Tag Archives: Environment and Ecology

After, Inc. Outlines its Commitment to Sustainability

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- After, Inc. announced today its ongoing commitment to a sustainable future, detailing its multi-year strategy and initiatives on its website. Given its history as a post-sale technology and solutions partner to the world's top manufacturers and retailers - and its recent purchase of Accentf(x) Marketing with its Lettershop facility - After is now one of the largest multi-channel Warranty Marketing and Database Management providers in the country. With that growth also comes the responsibility to invest in a sustainable future.

What After, Inc. has always done:

* Extensive data hygiene - After utilizes multiple mailing address and enhancement databases and validation techniques to maximize mail deliverability and minimize waste.

* Predictive modeling - After uses predictive modeling to only send direct mail to those most likely to respond.

* Extended warranty programs - After helps its clients build extended warranty programs that utilize nationwide service repair networks to enable customers to extend the life of their current products.

What After, Inc. accomplished in 2022:

* Paper sourcing - After sources paper and envelopes from providers that purchase their pulp from sustainable forests that plant more trees than they harvest.

* Paper recycling - After recycles all unused paper and wooden pallets and encourages its clients to print a recycle call to action on all direct mail.

* New printing equipment and capabilities - After purchased a new, leading-edge, four-color printing system to maximize print efficiency, expand our capabilities, and minimize downtime. The system, with its duplex printing and automated splicing and folding, greatly reduces waste from paper roll changes and the need to scrap pre-branded client templates. The system is in place, and training is nearly complete.

2023 Initiatives:

* In-house mail production - Prior to the Accentf(x) acquisition, After outsourced its mail printing. With the acquisition and expanded print capacity, After will move all its mail production in-house for its current and future marketing clients.

* ECO mail stock - After will implement Forest Stewardship Guidelines (FSG) that require all mail pieces to be printed on ECO mail stock.

* Post-consumer waste (PCW) paper - After will source paper that is 10-15% PCW or recycled pulp fiber.

"Our commitment to sustainability is a top strategic priority," says Nate Baldwin, CEO of After, Inc. "While we believe that direct mail is a crucial component to any successful Warranty Marketing strategy, we are also dedicated to supporting a sustainable planet. By bringing all printing capabilities in-house, investing in top-of-the-line printing equipment, and incorporating sustainable sourcing, we can confidently assure our clients and their customers that the highest eco-friendly standards are being met."

Learn more at: https://www.afterinc.com/sustainability/

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. (afterinc.com) is a pioneer in the post-sale services industry. Since 2005, we have helped some of the world's top brands transform their businesses after the point of sale. Our post-sale services drive higher customer satisfaction, product reliability, and brand equity, lower claims costs, and additional revenue and profit opportunities.

In 2021, we launched QuickSuite, a modular set of SaaS technologies to help manufacturers, retailers, and e-commerce sellers build deeper relationships with their customers and increase loyalty and lifetime value. The suite covers the entire post-sale lifecycle, and includes QuickReg®, QuickCover®, QuickClaim®, QuickInsight®, and QuickRenew®.

Headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut, After, Inc. is part of Galway Holdings, a diversified financial services distribution company with a focus on data analytics, technology transformation, and innovative risk sharing solutions.

Learn more: https://www.afterinc.com/

After, Inc. announced today its ongoing commitment to a sustainable future, detailing its multi-year strategy and initiatives on its website. Given its history as a post-sale technology and solutions partner to the world's top manufacturers and retailers - and its recent purchase of Accentf(x) Marketing with its Lettershop facility - After is now one of the largest multi-channel Warranty Marketing and Database Management providers in the country.

Related link: https://afterinc.com/

New Energy Risk Publishes Sustainability Report, Adds Two Key Hires

AVON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- New Energy Risk (NER), a wholly-owned division of Paragon Insurance Group, today announces the release of its annual Sustainability Report and two key hires to support its goal of "Underwriting a Greener Future."

The report details the climate, sustainability, and environmental impacts of NER's client portfolio, where innovations to reduce carbon intensity for fuels and power, as well as to promote the circular economy and curb wastefulness, have led to increased impact year-to-year, with some impact measures increasing more than 100%.

"I am proud of the tireless effort every member of our team has put in over the past year, and the Sustainability Report clearly lays out how our creative solutions continue to deliver real-world results," NER Chief Executive Officer Tom Dickson said.

Visit the New Energy Risk website to view the full report: https://newenergyrisk.com/ner-releases-its-2021-sustainability-report/

NER is adding Richard Riley as business development manager. He brings a wealth of experience in engineering, project management, EPR reactors and novel energy storage.

Krista Sutton also joins the company as principal engineer. She adds talent and depth to NER's technical diligence team where she has deep experience in chemical engineering and environmental engineering focused on biofuels.

"We are thrilled to bring talent like Richard and Krista aboard as we look to solidify NER as the market leader and take aim at the world's climate challenges," Dickson said.

About New Energy Risk:

New Energy Risk is a pioneer of large-scale, breakthrough technology performance insurance solutions. The company provides complex risk assessment and serves as a bridge between technology innovators, financiers, and insurers. Insurance policies are administered through New Energy Risk affiliate Complex Risk and Insurance Associates, LLC, CA License #0I24307. Learn more: https://newenergyrisk.com/.

About Paragon:

Paragon Insurance Holdings, LLC, formed in 2014, writes all commercial lines of insurance across more than 20 programs. Paragon's industry-specific and general underwriting facilities offer insureds, retail agents, carriers, reinsurers and service providers unique product, service, capability, and results. Learn more: https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/.

New Energy Risk (NER), a wholly-owned division of Paragon Insurance Group, today announces the release of its annual Sustainability Report and two key hires to support its goal of "Underwriting a Greener Future." The report details the climate, sustainability, and environmental impacts of NER's client portfolio.

Related link: https://newenergyrisk.com/

Jonathan Grammer to Speak on Carbon Capture to Texas Land and Mineral Owners

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Jonathan Grammer, CEO of U.S. Carbon Capture, will present on the issue of Carbon Capture and Storage to Texas land and mineral rights owners November the 18th in Austin, Texas. The presentation will be part of the 7th Annual Land and Mineral Owner's Symposium hosted by Austin law firm Graves, Dougherty, Hearon & Moody.

The State of Texas, through its oil and gas regulatory body the Texas Railroad Commission, continues to advance toward obtaining primacy from the Environmental Protection Agency for the permitting of Class VI Carbon Dioxide injection wells. This moves the State of Texas closer to a state wide and commercially viable deployment of carbon capture and sequestration.

Carbon capture and sequestration is a process that will be centered around deep saline formations underneath large land holdings in both south, west and north Texas and has the potential to provide not only long-term revenue for Texans but also create new and complex legal issues for Texas land and mineral owners.

Long term storage of carbon dioxide, pore space ownership, development of deep mineral rights beneath the storage zone, plume migration beyond lease boundaries and understanding the safety of carbon storage are all evolving subject areas affecting land and mineral owners in the State of Texas and upon which Grammer intends to continue to speak upon.

"The most crucial element of a good long-term storage project for carbon dioxide sequestration in Texas," states Grammer, "will be identifying, and securing rights to, good subsurface geology. This will require large land positions in long term agreements in and around existing, and potential future, oil and gas production in Texas."

LEARN MORE: http://www.gdhmoilandgas.com/#intro

About U.S. Carbon Capture:

U.S. Carbon Capture is a project development company whose services include up-front alternative design scenarios with defensible economic forecasts that aid their clients in selecting their best-fit scenario. Their designs and economic forecasts are created by targeted seasoned professionals in the disciplines of Land and Legal, Finance, Facilities Engineering, Production and Reservoir Engineering, Geology and Geophysics, and Government Contract Procurement.

Founded in 1946, Graves Dougherty was established on the principles of hiring great people, practicing first-class law and focusing on accomplishing clients' goals. Today it is the firm's tradition to serve its clients with excellence and enthusiasm that sets it apart as a leader in the field. As such, it is a leading law firm in the State of Texas for representation of land and mineral owners.

Website: https://www.us-ccs.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/u-s-carbon-capture

Jonathan Grammer, CEO of U.S. Carbon Capture, will present on the issue of Carbon Capture and Storage to Texas land and mineral rights owners November the 18th in Austin, Texas. The presentation will be part of the 7th Annual Land and Mineral Owner's Symposium hosted by Austin law firm Graves, Dougherty, Hearon & Moody.

Related link: https://www.us-ccs.com/

Sustainable Africa Future Network’s PRE-COP27 Virtual Climate Change Collection Kicks Off with Poignant Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged activists to come together to achieve climate justice during her opening message to nearly 500 people logged on from around the world for today's kick-off of the PRE-COP27 Virtual Climate Change Collection hosted by the HBCU Green Fund's Sustainable Africa Future Network. "[the climate crisis] requires bold and sustained, collective action and there is no better forum for collective action than the United Nations," she said.

Convened during Climate Week in advance of the 2022 U.N. Climate Conference (COP27) in Egypt, the free, five-day event presents a collection of compelling stories that highlight local cultures, climate impacts, and innovative grassroots projects underway to fight the climate crisis in communities in Africa and the Diaspora. To register for the Pre-COP27 Virtual Summit visit https://sustainableafricafuture.org.

"Climate justice is key to racial justice," said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield. "Communities of color bear a particularly heavy burden from climate change and pollution. The hard work of climate justice starts at the grass roots."

According to organizers, the goal of the event is to build and strengthen climate networks throughout the African diaspora, elevate the positive initiatives taking place on micro budgets, and mobilize support for the participation of African climate NGO's at COP27. Speakers in Africa include Shamiela Reid, Just Transition Enterprise, South Africa; Cheikhou Thiome, Sustainable Africa Futures Senegal; Destin Simpijja, Sustainable Africa Futures Uganda. Dr. Mildred McClain, Harambee House/Citizens for Environmental Justice; Raina Turner-Greenlea, Black Sustainability; and Felicia Davis, HBCU Green Fund, are among the U.S. participants.

"As the devastating effects of global warming increase, Black communities in the U.S., throughout Africa and the diaspora, stand to suffer some of the largest consequences if action is not immediate," said Illai Kenney, national director of HBCU Green Fund.

"We've organized a collection of powerful stories that underscore the dire effects of climate change in impoverished communities and also shine a light on the hard work local activists are doing to save their countries and the planet," Kenney adds. "Connecting HBCU students with local activists is important because these future leaders will play an integral role in developing vital cross-border solutions for clean energy and sustainability."

The HBCU Green Fund's Sustainable Africa Future Network is a collective of individuals and organizations helping to support environmentally sustainable projects across Africa and the Diaspora. The HBCU Green Fund is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization working with historically black colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad to advance sustainability and promote student engagement in green initiatives.

The recorded event will remain accessible through sustainableafricafuture.org or hbcugreenfund.org for 30 days.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

USA: Edrea Davis, Jazzmyne PR, edmedia@dogonvillage.com, 818.613.9521.

AFRICA: Cheikhou Thiome, West Africa Coordinator, cthiome@gmail.com, +221776524301.

MULTIMEDIA:

Video Timeline Menu (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQR6jq39Cdd6RhBRNsBRAVURmaa3E948F

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged activists to come together to achieve climate justice during her opening message to nearly 500 people logged on from around the world for today's kick-off of the PRE-COP27 Virtual Climate Change Collection hosted by the HBCU Green Fund's Sustainable Africa Future Network.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

Ivan Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia, announces historic Concordia Amazon Initiative at the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Ivan Duque Marquez, Former President of Colombia, today announced the Concordia Amazon Initiative on the Metropolitan Stage of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit. The leading global affairs platform commenced its 12th annual convening on Monday, September 19 and it is being held through Wednesday, September 21, alongside the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The Amazon, which spans eight rapidly-developing countries and French Guiana, contains 1.4 billion acres of dense forests-half of the planet's remaining tropical forests. Additionally, there are 2.6 million square miles in the Amazon basin, which equates to around 40% of South America. The objective of the Concordia Amazon Initiative is to raise awareness around the intricate link between the health of the Amazon and the health of the planet, and the kinds of commitments the private sector can make to preserve the rainforest.

"The Concordia Amazon Initiative constitutes a milestone in the process of public-private engagement to protect, defend and promote the most important natural lung of our planet," commented Former President Duque.

He went on to say: "Through aggregated value chains with indigenous communities, conservation projects, the promotion of nature-based solutions, and green finance, we expect to build traceable and trustworthy interventions that will have a meaningful effect in a territory that is pivotal in any climate action policy framework."

The Initiative's first iteration will consist of a high-level strategic convening in the Amazon, bringing together leaders of the private and public sectors to provide education, training, and insight, and ultimately foster collaborative solutions.

Concordia's Co-Founder & CEO, Matthew Swift, said: "The Former President has placed environmental sustainability at the forefront of Colombia's agenda during his tenure, establishing an ambitious strategy for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and, specifically, mobilizing climate finance at scale to accelerate the country's transition to a green future. Now he is ensuring it is also at the forefront of our collective global agenda with his announcement today. We are honored to work with President Duque on this important and most relevant topic and convening."

LEARN MORE: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022annualsummit/

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/.

Ivan Duque Marquez, Former President of Colombia, today announced the Concordia Amazon Initiative on the Metropolitan Stage of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit. The leading global affairs platform commenced its 12th annual convening on Monday, September 19 and it is being held through Wednesday, September 21, alongside the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

First Lady Jill Biden to take the stage at the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, will speak on the Metropolitan Stage of the first day of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, September 19, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Maintaining its position as the premier global affairs forum alongside the UN General Assembly, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit (register here to attend) will convene today's preeminent C-suite executives, politicians, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the greatest challenges of our time through the lens of collaboration. From Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the resulting humanitarian crisis, to the critical role of the private sector in advancing environmental sustainability and technological innovation, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit will place the need for public-private partnership at its core.

Register here: https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

Dr. Biden previously spoke at the 2017 Concordia Annual Summit on the importance of building and sustaining strong healthcare infrastructure in driving global development, urging for dialogue across sectors, disciplines, and nations. Five years on, Dr. Biden will bring a unique perspective as First Lady of the United States.

"It is an honor to welcome back Dr. Biden to our Mainstage. A lifelong educator and public health advocate, and now as First Lady, Dr. Biden brings an invaluable perspective and will be an influential voice at this year's Annual Summit," commented Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis. "This month marks our 12th annual convening, and we're looking forward to bringing people together in person to prompt important conversations and, most importantly, find cross-sector solutions that go on to stand the test of time."

The First Lady joins a powerful roster of leaders from across industries and sectors, including:

Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; Alison Moore, CEO, Comic Relief US; Anne M. Finucane, Chairman of the Board, Bank of America Europe;Dr. Olivia White, Director, Mckinsey Global Institute, Mckinsey & Company; Hon. Jeh Johnson, Former Secretary, U.S. Department Of Homeland Security; Rose Stuckey Kirk, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Verizon; David Malpass, President, The World Bank Group; Professor Soumitra Dutta, Dean-Elect, Saïd Business School, University of Oxford; Goldie Hawn, Founder, MindUP | The Goldie Hawn Foundation; Dikembe Mutombo, Chairman & President, Dikembe Mutombo Foundation; Barbara Humpton, President & CEO, Siemens USA; Suzanne Clark, President & CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Hector Mujica, Head of Economy Opportunity, Google.org; Sofia Carson, Actress, Singer & UNICEF USA Ambassador; and, H.E. Dr. Lazarus Mccarthy Chakwera, President, Republic of Malawi.

View all confirmed speakers: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022-annual-summit-speakers/

To attend the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, register here: https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

MULTIMEDIA:

LOGO Link for media: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/22-0316-s2p-concordia-300dpi.jpg

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, will speak on the Metropolitan Stage of the first day of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, September 19, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Encore Green Environmental (EGE) Announces Roll Out of Beneficial Use of Produced Water with Agricultural Partners

MIDLAND, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Encore Green Environmental LLC (EGE), announce their immediate plans to treat produced water for beneficial use with Texas agriculture partners, with NOMAD EXCEL water technology developed specifically to assist in drought conditions. EGE is proud to announce today that their years of dedication to this goal has not been in vain.

As part of the treatment program, EGE has partnered the technology with West Texas legacy landowner, Cody Wilson, owner of Wilson Farms, to recycle produced water and apply the clean water to the surface estate for agricultural beneficial uses and for Wilson's non-edible crops.

"I look forward to being part of this project with EGE because without it, I don't see our type of farming lasting in this part of the world," said Wilson.

Wilson, who has deep ties to his family's lands and its natural resources, has joined EGE in effort to provide and find solutions for regions where source water is scarce. Without the efforts of EGE to put produced water to beneficial use on crop lands, farmers like Wilson will face startling realities for reliable water sources for their crop futures.

EGE is the owner of proven technology and the water treatment equipment, known as NOMAD EXCEL, and units are ready to move onto Wilson's lands. According to Darlene Nash, Owner of Encore Green, "There is nothing more important than the use of this technology now available to benefit soil health and climate wellness."

To further their position, Wilson has also entered into a contractual agreement with an industry midstream partner to provide the produced water for treatment and beneficial use. By treating and using the produced water that would otherwise be disposed of, thereby removing it permanently from the water cycle, Wilson hopes to show landowners and operators within the industry the working together, solutions are available and affordable.

EGE is set apart from others in the produced water recycling sphere by the end use product available for agriculture. The goal is to continue focus on treating produced water for the purpose of industry re-use and providing a bridge between the industry and landowners. It also recognizes that as seismicity continues, disposal constraints increase, and overall water scarcity becomes more prevalent.

About Encore Green Environmental LLC:

In 2017, Encore Green Environmental LLC (EGE) formed as an agricultural company dedicated to land stewardship and providing solutions for industry produced water management and handling. EGE set a goal to clean produced water for the purpose of putting it to beneficial use on the land - recycling produced water for agricultural use to achieve better soil health and other climate benefits. Encore Green is a Wyoming limited liability company, registered to do business in the State of Texas.

Learn more at: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

Encore Green Environmental LLC (EGE), announce their immediate plans to treat produced water for beneficial use with Texas agriculture partners, with NOMAD EXCEL water technology developed specifically to assist in drought conditions. EGE is proud to announce today that their years of dedication to this goal has not been in vain.

Related link: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

Social Media Campaign Promotes the Importance of Grasslands in the Americas

FORT COLLINS, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Central Grasslands Roadmap community of organizations is embarking on an 8-week social media campaign called "Grasslands and You" that enlists the collective, coordinated voices of individuals and organizations to spread the word about the importance of grasslands and the benefits they provide. The announcement comes from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, one of the Roadmap partners.

The Central Grasslands span hundreds of millions of acres across Sovereign Indigenous Nation Lands, Canada, the United States and Mexico, and are one of North America's largest and most vital ecosystems. Grasslands support critical environmental functions including water supply, soil health and biodiversity, and are also essential for agriculture, food security and supporting rural communities.

For example, healthy grasslands filter sediment, nutrients, and bacteria that end up in waterways, threatening fish and drinking water. Grasslands improve air quality and help mitigate the effects of climate change by sequestering carbon and increasing resilience against drought, fire and wind erosion. Healthy grasslands also provide vital habitat for wildlife including grazing animals like bison and pronghorn as well as livestock.

"As grasslands disappear, so do many of the benefits they provide - and more than 50 million acres of grassland have been lost in the last 10 years," said William Bevil, Communications Director - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies. "Many people are unaware of the benefits that grasslands provide or the implications of their declines and what it means to current and future generations.

A key engagement area for the Grasslands and You campaign is urban and suburban audiences, groups that are more likely to be geographically disconnected from grasslands and less aware of their personal relevance. The campaign features a collection of beautifully-designed graphics and accompanying messages, available in both Spanish and English, that were created to help inform and inspire connection and action. These materials are freely available for others to download and share on their personal and organizational social media feeds.

Organizations are invited to use Grasslands and You as an engagement tool to spread the word to their supporters, followers and fans to raise awareness about grasslands and learn more about what they are doing to support grassland conservation. Posts may include calls-to-action and provide ways for people to get involved-from volunteering, to making donations in support of conservation initiatives, and more.

Small, everyday actions can help, such as making grasslands-friendly consumer choices. Examples include buying bird-friendly meat from locally-owned, conservation-focused ranches and purchasing organically-grown produce to reduce the use of pesticides that can harm grassland pollinators.

Grasslands and You is the first of many outreach and engagement initiatives that the Central Grasslands Roadmap is pursuing in an effort to engage stakeholders far-and-wide. Roadmap partners are also leading important national policy and legislative initiatives, such as the North American Grasslands Conservation Act, which is anticipated to come before Congress for a vote in the near future.

Additional Information and Resources:

Grasslands and You campaign materials available at: https://www.grasslandsroadmap.org/grasslandsandyou

Grasslands and You Infographic (PDF):
https://www.birdconservancy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/CGRS-Grasslands-You-Poster-12x18-MAR2022.pdf

The Central Grasslands Roadmap:

The Central Grasslands Roadmap aims to guide and inform innovative and connected conservation for the benefit of grassland birds, pollinators and mammals, as well as to ensure viable human communities across the landscape of one of North America's most biogeographically unique areas. The Roadmap community includes a cross-section of leaders and experts that live and work in the Central Grasslands - including producers on working land, Sovereign First Nations and Indigenous Communities, federal, state and provincial agencies, foundations, industry, and nongovernmental organizations including; land trusts, conservation organizations, and academia. For more information: https://www.grasslandsroadmap.org/

About Bird Conservancy of the Rockies:

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is one of 25 Roadmap planning committee member organizations. The Colorado-based nonprofit works to conserve birds and their habitats through an integrated approach of science, education and land stewardship. Their work extends from the Rockies to the Great Plains, Mexico and beyond. For more information: https://www.birdconservancy.org/

The Central Grasslands Roadmap community of organizations is embarking on an 8-week social media campaign called "Grasslands and You" that enlists the collective, coordinated voices of individuals and organizations to spread the word about the importance of grasslands and the benefits they provide. The announcement comes from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, one of the Roadmap partners.

Related link: https://www.birdconservancy.org/

Metaversing Addresses Climate Change and other UN Goals with AI Brainstorming

CAMBRIDGE, U.K. /ScoopCloud/ -- A new series of techniques and stratagems aimed at achieving a sustainable future for the Earth is being pioneered by researchers from groups like This is Zero Hour, Earth Guardians, and the Indigenous Environmental Network, as well as students from Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge, and Stanford. Called Metaversing, it differs from what is commonly known as the 'Metaverse' in that it starts from a serious consideration of what planet and people need most right now, rather than from considering future uses of technologies like AR and VR in and for themselves.

According to CTO Savannah Partridge, "We as a species need to use whatever methods are most capable of efficiently addressing issues like Climate Change, and we need to do it immediately."

Throughout 2022 Zoom meetings have been held to address the UN's 17 Agenda for Sustainability Goals using Mind mapping AI software including generateideas.ai. This program accesses 174 billion parameters derived from the Web, and when used by a trained group on a video call, incites brainstorms that can instigate fresh perspectives on current Sustainability issues.

Part of the program's appeal is that it seeks to evoke several basic emotional motivations among Zoom call participants, which make the online brainstorms resemble a mental and emotional experience something like a classic Hero's Journey. "Between 200,000 and 50,000 years ago, our ancestors roamed across the African savannahs in small bands. Each tribal member probably was called upon daily to contribute efforts towards solving serious problems faced by the group, including finding food and water, dealing with illness, and avoiding predation.

"Our Metaversing groups seem to duplicate the spirit of these ancient peoples, in that every Zoom call participant has an equal opportunity to suggest, develop, and refine solutions using the AI software," says Metaversing's Partnerships Director Soani Gunawan. "During most sessions we actively invoke affect-driven motivational experiences like laughter, compassion, friendly competition, gratitude, awe, curiosity, crowdsourced experiments, and communal teamwork to enhance the Mind Mapping. This leads to more effective solution-finding, and makes the process more fulfilling for all."

Because Metaversing posits that saving Earth from existential crises like Climate Change requires motivations tailored to every basic human need, it sees environmental improvement and personal growth as both equal in importance and interdependent. "The things we can do to effect a sustainable future can be personally rewarding, growth-inducing, and even fun" says the group's Education coordinator John Toomey. Eventually the group plans to host hundreds of online brainstorming sessions all over the world.

Successful projects created by participants are eligible to win Metaversing's Hero Award, conferred upon those who develop the best solutions for one of the UN's Sustainability Goals. Their prize consists of carbon credits obtained from providers including https://terrapass.com/ and https://marketplace.goldstandard.org/.

For more information email info@metaversing.network

To apply to join Zoom sessions: harvard@metaversing.network

Website: https://www.metaversing.network/

A new series of techniques and stratagems aimed at achieving a sustainable future for the Earth is being pioneered by researchers as well as students from Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge, and Stanford. Called Metaversing, it differs from what is commonly known as the 'Metaverse' in that it starts from a serious consideration of what planet and people need most right now, rather than from considering future uses of technologies like AR and VR in and for themselves.

Related link: https://www.metaversing.network/

U.S. Climate Activist, Illai Kenney, Urged Young Leaders to Unite Globally for Climate Justice During the Continental Youth Symposium in Uganda

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Determined to encourage unity across the African Diaspora, expand their global network of youth working to advance climate justice and to promote the upcoming PreCOP27 Africa Virtual Summit, the HBCU Green Fund sent a small delegation to participate in the 3rd African Peer Review Mechanism Continental Youth Symposium in Kampala, Uganda last week. Themed, African Union @ 20: Repositioning the Youth Agenda for a Transformative Continent, the symposium brought together over 800 attendees from the African continent and Europe.

Speaking during a session at the symposium, Illai Kenney, director of HBCU Green Fund told attendees, "It's up to young people to advance equity and justice, solve the climate crisis and make the transition to clean energy. To do that, youth of African descent must work together across continents to create solutions. I am here from Washington, DC with my associates in the audience--Jared Sawyer, Jr. from Atlanta, Georgia; Faida Uwase of Rwanda; and Destin Sempijja of Uganda. We'd like connect with you to share ideas. We invite all of you to join our network of youth leaders from over 20 countries united to build a sustainable future for Africa and the Diaspora for our PreCOP27 Africa Virtual Summit."

The award-winning climate justice advocate continued, "Sustainability is not just a word; it is a lifestyle. It is a culture. It is a thing that we have always done as an African people. It is what I was taught as a member of the African diaspora who's been dislocated. A person whose ancestors were taken from this continent, brought to another and used to sustain the culture and livelihood of another people. But that's ok because those skills will sustain us today."

Hosted by the Government of Uganda, the African Union and the European Union, the goal of the Continental Youth Symposium is to develop recommendations for empowering youth to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic transformation of their respective countries. Topics included: innovative approaches to sustainable youth employment; role of the youth in transfer of science, technology and innovation; the role of the youth in combatting climate change and promotion of green growth; sexual reproductive health and rights; and food and income security and peace. Participants included top youth leaders and youth Parliamentarians, government representatives and representatives of the private sector.

About The HBCU Green Fund:

The HBCU Green Fund is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization working with historically black colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad to advance sustainability and promote student engagement in green initiatives. Titled, A Sustainable Future for Africa and the Diaspora, the HBCU Green Fund's PreCOP27 Virtual Summit will convene young leaders from the Diaspora September 19-23, 2022 to highlight local climate solutions already underway in Africa, mobilize support for projects, and to help fund African youth participation in COP27 in Egypt in November.

For more information on HBCU Green Fund or to register for the Pre-COP27 Virtual Summit visit http://www.hbcugreenfund.org/ to register for the PreCOP27 Virtual Summit go to https://sustainableafricafuture.org/.

Determined to encourage unity across the African Diaspora, expand their global network of youth working to advance climate justice and to promote the upcoming PreCOP27 Africa Virtual Summit, the HBCU Green Fund sent a small delegation to participate in the 3rd African Peer Review Mechanism Continental Youth Symposium in Kampala, Uganda last week.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

KYield and Praxis form Strategic Alliance to Convert Oil & Gas Platforms for Offshore Aquaculture and Renewable Energy Production

RIO RANCHO, N.M. /ScoopCloud/ -- KYield, Inc. announced today a strategic alliance with Praxis Drilling and Completion, LLC, for the purpose of converting offshore oil and gas platforms to sustainable food and energy production.

"KYield has performed deep dives in AI for most industries, including energy and offshore platforms following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill," said Mark Montgomery, founder and CEO of KYield. "We're pleased to form a strategic alliance with Praxis to apply our KOS as the AI OS for offshore platforms."

The KOS is a data-centric AI OS with embedded governance, security, prevention, and automation. The modular system design is universal and can be applied at any scale, from the largest enterprise to small teams or industrial applications.

Praxis is an experienced offshore specialist based in Texas. The company is in discussions to convert existing platforms to aquaculture and low-carbon energy production. The alliance agreement provides limited exclusivity for the KOS to be used for offshore platform conversions, and extends a minority equity position to KYield in a new entity that will own and operate the platforms.

"We anticipate extensive use of automation for cost savings made possible with the KOS, and to aid in health, safety, environment, and quality," said Robert Young, CEO of Praxis. "There are over 5,000 offshore platforms to be decommissioned. Our aim is to recycle platforms for social benefit in developing nations by producing sustainable food and energy."

The initial focus for the alliance is to convert idle offshore platforms to other uses, including for off-shore fish farming and renewable energy such as green hydrogen. KYield will provide precision third-party analytics, monitoring, and reporting to blue and green bondholders, and for ESG certification.

About KYield:

KYield is a pioneer in AI systems with 25 years of research and development. The KOS is a data-centric AI OS with a patented core that is ready to scale. The Synthetic Genius Machine (SGM) is a patent-pending AI system that will provide specific superintelligence as a service when commercialized. More information about KYield is available at https://kyield.com.

About Praxis:

Praxis is a trusted technical advisor to some of the world's most dynamic exploration and production companies. Visit www.PraxisEP.com to learn more.

KYield, Inc. announced today a strategic alliance with Praxis Drilling and Completion, LLC, for the purpose of converting offshore oil and gas platforms to sustainable food and energy production. The KOS is a data-centric AI OS with embedded governance, security, prevention, and automation.

Related link: https://kyield.com/

EV Range Reduces Central California Range Anxiety on Highway 101

SOLEDAD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- V Range, Inc., the leader in zero emission vehicle charging station management software solutions and installation services today announced the launch of new fast chargers for electric vehicles in Soledad, California. The EV market is quickly moving from early adopters to the mass market with EVs becoming a person's primary and only vehicle. Although many people can charge their cars at home or near their workplace, range anxiety is a significant issue when driving beyond those areas. This becomes particularly acute during long range travel and in rural corridors.

"We are really excited to bring these chargers to Highway 101 drivers," said Carl Pancutt, CEO of EV Range. "Unlike the majority of currently available chargers in California, the chargers in Soledad can deliver up to 200 miles in just 15 minutes, which is the sweet spot for those driving through highway corridors. In addition, our driver app implements a frictionless payment methodology and our backend charger management system monitors the chargers in real time to immediately address uptime issues."

"Our property has many shops and restaurants that attract travelers through Central California. Installing fast chargers allows us to add a new and necessary amenity for EV drivers," said Beau Oxsen of Shaw Development. "In addition, we are able to further monetize our unique location and bring more people to our tenants' establishments. Everyone wins."

The process to bring these future-proof chargers online was done in conjunction with Monterey Bay Air Resources District which was instrumental in helping fund this state-of-the-art charging location.

"MBARD's objective is to improve air quality across Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties," said David Frisbey, Planning and Air Monitoring Manager of the Monterey Bay Air Resources District. "We are in a new world of opportunities to mitigate the environmental impacts from cars and trucks. Working with companies like EV Range, and highway corridor property owners, enables us to ensure that EVs can travel easily through the North Central Coast Air Basin."

About EV Range:

EV Range is a full-service, vertically integrated electric vehicle infrastructure solution provider. Our software and services are available to consumers and businesses. To learn more about EV Range visit https://www.evrange.com/

EV Range, Inc., the leader in zero emission vehicle charging station management software solutions and installation services today announced the launch of new fast chargers for electric vehicles in Soledad, California. The EV market is quickly moving from early adopters to the mass market with EVs becoming a person's primary and only vehicle.

Related link: https://www.evrange.com/

Students Complete HBCU Green Fund’s Fellowship – Primed for Growing Opportunities in Clean Energy

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- After successfully completing a rigorous fellowship that exposes students to opportunities in clean energy and sustainability, Serena Echols was awarded an internship assisting a community in Florida that was exposed to contaminated groundwater. One of twelve students selected by the HBCU Green Fund to participate in their inaugural Atlanta University Center (AUC) Fellows Program, Echols will document the experiences of the residents and seek resources for long overdue environmental justice.

A partnership between the HBCU Green Fund and the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), the AUC Fellows Program connects students at Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse College with entrepreneurs and professionals that provided training, mentoring and internships in energy and STEM industries. A grant to RICE from the U.S. Department of Energy provides resources for the program.

"The inaugural AUC fellowship was a huge success," said Illai Kenney, national program director, HBCU Green Fund. "Whether you look at the increase in catastrophic climate events or the impacts of oil on the global economy, the critical need for a swift transition to clean energy is clear. This program will help expand the pipeline of skilled professionals required to achieve energy independence. We're proud that AUC Fellows are primed to train their peers, educate their communities, and capitalize on emerging green infrastructure opportunities."

The students were introduced to various energy careers and gained hands-on training in renewable energy technologies. They conducted energy audits of buildings in Atlanta, received instruction on electric vehicle charging stations, and learned to mount solar panels. The program emphasized information on starting an energy-related business and identifying business opportunities. The fellows also attended the annual BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue, a discussion between climate justice scholars, organizers, academics, and government officials about opportunities in President Biden's Justice40 Initiative.

"It was very helpful to be able to question someone who works in sustainability daily and has created a profitable business in the area," adds Echols, an environmental science major headed into her senior year at Spelman College. "I am excited about the internship the HBCU Green Fund helped me secure at the University of South Florida where I will explore the cultural construction of risk in a peri-urban African American community whose groundwater was contaminated by chlorinated solvents from the former American Beryllium Corporation site."

The AUC Fellows were trained by successful Black entrepreneurs and executives who work in the energy sector; many of them are also HBCU graduates. Dr. Anthony Kinslow, CEO of Gemini Energy Solutions; Sheryl E. Ponds CEO of Dai Technologies; Gilbert Campbell, CEO of Volt Energy Utility LL; Kristal Hansley, CEO We Solar Energy; and the WDC Solar team provided instruction. AUC faculty mentors Dr. Armita Davarpanah and Dr. Fatemah Shafiei (Spelman College), Dr. Cynthia Hewitt (Morehouse College), Dr. Olu Olatidoye and Dr. Myron Williams (Clark Atlanta University), along with Spelman Facilities Director, Arthur E. Frazier.

The 2022 AUC fellows are:

Sophia Boyd (Spelman), Serena Echols (Spelman), Indrianna Bowleg (Spelman), Brionna Findley (Spelman), N'Dya Jeffries (Clark Atlanta), Conrad Mctavish (Morehouse), Jason Gill (Morehouse), Ihunanya Destiny Agomuoh, (Spelman), Noah Bacon-Angevine (Morehouse), and Andre Brown (Morehouse). Two additional fellows joined late in the semester: Jonathan Banks (Morehouse) and Kahlea Henry (Spelman).

About The HBCU Green Fund:

The HBCU Green Fund is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization working to advance campus-wide sustainability at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and promote student engagement in green initiatives. The organization produces the HBCU Green Report, a ranking of green initiatives on HBCU campuses.

For more information on the HBCU Green Fund and AUC Project check out video here: https://youtu.be/RVB2Iai1Bz0

Learn more: https://www.hbcugreenfund.org/ (*note: website maintenance 6/2/22; if unable to reach site, try back later).

After successfully completing a rigorous fellowship that exposes students to opportunities in clean energy and sustainability, Serena Echols was awarded an internship assisting a community in Florida that was exposed to contaminated groundwater. One of twelve students selected by the HBCU Green Fund to participate in their inaugural Atlanta University Center (AUC) Fellows Program.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies Announces Summit to Conserve North America’s Central Grasslands

FORT COLLINS, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- More than 200 organizations across eight sectors representing Mexico, Canada, the U.S., and Indigenous Nations, came together for two days in May for a multi-national summit to commit to conserve North America's Central Grasslands. Hosted by the Grasslands Roadmap Planning Committee, the announcement comes from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, one of the convening summit partners.

More than 50 million acres of grassland have been lost in the last 10 years alone and the tension between conserving and developing grasslands to meet the needs of a growing population has only increased, exacerbated further by the impacts of climate change.

Birds are good indicators of environmental health and since 1970, grassland bird species have seen a 53-percent reduction in their populations - that's more than 720 million birds. This early warning sign reveals that these diminishing grasslands are being so severely impacted by human activities that they no longer support the same robust wildlife populations they once did.

The Central Grasslands span hundreds of millions of acres across the continent's interior and are one of North America's largest and most vital ecosystems. These Grasslands support crucial environmental functions like water supply, soil health and biodiversity, and are essential for agriculture, food security and supporting rural communities and economies. And, as these grasslands disappear, many benefits they provide are lost.

For example, healthy grasslands filter sediment, nutrients, and bacteria that otherwise end up in waterways, threatening fish and drinking water. Grasslands improve air quality and help mitigate the effects of climate change by sequestering carbon and increasing resilience against drought, fire and wind erosion.

So, what can be done to reverse the trends? That was the main driver behind the Central Grasslands Roadmap and recent summit meeting.

"Many are working to conserve our grasslands, but our disparate efforts are not adding up to change the trajectory and ensure resilient grasslands for the future. We have to prioritize what needs to happen, from funding and policy to partnerships and engagement, to science and conservation delivery - all aligned for the future," Tammy VerCauteren, Roadmap convener and executive director at Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, says.

Collectively, they're working to make a movement to save the grasslands and the people and wildlife that depend on them.

"Together we can ensure access, opportunities and dedicated resources that are relevant and honor cultural values and knowledge across our three countries and the traditional landscapes of Indigenous/Tribal Sovereign Nations," VerCauteren says.

Graeme Patterson, director, JV8 Central Grasslands Conservation Initiative explains that The Central Grasslands Roadmap has been a model exercise in bringing diverse sectors together to chart a path for conservation.

"The complex and painstaking process of giving everyone voice in the Roadmap development will pay huge dividends as all stakeholders will see themselves in the process and be ready to act," Patterson says. "Successful conservation is dependent on true collaboration and thoughtful planning. Together, we will succeed."

About The Central Grasslands Roadmap:

The Central Grasslands Roadmap was launched in 2020 to guide and inform innovative and connected conservation for the benefit of grassland birds, pollinators and mammals, as well as to ensure viable human communities across the landscape of one of North America's most biogeographically unique areas.

The Roadmap community includes a cross-section of leaders and experts that live and work in the Central Grasslands - including producers on working land, Indigenous/First Nations, federal, state and provincial agencies, foundations, industry, and nongovernmental organizations including land trusts, tribal representatives and academia.

About Bird Conservancy of the Rockies:

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is one of 25 Roadmap planning committee member organizations. The Colorado-based nonprofit works to conserve birds and their habitats through an integrated approach of science, education and land stewardship. Their work extends from the Rockies to the Great Plains, Mexico and beyond.

MORE INFORMATION:

The Grasslands Roadmap: https://www.grasslandsroadmap.org/

Photos (more available on request): https://www.grasslandsroadmap.org/digitalmediaresources

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies: https://www.birdconservancy.org/

More than 200 organizations across eight sectors representing Mexico, Canada, the U.S., and Indigenous Nations, came together for two days in May for a multi-national summit to commit to conserve North America's Central Grasslands. Hosted by the Grasslands Roadmap Planning Committee, the announcement comes from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, one of the convening summit partners.

Related link: https://www.birdconservancy.org/

Jonathan Grammer to Speak at Texas Tech University on Carbon Capture

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- U.S. Carbon Capture announces that Director of Land Jonathan R. Grammer will speak on the campus of Texas Tech University June 1 on the growing business of Carbon Capture in the State of Texas. The engagement, part of a larger convention addressing the state's energy grid, comes just months after Exxon Mobil announced its estimates of a foreseeable $4.5 trillion market for carbon capture and storage by 2050 as companies race to achieve net-zero.

In March, the Securities and Exchange Commission handed down their proposed rules changes regarding company disclosures of carbon emissions for not only direct emissions, but also indirect emissions from purchased electricity providers.

With now growing global attention and pressure on the need to restrict carbon dioxide emissions, the fossil fuel industry seems to be finding itself in an increasingly tight predicament as it struggles to implement solutions to reduce its carbon footprint. It's a predicament which Grammer believes has plausible solutions that can benefit both the fossil fuels industry as well as the growing renewable markets. It is also one which Grammer, a petroleum landman and attorney and who founded U.S. Carbon Capture in 2021, says has been decades in the making.

"Our team's early work in carbon capture began actually ten years ago in West Texas," states Grammer. "At that time, we were concentrated on separation of the CO2 component from industrial flue gas for utilization in resurrecting several depleted oil fields. We also learned about the reservoir engineering surrounding safely securing CO2 underground."

Now with its qualified team in place and two projects under development, U.S. Carbon Capture has emerged as one of the more likely front-runners in the ever-growing carbon capture market in Texas.

"The issue facing the energy industry in Texas," continues Grammer, "is finding ways to safely preserve utilizing carbon emitting sources in power generation. Carbon dioxide, most commonly associated with the burning of fossil fuels in power plants, oil refineries and other industrial sources can be effectively captured and placed either in underground storage, known commonly as sequestration, or used in enhanced oil recovery. Carbon dioxide, while primarily classified as a pollutant, also has enormous potential as a commodity. Its ability to increase the recovery rate of oil production could prove beneficial to the United States in its large effort to decrease dependency on foreign oil sources."

"Carbon capture technologies are progressing rapidly," stated Ken Holtgrieve, Director of Facilities for U.S. Carbon Capture. Holtgrieve, former Manager for CO2 Development at Kinder Morgan continued, "New carbon capture and storage projects are being announced almost daily somewhere around the world. Suppliers and contractors are gearing up to meet the demand. CCS is no longer just a dream. It is becoming reality."

U.S. Carbon Capture's Reservoir Engineer Mike Cain added, "Some may find it ironic that professionals from the oil and gas industry are leading the charge on addressing climate change through carbon capture." Cain, with a decade's worth of experience as a CO2 Reservoir Engineer, continued, "they are the experts when it comes to all aspects of carbon capture ranging from surface facilities, to land, legal, and regulatory issues, to wells and understanding injection into subsurface reservoirs. US Carbon Capture has built its leadership team with these key aspects of CCS/CCUS in mind."

Grammer will be speaking as part of the GridNext and Global Laboratory for Energy Asset Management and Manufacturing Conference at Texas Tech University on the latest advances in the fossil fuels and renewables industries towards increasing reliability and resiliency in the ERCOT Grid.

LEARN MORE:

Website: https://www.us-ccs.com/news

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/u-s-carbon-capture

U.S. Carbon Capture announces that Director of Land Jonathan R. Grammer will speak on the campus of Texas Tech University June 1 on the growing business of Carbon Capture in the State of Texas. The engagement, part of a larger convention addressing the state's energy grid, comes just months after Exxon Mobil announced its estimates of a foreseeable $4.5 trillion market for carbon capture and storage by 2050 as companies race to achieve net-zero.

Related link: https://www.us-ccs.com/

California Safe Schools Celebrates 2022 Earth Day Honorees and 24th Anniversary

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- California Safe Schools (CSS) celebrates 7 honorees for their extraordinary achievements empowering youth and protecting the Earth. "CSS wants to honor our phenomenal 2022 Earth Day Champions. We thank each of them for their enormous and selfless contributions. They all make our world a better place," Robina Suwol, California Safe Schools, executive director, said.

This Spring also marks the 24th anniversary of CSS's commitment to ensuring that all students, teachers, staff, and community members who live near school sites are in a safe, toxic-free environment. CSS continues to work closely with diverse communities and regulatory agencies on toxic issues that impact our life-giving air, water and soil.

CSS achieved national prominence by spearheading the Los Angeles Unified School District's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy, the most stringent pesticide policy in the nation for K-12 public schools. This was the first school district to embrace the "Precautionary Principle" and "Right to Know" in a policy and led to the passage of California's Healthy Schools Act. Today, the LA Unified IPM policy serves as an international model for school districts and communities.

HONOREES:

Tam Doduc

As the appointed Civil Engineer Member on the State Water Resources Control Board, Tam participated in processes to allocate and ensure reasonable use of water rights, provide financial support for water infrastructures and groundwater cleanups, and assure communities have access to safe drinking water. Her 16 years on the board were preceded by her work as Deputy Secretary at the California Environmental Protection Agency where she led the environmental justice and scientific peer review efforts and provided oversight of children's environmental health and environmental education programs.

Deborah Bell-Holt

Deborah's "Love and Respect Youth Foundation" reached out to the needs of thousands of inner city youths in 1994. When she realized this was not enough to solve all the needs she saw before her, Deborah expanded her efforts in the world.

She empowers others to get involved and close-down or clean-up sites that are not favorable to a community. Her fight against drill sites has received worldwide recognition, notably in Paris, France and Switzerland.

Alanna Butterworth

Alanna taught elementary school for 30 years in the Sacramento City Unified School District. She was proactive in fully integrating a local community garden into the school curriculum by developing composting practices with cafeteria food, using the resulting nutrient-dense soil to grow vegetables, and harvesting them for classroom cooking projects. The care of the garden and abundance of fruits and vegetables brought deeply meaningful connections to students who experienced the gifts of nature and attained lifelong knowledge of healthy foods.

Marta and Bob Takano

Bob Takano is a highly respected weightlifting coach who was inducted into the USA Weightlifting Hall of Fame in 2007 for his contributions to coaching. He has been the coach of four national champions, two national record holders, and 27 top ten nationally ranked lifters. Bob has been on the coaching staffs of 17 U.S. National teams to international competitions, five of those being World Championships and the Summer Olympics. His lifters have competed in seven Olympic Trials with one, Albert Hood, the third American to snatch double bodyweight, earning a berth on the 1984 team. Bob continues to produce more record-breaking athletes as owner of his own gym, Takano Weightlifting.

While Bob is involved in his work, Marta is doing some heavy weightlifting of her own as a pet therapist and rescuing dogs. As a volunteer at Northridge Hospital and Kaiser Medical Center, Marta discovered how powerful pet therapy was in healing patients and helped train many other handlers. Her love for golden retrievers led her to be part of the Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue that has developed a special program to ensure these traumatized dogs are placed in stable, forever homes. Marta's breadth of experience and compassion are essential in the critical reception of rescue dogs arriving on flights from Korea and Mexico. Both Marta and Bob view this as an opportunity to provide immediate care and solace to an even greater number of dogs in need of rescue. Along with their bountiful garden, they have created a healing environment for the rescue dogs they personally foster until a loving home is found.

Devon Jasiukonis

As president of his middle school in Hollywood, Devon's first project was to initiate a Green Committee. He joins other concerned students and team leaders to facilitate weekly activities to create awareness such as making posters. Topics have included how to reduce, reuse and recycle, earthworm composting, planting milkweed for monarch butterflies, harvesting and storing seeds, and the benefits of farmer's markets for a healthier lifestyle support of local businesses. Devon's newest goal is to reduce single-use water bottles with the installation of filtered drinking water stations at school. This will encourage students and staff to change to reusable bottles that they'll be able to easily refill and it establishes healthy habits while eliminating the impact of plastic.

Martina Rangel-Ortega

Martina has been a force for positive change in her community on issues such as access to healthy food, clean air and water, transportation services and keeping warehouses from being built near residential homes and schools. Martina currently serves as the Secretary for Ontario-Montaclair School District Community Advisory Committee (CAC) whose purpose is to improve and promote communication between schools, parents and public agencies, increase community awareness, and facilitate parent education and support. Martina's passion has been helping special needs children. She has become a trusted advocate between the school district and parents and coordinates many unforgettable activities for families.

All the honorees received awards designed by masterful artist Michael Bruza and engraved by Anderson Trophy.

Learn more about California Safe Schools at: http://www.calisafe.org/

California Safe Schools (CSS) celebrates 7 honorees for their extraordinary achievements empowering youth and protecting the Earth. "CSS wants to honor our phenomenal 2022 Earth Day Champions. We thank each of them for their enormous and selfless contributions. They all make our world a better place," Robina Suwol, California Safe Schools, executive director, said.

Related link: http://www.calisafe.org/

Celebration of Resolution Paves Way for Cheyenne, Wyoming to Become the Climate Wellness Capital

CHEYENNE, Wyo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mayor Patrick Collins, members of the Cheyenne City Council, Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, Encore Green Environmental and Wyoming's Carbon Asset Network (CAN) have jointly announced a celebration of commitment to work on "Climate Wellness through Soil Health" Friday, April 22, 2022 at the Cheyenne Botanical Gardens, 3 p.m.

A resolution will highlight the agreement that Encore Green Environmental signed on December 28, 2021. The desire is that the Resolution will be impactful in stewardship of our environment by the very people who work the land.

Speeches by members of the Cheyenne community will be part of the program, including the proclamation by Mayor Patrick Collins, comments by Dale Steenbergen of the Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, and John Robitaille of CAN. Letters of support sent to the city council include the Wyoming Stock Growers Association.

"Wyoming has been a leader in everything from the first female governor to water innovation with Buffalo Bill Cody. We, again, are leading the way with Cheyenne to become the Climate Wellness Capital," said Mayor Collins. "There's no better place than Cheyenne where sprawling land and experienced land managers now team with blockchain to render our environment cleaner and safer."

Moving forward the City will work with CAN to develop the program with any additional agreements, MOU's, or contracts developed between the City and CAN to be submitted for approval by the Governing Body.

CAN's program supplies land managers with grants and the tools to help increase their soil's health. Increasing soil health increases the ability of the soil to capture additional soil organic carbon. Increasing soil organic carbon leads to cleaner air, as the carbon is displaced from the air to the soil through increased plant growth and photosynthesis. The end result is that empowering better soil health leads to a better environment for our children and grandchildren.

"We are thrilled to partner with the City of Cheyenne and appreciate their forward thinking to solve problems in cooperation with nature's way to clean our air," said John Robitaille of Encore Green Environmental and CAN. "The Mayor and the Council's vision blends nicely with CAN's mission of Climate Wellness through Soil Health."

Carbon Asset Network (CAN) is a Wyoming company that networks together land stewards - from ranches to farms to golf courses - who commit to a 12-month customized plan with CAN's agronomist to change practices to become more regenerative. These land managers are provided grants from the nonprofit Synergy for Ecological Solutions to purchase new equipment or implement more expensive but sustainable practices designed to help improve the health of the soil and increase soil organic carbon.

CAN uses blockchain technology to verify the soil samples are sent to a certified laboratory, which reports the results directly to the blockchain, which creates a transparent process where all actions and partners are accountable. CAN is expanding these blockchain operations to create NFT Soil Tokens.

An additional announcement will be made regarding a successful partnership developed with a school district in Iraan, Texas, which allows students hands on education in soil stewardship, photosynthesis and produced water reclamation for grades 3-12.

For more information visit: http://www.carbonassetnetwork.com/ and https://synergyforecologicalsolutions.org/ .

Mayor Patrick Collins, members of the Cheyenne City Council, Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, Encore Green Environmental and Wyoming's Carbon Asset Network (CAN) have jointly announced a celebration of commitment to work on "Climate Wellness through Soil Health" Friday, April 22, 2022 at the Cheyenne Botanical Gardens, 3 p.m.

Related link: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

California Safe Schools 2022 Champion for Clean Air

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- California Safe Schools (CSS) today celebrates the implementation of "No Idling" signs near 50 school "hotspot" sites to eliminate diesel exhaust that can have immediate health effects especially for sensitive receptors like school children. Diesel exhaust contains toxic substances such as arsenic, benzene, formaldehyde and nickel that can contribute to mutations in cells that have progressed to cancer.

In fact, the California Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), comprehensive assessment found that "long-term exposure to diesel exhaust particles poses the highest cancer risk of any toxic air contaminant evaluated by OEHHA."

CSS Founder and Executive Director, Robina Suwol, who has guided the project since 2018, recognized everyone's efforts on this critical clean air initiative. "We believe everyone is entitled to clean air and equal protection under the law so we prioritized schools and adjacent communities heavily overburdened by cumulative impacts from multiple environmental sources of pollution. We are grateful for the support from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), students, teachers, parents, residents, community leaders and the Los Angeles Unified School District for their assistance in identifying the sites, and to the LA City Department of Transportation for installing 50 signs."

With asthma being the most common chronic condition among children affecting 6.6 million, recent studies have reinforced the importance of eliminating diesel pollution. An international team determined how ultrafine particles can get deep into lungs, stimulate the nerves and exacerbate respiratory conditions.

Jesse Marquez relates why he joined in the "No Idling" campaign. "As a lifelong resident of Wilmington and Executive Director of Coalition for a Safe Environment, we were pleased to have worked with California Safe Schools to identify streets adjacent to public schools, parks, and residential areas where "No Truck Idling" signs have been installed to reduce public exposure to freight truck exhaust air pollution and noise."

Chief of California Air Resources Board's Enforcement Division, Todd Sax said, "These No Idling signs, championed by groups including California Safe Schools, help reduce the impact of truck traffic in communities. Using a portion of the proceeds from enforcement actions, CARB is funding important, on-the-ground solutions like this one that help clean the air for schoolchildren and improve the quality of life for everyone in these hard-hit communities."

Cynthia Babich of the Del Amo Action Committee observed how the signs will help her community. "No Idling" signs mark the beginning of enforceable actions to improve decades of inappropriate land use planning that has allowed warehouses and trucking facilities onto residential streets in our environmental justice community."

The CSS "No Idling" project was funded through a Supplemental Environmental Project administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This policy allows community-based projects to be funded from a portion of the penalties received during settlement of enforcement actions. SEPs can improve public health, reduce pollution, increase environmental compliance, and bring public awareness to neighborhoods most burdened by environmental harm. The current policy also includes a public process to solicit potential SEPs from disadvantaged communities.

About California Safe Schools:

California Safe Schools (CSS) is children's environmental health and environmental justice non-profit committed to ensuring that all students, teachers, staff, and community members who live near school sites are in a safe, toxic-free environment. CSS works closely with diverse communities and regulatory agencies on toxic issues (air, water, soil). CSS achieved national prominence by spearheading the Los Angeles Unified School District's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy, the most stringent pesticide policy in the nation for K-12 public schools. This was the first school district to embrace the "Precautionary Principle" and "Right to Know" in a policy and led to the passage of California's Healthy Schools Act. Today, the LA Unified IPM policy serves as a national and international model for school districts and communities.

Learn more at: http://calisafe.org/

CITATIONS:

https://oehha.ca.gov/air/health-effects-diesel-exhaust

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/learn-about-asthma/asthma-children-facts-sheet

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/05/170522080928.htm

California Safe Schools (CSS) today celebrates the implementation of "No Idling" signs near 50 school "hotspot" sites to eliminate diesel exhaust that can have immediate health effects especially for sensitive receptors like school children. Diesel exhaust contains toxic substances such as arsenic, benzene, formaldehyde and nickel that can contribute to mutations in cells that have progressed to cancer.

Related link: http://www.calisafe.org/

444 Spotlights Movers and Shakers in the Sustainable Living Sector

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Danielle Keogh, co-founder, 444, LLC, launched a nationwide tour where she interviewed businesses within the functional ingredient sector. She says that Brandon Pitcher continues to carve the path for sustainable living. Among many, leading change agent in the Midwest, Pitcher, co-founder of Blue Circle Farms and founder of 5 Kingdoms Development, has dedicated his life's work to providing sustainability and renewability coaching. In 2010, he was the Green Entrepreneur of the year.

As the functional ingredient and sustainability movement continues to charge on in the Midwest, Pitcher is joined by agricultural solution-based companies, small-scale sustainable farmers, and organic merchants that have also stepped up to the plate to nurture the heart of America.

Several events are planned this spring to showcase Pitcher and other sustainability leaders and to feature some incredible, nutrient-dense foods. These events are scheduled to take place this spring in Colorado, Missouri, Illinois, Michigan and Ohio.

Pitcher has traveled to more than 50 countries and given more than 600 lectures on business, inspired by nature and societal development at Universities like MIT and Yale. Networking people and facilitating fun education to share big concepts is Pitcher's approach to making the world a better place.

He's hosting a series of 5 Kingdoms Dinners across the U.S., collaborating with prominent chefs like Donna Merton, and Farm Eats District Food Truck Eats. Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts will staff these events and Merton and Pitcher are in the process of creating a cookbook too.

5 Kingdoms' dinners are designed to educate and entertain people around a new type of diet.

"I guess you'd call it a different way of living and eating where bacteria, algae, plants, animals and fungus are present and representative of your local ecosystems," Pitcher says.

These events host roughly 100 to 200 people and it's an exciting way to enjoy music and mingle with artists. As opposed to shopping on Amazon, visiting local organic stores allows for unique opportunities to build relationships with like-minded individuals looking for natural ways to improve health. As a result, retail businesses have made strides to provide communities with organic, holistic ingredients.

He believes that "when it comes to our survival and functionality of nature," fungi are "probably the most important kingdom on earth."

Partaking in the remaining four kingdoms, algae, bacteria, plant and animal, can be equally enjoyable and boasts tremendous benefits. Unfortunately, according to "U.S. News," Americans consume ultra-processed foods at an extreme rate, putting people at a greater risk for chronic diseases. The common thought is that the poor 21st Century diet could "be the key driver of the obesity epidemic" (*see citation). It's crucial for society to do its part to support health beyond simply basic nutrition and to build up natural immune systems.

Who: Brandon Pitcher, Blue Circle Farms

What: 5 Kingdom Dinners

Where: Boulder, CO

When: May 21, 2022

Other movers and shakers include Nuka Anue who has two African Naturals stores in St. Louis, MO; and Eric Rose, owner of River Valley Market. African Naturals offers unique, high-quality holistic goods sourced mainly from Africa; and Rose farms most of his products and believes that people are growing more aware of functional mushrooms and their nutritional value.

AFRICAN NATURALS AND RIVER VALLEY MARKET EVENTS:

Who: Nuka Anue of Blue African Naturals

What: 31st Annual St. Louis African Arts Festival

Where: 2022 World's Fair Pavilion Forest Park, St. Louis, MO

When: Saturday, May 28, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, May 29, 2022, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and Monday, May 30, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Who: Eric Rose of River Valley Market

What: Spring Wine Stroll

Where: Chicago, Illinois

Choose from four routes:

https://www.lincolnsquare.org/spring-wine-stroll

When: Thursday, April 28, 2022, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The Eastern Market in Detroit also hosts the following Midwest sustainable farmers: Carolyn Leadly and Jack VanDyke, Rising Pheasant Farms; Ron Stadler, Stadler Farms; Vincent Sanna, Give and Grow Mushrooms; and Bob Jentzen, Jentzen Farms. Location: 2934 Russell Street, every Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

OTHER FARMERS' MARKETS INCLUDE:

Who: Brandon and Jordan Krystowski, Erie Shore Seeds and Spores

What: The Lake Saint Louis Farmers and Artists Market

Where: 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula, OH

When: Opens May 7, every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Who: Chef John Gelineau, Mushroom Naturally

What: Countryside Farmers Market

Where: Meadows Circle Drive, St. Louis, MO

When: Every Saturday from 8:00 a.m.to 12:00 p.m.

Who: Nicola Macpherson, Ozark Forest Mushrooms

What: Tower Grove Farmers' Market

Where: 4256 Magnolia Ave, St. Louis, MO

When: Every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Whether produce is grown organically or organically certified, more and more of the nation's farmers dedicate resources to providing the healthiest options to their local communities. Some farmers have weekly scheduled pick-ups, others offer deliveries, while most tend to post up at farmer's markets. As expected, the fees involved in establishing and maintaining the organic certification increase prices. Consequently, "organically certified" may not be available at every stand, but the majority of products meet the specifications.

About 444 (4 Forty 4)

444, LLC will incorporate the culinary art of functional beverage and expert mixology to manufacture functional beverage mixers. By partnering with and supporting small businesses throughout the U.S. within the functional ingredients and sustainable farming sectors, 444 is dedicated to providing current information about the industry.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Anyone interested in sharing their or others' stories, can visit: https://444.farm/

Explore Midwest farmers at: https://444.farm/category/mid-west

For more information about Brandon Pitcher: https://444.farm/2022/02/14/blue-circle-kokomo-indiana

MULTIMEDIA:

* VIDEO (YouTube) https://youtu.be/0WdoA07gDss

Video caption: Brandon Pitcher Co-Hosting 5 Kingdoms Dinner Boulder Colorado May 21, 2022

* LOGO 72dpi: https://444.farm/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/cropped-444-LOGO-1_12_221-2.png

CITATION:

* Preidt, R. (2021, October 15). Americans are eating more ultra-processed foods | health ... US News. Retrieved April 4, 2022, from https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2021-10-15/americans-are-eating-more-ultra-processed-foods

Danielle Keogh, co-founder, 444, LLC, launched a nationwide tour where she interviewed businesses within the functional ingredient sector. She says that Brandon Pitcher continues to carve the path for sustainable living. 444, LLC will incorporate the culinary art of functional beverage and expert mixology to manufacture functional beverage mixers.

Related link: https://444.farm/

Approximately $100 Million Available for Wildlife Habitat Projects

SAINT PAUL, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) last week issued its annual Call for Funding Request from the Outdoor Heritage Fund. Approximately $100 million will be available for both metro and statewide grants to aid Minnesota habitat restoration, preservation and enhancement.

Requests are due to the LSOHC Thursday, May 26, 2022 at 4 p.m. The funds for approved programs signed into law during the 2023 legislative session will be available Friday, July 1, 2023.

Since the Outdoor Heritage Fund's creation in 2008, $1.3 billion in on-the-ground habitat programs has been allocated by the Minnesota legislature and over 1 million acres of Minnesota forests, prairies and wetlands have been restored, protected and/or enhanced. The latest set of recommendations for $159 million is currently before the Minnesota legislature.

The process is competitive and open to all who wish to apply. "These monies have funded wildlife habitat projects in every corner of the state, both rural and urban," said Mark Johnson, LSOHC Executive Director. "If you have a potential project proposal but are unsure, contact us. LSOHC staff are always open to discussing ideas and answering questions. We are here to help."

Proposal requirements and terms of funding are outlined in the Call for Funding Request. To view details or learn more, visit: http://www.lsohc.mn.gov/.

For answers to specific questions, contact LSOHC Staff: http://www.lsohc.mn.gov/staff.

About Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council

The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council is composed of eight citizens and four legislators and makes annual recommendations to the Minnesota legislature for use of the Outdoor Heritage Fund. The Outdoor Heritage Fund is one of four funds established as a result of the Clean Water, Land and Legacy amendment, passed by Minnesota voters in November of 2008. The amendment established a dedicated sales tax increase of three-eighths of 1%. One-third of the dollars raised are deposited in the Outdoor Heritage Fund and expenditures must be used to restore, protect and enhance Minnesota's wetlands, prairies, forests and habitat for fish, game and wildlife. Current LSOHC members are listed on the LSOHC website members page: http://www.lsohc.mn.gov/Member/index.

The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) last week issued its annual Call for Funding Request from the Outdoor Heritage Fund. Approximately $100 million will be available for both metro and statewide grants to aid Minnesota habitat restoration, preservation and enhancement.

Related link: https://www.lsohc.leg.mn/

2022 Concordia Lexington Summit to hear from Governor Beshear, Mayor Gorton, Secretary Raimondo, Coach Mark Stoops, Governor Sununu and The Temptations

LEXINGTON, Ky. /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia, a leading global convener that hosts the largest and most bi-partisan summit in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, is hosting its first-ever U.S.-focused summit on April 7-8 in Lexington, Kentucky, focusing on the future of technology, trade and environmental sustainability. Taking place in person and digitally, the Summit will hear from Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, New Hampshire Governor Christopher Sununu, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe, Head Football Coach of the University of Kentucky Mark Stoops, Eli Capioluto, President of the University of Kentucky and Rubicon Technologies Chairman & CEO Nate Morris, among others.

More speaker announcements to come shortly. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-speakers/.

The 2022 Lexington Summit will also feature an exclusive reception honoring the spirit of the heartland of America, with a special live performance by Detroit natives and Grammy-winning R&B legends, The Temptations, at the Lexington Opera House. During the Summit, Jonathan Martin, New York Times reporter, will be discussing his book This Will not Pass: Trump, Biden and the Battle for America's Future, an account of the 2020 election and the first year of the Biden presidency, co-written with his New York Times colleague Alexander Burns.

Additionally, Frank Luntz, CEO of FIL, Inc, will moderate a session with student leaders from the University of Kentucky to share perspectives on civic engagement, democracy, economic potential and their outlook on the future as the rising group of next generation leaders.

The 2022 Concordia Lexington Summit will convene a variety of voices across the political spectrum and across sectors to advance civil discourse and understanding between the different socioeconomic worlds present in the U.S. The Summit will take place in partnership with the following three academic units of the University of Kentucky: the J. David Rosenberg College of Law, the Gatton College of Business and Economics, and the College of Education. The full agenda can be viewed here: https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-agenda/.

"Rubicon is honored to be a part of the 2022 Lexington Summit in our hometown," said Nate Morris, Chairman and CEO of Rubicon, Principal Sponsor for the 2022 Lexington Summit and Chair of the event. "Kentucky offers tremendous benefits to entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to start or grow their companies, and we hope to showcase the Commonwealth to the world and demonstrate how the American heartland can become a leading technology and innovation hub."

Press can register here to attend in person or digitally: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-lexington-summit-tickets-242919758537

For in-person press passes, use code OA_Press. For digital passes, use code DA_Press. Press pass holders must show a valid press credential onsite. Concordia's in-person COVID-19 policy can be found here - https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-covid19-policy/.

You can take advantage of our Lexington Marriott City Center Hotel room block, which has a number of discounted rooms available from April 4 until April 8, 2022 (with limited availability the night of April 8). Rooms can be booked here. Additional rooms are also available from April 4 until April 9 at 21C Lexington, a boutique hotel located around the corner from the venue. Guests can book here to secure a discounted rate per night: https://book.passkey.com/event/50312140/owner/49548491/home

For any questions, please email rsvp@concordia.net.

For press inquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Concordia, a leading global convener that hosts the largest and most bi-partisan summit in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, is hosting its first-ever U.S.-focused summit on April 7-8 in Lexington, Kentucky, focusing on the future of technology, trade and environmental sustainability.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Environmental Justice Leader Mustafa Ali to Review Justice40 Initiative with White House Advisor Gina McCarthy at Second Annual BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Environmental justice leader, Mustafa Santiago Ali, will discuss the progress made on the implementation of the Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 initiative with White House Advisor Gina McCarthy during the Second Annual BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue. Hosted by the HBCU Green Fund and other environmental groups, the two-day virtual event is open to the public and will take place April 7 - 8, 2022.

To register visit: https://bit.ly/35aiE3N.

The event will feature discussions and addresses from Ramon Cruz, president, Sierra Club, U.S. Representative Raul Grijalva (AZ), White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council representatives, federal agencies, and climate leaders about the key accomplishments made by the Biden Administration and next steps for implementation of Executive Order 14008: Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad, which committed to deliver 40% of climate investment benefits to disadvantaged communities. Recommendations gathered from the discussions will be reported to the federal government.

President Biden appointed McCarthy, a leading environmental health and air quality expert, as the National Climate Advisor in 2021. She was EPA Administrator under President Obama and helped in efforts to secure the Paris Climate agreement. Ali is a former Environmental Protection Agency official and served as senior vice president for the Hip Hop Caucus. He is the vice president of environmental justice, climate and community revitalization for the National Wildlife Federation and founder of Revitalization Strategies.

US ACE Coalition, Land Peace Foundation and the BIPOC Climate Scholars Project joined with HBCU Green Fund to convene the event. In addition to several break-out dialogues, primary discussions planned for the conference are:

:: THURSDAY APRIL 7, 2022

-- Climate Justice: A year of Justice40

Mustafa Ali and Gina McCarthy

WHEJACT Justice40 Report Panel

Moderator: Mustafa Ali,

Panelists: Ruth Santiago, EJ Advocate, Miya Yoshitani, executive director, APEN.

-- Federal Agencies Justice40 Advancement

Moderator: Richard Gragg, professor, FAMU

Panelists: Daniel Blackman, EPA Administrator Region 4, Christopher Coes, deputy assistant secretary, DOT

-- Path Forward: Justice40 Frontline Initiatives

Moderator: Chandra Farley, CEO, ReSolve Consulting

Panelists: Nathaniel Smith (video), CEO, Partnership for Southern Equity; Denise Fairchild, president, Emerald Cities; Sherri Mitchell founding director, Land Peace Foundation; Jacqueline Patterson, executive director, Chisholm Legacy Project.

:: FRIDAY APRIL 8, 2022 (PARTIAL DAY)

-- Making Justice40 a Reality: Regional Perspective

Moderator: Donna Hope, president, UHope Consulting

Panelists: Kizzy Guzman, executive director, NYC Mayor's Office of Climate and Environmental Justice ; Larry Lambert, Delaware House of Representatives; Zachary Lou, APEN; Andres Jimenez, executive director, Green 2.0.

The BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue is free and open to the public. To register and get a full agenda go to https://bit.ly/35aiE3N.

ABOUT HBCU GREEN FUND

The HBCU Green Fund promotes investment in sustainable campus solutions, interdisciplinary sustainability curriculum development, student and faculty engagement and just climate policy with a focus on historically black colleges and universities. Learn more: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

ABOUT U.S. ACTION FOR CLIMATE EMPOWERMENT COORDINATING TEAM

The ACE team promotes the alignment of climate education, workforce development, and civic engagement nationally to accelerate a just transition to a low carbon economy and coordinates multi-level participation in the development of an Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) Framework to advance the US national strategy as articulated in UNFCCC and Article 12 of the Paris Agreement.

ABOUT LAND PEACE FOUNDATION

The Land Peace Foundation (LPF) is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Indigenous way of Life, which includes: the protection and preservation of Indigenous land, water, religious and/or spiritual rights; proliferation of cultural and traditional practices; strengthening of kinship roles, and; preservation of ceremonial ways of being.

ABOUT BIPOC CLIMATE SCHOLARS PROJECT

The BIPOC Climate Scholars Project is established as a resource hub activating a national network of Black, Indigenous, Latinx and Asian/Pacific climate science and policy experts eager to advise, conduct and support research and implementation of public and private action to address climate change.

Environmental justice leader, Mustafa Santiago Ali, will discuss the progress made on the implementation of the Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 initiative with White House Advisor Gina McCarthy during the Second Annual BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue. Hosted by the HBCU Green Fund and other environmental groups, the two-day virtual event is open to the public and will take place April 7 - 8, 2022.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

Waste is a Growing Threat to National Security, says Rubicon CEO Nate Morris

LEXINGTON, Ky. /ScoopCloud/ -- A growing threat to America's national security is the improper disposal of electronic waste, said Rubicon Chairman & CEO Nate Morris in remarks this week to Princeton University's Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment.

Morris, who is involved with a variety of national security public policy groups, cited a number of examples, examining the root causes of the global waste crisis and how categories such as e-waste and space waste contribute to complications surrounding United States national security.

"I believe e-waste is going to be one of the biggest categories that we have to solve," said Mr. Morris. "The defense community and intelligence community are more aware than ever that their devices hold sensitive clues as to what the future holds in regard to our safety."

Mr. Morris also examined the role of e-waste in human trafficking and organized crime.

"One of the greatest human trafficking challenges we see is associated with waste," Mr. Morris said. "There are networks of groups that traffic individuals around the world to use as waste pickers to remove information from landfills. People who would do us harm are using child labor and trafficking to achieve this means."

Mr. Morris also discussed Rubicon Technologies, the company he founded to reinvent the waste and recycling industry. Rubicon was founded in 2008 with "$10,000 on a credit card" and now has operations in 20 countries.

"We like to believe that technology should stand for something that solves a problem for everyday Americans," Mr. Morris said, referring to Rubicon's mission to "end waste." "We believe that technology can help us spur R&D and level the playing field for small business owners, bringing in minority-owned and women-owned businesses that prior to Rubicon did not have space to grow."

About Nate Morris

Nate Morris is the Chairman & CEO of Rubicon, a technology driven software company focused on waste and recycling. Morris is a ninth-generation Kentuckian born in Lexington and raised by a single mother. He remains close with his grandfather, a long-time union leader at the local Ford automobile plant. Morris attended Kentucky public schools. He was the first Kentuckian to be named to Fortune Magazine's 40 Under 40 list and to be recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. He is also the youngest inductee ever to the Kentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame. Morris is a Senior Advisor to the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, a member of Business Executives for National Security (BENS), a member of Concordia's Leadership Council and the Trilateral Commission.

Learn more about Nate Morris at: https://natemorris.com/

Follow on social at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/natemorris/

Twitter: @NateMorris

Facebook: @NateMorris

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.rubicon.com/

A growing threat to America's national security is the improper disposal of electronic waste, said Rubicon Chairman & CEO Nate Morris in remarks this week to Princeton University's Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment.

Related link: https://natemorris.com/

Paragon Acquires Greener Future and ESG-focused New Energy Risk

AVON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Paragon Insurance Holdings, LLC, a national MGA based in Avon, Connecticut, announces today the acquisition of New Energy Risk (NER), an insurance solutions provider to a wide range of energy technologies and related infrastructure projects and technologies that accelerate the energy transition.

The deal represents Paragon's latest expansion into the global specialty Excess & Surplus lines market and brings additional high-rated reinsurance capacity providers supporting the ongoing build out of its portfolio.

"We're excited to welcome NER to Paragon," Ron Ganiats, CEO and co-founder of Paragon said. "With NER's talent, carrier and reinsurance following, we will now be at the forefront of providing insurance solutions to the technology and project leaders that continue to move into the energy space."

The announcement comes amid a strong period of growth for NER on the back of rising demand for its unique risk assessment and underwriting services. NER, in a push toward Underwriting a Greener Future(tm), continues to develop new products to meet shifts in the economy as energy sources transition toward sustainability and industries decarbonize. The company has also implemented its own Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) client framework during this critical period to better respond to these market trends.

"We understand the needs of energy technology companies, project developers and investors in this space. We translate the 'arcane' insurance market on their behalf and deliver what they need to secure cost-effective project finance and expedite customer adoption," Tom Dickson, CEO of NER, said.

NER was founded in 2010 by Tom Hutton, former CEO of RMS and White Mountains Re, in partnership with then XL Group. In 2015, XL Innovate (XLI), an insurtech venture fund, was formed. NER became XLI's first portfolio company. NER had been operating as a majority-owned subsidiary of AXA under its AXA XL brand.

"NER is at an inflection point," said Hutton, who will remain involved as an advisor after the acquisition. "We are all committed to investing in its continued growth and to see the impactful results of its products and services, especially given the transformative support of Paragon."

About New Energy Risk

New Energy Risk is a pioneer of large-scale, breakthrough technology performance insurance solutions. The company provides complex risk assessment and serves as a bridge between technology innovators, financiers, and insurers. Insurance policies are administered through New Energy Risk affiliate Complex Risk and Insurance Associates, LLC, CA License #0I24307. Visit: https://newenergyrisk.com/.

About Paragon

Paragon Insurance Holdings, LLC, formed in 2014, writes all commercial lines of insurance across more than 20 programs. Paragon's industry-specific and general underwriting facilities offer insureds, retail agents, carriers, reinsurers and service providers unique product, service, capability, and results. Visit: https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/.

Paragon Insurance Holdings, LLC, a national MGA based in Avon, Connecticut, announces today the acquisition of New Energy Risk (NER), an insurance solutions provider to a wide range of energy technologies and related infrastructure projects and technologies that accelerate the energy transition.

Related link: https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/

RICE Grant Enables HBCU Green Fund to Expand STEM & Energy Training, Mentorship, and Internship Opportunities for Atlanta University Center Students

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- The HBCU Green Fund recently announced a partnership with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) that increases their capacity to train, mentor and identify internships in energy and STEM industries for students at the Atlanta University Center (AUC). A Department of Energy grant to RICE provides resources for the AUC Energy Project, including a fellowship program exposing students from various majors to emerging opportunities in renewable energy and sustainability.

"We are pleased that the Russell Innovation Center supports a comprehensive program to expose HBCU students to careers in the energy sector, provide them with marketable skills, and introduce students to successful entrepreneurs and leaders working in STEM," said Illai Kenney, national program director, HBCU Green Fund. "Projects like this help to create a pipeline of minority thought leaders in climate and energy and ensure that HBCU graduates stand out in a highly competitive labor market. For instance, the Biden-Harris administration just announced plans to build a $5 billion network of electric vehicle chargers on interstate highways nationwide as part of their infrastructure bill, AUC Energy Fellows will be prepared for those jobs."

The AUC Energy Project offers training across the energy landscape, including wind, solar, energy efficiency and Electric Vehicle Charging Station entrepreneurial opportunities. After completing Energy Audit training, the fellows will contribute to an investment-grade audit on the campuses of Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Clark Atlanta University. Several AUC Energy Fellows will participate in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon, a collegiate competition where teams of students compete to design and build sustainable solar-powered house.

"Students at the Atlanta University Center have a unique advantage being located directly across the street from the Russell Center, the largest non-profit center in the country providing a space and resources for Black entrepreneurs and small business owners to innovate, grow, and create jobs," said Brittany Saadiq, director of development, RICE. "This program gives AUC students access to extraordinary talent and cutting-edge technology."

Thought leaders sharing career advice, mentoring, and business opportunities include HBCU graduates Dr. Anthony Kinslow, CEO of Gemini Energy Solutions; Sheryl E. Ponds Founder and CEO of Dai Technologies; and Gilbert Campbell, founder and CEO of Volt Energy Utility LL; along with AUC faculty mentors Dr. Armita Davarpa, Spelman College, Dr. Cynthia Hewitt, Morehouse College, Dr. Olu Olatidoye, Clark Atlanta University.

An HBCU Energy and STEM Internship registry is currently in development with several summer apprentice opportunities already identified. The 2022 AUC fellows are: Sophia Boyd (Spelman), Serena Echols (Spelman), Indrianna Bowleg (Spelman), Brionna Findley (Spelman), N'Dya Jeffries (Clark Atlanta), Conrad Mctavish (Morehouse), Jason Gill (Morehouse), Ihunanya Destiny Agomuoh, (Spelman), Noah Bacon-Angevine (Morehouse), and Andre Brown (Morehouse).

The HBCU Green Fund is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization working to advance campus-wide sustainability at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and promote student engagement in green initiatives. The organization produces the HBCU Green Report, a ranking of green initiatives on HBCU campuses. In April the organization co-host's the annual BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue, an opportunity for climate justice scholars, organizers, and funders to discuss national climate goals and Justice40 priorities with government agencies.

For more information on the HBCU Green Fund and AUC Project visit https://hbcugreenfund.org/.

The HBCU Green Fund recently announced a partnership with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) that increases their capacity to train, mentor and identify internships in energy and STEM industries for students at the Atlanta University Center (AUC). A Department of Energy grant to RICE provides resources for the AUC Energy Project, including a fellowship program exposing students from various majors to emerging opportunities in renewable energy and sustainability.

Related link: http://hbcugreenfund.org/

12th Annual RVA Environmental Film Festival Free and Open to the Public February 18 – March 4, 2022

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Richmond Environmental Film Festival (RVA EFF) announces its 12th annual showcase of over 20 free local and national films selected to raise awareness of environmental issues and offer solution-oriented messages of hope that inspire action towards promoting planet health and environmental justice. Most of the films will be shown virtually, with six in-person events hosted by partners of the festival.

Again this year, RVA EFF held the Virginia Environmental Film Contest. First prize went to "Headwaters Down," directed by Justin Black, Will Gemma, and Dietrich Teschner. This film tells the story of five friends who undertake a 13-day, 250-mile canoe adventure from the headwaters of the James River to the fall line in Richmond. Along the way, they explore the environmental and historical aspects of the troubled yet beautiful river as they witness first-hand the many factors impacting its future.

The two second prize winners were "Breathing Life Back Into Richmond," directed by Jackie Stephens and "Canaries in the Coal Mine," written, directed and produced by Nick Garnhart. Two youth awards were also given. All five films will be shown virtually the evening of Sunday, February 20. "Headwaters Down" will also be shown at The Byrd Theater on February 27. Some of the other films featured in the festival are highlighted below.

Visit https://rvaeff.org/ for a complete listing and schedule.

The festival begins with "8 Billion Angels," hosted by James River Association. The film uses breathtaking cinematography to tell the truth about the conflict between the size of our global population and the sustainability of our planet. It inspires real solutions toward lasting sustainability and a better quality of life for all Earth's inhabitants. The Virginia Interfaith Power & Light hosts "Mossville, When Great Trees Fall," telling the story of one man who refuses to give up when his centuries-old black community, contaminated by petrochemical plants, faces the loss of its ancestral home.

The Richmond Public Library & City Office of Sustainability host "The Sacrifice Zone," following a group of environmental justice fighters determined to break the cycle of poor communities of color serving as dumping grounds for our consumer society. "High Tide in Dorchester" focuses on ground zero for sea level rise along the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay. Narrated by Kate Winslet, "Eating Our Way to Extinction" takes you on a cinematic journey around the world to uncover hard truths about the most pressing issue of our generation - ecological collapse.

The Festival Committee thanks all the major sponsors of this year's festival, including Convert Solar, Enrichmond Foundation, and Ian Patrick of Merrill Lynch.

Learn more at: https://rvaeff.org/

The Richmond Environmental Film Festival (RVA EFF) announces its 12th annual showcase of over 20 free local and national films selected to raise awareness of environmental issues and offer solution-oriented messages of hope that inspire action towards promoting planet health and environmental justice.

Related link: https://rvaeff.org/

Certa Integrates with EcoVadis to Help Company Reach ESG Goals

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, the leading third-party risk management platform, Certa, announced its official partnership with the world's most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, EcoVadis. The integration will allow Certa customers to see the EcoVadis ratings of their third-party suppliers at a glance within one integrated platform.

Sustainability is a growing focus area for many organizations. According to a recent McKinsey report, two-thirds of ESG compliance lies within the supply chain, making transparency and accountability within the chain a key factor to achieving corporate conservation goals. Certa's integration with EcoVadis has created a game-changing value proposition that enables companies to assess and prioritize partners who contribute to the greater sustainability of the corporation.

"ESG is top of mind for our clients," stated Certa founder and CEO Jag Lamba. "This partnership enables Certa clients to add EcoVadis sustainability ratings into their supplier lifecycle management workflow with one click. This added governance helps bring visibility into the entire supply chain and helps corporations remedy any roadblocks."

Certa's software can automate and orchestrate entire workflows across business requestors, procurement, compliance, information security, privacy, and finance. By utilizing task queues, parallel approval flow, and in-app messaging, Certa's centralized platform keeps all parties connected and compliant at all times.

"As sustainability has become the leading topic of transformation for most organizations, they are realizing that the supply chain is one of their most powerful levers for driving positive change," said David McClintock, Global Director of Content Marketing from EcoVadis. "Adding EcoVadis ratings into Certa's greater procurement workflow will enable clients to integrate reliable insights of third-party partners' sustainability practices directly into onboarding decisions. The easy-to-use scorecards and tools help clients collaborate with their suppliers to prioritize and monitor their improvement journey across key topics including environmental and carbon footprint, working conditions, social practices, and ethics."

For more information about Certa, please visit http://www.getcerta.com/.

For further details on EcoVadis, please see http://www.ecovadis.com/.

ABOUT CERTA

Certa is the fastest-growing supplier management platform. Founded in 2015, Certa makes third-party risk management fast, easy, and modern. Using more than 80 no-code integrations with trusted data sources, Certa helps companies onboard third parties 3x faster while mitigating risk and improving compliance controls. Certa's clients include several Fortune 50 retailers and a Top 3 consulting firm. Certa is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area.

For more information or to schedule a demo visit our website, Twitter, and Linkedin.

ABOUT ECOVADIS

EcoVadis is a trusted global provider of business sustainability ratings, creating a global network of more than 75,000 rated companies. EcoVadis helps manage your network both upstream and downstream, either by sharing your performance with your stakeholders or monitoring the performance of your own upstream value chain.

CITATIONS:

https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/operations/our-insights/buying-into-a-more-sustainable-value-chain?cid=app

Today, the leading third-party risk management platform, Certa, announced its official partnership with the world's most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, EcoVadis. The integration will allow Certa customers to see the EcoVadis ratings of their third-party suppliers at a glance within one integrated platform.

Related link: https://www.getcerta.com/

Legal Counsel for Blockchain Smart Contracts Announced for Carbon Tokenization

CHEYENNE, Wyo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Carbon Asset Network (CAN) announces that Oklahoma-based Wurtz & Associates will provide oversight and facilitation of the blockchain-based "smart contracts" related to the recently revealed initiative by CAN. Through an innovative protocol, this process tokenizes land resources for carbon sequestration and protection of the soil and water resources. The initiative makes use of the natural process of photosynthesis, which reduces carbon in the air.

"We chose Kimberly Wurtz's firm to oversee this aspect because she is specialized in property law and water law, as well as land management, and has focused her firm on solely assisting landowners," says John Robitaille, Director of Carbon Asset Network. "Her firm will act as the point of contact for tokenizing the landowner assets from start to finish."

The initiative will also have support from a Digital Asset Manager who will provide the information necessary to validate the resource's title and ensure the smart contracts are properly in place. The use of blockchain creates a secure, unchangeable title and legal language in contracts so there is upmost transparency and accountability. This initiative will be the first to apply this type of technology to a real property in a way that not only benefits the landowner, but also benefits the land and promotes climate wellness.

"At Wurtz & Associates, our focus is to help empower landowners in protecting their land and resources. By utilizing blockchain, landowners can participate in CAN's grants for soil health, water, carbon, and other essential aspects to ensure that the land thrives," says firm owner Kimberly Wurtz. "Our firm is a fierce advocate for landowner rights and the protection of all natural resources."

Carbon Asset Network offers grants from the nonprofit Synergy for Ecological Solutions to land managers to create a total ecological solution in consultation with CAN's agronomy experts. Through photosynthesis, an increase in soil health will result in a decrease of carbon in the air.

For more information:

http://CarbonAssetNetwork.com

https://www.wurtzpropertylaw.com/

Carbon Asset Network (CAN) announces that Oklahoma-based Wurtz & Associates will provide oversight and facilitation of the blockchain-based "smart contracts" related to the recently revealed initiative by CAN. Through an innovative protocol, this process tokenizes land resources for carbon sequestration and protection of the soil and water resources.

Related link: http://CarbonAssetNetwork.com/

Blockchain Meets Agriculture to Improve Soil and Air Quality

CHEYENNE, Wyo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Two innovative Cheyenne-based companies, the agricultural Carbon Asset Network and blockchain consultancy group Ember Labs have joined forces to create the new pathway for carbon sequestration and improving air quality by using the power of blockchain. This new model is designed to be a private enterprise alternative to Cap and Trade methods, which have not proved successful since its inception in 2009.

"Blockchain, combined with tokenization, empowers a model where we all can be successful in cleaning carbon out of our air by improving soil health," says Ian Alexander, principal of Ember Labs. "It's time to put that ability into the hands of ESG oriented businesses, agriculturists, land managers of any kind, and the everyday people wanting to help our environment. The desire to do this is not new. What we have designed is the ability to streamline and make the process for a Total Ecological Solution actually work."

The Carbon Asset Network joins with nonprofit Synergy for Ecological Solutions to provide grants which allow land managers to take action for a Total Ecological Solution through soil health. Often these new methods increase operating costs and capital investment. The grants allow the land managers to take action right away to maximize soil health.

As soil becomes healthier, there is more oxygen released to the air, and more carbon pulled into the roots and soil (carbon sequestration) through the natural process of photosynthesis. Land managers include not only those in the agriculture industry, but managers of parks, golf courses, undeveloped land, or anyone who manages open land.

"It's actually very simple," says John Robitaille, Director of Carbon Asset Network. "Nature has its own way to increase air quality and that's photosynthesis. Working with Ember Labs, we have created a method utilizing blockchain that simply makes this feasible and effective in a private enterprise scenario, which lets those who want to help both our soils and our air quality. The whole process turns on simply cooperating with Nature. We say it's climate wellness through soil health."

Many air quality programs are designed to eliminate emissions from fossil fuel. This new method, however, is designed to take any carbon out of the air immediately and is not reliant on adoption of alternative energy sources so that the air can improve sooner rather than later.

For more information, visit:

http://CarbonAssetNetwork.com

https://www.emberdev.io/

Two innovative Cheyenne-based companies, the agricultural Carbon Asset Network and blockchain consultancy group Ember Labs have joined forces to create the new pathway for carbon sequestration and improving air quality by using the power of blockchain. This new model is designed to be a private enterprise alternative to Cap and Trade methods, which have not proved successful since its inception in 2009.

Related link: http://CarbonAssetNetwork.com/

Environmental Organization Submits Request for The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to Take Over Carson Hydrogen Sulfide Chemical Leak Investigation

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Coalition For A Safe Environment a 20-year old non-profit environmental justice organization headquartered in Wilmington, California after conducting its own independent investigation of potential sources of the toxic Hydrogen Sulfide Gas Leak in Carson is requesting that the federal U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) take over the investigation.

A Press Conference will be held on Wednesday, November 3, 2021 and 1 p.m. PT at 21907 Acarus Street, Carson, CA 90745.

Carson, Wilmington and South Bay residents have become increasingly dissatisfied and suspicious of the inability of the South Coast Air Quality Management District and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works with all of their advanced gas sensors, air quality monitoring network and professional chemical water tests not being able to trace the source of the Hydrogen Sulfide Gas in the past 4 weeks.

"It is true Hydrogen Sulfide was found in the Dominguez Channel but it is near impossible for Hydrogen Sulfide to have been created there and in the large quantities still being released every day. It would take tons and tons of decaying organic matter in one location in a confined area, over a period of time, with little to no oxygen to create Hydrogen Sulfide," said Jesse N Marquez executive director of the Coalition For A Safe Environment.

The Coalition will present three priority proposals for systematically locating the source of Hydrogen Sulfide. The first proposal will be for the Dominguez Channel Source, second, Oil Refinery Source and third source Carson Earthquake Caused an Underground Fault Shift.

Jesse N. Marquez is the Executive Director of the Coalition For A Safe Environment and will discuss the organizations research and why the U.S. EPA needs to step-in an provide investigation oversite.

Dr. Jill Johnston from the USC Keck School of Medicine will present additional detailed public health information on the impacts of hydrogen sulfide exposure than what has been told to the public.

Isa Pulido, Carson resident and candidate for Carson City Council announced that he took a Dominguez Channel water sample and sent it to a test lab for analysis and the results showed a high sulfur content in the water. The lab report will be available.

Fatima Iqbal-Zubair, is a concerned Carson Resident and an environmental science chemistry and robotics teacher. Fatima is also a Candidate for Assembly District 64 which includes Carson, Wilmington and Compton.

Councilman Jim Dear will discuss his concern for locating the H2S source as soon as possible and preventing future community resident's impacts.

The Coalition For A Safe Environment will also provide a Press Kit with all documentation.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jesse N Marquez

Coalition For A Safe Environment

jnm4ej@yahoo.com

310-590-0177

The Coalition For A Safe Environment a 20-year old non-profit environmental justice organization headquartered in Wilmington, California after conducting its own independent investigation of potential sources of the toxic Hydrogen Sulfide Gas Leak in Carson is requesting that the federal U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) take over the investigation.

Sharing Resources: Key to COP26 Success

BERKELEY, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- World leaders meet in Glasgow beginning October 31 for the United Nations COP26 Climate Change Conference, to address the conclusions of the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report: that human activities have unequivocally warmed and damaged the planet. Share International attributes 80 percent of the warming to human actions, and says sharing resources to mitigate the inevitable consequences is key to solving climate change.

As early as 2007, an article by a Master of Wisdom, recorded by the late British author Benjamin Creme and published in Share International magazine, gave this 80 percent figure and stated that we have a pivotal choice to make: to reap the beneficial results of immediate action, or face the destruction that would ensue from doing nothing, or too little.

The article stated that the World Teacher for this age, Maitreya, who is gradually emerging into public view, "will advocate a simpler form of living, one more in keeping with the planet's situation. When enough people are convinced that this is necessary," it presaged, "there will be a growing movement to simplify throughout the planet." It further predicted that "faced with the dilemma of necessary change, men will come to realize the inevitability of accepting the principle of sharing. Only sharing will make these changes practical and possible."

Although the effects of climate change are coming faster than scientists anticipated, the IPCC report affirms there is still time to slow or even reverse some changes by reducing CO2 emissions to at least net zero. But to accomplish this globally, the wealthier countries must not only curb their own emissions but also share resources and technology with less developed nations, to ensure that all can make the necessary rapid transition to sustainable energy sources.

Three of the four goals of COP26 require potentially large financial investments: radical emissions reductions, strengthening adaptation to climate impacts, and mobilizing finances. The fourth is for countries to work together to accomplish these pressing but inescapable measures. The COP26 web site indicates, however, that developed countries have not even made good on their 2009 Copenhagen Accord pledge to mobilize by 2020 at least $100 billion in climate finance per year for developing nations. Another impediment noted by Jeffrey Sachs, president of the U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network, is that poor countries must borrow internationally at rates of 5 to 10 percent, and many have no access to capital markets at all, while rich countries benefit from near-zero interest rates.

Clearly, politicians have not yet responded to the climate crisis at levels commensurate with the danger, but COP26 offers a pivotal opportunity. To succeed at their stated goal of "uniting the world to tackle climate change," COP26 participants will need to go beyond inequitable loan financing and fast-track unconditional sharing of the financial and technological resources necessary to bring all countries on board. This is in line with Maitreya's rallying call to humanity: "Share and save the world."

Share International USA is a non-profit educational organization established to disseminate information about the presence in the world of the Masters of Wisdom, led by Maitreya. More information can be found at https://www.share-international.us/learn/WorldTeacher/.

World leaders meet in Glasgow beginning October 31 for the United Nations COP26 Climate Change Conference, to address the conclusions of the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report: that human activities have unequivocally warmed and damaged the planet. Share International attributes 80 percent of the warming to human actions, and says sharing resources to mitigate the inevitable consequences is key to solving climate change.

Related link: https://www.share-international.us

Encore Green Environmental Appoints G-Force as the Re-Furbishing Partner for NOMAD Excel

FT. WORTH, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Encore Green Environmental names Texas based G-Force to re-furbish the legacy Nomad water treatment technology units to become the improved NOMAD Excel™.

Encore Green is an agriculture company dedicated to applying by-product water to beneficial use for agriculture and carbon sequestration. They recently purchased the Nomad units, which have cleaned over 30 million barrels of produced water, primarily in the Permian Basin. Combined with Encore's patent-pending Conservation By-Design™ method of ensuring safety in the water, Encore is the leader in applying clean water to the drought-stricken lands and holds the only permits in the US to accomplish this.

G-Force is a multi-service provider for the energy industry, including environment, health & safety, as well as facilities, pipeline, and construction.

"We sought out G-Force for their excellence in service and their expertise. We look forward to getting the Nomad back up and running again and seeing millions of barrels of safely cleaned water going out onto our lands," says Jaime Roman, of Encore Green Environmental, who is directing the re-furb project.

Brooks Goodson, COO of G-Force says, "We're excited to be improving upon the Nomad technology to create a process for safe treatment of water, along with economic viability. We have the track record to turn what's great into something even greater."

Newly re-furbished units will soon be available throughout the West, as commitments for those units are being booked for new projects to beneficially apply formerly produced water.

For more information, visit:
https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/ and https://gforcetx.com/

Encore Green Environmental names Texas based G-Force to re-furbish the legacy Nomad water treatment technology units to become the improved NOMAD Excel™. Encore Green is an agriculture company dedicated to applying by-product water to beneficial use for agriculture and carbon sequestration.

Related link: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

US-based Carbon Direct invests €15M ($17.7M) for 7% stake in Calix’s LEILAC business

SYDNEY, Australia /ScoopCloud/ -- Multi-award-winning Australian technology company Calix Limited (ASX: CXL) ("Calix" or the "Company") is pleased to announce global decarbonisation investor Carbon Direct Capital Management has invested €15m for a 6.98% equity stake in Calix subsidiary, the LEILAC Group, which is dedicated to the commercialisation and ongoing development of Calix's LEILAC CO2 capture technology.

Highlights:

* €15M investment in Calix's LEILAC business by Carbon Direct, one of the world's leading decarbonisation investors

* Investment will accelerate the development and deployment of LEILAC, which uses Calix technology for cement and lime decarbonisation

* Carbon Direct will advise LEILAC on areas including capital markets, regulations, commercial development, and technical development, helping it scale the business

* LEILAC technology has been successfully piloted at 25,000tpa scale and is now being scaled up to 100,000tpa, with several commercial pilot plants under development

* Investment implements Calix's equity farm-in strategy to create focussed, commercialisation businesses for its core technology

* Calix will host an investor webinar at 10.00am (AEST) Thursday 16 September with CEO, Phil Hodgson. Click here to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_unJvaUQ0TdONM9yA30XgwA

Calix will continue to own the remaining 93% of the LEILAC Group.

In addition, as part of the transaction, Calix has entered into a licence agreement with the LEILAC Group under which it will retain 30% of royalties earned by the LEILAC Group from deployment of the technology, regardless of Calix's equity stake in the LEILAC Group. The LEILAC Group will operate autonomously, with its own management team and a Board composed mostly of Calix directors, with one appointee nominated by Carbon Direct.

The LEILAC Group, comprising Calix (Europe) Ltd (UK) and its subsidiaries, is the exclusive licensee of Calix's Low Emissions Intensity Lime and Cement (LEILAC) CO2 capture technology. LEILAC technology was successfully piloted at 25K tonnes per annum scale at HeidelbergCement's plant in Lixhe, Belgium, and is being scaled up to 100K tonnes per annum scale in the "LEILAC-2" project for a HeidelbergCement plant in Hannover, Germany. Further commercial pilot plants for lime production are under development with Tarmac, the UK division of CRH, and AdBri in Australia, among others.

US-based Carbon Direct's investment arm, Carbon Direct Capital Management, makes direct investments into leading carbon removal and utilisation technology companies. The firm also operates a scientific advisory business, which advises leading corporations on how to fulfil their carbon removal and utilisation commitments. Carbon Direct's advisory work spans 28 countries and includes clients such as Microsoft and Shopify.

Pottinger acted as financial and strategic advisor to Calix on this transaction, and Hamilton Locke acted as legal advisor.

Carbon Direct investment to accelerate LEILAC technology uptake

Along with existing capital already invested in the LEILAC Group, Carbon Direct's investment will be used by the LEILAC Group to accelerate and continue to de-risk deployment of the LEILAC technology, both technically and commercially. Technically, additional resources will be deployed in engineering and research to speed optimisation. Commercially, new resourcing in business development, especially project development and CO2 use or sequestration, will be deployed to help develop complete project solutions for customers. A new CEO will be appointed to run the business as a stand-alone entity.

The investment marks the conclusion of work led by Pottinger to accelerate commercialisation of the LEILAC technology and identify the optimal financial and strategic partner(s) to support this the business' critical next phase of development.

Calix Limited CEO Phil Hodgson said the deal represented a critical milestone in Calix's stated strategy of seeking equity "farm-ins," after initial development undertaken by Calix, to accelerate and deploy its underlying platform technology into each line of business, with Calix remaining head licensor.

"As each of these businesses become independent commercial entities, they will remain joined at the hip" technically with Calix, which will continue to support development of the core intellectual property. Over time, growing royalty income from these companies will also support the development of new applications of the IP and associated technologies," Mr Hodgson said.

He said the investment by Carbon Direct will help accelerate the development and deployment of the Calix Technology for cement and lime decarbonisation.

"The recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report was unequivocal in saying that to reach the stated 2030 goals on climate change, CO2 emissions have to be reduced. LEILAC Technology is an option that is being deployed now to meet this urgent need.

"Carbon Direct coming on board is a strong vote of confidence in Calix's LEILAC decarbonising technology, following on from endorsements and partnerships with industry leaders such as HeidelbergCement, Cemex, Lhoist and Solvay

"The investment will assist us in accelerating the deployment of the technology into the carbon capture and storage landscape, with additional resources covering technology research and development, CO2 logistics, use and storage, and whole-of-project expertise, while our technology gains more exposure in global markets outside of Europe.

"The deal also represents our first material portfolio transaction in our stated strategy to farm-in equity to deploy our technology commercially. We believe this strategy adds speed and focus at a critical time in the technology commercialisation journey, and leaves the head company to focus on what it does best - supporting our technology and developing the next global, disruptive applications."

Carbon Direct founder and CEO Jonathan Goldberg said Carbon Direct invested in companies that could deliver both commercially viable solutions and solve big climate problems.

"We are very impressed by the technical and commercial rigor of the LEILAC team, and plant partners are outspoken in their excitement about LEILAC. We are delighted to support Phil, Calix, and the LEILAC Group as they seek to scale LEILAC into cement and lime plants around the world," Mr Goldberg said.

"Both Carbon Direct's investment team and its scientific advisory team, which now includes 46 globally renowned CO2 scientists and project managers, are available to assist the LEILAC Group on subjects including capital markets, regulations, commercial development, and technical development. Our entire firm is dedicated to helping technologies such as LEILAC to scale."

Pottinger Executive Chairman Nigel Lake added: "Great engineering and technology alone are not enough: to have a transformational impact on an entire global industry takes a dedicated and well-resourced business. The investment by Carbon Direct marks a critical inflexion point for both Calix and the LEILAC Group as decarbonisation of the construction sector begins in earnest."

Carbon capture is needed to reach the UN climate goals

Global decarbonisation efforts are accelerating. For example, in June 2019, the UK Government became the first major economy to commit to net zero CO2 by 2050 and is heavily supporting decarbonisation efforts through funding under the UK Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy £1bn Net Zero Innovation Portfolio. In 2021, the European Union unveiled a plan to slash its carbon emissions by 55% before 2030 and impose border tariffs on countries, including Australia, that do not have some form of carbon price.

Cement production is the world's single biggest industrial cause of carbon pollution, responsible for up to 8% of global emissions, producing more than 4 billion tonnes of CO2 per year. Cement is the primary ingredient in concrete, the second most used material in the world after water. Meanwhile, the global production volume of lime was approximately 330 million tonnes in 2020, with myriad applications beyond cement including the manufacture of aluminium, asphalt, copper, glass, gold, lithium, plasterboard, silver, solar-grade silica, steel, table salt and toothpaste. Lime is also used in agriculture and for water and sewage treatment.

Making 1 tonne of lime or cement clinker produces approximately 1 tonne of CO2

LEILAC's Breakthrough carbon capture technology

Between 50 to 60% of cement CO2 emissions derive from the process of heating or "calcination" of limestone, the chemical reaction that converts limestone (CaCO3) into lime (CaO) and CO2. These emissions are therefore unavoidable and a low-cost capture solution is essential.

The patented LEILAC kiln design separates CO2 emissions arising during lime and cement production without significant energy penalty. The LEILAC kiln is being developed to use a variety of input fuels and is also easily electrified, enabling complete decarbonisation of production by switching to renewable energy.

LEILAC technology was successfully piloted at 25ktpa scale at HeidelbergCement's Lixhe Cement plant in Belgium, and is being scaled up to 100kTpa scale in the "LEILAC-2" project for a HeidelbergCement plant in Hannover, Germany. LEILAC-2 is targeted to be in production by late 2023 / early 2024, and is being funded by €34m from the EU Horizon 2020 scheme through a combination of cash and in-kind contributions from industrial partners. In addition to HeidelbergCement, industrial partners helping in developing the technology include Cemex, Tarmac, Cimpor, Lhoist, Engie and Solvay.

Six commercial-scale cement and four commercial scale lime follow-on projects are being developed with several interested parties, with two projects now moving into more detailed planning under previously announced heads of agreement with CRH's UK subsidiary Tarmac and Adbri in Australia.

About Carbon Direct LLC

Carbon Direct provides both scientific advisory services and investment capital to the carbon removal & utilization ecosystem. Our advisory business works for clients to fulfill their carbon removal & utilization commitments. Carbon Direct's team of world-renowned carbon scientists has a nuanced understanding of the true risks and opportunities of emerging and mature carbon removal & utilization technologies. Our investment business makes direct investments into leading carbon removal & utilization companies. Carbon Direct was founded in 2019 by Jonathan Goldberg and has offices in New York City. To learn more, visit http://www.carbon-direct.com/

About Calix

Calix is a team of dedicated people developing a unique, patented technology to provide industrial solutions that address global sustainability challenges.

The core technology is being used to develop more environmentally friendly solutions for sustainable processing, advanced batteries, crop protection, aquaculture, wastewater and carbon reduction.

Calix develops its technology via a global network of research and development collaborations, including governments, research institutes and universities, some of world's largest companies, and a growing customer base and distributor network for its commercialised products and processes.

Because there's only one Earth - Mars is for Quitters.

Website: https://www.calix.global/

Twitter: @CalixLimited

YouTube: CalixLimited

MULTIMEDIA:

PHOTO Link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0915s2p-calix-leilac-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Calix decarbonising technology at the LEILAC plant in Belgium.

Multi-award-winning Australian technology company Calix Limited (ASX: CXL) ("Calix" or the "Company") is pleased to announce global decarbonisation investor Carbon Direct Capital Management has invested €15m for a 6.98% equity stake in Calix subsidiary, the LEILAC Group, which is dedicated to the commercialisation and ongoing development of Calix's LEILAC CO2 capture technology.

Related link: https://www.calix.global/

Talon International Announces Launch of 100% Sustainable Ghost Net Products

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- After years of meaningful development, Talon International is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Ghost Net Products. The company successfully developed a solution to improving marine habitats by collecting and recycling the surplus of plastic waste that has consumed our beloved oceans.

Plastic waste has finally reached the top of society's agenda. Only nine percent of the plastic produced since the beginning of the material's revolutionary debut has been recycled. Unfortunately, much of the remainder invade our waters-4.9 billion tons consuming the habitats of vital marine wildlife. If the trend continues, our oceans will contain more plastic than fish in less than thirty years.

Talon has taken to collecting abandoned ghost nets, a substantial portion of our planet's plastic waste, and developing them into an assortment of practical fashion items, including zippers, buckles, cord adjusters, buttons, and more. The company's process is simple: search, collect, clean, regenerate, and develop the recycled resin into innovative products that will change the world, one ghost net at a time.

Talon International has been awarded the Global Recycled Standard by the INFL Laboratory and Institute, certifying that its Ghost Net Products and manufacturing practices conform with international voluntary standards. The company currently coordinates and operates the recycling of ghost nets found amongst China's shores. Talon is honored to be the first audited and certified fishing net recycling system in China.

Larry Dyne, CEO of Talon International explains, "We believe that the solution is obvious. We have been practicing it for years now. Reuse! At Talon, we are at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. We coordinate and operate the collection and recycling of ocean waste plastic, including fishing nets, to reduce the environmental harm."

Alongside their corporate efforts to push the boundaries with innovative designs and solutions, Talon International presents retailers everywhere the opportunity to take part in raising sustainability standards. Talon designed the sustainable Ghost Net Product line with their valued partners in mind, in hopes to encourage more retailers like yours to make a difference.

Hand-in-hand, companies everywhere have the power to make a positive, influential impact on the planet. Until zero ghost nets remain in our oceans, let us reduce, reuse, and recycle together.

Website: https://taloninternational.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

*IMAGE LINK for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0908s2p-talon-ghost-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Talon Sustainable Ghost Net Products Now Available.

After years of meaningful development, Talon International is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Ghost Net Products. The company successfully developed a solution to improving marine habitats by collecting and recycling the surplus of plastic waste that has consumed our beloved oceans.

Related link: https://taloninternational.com/

Pompano Beach to Test SEAHIVE Shoreline Protection System at Wahoo Bay

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientists, government officials and citizens concerned about climate change and sea level rise will soon have a new source of data when Wahoo Bay in Pompano Beach launches. This underwater marine park will become a global incubator for the ocean's ecosystem and will test the SEAHIVE™ marine and estuarine shoreline protection system, a research project funded by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) in collaboration with FDOT.

The team at Wahoo Bay collaborated with scientists and engineers from the University of Miami's College of Engineering and the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science with the hope that green engineering solutions will prove to be superior to traditional measures such as the controversial U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' proposal to wall-off Miami against water.

"There are a variety of potential solutions being discussed to combat sea level rise and protect areas like South Florida from the impacts of flooding, erosion and wave attack," explained Rob Wyre, Chairman of Shipwreck Park. "However, many of the options can be detrimental to the overall ecosystem. Wahoo Bay will play a critical role in helping scientists and government officials test the SEAHIVE system, while the park itself will create an environment for local, national and international scientific experiments and collaboration."

The SEAHIVE™ configuration for Wahoo Bay combines a modular concrete structure with adequate complexity and material composition with mangroves. The projection is that the system will not only reduce flooding and erosion in the area but will be hospitable to sea life, creating an eco-laboratory for Wahoo Bay visitors.

"We are very excited to be collaborating with the team at Wahoo Bay, said Landolf Rhode-Barbarigos, an assistant professor of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering at the University of Miami who is part of the SEAHIVE™ development team. "They were very enthusiastic about implementing our research in Pompano Beach, and our discussions with Rob Wyre led to the idea of utilizing red mangroves in the design, resonating our ideas towards a 'green-gray' approach. Wahoo Bay will be an important test for the SEAHIVE system and will provide invaluable data as we search for the most viable solutions to preserve coastal areas."

Wahoo Bay is a Shipwreck Park initiative that will be run by the City of Pompano Beach's Parks and Recreation Department and supported by community volunteers.

This educational initiative is expected to begin construction this September and will cost more than $1 million to complete. Additional funding is required, donations can be made at https://wahoobay.org/donations-page/.

MULTIMEDIA:

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0813s2p-wahoo-bay-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Rendering of Wahoo Bay.

Scientists, government officials and citizens concerned about climate change and sea level rise will soon have a new source of data when Wahoo Bay in Pompano Beach launches. This underwater marine park will become a global incubator for the ocean's ecosystem and will test the SEAHIVE™ marine and estuarine shoreline protection system, a research project funded by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) in collaboration with FDOT.

Related link: https://wahoobay.org/