/SSA_Podcast_Simon_Parsons_FINAL.mp3 For more on IBM's asset management consulting capabilities, go to: www.ibm.com/gbs/uk/assetmanagement To learn more about IBM's green and sustainability consulting offerings visit: www.ibm.com/gbs/sustainability For more information on IBM's full portfolio of energy and environment offerings and products, go to: www.ibm.com/green

Play Matters: A Study of Best Practices to Inform Local Policy and Process in Support of Children's Play

2009-11-16 11:38:09 -0500

2009 Corporate Citizenship Awards Dinner

2009-11-12 10:34:58 -0500

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center invites you to a celebration in our Nation's Capital. The 2009 Corporate Citizenship Awards Dinner December 1, 2009 U.S. Chamber of Commerce Washington, D.C. Reception Begins at 6:00 p.m. Awards Dinner Begins at 7:00 p.m. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center's Corporate Citizenship Awards showcase business, trade associations, and chambers of commerce that have demonstrated ethical leadership and corporate stewardship, have made a positive difference in their communities, and have contributed to the advancement of important economic and social goals. Four awards will be presented at the Awards dinner: The U.S. Community Service Award Finalists include ARAMARK, Health Care Services Corporation, Office Depot Foundation, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, and UPS The International Community Service Award Finalists include Abbott, General Electric, Goldman Sachs, Intel Corporation, and Procter & Gamble The Partnership Award Finalists include Chevron Corporation / Discovery Channel Global Education Partnership, CVS Caremark Corporation / Boundless Playgrounds, Inc., The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. / Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Ford Motor Company / National Latino Children's Institute, Nationwide Insurance / American Red Cross The Corporate Stewardship Award Finalists include Best Buy Co., Inc., ITT Corporation, Oracle Corporation, The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., and Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. To learn more about the finalists, visit http://www.uschamber.com/bclc/awards. To register for the 2009 Corporate Citizenship Awards Dinner, visit http://www.uschamber.com/bclc/awards/dinner.htm For more information call BCLC at 202-463-3133 or email BCLC@uschamber.com. Join us as we honor the highest ideals of corporate citizenship... Additionally, the U.S. Chamber's Business Civic Leadership Center is also hosting a Luncheon Forum on Business & Society Relations at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC on December 1st. To learn more and register, visit: http://www.uschamber.com/bclc/dec1_lunch.htm

Live Positively: Our commitment to making a positive difference in the world.

2009-11-11 10:51:51 -0500

Transurban Sustainability Report 2009

2009-11-09 10:09:34 -0500

Webinar: Chemicals Policy Reform and its Importance for Business

2009-11-06 09:51:36 -0500

On Friday, November 13 at 11 am PST, Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families, the Business NGO Working Group for Safer Chemicals and Sustainable Materials and the American Sustainable Business Council will host a webinar on chemicals policy reform and its importance for business. Click here to register for the Webinar This webinar will provide an opportunity to understand The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and its reform as well as to hear from some leading businesses on why policy reform is important to them. The Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 is broken. The U.S. EPA has only required testing on about 200 of the more than 82,000 chemicals that have been on the market since the law passed in 1976. Federal action is needed. For the first time in decades, we have a real opportunity to fix this problem at its source- and to start to rebuild our economy based on safer chemicals, materials and products that protect future generations from serious health and environmental harm. Downstream users of chemicals are now demanding federal change. It is time to pass a strong bill to reform TSCA-and start putting common-sense limits on toxic chemicals. Click here to register for the Webinar

Leadership Skills For Change Agents

2009-11-01 00:00:24 -0400

Instructor: Bob Willard, author of The Sustainability Advantage and other books. (Toronto) Webinars will be Mondays at 5pm Pacific time (8pm Eastern) Nov 2, 9, 16, 23. This course prepares sustainability professionals at any level in the organizational hierarchy to lead an organizational change to a sustainable enterprise. It connects the dots between timeless leadership practices and how to transform an organization to a sustainability culture. At the end of this course, participants will be able to: 1. Lead the integrate sustainability into their organization, using a seven-step sustainability change process. 2. Build an effective, relevant business case to support their company's transformation to being a sustainable enterprise. 3. By able to apply effective change leadership practices during the sustainability change process, capitalize on change paradoxes, and avoid potential derailers of their initiatives. 4. Help others be more effective sustainability champions. Bob WIllard is a leading expert on the business value of corporate sustainability strategies. He has given hundreds of keynote presentations to corporate, government, university, and NGO audiences on the bottom-line benefits of sustainability strategies. He has authored three books, The Sustainability Advantage, The Next Sustainability Wave, and The Sustainability Champion’s Guidebook, plus created a DVD of his presentation, The Business Case for Sustainability. He worked 34 years with IBM Canada, is on the faculty of the Sustainable Enterprise Academy, and serves on the advisory board of the Natural Step Canada. He has a PhD in sustainability from the University of Toronto. See www.sustainabilityadvantage.com for more information about him and his resources for sustainability champions.

2009 Net Impact Conference

2009-10-27 14:58:38 -0400

The 2009 Net Impact Conference will bring together the players behind the sustainable global enterprise movement, including sustainability and corporate responsibility practitioners, social entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. What inspires them to challenge the status quo? What obstacles do they face? And what approaches have led them to success in changing the rules of the game? Retreat to beautiful Ithaca, New York, with more than 2,000 professionals, MBAs, and other students to explore what it really takes for individuals and organizations to be changemakers, innovators, and problem solvers. Join us November 13 - 14 in Ithaca, NY at The Johnson School at Cornell University to:

Hear personal perspectives from cutting-edge leaders like Jeffrey Immelt, CEO of GE, and Seth Goldman, President and TeaEO of Honest Tea
Connect with professionals and students with similar interests at intimately-structured networking events
Gather best practices from over 350 speakers prepared to answer your difficult questions

The unparalleled energy of the Net Impact Conference will leave you inspired and equipped to make real change in your social or environmental impact career.

Deloitte/LEAD Canada Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Training

2009-10-22 16:05:39 -0400

Deloitte & Touche LLP and LEAD Canada cordially invite you to join us to learn about the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards for sustainability reporting. GRI standards offer an accurate, comparable, and repeatable way to measure your business’ environmental and social performance. Here’s what the course will cover: Context, drivers, and best sustainability reporting practice Key steps involved in GRI’s reporting process Use of GRI’s materiality and reporting principles Role, prioritization, and engagement of stakeholders Linkages between GRI and Global Compact Application-level assessment and external assurance The course size is limited to 15 participants to maximize learning. Participants will receive their course completion certificates directly from GRI. Discover how a comprehensive sustainability reporting strategy can help not only to increase transparency and accountability, but also to identify areas for improvement and mitigate risk. Who should attend Managers responsible for their organization’s environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. What’s included Registration fees include course handouts, refreshments, and lunches. Information and registration To request further information and/or register for courses, please e-mail mehrdad@prizmasolutions.com. Please indicate selected course, full name, job title, billing address, payment preference, and highlight your eligibility for any discounts. About LEAD LEAD is the first and most experienced GRI-certified training provider in North America. GRI certified LEAD as its Training Partner in Canada and the USA. LEAD’s GRI training initiative has been endorsed by the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (CGA-Canada), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Shareholder Association for Research & Education (SHARE). Deloitte is a Sustaining Partner of LEAD, hosting and contributing to GRI courses.

Opportunity Collaboration

2009-10-17 00:00:24 -0400

On October 17th, the Opportunity Collaboration will bring together leaders from all over the world to create change, leverage resources and create new alliances in the fight against poverty. Registration is still open for those interested in taking action. The Opportunity Collaboration is focused on networking, collaboration, problem solving and partnering to more efficiently address poverty alleviation and economic justice. Delegates are catalytic senior leaders who, by actions and accomplishments have shown pragmatic vision, passionate tenacity, extraordinary thinking and planning, adaptive leadership, non-ideological activism and a strong ethical grounding.

Great River Energy 2008 Social Responsibility Report

2009-10-15 14:18:58 -0400

Sustainability Showcase Award

2009-10-13 18:24:16 -0400

The California Sustainability Alliance is currently accepting nominations for its 2009 Sustainability Showcase Awards. Now in its second year, the Sustainability Showcase Awards recognizes the successful sustainable policies, programs, practices and technologies implemented by leading organizations. This year, the Alliance is seeking sustainability leaders in five sectors to share their successful strategies: Commercial Building Organizations, Multi-Family Housing Organizations, Local Governments,Water Agencies, and Sellers of Other Products or Services. Winners in each category will be honored at the California Sustainability Alliance Showcase Awards Luncheon to be held in February 2010 and will be featured in showcases on the Alliance's website. Of the five winning organizations, the organization that best exemplifies a comprehensive adoption of sustainability policies and practices in all aspects of its business and operations will be announced as the grand prize winner at the awards luncheon and featured in a video documentary highlighting its successes. IT'S NOT TOO LATE!!! Send in your nominations. Nominations will be accepted until midnight, November 20, 2009. Early entry submissions will have the opportunity to have their applications reviewed with information on any amendments and revisions that may need to be made prior to the closing date. Organizations selected for the Alliance's Showcase will be announced on December 1, 2009. To learn more about the Showcase Award or download the application, go to http://www.sustainca.org/showcase/showcase2009

In Good Company CSR Conference

2009-10-07 08:56:59 -0400

Registration for this event runs from October 5 - 27 2009. The event will take place in Toronto on October 27, 2009. Breathing Strategy into Corporate Social Responsibility: The Business Case for Strategic CSR This conference will bring together some of Canada’s most inspiring business and cause leaders in an engaging dialogue focused on sharing how to: Measure the Return on Social Investments (ROSI) Design signature CSR programs that stand out Focus and align community investment programs with business objectives Develop meaningful volunteer programs and stakeholder engagement practices Measure the effectiveness of your environmental and social initiatives Attract and retain great talent and customers through strategic CSR Featured Speakers Include: Martin Connell, Co-Founder of Ace Bakery, past chair of the Canadian Center for Philanthropy Don Green, Co-Founder, ROOTS Andy Macaulay, Co-Founder and CEO, Zig Heather Reisman, Founder and CEO of Indigo Books & Music Gavin Thompson, Director of Corporate Citizenship, Microsoft Canada Bob Willard, Environmental Expert and bestselling author of The Sustainability Advantage This is a not for profit event. Proceeds are shared amongst the non-profits and charities being profiled during the conference. CSRwire subscribers are able to receive an additional 25% off their ticket price by typing “csrwire” into the discount code field on the event registration page. Very limited Seating, get your ticket today!

Doing the Right Things

2009-10-05 15:19:45 -0400

Practical Tools and Methods for Change Agents: The ISIS Agreement

2009-10-01 00:00:24 -0400

Instructor: Alan AtKisson, author of The ISIS Agreement and Believing Cassandra (Stockholm) Webinars will be Mondays at noon Pacific time (9pm Europe), Oct 5, 12, 19, 26

Corporate Responsibility 2008 Report

2009-09-30 09:01:23 -0400

2009 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference: Focus on Emerging Market Development

2009-09-25 13:37:59 -0400

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center 2009 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference is designed to be high impact with rich networking opportunities among and between leading corporate citizens and their nonprofit and government partners engaged in emerging market development. Attend the 2009 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference: Focus on Emerging Market Development if you want to PARTNER with business, government, or non-governmental organizations to tackle new, innovative and creative ideas for private sector involvement in overseas development assistance. In a day-and-a-half high-impact conference, you will also have the opportunity to: - Attend a pre-conference welcome reception at the Embassy of Sweden - Participate in business round tables discussions and teach ins on how to effectively work with governmental and MLO partners - Hear from leaders in the corporate development community and learn best practices across sector - Network with business, government, and NGO leaders who share your interests The Conference will: 1) Highlight the incentives and obstacles affecting private sector involvement in overseas development. 2) Showcase best practices for private sector engagement in emerging markets. 3) Present areas for collaboration through public-private partnerships. * Join us on September 30th for a special pre-conference welcome reception at the spectacular Embassy of Sweden located in the historic Georgetown Waterfront on the Potomac River. Sweden currently holds the presidency of the European Union. View resources from the 2008 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference including photos, videos, participants, speaker biographies, agenda, and more at: http://bclcglobal.uschamber.com

Carbon Capture and Storage 2009

2009-09-22 00:00:23 -0400

The 2009 Carbon Capture and Storage World Summit, set for September 22 – 24, 2009 in Washington DC, will provide the latest in policy and funding information, as well as technology and industry updates. “Program development is underway," said Conference Producer Valerie King. "We're looking forward to providing an environment in which industry leaders can meet, network and discuss the important issues facing policy and funding." Key topics to be discussed include business concepts and technology for the steel, coal and concrete industries. One pre-conference seminar will be held prior to the conference on Tuesday, September 22 and several networking opportunities and interactive panel discussions will also be provided. At a time when clean energy is more prominent than ever, Carbon Capture and Storage 2009 conference is the event to network with key leaders across several industries and receive a comprehensive overview on carbon capture and storage.

Corporate Social Responsibility: Strategies to Create Business and Social Value

2009-09-21 14:37:09 -0400

Facing the challenges of a deepening global recession and limited financial resources, many companies are charting a new course. As business leaders navigate this evolving terrain, they must satisfy the demands of customers, employees, investors, and governments—and develop new strategies that address the economic, social, and environmental impact of their business practices. Corporate Social Responsibility: Strategies to Create Business and Social Value provides the strategic clarity you need to align corporate social responsibility (CSR) with business strategy and manage successfully through the downturn.

EABIS Colloquium 2009 - The role of business in society

2009-09-21 00:00:23 -0400

The EABIS Colloquium is one of the world's largest multi-stakeholder conferences to explore Corporate Responsibility issues in management practice, research and education. The Colloquium attracts each year an audience of 300+ high level executives, researchers, professors, policy-makers and other stakeholders. The 2009 highlights include: - Thought leadership from renowned international figures in business, academia, policy and civil society - Exchange of best practice and case studies promoting new, innovative and socially responsible styles of management - Networking opportunities to meet informally with leading academic researchers and practitioners to gain insights relevant to your business' circumstances - Access to new knowledge, development and learning projects - Gala dinner and international awards ceremony Three days after the last EABIS Colloquium (Cranfield, Sept 2008), Lehman Brothers collapsed, unleashing a financial, economic and – increasingly – socio-political and governance crisis. The financial crisis especially has highlighted deep flaws in past approaches to the governance of the firm and of economic systems. The 2009 Colloquium will therefore focus on: "The Role of Business in Society: Challenges and Issues for Global and Corporate Governance". > How is the role of business in society likely to change? > To what extent can governance mechanisms foster Corporate Responsibility at Global, company and individual levels? These are the central issues which, among others, the EABIS 2009 Colloquium will address in high-level debates: - Social, Political and Economic Perspectives on the Failure of Governance in the Global Economy - The Governance of the Firm and Managing Sustainable Value Creation in Markets & Society - Future Implications for Executive Development and Learning in Business Schools, Companies and Corporate Universities

Ethical Sourcing Forum – North America 2010

2009-09-16 22:03:46 -0400

Visualize. Rethink. Solve! These crucial elements of sustainability decision-making form the basis of the next Ethical Sourcing Forum in New York on March 18-19th, 2010. Join Intertek Sustainability Solutions as we host the ninth annual ESF-North America The Ethical Sourcing Forum is a unique industry event that brings together members of the global sustainability community in order to address emerging sustainability and ethical supply chain challenges. ESF North America 2010 is where you will find applied innovation and the latest solutions-development processes that yield social and environmental progress while advancing core business objectives. Business the world over is changing as players learn to visualize a new future and rethink the strategy needed to get there. Visualize. Rethink. Solve! Learn how these decision-making elements can drive sustainability success! Register now and sponsor emerging sustainability leaders!

15% of each corporate delegate registration will contribute to StartingBloc’s work in support of its Fellows
ESF participants receive a formal StartingBloc letter of appreciation and recognition on StartingBloc’s website

The Economics of Peace

2009-09-16 15:56:16 -0400

This October, Praxis Peace Institute and RSF Social Finance are pleased to present The Economics of Peace in Sonoma, California. This unique 5-day event will address the pressing economic issues of our time and provide critical and collaborative tools for the economy of the future. The purpose of The Economics of Peace is to make visible the many emerging and innovative economic, market, financial, and exchange practices that are focused on environmental sustainability, social justice, and peace. The conference will feature lectures, workshops, and plenaries on topics such as:

Spain's Mondragón Cooperatives (the world's largest consortium of worker-owned businesses)
Regional capital markets
Complementary currencies
Local living economies
New approaches to economic policy
Cultural myths of money
Race and class in new economic thinking

World Renowned Speakers Include: James Galbraith, Vandana Shiva, David Korten, Riane Eisler, Mikel Lezamiz (Mondragón Cooperatives), Jacob Needleman, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, Sam Keen, A.T. Ariyaratne; Melissa Bradley-Burns, and Judy Wicks. Workshop Leaders and Panelists Include: John Bloom, C.J. Callen and Pilar Gonzales (Conversation on Money, Race, and Class); Charles Eisenstein (Sacred Economics); Bob Graham (Microcredit);Hazel Henderson (Ethical Markets); Richard Logie (Global Exchange Trading Systems); Terry Mollner (Common Good Investing); Daniel Pinchbeck (Evolver); Kelley Rajala, Derek Huntington, and Mary Rick (Local Living Economies); David Ransom (Social Change); Don Shaffer (Regional Capital Markets); Norman Solomon (Green New Deal); Woody Tasch (Slow Money); Andrew Kimbrell (Salmon Economics); Trent Schroyer (Sustainable Economic Cultures); Stephanie Rearick (TimeBanking); Tom Greco (Complementary Currencies) Co-sponsors Include: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, E.F. Schumacher Society, BALLE (Business Alliance for Local Living Economies), Mother Jones Magazine, New Resource Bank, the North Bay Bohemian, Green America, the Sonoma Community Center, Westerbeke Ranch, Esalen Institute, Sonoma County GoLocal, Sustaining Technologies, Yes! Magazine, and others.

EABIS Colloquium 2009 – The Governance Conference

2009-09-07 08:00:25 -0400

The role of business in society: issues and challenges for corporate and Global governance The EABIS Colloquium is one of the world’s largest multi-stakeholder conferences to explore Corporate Responsibility issues in management practice, research and education. The Colloquium attracts each year an audience of 300+ high level executives, researchers, professors, policy-makers and other stakeholders. Programme Highlights:

New EABIS Research Exchange to broker corporate knowledge needs with latest academic research activities and thinking
Interactive multi-stakeholder debates to explore critical dimensions of governance in theory and practice
Dedicated networking events for corporate participants
Presentation of 70-80 papers and case studies by top scholars and managers
Book launch events for new EABIS member publications
Gala Dinner in Barcelona's Opera House - El Gran Teatre del Liceu

Sustainability & Social Responsibility Conference

2009-09-04 09:00:24 -0400

This one-and-a-half day program offers supply management professionals an unprecedented opportunity to hear from leading multinational companies that have already implemented successful sustainability and social responsibility programs. http://www.ism.ws/education/content.cfm?ItemNumber=19580 REGISTRATION Registration fee is $795 (USD) for ISM members and $995 (USD) for nonmembers. Team discounts and student rates are available. PRE-CONFERENCE In addition to the Sustainability and Social Responsibility Conference, ISM will hold a pre-conference seminar on November 3-4, 2009 titled “Finance for the Supply Management Professional.” Pre-conference fees are $1,295 (USD) for ISM members and $1,595 (USD) for nonmembers. Attend both programs and save $200 off the registration fee for the complete package. HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Conference attendees can benefit from early bird ISM discounted room rate of $149 plus tax per night through October 12, 2009. The Marriott Inn and Conference Center UMUC in Adelphi, MD was named the country's first environmentally friendly hotel and conference center. The hotel has received its LEED certification from the US Green Building Council. EXHIBITING/SPONSORSHIPS For information on exhibiting/sponsorships, contact Trish True or Kathy Braase at ttrue@ism.ws or kbraase@ism.ws or call 480-752-6276 ext. 3086 or 3061.

Piraeus Bank's Annual Corporate Responsibility Report 2008

2009-09-04 08:16:24 -0400

SRI in the Rockies Conference

2009-09-01 12:35:06 -0400

This year's conference, "From Crisis to Opportunity: Investing for a Sustainable Economy," will be presented by First Affirmative Financial Network in collaboration with the Social Investment Forum. Conference attendees can benefit from "early bird" registration discounts through September 1, 2009. In 2009, SRI in the Rockies will highlight new opportunities for advisors and investors who embrace innovative investment strategies focused on environmental, social, and governance issues. More than 50 organizations have signed on as sponsors in support of this year's conference.

Sustaining Sustainability: Organizational Assessments and Systems

2009-09-01 00:00:23 -0400

Instructor: Dorothy Atwood with the Zero Waste Alliance and EPA's Local Resource Center representative for environmental management systems (Portland, OR) Discover how to build systems to sustain your sustainability initiative, so it's not dependent upon the passion of one person. Build the skeleton of a sustainability management system and get an overview of useful sustainability assessments which you can use to track your progress.

Green Awards 2009

2009-08-13 11:25:07 -0400

Launched in 2006 to critical acclaim, the Green Awards were set up to recognise and reward creative work that communicates the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility, sustainable development and ethical best practice in any sector and across any marketing discipline. In the four years since its inception, the awards have become an established event on the global eco-calendar highlighting the best examples of green marketing and sustainability communications that have made a real difference in the fight against global warming. The reception will take place in central London where we will be serving organic drinks and canapes. No bottled water will be available in support of www.londonontap.org/. As part of our support for 'No Meat on Mondays' we will only be serving vegetarian and vegan food. www.supportmfm.org/

Radical Collaboration: A celebration of the new partnership between GenGreen, 3rdWhale and Creative Citizen

2009-08-12 11:58:51 -0400

GenGreen LLC, (www.GenGreenLife.com), 3rdWhale Mobile, Inc., (www.3rdwhale.com) and Creative Citizen (www.CreativeCitizen.com) invite members of the media to join us to celebrate our new strategic partnership, “Mobilizing the Green Revolution”, with an evening of information, inspiration and connection. As leaders in the environmental movement, GenGreen and their network GenGreenLife.com, 3rdWhale Mobile and Creative Citizen are pooling their resources to create the largest database of verified green businesses and organizations in the U.S. with the goal of advancing and increasing the collective strength of our Green Movement. This event will feature the first-ever public demonstration of upcoming mobile applications for the iPhone and other devices by GenGreen and 3rdWhale to enable businesses and consumers to identify green suppliers, making it easy to locate everything from the closest farmers market to electronics recycling drop off locations. The combined GenGreen/3rdWhale database, as well as content from other partners including Mother Nature Network, CSRWire and Creative Citizen, will soon be available to users throughout North America.

A Healthy Approach to Life: Corporate Responsibility Report 2008

2009-08-06 11:00:03 -0400

Green Buildings Open House

2009-08-03 15:59:22 -0400

GREEN BUILDINGS OPEN HOUSE, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2009 10:00 am - 4:00 pm See how your neighbors are reducing their energy bills and carbon footprint through the power of the sun, wind, and smart building design. On Saturday, October 3, the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association is welcoming the public to visit local sustainable homes and buildings throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware to see clean renewable energy at work. The Green Buildings Open House is presented in conjunction with the American Solar Energy Society’s National Solar Tour. Homeowners and facility managers will be showing visitors the latest in renewable energy technologies, sustainable building materials, and energy efficient appliances. Take a local tour to learn how you, too, can save by going green. To find the Green Buildings Open House sites nearest you, visit www.nesea.org.

Life Cycle Assessment 101

2009-08-01 00:00:20 -0400

Instructor: Tom Gloria, eQuilibrium (Boston, MA) August 2009. Webinars on Tuesdays at 6:00pm Pacific Time, Aug 4, 11, 18, 25 This is an introductory course on life cycle assessment. Participants will learn the steps involved and complete a simple LCA in a business simulation using an Excel spreadsheet. This is a great introductory course for: --sustainability professionals wondering if LCA would be a good field to get into --sustainability practitioners who may need to hire a firm to do a detailed LCA and need to know enough about the process to manage the project --sustainability professionals who need an introduction to LCA before taking the 'deep dive' into the certification training. Webinars of roughly an hour will be on Mondays at 5pm Pacific time. Plan to do several more hours of work a week. This class does not teach you how to use a common LCA database like SimaPro and is not sufficient to pass the LCA certification. It is a prerequisite for the LCA certification training that we hope to offer later (although experienced LCA professionals can 'test out' of this course).

State of the World Forum

2009-07-28 10:28:11 -0400

The purpose of the Belo Horizonte State of the World Forum is to launch the global 2020 Climate Leadership Campaign, a central part of which will be the launch of the Brazil 2020 Climate Leadership Campaign and the Brazil 2020 Youth Campaign. The Forum will also provide the occasion for the premiere of Globo’s national public education campaign on global warming. This Forum marks the first time that people will be coming together from around the world to strategize and start enacting a global plan of action to reduce carbon emissions by 80% by 2020 and re-align our relationship to ourselves, each other and the earth.

Resetting Responsibilities

2009-07-21 08:01:20 -0400

Walmart Sustainability Milestone Meeting to be Webcast live at Walmartstores.com

2009-07-14 16:00:20 -0400

To learn how Walmart is accelerating and broadening our company's sustainability efforts. The company also will share its plans to address consumers’ increasing expectations for more sustainable products and how measuring sustainability can drive innovation in the supply chain and in products consumers purchase.

Baxter Highlights Progress Toward Sustainability Priorities in 10th Annual Sustainability Report

2009-06-18 16:31:20 -0400

Ford’s 10th Annual Sustainability Report Details Progress on Blueprint for Sustainability

2009-06-15 14:16:38 -0400

GREEN CITIES How Urban Sustainability Efforts Can and Must Drive America’s Climate Change Policies

2009-05-07 00:00:00 -0400

Improving Outcomes

2009-05-05 00:00:00 -0400

2008 Corporate Responsibility Report

2009-05-01 00:00:00 -0400

American Electric Power 2009 Corporate Sustainability Report

2009-04-28 00:00:00 -0400

2008 Global Citizenship Report

2009-04-27 00:00:00 -0400

Building a Foundation for Sustainability

2009-04-27 00:00:00 -0400

Our Commitment to the Future.

2009-04-14 00:00:00 -0400

2008 Corporate Responsibility Report

2009-03-26 00:00:00 -0400

The Four Dimensions of Sustainability White Paper

2009-03-02 00:00:00 -0500

ICMM Annual Review 2008 - Embracing Change

2009-02-25 00:00:00 -0500

Novo Nordisk Launches Fifth Integrated Annual Report Accounting for Financial, Social and Environmental Performance

2009-02-03 00:00:00 -0500

Sustainability Report 2008

2009-01-19 00:00:00 -0500

Article 13 UNGC 2008 Communication on Progress

2009-01-15 00:00:00 -0500

The Color of our World

2009-01-12 00:00:00 -0500