Tag Archives: Environment and Ecology

Zoetic Global Announces Addition of Trammell S. Crow to Board of Directors

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Zoetic Global, a US-based clean technology firm, is proud to announce the appointment of Trammell S. Crow to their board of directors.

Mr. Crow is a businessman, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and innovative champion for a sustainable future. He is the founder of EarthX, the world's largest annual exposition and forum that brings together environmental leaders, businesses, government agencies, academic institutions to address our most pressing environmental challenges. EarthX draws over 200,000 visitors to downtown Dallas for its EXPO.

His philanthropy benefits numerous nonprofit organizations that are active in environmental conservation and education. He is also the President of the Crow Family Foundation which operates and manages the Trammell & Margaret Crow collection of Asian Art.

"I am so pleased to have Trammell joining the board of Zoetic. His breadth of knowledge and experience will help us on our mission to deliver critical solutions to the world," said Jerome Ringo, Executive Chairman of Zoetic Global. "Trammell's focus on now solutions aligns with Zoetic's focus on impactful, innovative and immediate answers to the world's core problems around energy, water and food security."

"I am excited to join Zoetic's board and work closely with other dedicated board members," stated Mr. Crow. "All of us dedicated to sustainability must roll up our sleeves and focus on implementation. The time for action is now."

ABOUT ZOETIC GLOBAL

Zoetic Global is a leading solution provider that has assembled a portfolio of critical technologies in energy efficiency and generation. Its mission is to catalyze critical innovations and deploy to the areas of greatest need.

Learn more at: http://zoeticglobal.com/

Zoetic Global, a US-based clean technology firm, is proud to announce the appointment of Trammell S. Crow to their board of directors. Mr. Crow is a businessman, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and innovative champion for a sustainable future.

Related link: http://zoeticglobal.com/

Alegría Fresh and Impact Bioenergy Sign Strategic Global Deal to Deliver Alegría Farmacy Plant-based Food and Energy Systems

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Erik Cutter, President and CEO of Alegría Fresh and Jan Allen, President and CEO of Impact Bioenergy are proud to announce the development of the Alegría Farmacy food production system. The Alegría Farmacy is an integrated zero waste regenerative organic carbon neutral urban microfarm system that provides a front-line defense against food supply disruptions, such as those currently being experienced during the coronavirus pandemic.

Mobile, scalable and cost effective, the Farmacy integrates existing carbon management and off-grid energy production technologies to deliver superior quality greens, vegetables and herbs within the urban envelope where people live and work.

According to Erik Cutter, "By integrating our SoxxBoxx Gro System, the Impact Bioenergy 7.7 kW micro-anaerobic digester, GrowSpan's CEA greenhouse, advanced water filtration, plus a 10kW solar array and Simpliphi Power's energy storage system, we have created the first modular zero waste, regenerative organic, carbon neutral food production system that can be deployed over man-made surfaces off-grid anywhere, anytime. This represents a dramatic shift in conventional agriculture by decentralizing food production to deliver healing food within the densely populated urban environment while mitigating climate change and creating green jobs at the same time. Food security and community resilience are dramatically enhanced."

Jan Allen adds, "Alegría's modular regenerative food / energy solutions are a perfect fit with Impact Bioenergy's modular bioenergy and plant food solutions. Together we form a game-changing distributed community-scale energy system. We merge our anaerobic digester platform into Alegría's high-performance cultivation (regenerative food/energy/water) by converting food waste into onsite renewable energy and probiotic, toxin-free organic soil amendments. Rarely does an opportunity come along that can positively touch on energy, water, air, soil, food, jobs, and education simultaneously. This one does."

About Alegría Fresh

Laguna Beach, California-based Alegría Fresh designs and builds zero-waste, solar-powered regenerative organic microfarms employing high-yield soil-based growing systems featuring our SoxxBoxx system deployed within the Alegría Farmacy. Our high-performance urban farms repurpose unused spaces and can be deployed over man-made surfaces close to where people live and work. We call it "tractorless" urban farming. Our premium organic AlegriaLivingSoil results in superior nutrient dense vegetables, salad greens, fruit, flowers and medicinal herbs.

Alegría's rich soil biology guarantees that your locally grown produce is of the highest quality and requires no toxic pesticides. To maximize healing properties and provide critical immune support, our systems provide access to heart healthy produce that can be harvested and consumed within one hour, assuring you receive optimum phytoactivity and flavor, texture and nutrition density while reducing the environmental impact from inferior produce transported across continents.

Learn more at: http://alegriafarmacy.com/.

About Impact Bioenergy

Auburn, Washington-based Impact Bioenergy manufactures portable zero waste bioenergy systems that convert organic waste materials into energy and biofertilizer. We convert food waste and other organic wastes to energy and plant food, creating value in job creation, renewable energy production, carbon sequestration, and urban agriculture. Our HORSE technology delivers on all the sustainability metrics: financial, environmental, and social benefits. The capacity of a single system ranges from 960 to 57,000 lbs. per week of organic waste materials. We help farmers, businesses, communities and governments build resilient food ecosystems. Impact partnered with advanced manufacturing companies in a way that allows us to deploy our micro-digesters to operate successfully in a wide variety of urban settings. The odor control and clean modular design is adaptable to a broad range of architectural situations. Our philosophy has always been to use biomimicry of Nature in an inspiring and meaningful way. Learn more at: http://impactbioenergy.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0428s2p-alegria-growspan-300dpi.jpg

Media Contact:
Jessica McLeish
Jessica@jmcleishpr.com
949.294.3554

Erik Cutter, President and CEO of Alegría Fresh and Jan Allen, President and CEO of Impact Bioenergy are proud to announce the development of the Alegria Farmacy food production system.

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

California Safe Schools Celebrates 22nd Anniversary and Earth Day

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- March 30th, 2020 marked the 22nd anniversary of California Safe Schools (CSS) a celebrated children's environmental health and justice coalition founded by Robina Suwol in 1998 after grade school students, including Robina's two sons, were sprayed with the herbicide Princep, as they headed to class.

A school gardener in a hazardous materials suit, employed by LA Unified School District, unaware students were present, sprayed the herbicide creating a cloud of pesticide mist students were forced to walk through to reach their classrooms. Several parents who had dropped off their children at the school were alarmed to witness this event. Robina's youngest son, Nicholas, whose asthma had been under control, experienced a severe asthma attack after the incident.

Robina and CSS sprung into action, contacting the school district, experts in the area, teachers and other parents - leading the effort to ensure incidents like this would not happen again. And, one year to the date Nicholas became ill, CSS and LAUSD enacted the most stringent pesticide policy in the nation for schools. The policy was the first in the United States to embrace the Precautionary Principle and Parents Right to Know regarding pesticides in schools.

The success of the policy led to California legislation, The Healthy Schools Act 2000, and AB 405 spearheaded by Suwol and CSS, which prevents experimental pesticides whose health effects are unknown from being used in all K-12 California schools. As a result, 6 million students, hundreds of thousands of teachers and school employees are protected. For 22 years LA Unified has not used Roundup, or any herbicides, on the grounds of any schools in a district spanning 28 cities, 703 square miles and 1000 sites.

"While celebrating together has been temporarily postponed, honoring our 2020 heroes cannot be delayed. We thank each of them for their enormous and selfless contributions. They make our world a much safer and better place," said Robina Suwol, California Safe Schools, executive director.

Honorees:

HUMANITARIAN AWARD

Monsignor John Moretta

John Moretta was born in Los Angeles on July 12, 1941. He entered St. John's Seminary, Camarillo, in 1960. After completing Philosophy and Theology studies, he was ordained on April 27, 1968. He has served in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles as a parish priest in five parishes. He is at presently the pastor of Resurrection Church in Boyle Heights. This May he will have served there for thirty-five years. Throughout his ministry he has worked with the Latino community and has been on several advisory boards of the Archdiocese. He was invested as a Domestic Prelate to His Holiness with the title of Monsignor on February 2, 1992.

He has been an advocate for the empowerment of people. Whether it is in educating people to speak English, preparing for citizenship, organizing the Mothers of East Los Angeles, establishing a first-time homeowners center, the Boyle Heights Resident Homeowners Association, Neighborhood Watch Groups, sitting on advisory boards of high schools, member of the Guadalupe Procession Committee, Dean of Deanery 9, serves on the Priests Council and Personnel Board for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and also for the Police Department.

Most recently he helped fight the battle to close down Exide Technologies after many years of releasing lead into the environment. Monsignor Moretta has a great love for the people he serves and is always looking for ways to improve the community.

HEALTH HERO

Evelyn Cortez-Davis, P.E., BCEE

Evelyn Cortez-Davis is the Assistant Director of Water Operations t the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the largest municipal utility in the nation. She has over 25 years of engineering experience in water quality, water conservation, pipeline design and construction, environmental compliance, recycled water, water rights, groundwater remediation, and groundwater planning. She currently leads the team that safely treats, stores and conveys water for the 4 million people in the City of Los Angeles.

In previous roles, she oversaw projects to clean up contaminated groundwater throughout the City, to capture more stormwater, increase conservation, and expand the use of recycled water and groundwater. She represented the City of Los Angeles on the Colorado River Board of California and the Board of Directors of the National Water Research Institute.

She is a graduate of UCLA, a registered Civil Engineer in the state of California, and is a Board Certified Environmental Engineer. Ms. Cortez-Davis is also the author of the book December Sky- Beyond My Undocumented Life relating her family's story as first -generation immigrants from El Salvador and their path to U.S. citizenship

LEADERSHIP AWARD

Christian Arana

Christian strongly believes in the promise of America, and that begins first with California's estimated 15 million Latinos. As the Policy Director at Latino Community Foundation, Christian leads the foundation's efforts to advance policy solutions that will improve the lives and political power of California's Latinos.

Christian served as the Senior Governance Specialist at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) in Washington, D.C. During his tenure, he worked with the nation's top political, corporate, and nonprofit leaders to develop the next generation of Latino leaders in policy. He also managed CHCI's transition towards the use of impact metrics and led two successful strategic planning sessions with CHCI's leadership. Prior to CHCI, Christian worked at the Aspen Institute for the College Excellence Program. He helped administer the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence Competition honoring the top performing community colleges in the nation. Dedicated to the advancement of Latino communities, Christian began his career as an AmeriCorps member where he served as a college counselor at Cristo Rey New York High School in East Harlem, New York.

Christian received a Master's Degree in Public Policy from UC Berkeley and holds a Bachelor's Degree from Georgetown University in International Politics. In his free time, Christian enjoys cooking, watching Dodgers baseball, and traveling.

IMPACT AWARD

Stellaluna Lopez-Ramirez is a sophomore at Felicitas and Gonzalo Mendez High School in Boyle Heights. She is an honor roll student, a sophomore class representative, and a leader in academic performance. She is also a member of the junior varsity girls basketball team, and led the league with sixteen points per game this season. When not at school, she works with Youth Orchestra Los Angeles playing violin and mentoring elementary and middle school students in music and leadership, or runs free tutoring sessions with her peers. Additionally, through Youth Orchestra Los Angeles, she has performed at major venues such as Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Aspen Music Festival, and the Hollywood Bowl. After high school, she plans to double major in a STEM field and a humanity.

HEALTH & SAFETY CHAMPION AWARD

Los Angeles Unified School District

Honoring the management and staff of the Los Angeles Unified School District for 22 years of embracing the Precautionary Principle and Right to Know while successfully implementing the most stringent pesticide policy in the nation for schools , including their phenomenal efforts to serve more than 10 million meals to students, and quickly employing virtual academic programs during this challenging pandemic.

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

SPONSORS:

Sponsors for the CSS Anniversary: South Coast Air Quality Management District, Metropolitan Water District, California Air Resources Board, California Department of Pesticide Regulation, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, Earthjustice, Republic Services, Natural Resource Defense Counsel, Galpin Ford, & Libertyhill.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Robina Suwol
California Safe Schools
calisafe@earthlink.net
818-785-5515

March 30, 2020 marked the 22nd anniversary of California Safe Schools (CSS) a celebrated children's environmental health and justice coalition founded by Robina Suwol in 1998 after grade school students, including Robina's two sons, were sprayed with the herbicide Princep, as they headed to class.

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

Sunstate Laboratories Introduces Revolutionary Cleaning Products That Help Eliminate Plastic Waste and Save Consumers Money

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- In the midst of celebrating Earth Day's 50th anniversary this month, SunState Labs is setting the standard for environmentally-responsible businesses, by employing sustainable production practices and conserving resources along the entire supply-chain. The company's product, DAZZ, is a non-toxic concentrated cleaning tablet, made with natural ingredients and designed to curb the need for single-use plastics.

Historically, household cleaners have primarily been available in ready-to-use (RTU) containers, perpetuating the "use-and-discard" cycle. Consumers buy their cleaning products pre-mixed in spray bottles, then have to toss each spray bottle as they become empty.

DAZZ, however, is breaking this cycle -- their concentrated, easy-to-use tablets are made to be used in any spray bottle, so customers can reuse existing bottles in their homes, over and over again. For the consumer, this not only saves them money, but also allows them to make environmentally-conscious purchasing decisions.

In a world where sustainability is becoming a major concern for the mainstream consumer market, DAZZ is filling that hole in the household cleaning industry, allowing individuals to incorporate greener habits into their cleaning routine.

Each year, over one billion plastic spray bottles are thrown out in the United States. These spray bottles contribute to the growing build-up of plastic waste in our oceans, which, according to Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit organization dedicated to cleaning up plastic pollution in the oceans, currently amounts to over 5 trillion pieces of plastic. The issue of plastic waste has only increased in relevance, since China stopped purchasing the United States' plastic waste in 2018.

David Shahan, CEO and Chief Innovation Officer for SunState Labs, had this exact issue in mind when he developed DAZZ Cleaning Tablets.

In addition to environmental and economic benefits, DAZZ also boasts high performance when tested against industry leaders. In tests conducted at the TURI lab at the University of Massachusetts, DAZZ Window & Glass Cleaner beat Windex, DAZZ All-Purpose beat Formula 409, and DAZZ Bathroom beat Clorox. Despite costing about 75% less than these leading RTU brands, DAZZ outperforms them when it comes to tackling tough messes.

DAZZ cleaning tablets, when added to a bottle of lukewarm water, dissolve into a powerful cleaning solution, free of fillers and toxic chemicals. The tablet form saves storage space in the household, as well as lessens the cost and environmental impact of transportation. Consumers can order either a Starter Kit, which includes spray bottles and tablet packets, or a Refill Package of just tablets -- either way, no water is being shipped.

Shahan wants to stress the importance of local suppliers in the fight for more sustainable business practices. "I'd like to see local programs foster the ingenuity of local suppliers," says Shahan. "Hiring locally, sourcing locally, and protecting the environment go hand-in-hand with a profitable, sustainable enterprise."

SunState's mission is to create innovative products that are safe, tough on dirt, and encourage environmental sustainability.

Learn more at: https://dazzcleaner.com/

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
David Shahan
CEO and Chief Innovation Officer of SunState Labs
720-524-8477
David@sunstatelabs.com

In the midst of celebrating Earth Day's 50th anniversary this month, SunState Labs is setting the standard for environmentally-responsible businesses, by employing sustainable production practices and conserving resources along the entire supply-chain. The company's product, DAZZ, is a non-toxic concentrated cleaning tablet, made with natural ingredients and designed to curb the need for single-use plastics.

Related link: https://dazzcleaner.com/

Jordan Etem Networks is on the Forefront of Sustainability, Core to Success Going Forward

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sustainability impacts everyone. First and foremost, sustainability is a decision-making process, notes Jordan Etem Networks. A competitive advantage or disadvantage. Sustainability is a long-term strategy and commitment. When systems are tested and crisis emerges, sustainability gets put to the test.

Systems and leadership that values sustainability can adapt faster to the environment, strengthening common interests. Jordan Etem spent years developing and cultivating an enduring and sustainable model for leadership.

Sustainability is needed for every organization, government, institution, and business. Jordan Etem's vision and leadership for sustainability is versatile, highly attune to the market, catalyzing leaders and organizations to be smarter, more adaptive, and more resilient.

"Sustainability is best seen as an investment, as a competitive advantage. Not as a rule, not as a regulation, as an investment. Essential to improvement, preparedness and a resilient economy. Breakthrough innovation is about building more sustainable models that strengthen foundations for the long-term," says Jordan Etem, founder, Jordan Etem Networks.

Sustainability is a competitive advantage, a best practice. Jordan Etem Networks is forward thinking and inclusive to the most effective strategies in meeting the evolving and changing demands in the marketplace. Jordan Etem empowers people to contribute and lead, which is essential to sustainable development and organizational effectiveness. Building an empowering world, an economy that empowers people, will require a more sustainable focus. If practices are not sustainable, they will not work as intended because the rate of change has accelerated in the marketplace.

Jordan Etem Networks is not isolated, it's global, expansive, and integrated. Some of the most game-changing strategies and game-changing ideas and movements were spawned and originate from Jordan Etem Networks. Practicing inclusion, uniting the business community, the scientific community, leaders in the public and private sectors, is a long-term enduring model for growth and development. Jordan Etem Networks values innovation, which is sorely needed to both bolster the economy and build a more sustainable future. Jordan Etem's vision factors in sustainable strategies for education, for economic development, for transformation, for breakthroughs in science and technology, and foundational improvements that will endure and transform markets for the better, for many years to come.

Jordan Etem Networks is a natural fit for global, expansive, and integrated organizations that need pragmatic insight, pragmatic vision, and serve diverse needs in the marketplace. Jordan Etem takes it one step further, or many steps further past consulting and into concrete transformation and breakthrough solutions for stronger systems. Jordan Etem Networks adapts and responds to the environment with visionary leadership. With precision, with personalization, with insight and intelligence. Jordan Etem Networks has charted a path for sustainable growth and intelligent progress using cutting edge science and enduring principles for global optimization. Value is multi-dimensional, and so is sustainability. Non-linear changes that have occurred in the marketplace, across every sector in the economy. Jordan Etem Networks matches the non-linear changes that have occurred in the marketplace with skill, growth, and enduring value.

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

* VIDEO (YouTube):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fd2-W2-fp6E

* PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0406s2p-jordan-etem-300dpi.jpg
* Photo caption: Jordan Etem - Leading on the Forefront of Sustainability.

Sustainability impacts everyone. First and foremost, sustainability is a decision-making process, notes Jordan Etem Networks. A competitive advantage or disadvantage. Sustainability is a long-term strategy and commitment. When systems are tested and crisis emerges, sustainability gets put to the test.

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

Spodak Dental Group Announces 10th Annual Beach Cleanup Event in Partnership with Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Spodak Dental Group (SDG) is partnering with Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful to join forces for 10th Annual SDG Beach Cleanup and the Great American Beach Cleanup. The goal is to not only rid the beach of waste but to also create awareness about environmental impacts of single-use plastics and debris.

The amount of waste in the world's oceans is increasing at a rapid pace, with much of it cluttering the seabed and clogging up the stomachs of sea creatures. For ocean lovers, SDG's Annual Beach Cleanup event brings an opportunity to ensure Delray's waterways and oceans stand a fighting chance against increasing numbers of debris and waste. The statistics speak for themselves. More than a million plastic bags are used worldwide every minute, with estimates pointing toward 160 million metric tons ending up in the ocean by 2025.

This event is an opportunity to join thousands of volunteers of all ages across America who will be taking part in efforts to clean up and improve their local communities.

WHAT - 10th Annual SDG Beach Cleanup and the Great American Beach Cleanup

WHEN - Saturday, April 18 at 8 a.m.

WHERE - Sandoway Discovery Center, 142 S. Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483

WHY - "Our 10th Annual event shows our commitment to not only our planet, but also our community members with whom we share a love for our local beach," said Dr. Craig Spodak, general dentist. "Our goal for this year's event is to not only rid our beach of as much waste as we can, but to also increase awareness and create the biggest environmental impact now and for the future."

JOIN - Call/text (561) 303-2413 with any questions. To attend, simply show up on Saturday, April 18 at 8 a.m. Everyone is welcome!

ABOUT - For more information, please visit https://www.spodakdental.com or https://www.keeppbcbeautiful.org/great-american-cleanup.

About Spodak Dental Group

Spodak Dental Group, a 2017 Inc. 5000 honoree, is a comprehensive dental destination providing all general and specialty services in one convenient, state-of-the-art, LEED Gold Certified facility. The team of General and Restorative Dentists, Endodontists, Periodontists, Prosthodontists, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and Anesthesiologists are uniquely equipped to treat all dental health needs. Spodak Dental Group is located at 3911 W. Atlantic Ave. Call/text (561) 303-2413 or visit https://www.spodakdental.com for more information.

About The Great American Beach Cleanup

The Great American Cleanup, a project of Keep America Beautiful, is coordinated in Palm Beach County by Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful Inc. and the Solid Waste Authority. The mission of Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful, Inc. (KPBCB) is to enhance the quality of life in Palm Beach County through programs and partnerships that encourage public agencies, private entities, resident, and visitors to reduce litter and waste, increase recycling, beautify, maintain, and sustain public spaces, and inspire generations of environmental stewards. Call (561) 686-6646 or visit https://keeppbcbeautiful.org for more information.

The Spodak Dental Group (SDG) is partnering with Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful to join forces for 10th Annual SDG Beach Cleanup and the Great American Beach Cleanup. The goal is to not only rid the beach of waste but to also create awareness about environmental impacts of single-use plastics and debris.

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

350 Bay Area Action Creating Climate Report Cards for California and Local Candidates

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Climate action group 350 Bay Area Action today announced climate report cards, to be issued for 2020 Bay Area candidates for the California Assembly and the state Senate. Local candidates in crucial city council and supervisorial races will also be rated. The group will endorse candidates rated as true climate champions in key regional legislative races, and selected candidates in local elections as well.

"Climate change is now the #1 priority for California voters, and climate impacts such as fires and drought are buffeting the state," said Judy Pope, co-lead of the 350 Bay Area Action Electoral Committee. "With our new climate report cards, we will make it easy for voters to act on climate, their #1 concern."

California is seen worldwide as a leader on climate change, ever since the passage of the Global Warming Solutions Act, Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), in 2006. The 2020 goal, a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, was met in 2016.

A subsequent bill, SB 32, updated California's climate targets - which, while ambitious, are not aggressive enough to meet science-based requirements. And many local governments, in California and elsewhere, have passed Climate Emergency resolutions. But the state is falling behind the 2030 goal, a 40% cut from those levels.

"We are seeing a rapid increase in awareness, especially among young people, that the climate crisis is happening right here and right now," said Laura Neish, Executive Director of 350 Bay Area Action. "Politicians have often resisted these concerns in favor of moneyed interests. So we're setting out to help get people elected who are listening to all of their constituents, especially the young. We want to elect people who will lead on urgently implementing solutions that will reduce climate- and health-harming emissions."

350 Bay Area Action is now reaching out to general election candidates and their campaigns with a questionnaire, seeking their positions on climate-related issues relevant to California. Current bills include SB 54, which bans single-use plastics, and AB 345, which establishes a buffer zone around schools, health clinics, and homes from oil and gas infrastructure. Local governments are being urged to pass Climate Emergency resolutions, to require the decarbonization of new buildings, and more.

In the coming weeks, questionnaire results will be tabulated, and answers will be publicized. The group will then rate candidates, issue candidate report cards, and announce endorsements.

"It will be a busy few months for the team," said Pope. "We are looking forward to issuing our report card ratings and endorsing candidates - especially for local races, where climate is often ignored as a campaign issue. We expect to help create a new generation of climate champions - across California, and beyond."

More information: https://350bayareaaction.org/

Media Contact:
Laura Neish, Executive Director
350 Bay Area Action
t: 510-473-5490
e: info@350bayareaaction.org

Climate action group 350 Bay Area Action today announced climate report cards, to be issued for 2020 Bay Area candidates for the California Assembly and the state Senate. Local candidates in crucial city council and supervisorial races will also be rated.

Related link: https://350bayareaaction.org/

The Earthshot Contest Is Unofficially Underway for One Contestant!

ALTA LOMA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Someone with autism has decided to put in their Earthshot entry early & he claims it is capable of restoring moisture to the atmosphere & counteracts global warming. This seems to be the first unofficial Earthshot entry & is being offered to the public as a gift. The conceptualizer, Zane Silverchild says the originating concept behind this gift to the world was to correct the earths dry regions by jump starting the atmosphere.

He believes that this is one of the building blocks that are desperately needed to solve the worlds drought problems. He also believes that this should not be used on its own.

Zane also says that this can really benefit our environment in a very short time frame within just a year or two depending on the region & can be used in conjunction with a green power source like a wind, solar or what seems to be quickly growing as the best choice of all in the opinion of many; a helium solar turbine array. One company based out of Los Angeles, California is already making this happen and a very well-known investor is also on board.

"Changes would still have to be made to everyone's lives in order to really make this work. It would be more like burning the candle at both ends otherwise. We still need to learn to reduce our carbon footprint & to maintain our efforts in the long run," says Zane Silverchild, conceptualizer of the atmospheric condenser array.

Helium is really such a great alternative to a system like this because it uses a gas that is not flammable & brings the risk of any explosion down drastically. Any compressed gas whether flammable or not is a still a risk due to its compressed state. The initial cost to charge the system is a little more but this should be seen as a good investment to most investors since it doesn't cost much more than a hydrogen based system & insurance rates would also be lower.

Zane wants everyone but especially the royal family to know that this really wasn't meant to upset any members of the royal family. He also says that he didn't want to wait because of the things that are already happening & the sooner we approach this problem with a working solution the sooner we can have a balanced environment.

You can find what Zane is calling his unofficial Earthshot entry on his YouTube channel by searching for his name on YouTube.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/rr8ChsXM-Xs

About Zane Silverchild:
Zane Silverchild is a theorist, inventor, and conceptualizer of ideas. Born in Los Angeles, California. Zane struggles with high functioning autism which is sometimes still known as Asperger's syndrome. Zane spends a lot of his time thinking about the future and its potential problems with the intention of coming up with a solution for anything within reach. Zane can be reached for comment through email.

Media Contact
Zane Silverchild
Inventor & Original Conceptualizer
mediarelations.zs@gmail.com
phone: 909-276-4834

Someone with autism has decided to put in their Earthshot entry early & he claims it is capable of restoring moisture to the atmosphere & counteracts global warming. This seems to be the first unofficial Earthshot entry & is being offered to the public as a gift. The conceptualizer, Zane Silverchild says the originating concept behind this gift to the world was to correct the earths dry regions by jump starting the atmosphere.

HWPL Finally Here to Beautify California

SAN JOSE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Jan 26, 2020 a non-profit volunteer organization called Heavenly Culture, World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) had joined forces with the city of San Jose to beautify the community and the parks of San Jose.

What kind of results can an international peace organization do for the community of San Jose? The results would be partnering up with the San Jose City to create volunteerism of 100 people to clean and beautify a local park that is known and loved dearly. All in a matter of a few days of planning prior to the event.

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light, colloquially referred to as HWPL, is a non-profit, non-governmental international peace organization. Although it was initially established in Seoul, South Korea, the peace group has branches located in over 200 countries, including one now established in the Northern California region.

As a group working alongside the United Nations to achieve global peace, HWPL collaborates with the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) as the organization's wings in accomplishing international tranquility. HWPL, within the last five years since the establishment of the organization, has found much success in achieving their goals toward peace and volunteerism. The HWPL volunteer programs are recognized as one of the most successful and active volunteer associations around the world.

With over 100 volunteers participating last Sunday, local neighbors, friends, and family filled bags of trash and debris to prevent pollution from washing into the creek and around the city park. With the help of the city providing supplies such as litter sticks, pairs of gloves, volunteer vests, and trash bags, HWPL volunteers were able to diligently give back to the community. Staff members gathered from 2:30 p.m. to collect the equipment and set up booths to distribute tools to pick up trash.

Participants started from 3 p.m. until sundown. Not only is the work of collecting the trash and debris beautifying the community, but it also helps with the anti-graffiti and anti-litter programs of San Jose in their mission to improve the health of the city's environment. This is done by preventing and removing trash throughout the neighborhood.

Arena Green Park, across the street from the San Jose Sharks stadium, is located in the heart of Downtown San Jose. Within the Silicon Valley, many residents struggle financially with the high cost of living beside the affluent, middle-class community. Despite the city's proactive approach to help the low-income and homeless citizens, some residents still face dire poverty.

"One of the biggest problems that the parks face are the trash produced by the homeless community. This is seen at Arena Green Park especially, where sports fans from all over the world visit," one HWPL volunteer stated. "It seems to be a never-ending problem."

With a goal of creating a cleaner and less-polluted environment for the people of San Jose, HWPL strives to collaborate with the city of San Jose to create a beautiful home for the residents of the city. Regardless of gender, race, religion, or political differences, the peace volunteer organization encompasses the human desire to volunteer and lend a helping hand.

Media Contact:
Jewoo Lee
sfhwpl@gmail.com

Anchor Links:
http://hwpl.kr/

https://www.facebook.com/hwpl.kr/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7zKCliSz18&feature=share

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/1zjxvkXdgdA

On Jan 26, 2020 a non-profit volunteer organization called Heavenly Culture, World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) had joined forces with the city of San Jose to beautify the community and the parks of San Jose.

Related link: http://hwpl.kr/

CONCRETE JUNGLE NO MORE – Catalyst Experiential to Bring Green Space Along Pennsauken, NJ Corridor

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ — The Township of Pennsauken, New Jersey, in public private partnership with Catalyst Experiential, will bring some much needed green space back to the heavily commercial Pennsauken corridor in the form of two Community Landmarks, a Clocktower on Route 38 and a Monument on Marlton Pike. More than 70% of the land along Route 38 and 70 is zoned commercial, and commercial land can be 85% “impervious” – meaning concrete and asphalt as opposed to landscaping and greenery.

In keeping with that zoning, the actual percentage of impervious surfaces on the commercial land is. . . 85%. Further, businesses maximize the amount of impervious surface for buildings, parking lots, sidewalks, and other things that enable their business to flourish or allow people to get to them.

Catalyst Experiential is working with Pennsauken to introduce nature along two parcels. The first, a Clocktower on Route 38, will replace a car stereo installation shop that occupies an unsightly 1960s single-story purple building. The site, which is almost entirely covered in concrete, will be demolished, and the property will be converted into a vibrant green space with an extensive water feature. The current cold, uninviting concrete building will be transformed into an enticing Clocktower constructed of living plants, an extensive water feature, township identification, and, of course, a clock.

The second is a Monument on Marlton Pike that will replace a closed rug store. It will include a pond as well as township identification.

Amanda Toton, VP of Development for Catalyst Experiential, noted, “The projects both uniquely identify Pennsauken Township, welcome visitors, and revitalize two underutilized parcels in the community.”

The structures each feature high quality digital displays that, in addition to advertising, will be used by the Township as a communication platform that enables quick information-sharing with local residents about community events and other important messages, free of charge.

“Both of these sites have been on our wish list to revitalize,” said, Betsy McBride, former Mayor and a member of the Pennsauken Township Committee. “We are very excited to not only revitalize them, but to transform them into much needed green space in our community.”

The structures fall in line with the Pennsauken Green Team initiative that consists of residents and municipal employees who have a strong interest in the environment and who work towards making Pennsauken Township more sustainable.

The Township participates in Community Visioning, by which residents envision the future they want through meaningful public participation. Stakeholders imagine where they would like the community to be in 10 or 20 years. This shared vision creates the basis for developing goals and completing actions that move the municipality toward a more ideal, sustainable community. This vision is moving towards more green space in the area, with the transformation of two underutilized concrete spaces.

Energy Optimizers, USA and E2 Host ‘Clean Energy at a Crossroads’ event in Ohio

DAYTON, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- Recently, Energy Optimizers, USA co-hosted the E2 "Clean Energy at a Crossroads" event in Dayton, Ohio. In true energy-optimized fashion, the event was held at a renovated former steam energy plant in downtown Dayton. Energy Optimizers, USA founder and E2 Midwest Chapter Director, Greg Smith and staff organized the event, along with E2 Midwest Advocate Micaela Preskill.

Amid a backdrop of controversial state bills, like Ohio House Bill 6 (HB 6), and various rollbacks of fuel and emissions standards and other such policies, E2 and Energy Optimizers, USA gathered business leaders and lawmakers together to discuss ways of moving with positive economic and environmental decisions and policies.

Ohio House Speaker Pro Tem Rep. Jim Butler, among others, participated in discussions with more than 50 local business owners and interested parties. Butler defended his stance on the clean energy rollbacks of HB 6, but was receptive to the concerns of executives.

He said hearing from individual business leaders painted the conversation in a new light, and he appreciated the role that E2 and Energy Optimizers, USA played in bringing both sides together.

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown shared the same views in this video he recorded for the event ( https://youtu.be/jWUEULr3KoQ ).

In addition to productive conversations between lawmakers and business owners, Energy Optimizers, USA founder Greg Smith announced that he will personally fund scholarships for 20 E2 Emerging Leaders members every year for the next five years. This major gift will help young, clean energy professionals become part of E2.

Smith said one of his passions is getting more young people involved in the fight for climate and clean energy.

"It's something I think is important and that I'm personally excited about it," he said.

See here to learn more about the E2 Emerging Leaders program and see here to apply for a E2 Emerging Leaders program scholarship.

Lean more about Energy Optimizers, USA at: https://energyoptusa.com/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/jWUEULr3KoQ

Recently, Energy Optimizers, USA co-hosted the E2 "Clean Energy at a Crossroads" event in Dayton, Ohio. In true energy-optimized fashion, the event was held at a renovated former steam energy plant in downtown Dayton. Energy Optimizers, USA founder and E2 Midwest Chapter Director, Greg Smith and staff organized the event, along with E2 Midwest Advocate Micaela Preskill.

Related link: https://energyoptusa.com/

Partnering Together to Preserve the Western Colorado Experience

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Four distinct Western Slope Land Trust organizations have formed an alliance to help preserve our western Colorado natural resources and open space. West Slope Conservation Partners is a new collective group, spanning the southwestern corner of Colorado that includes conservation efforts from the following organizations: Colorado West Land Trust, Crested Butte Land Trust, Montezuma Land Conservancy and La Plata Open Space Conservancy.

Combined with the support of great local communities, the West Slope Conservation Partners have been successful in conserving 193,238 acres of land in western Colorado.

The State of Colorado ranks #7 in population growth nationwide, gaining over 700,000 people over the last nine years. As a result of this continued growth, Western Slope areas are recognizing increasing pressures that threaten the land, agriculture, wildlife, and our quintessential lifestyle.

"We hope to address these profound challenges by working together to discover new opportunities and expand our public outreach efforts," said Rob Bleiberg, Colorado West Land Trust Executive Director. "It is our common goal to protect the lands where we live, work and play in western Colorado. Together we can preserve these priceless landscapes for future generations to enjoy."

The West Slope Conservation Partners just released its first collaborative report for the purpose of conservation and stewardship education. Together, these organizations have conserved 462 miles of rivers, creeks and streams, 75,971 agricultural acres, and 120,037 of elk habitat and migration corridors. These lands are now guaranteed sustainable for future use due to a total of 867 conservation easements and additional efforts from area municipalities and donors.

2019 West Slope Report: https://www.westslopeconservationpartners.org/report

To review the full report including area specific stories, recreational land preserved, stewardship efforts and upcoming projects, visit westslopeconservationpartners.org.

As a private, non-profit alliance, the West Slope Conservation Partners relies on public support. Visit https://www.westslopeconservationpartners.org/ to learn how you can help preserve our Western Slope experience.

Media Contact:
Bridgett Gutierrez
Ryan/Sawyer Marketing
Bridgett@ryansawyermarketing.com
970-257-4583

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1126s2p-west-slope-conservation-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: West Slope Conservation Partners.

Four distinct Western Slope Land Trust organizations have formed an alliance to help preserve our western Colorado natural resources and open space. West Slope Conservation Partners is a new collective group, spanning the southwestern corner of Colorado that includes conservation efforts from the following organizations: Colorado West Land Trust, Crested Butte Land Trust, Montezuma Land Conservancy and La Plata Open Space Conservancy.

RYPOS Expands Product Coverage to Refrigerated Container Transport

FRANKLIN, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- RYPOS, Inc., developer and manufacturer of advanced, exhaust filtration systems that reduce harmful emissions from diesel engines, have shipped their 600th clip-on generator set filter system to a large global integrated container shipment company. These retrofit exhaust filtration kits for diesel powered portable generator sets bring older engines into full California Air Resources Board emission compliance.

The filter systems, which are verified to the Level 3+ reduction standard by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), are now operational across a significant portion of the generator fleet.

The RYPOS Clip-On Active DPF is a filter that traps and burns soot reducing particulate matter emissions by more than 85 percent. Designed for ease of installation, this new product provides owners of model year 2015 and older generator units a low cost, compliant to end of equipment life option for making their gensets CARB compliant. Following an extensive field test program, the RYPOS Clip-On Active DPF was granted approval under Executive Order DE-11-008-01.

"This product is a natural extension our other product offering in the transport category space. The high quality of the product and the economic and operating benefits it provides the fleet operators of mid-life generator sets, make this product an attractive option when compared to costly unit replacement," said Peter Bransfield, RYPOS' CEO.

About RYPOS:

RYPOS (RYPOS.com) is a privately held Company with operations in Franklin, Massachusetts. They have designed and developed a number of leading-edge diesel exhaust filtration products for small and large engines that utilize their patented electrical regeneration strategy and technology.

RYPOS Contact: Trish Jacobs, 508-429-4552 or email tjacobs@rypos.com. RYPOS, Inc. ( http://www.rypos.com ) / 40 Kenwood Circle, Franklin, MA 02038.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1119s2p-RYPOS-intermodal-dpf-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: RYPOS Intermodal DPF.

RYPOS, Inc., developer and manufacturer of advanced, exhaust filtration systems that reduce harmful emissions from diesel engines, have shipped their 600th clip-on generator set filter system to a large global integrated container shipment company. These retrofit exhaust filtration kits for diesel powered portable generator sets bring older engines into full California Air Resources Board emission compliance.

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

Haibu partners with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs on ‘Zoohackathon’

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Haibu is an award-winning series of books, films, cartoons and video games that promotes wildlife conservation around the world. Haibu has partnered with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES) on Zoohackathon, a global competition to develop new and innovative technology tools to fight wildlife trafficking.

U.S. Embassies around the world host Zoohackathon events. Over 48 hours, university students, coders, scientists, and wildlife enthusiasts collaborate in teams at zoos, wildlife organizations, technology start-up facilities, and education centers to create software solutions for on-the-ground wildlife conservation problems.

For more information: http://www.zoohackathon.com/

The U.S. Department of State plays an important role in the fight against wildlife trafficking by strengthening global enforcement, reducing demand for illegal wildlife products, and expanding international commitments.

"We are pleased to partner with Haibu to explore new ways to combat wildlife trafficking and engage the next generation of wildlife conservationists," said Rowena Watson, Lead for the Combating Wildlife Trafficking team, OES Bureau, U.S. Department of State.

ABOUT HAIBU:
Haibu is an animated animal and conservation activist designed to entertain and educate the future generations while increasing global awareness. The vision for Haibu was sparked by Hollywood veteran creator Blake Freeman and he is thrilled to partner with OES on Zoohackathon to create awareness for this worthy cause.

"Our mission is to inspire children to be adventurous, help the cause of animals, and make the world a better place by living courageously and overcoming challenges. We teach kids the value of kindness and the importance animals play in the world," shared Freeman.

Learn more about Haibu at: https://haibu.love/
Instagram: @haibu_saves_animals

Twitter: @iamhaibu @SciDiplomacyUSA #Zoohackathon

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1030s2p-haibu-zoohackathon-300dpi.jpg

Haibu is an award-winning series of books, films, cartoons and video games that promotes wildlife conservation around the world. Haibu has partnered with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES) on Zoohackathon, a global competition to develop new and innovative technology tools to fight wildlife trafficking.

Related link: https://haibu.love/

Coastal restoration and education high priority topics at upcoming USGBC Louisiana’s FORWARD Symposium on Sustainability in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Friday, October 18, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Louisiana Chapter will host its fourth annual FORWARD Symposium on Sustainability at Tulane University's Lavin-Bernick Center, 29 McAlister Drive New Orleans from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This year's theme, Building a Stronger Louisiana by Nurturing the Next Generation of Sustainability Leaders, will bring green industry professionals from across the region together to discuss how to move the state towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

The one-day event will include the Women in Sustainability Empower (WISE) breakfast, the Green School Challenge workshop, educational sessions, the Sustainability Keynote luncheon and a Tulane LEED building tour. New this year is the GreenMatters series designed to showcase how environmentally conscious business leaders in the Crescent City are working to make festivals, dining, and tourism greener and safer.

The WISE breakfast keynote speaker is award winning architect, Ursula Emery McClure. McClure is a professor of architecture at Louisiana State University, founding partner at emerymcclure architecture, and senior project designer at architecture and design firm, Perkins & Will. In 2018, McClure was named on ArchDaily's list of 13 leading female architects from around the world. Her keynote topic is, A Career of Coastal Concern.

Justin Ehrenwerth, President and CEO of The Water Institute of the Gulf will be the event's keynote speaker during the Sustainability luncheon. After several years of service in key roles at organizations including the Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council, Chief of Staff to the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Assistant Counsel to the President where he took the lead on Deepwater Horizon litigation for the White House, Ehrenwerth continues his fight to help coastal and deltaic communities prepare for the future. His keynote address will focus on how the region can use nature-based solutions to protect critical industry infrastructure, promote community resilience, create environmental benefits and sequester carbon.

"FORWARD offers us the opportunity to inform and educate the community about coastal issues concerning Louisiana that will have a direct impact on our quality of life," said Monica Gonzalez, USGBC Louisiana's chairperson. "From climate change to new trends in sustainability innovation, we are fighting to ensure that our policymakers, business leaders, educators, and students are well-equipped to handle the environmental changes we are currently facing. We invite everyone to be a part of the event."

The WISE breakfast will kick-off at 7:30 a.m. with opening remarks by New Orleans Councilwoman District E, Cyndi Nguyen. Following the breakfast, the educational sessions will be from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Presenters include: Jeff Cantin, President, Solar Alternatives; Ann Vail, Director, Louisiana Clean Fuels; Blake Woodward, Senior Manager, ICF; Dana Eness, Executive Director, Urban Conservancy; Chuck Morse, Executive Director, Thrive New Orleans; Professor Rob Verchick, Gauthier-St. Martin Eminent Scholar and Chair in Environmental Law, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law; Kevin Singh, Professor of Architecture, Louisiana Tech University; Brendan O'Donnell, Fellow at the Ecologic Institute in DC & Berlin; Simone Feaster-Armour, Teacher of Gifted, Lycée Français de la Nouvelle-Orléans; and Camille Pollan, City of New Orleans, Office of Resilience and Sustainability, City Energy Advisor.

To view the agenda, go to the USGBC Louisiana website: https://usgbclouisiana.org/meetinginfo.php?id=2&ts=1565639860.

To attend the educational sessions, WISE breakfast and Sustainability luncheon, ticket prices are $110 for members and $145 for non-members. To attend the WISE breakfast only, the cost is $40, and the Sustainability luncheon only, the cost is $50. Students can register for the educational sessions for a special rate of $30.

To learn more about USGBC Louisiana and the FORWARD Symposium, visit https://www.usgbclouisiana.org/. For sponsorship opportunities email Michelle Jackson at events@prsolutionsllc.org.

Prior events provided professionals with the opportunity to earn American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Green Business Certification, Inc. (GBCI) continued education units (CEUs). CEUs are pending approval. Please visit the USGBC website to stay abreast of the approval status.

About USGBC Louisiana:

USGBC Louisiana is a chapter of the USGBC. The organization's mission is to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built, and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous Louisiana. The board executive committee members include: Monica Gonzalez, Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. (Chair), Dru Lamb, Herman Miller (Vice Chair), Richard Longman, WHLC, Architecture (Treasurer), Carrie Laurendine (Secretary), and Adrian D'Arcy, Shields Mott (Special Counsel).

Contact: Michelle Jackson
USGBC Louisiana Media Liaison
t. (678) 548-2461
e. events@prsolutionsllc.org

On Friday, October 18, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Louisiana Chapter will host its fourth annual FORWARD Symposium on Sustainability at Tulane University's Lavin-Bernick Center, 29 McAlister Drive New Orleans from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This year's theme, Building a Stronger Louisiana by Nurturing the Next Generation of Sustainability Leaders, will bring green industry professionals from across the region together to discuss how to move the state towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

Related link: https://usgbclouisiana.org/

Greenspot Partners with Empire Clean Cities on Shared Electric Vehicle Project for Low-Income Families in the South Bronx

SOUTH BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Greenspot has partnered with Empire Clean Cities, New York City's designated Clean Cities Coalition, to propose a research-driven integration of an advanced electric mobility platform in the South Bronx. The proposed project consists of a network of dual-port, zero-emission publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs (ADA-accessible) paired with publicly-shared EVs (PSEVs) whose use will be subsidized for the target community.

Through this program, Greenspot anticipates increasing passenger vehicle utilization (the percentage of the day that a vehicle is being driven, rather than sitting parked) from 5% to 40%, reducing the overall number of vehicles on South Bronx roads by as many as ten for every shared EV provided.

The proposed Advanced Vehicle Technology aims to provide the target community with publicly-shared electric vehicles, EV charging infrastructure, and trip-planning tools, while supporting relevant public agencies with networked, real-time data on EV charging and vehicle use; demonstrating the viability of advanced electric mobility technologies in communities of low-socioeconomic status (SES); optimizing transit grid efficiency and reducing road and parking congestion; and supporting first- and last-mile solutions that result in greater equity and transit accessibility. If successful, this project will serve as a case study for the viable execution of electric mobility technologies in low-SES communities, whom research shows have the most to gain from such solutions.

"This program is intended not only to develop sustainable transit infrastructure for the South Bronx, but also throughout the borough," said Michael Mazur, COO of Greenspot. "We're here to show that shared electric vehicles and charging infrastructure can be an equitable solution for the public as a whole, and not just tailored to those with a relatively high socioeconomic status."

Participating Organizations

Also participating on this project is The HOPE Program, home to the Sustainable South Bronx initiative (winner of the EPA's Environmental Quality Award). Working with low-income and at-risk communities throughout the community, The HOPE Program will guide the selection of ideal research and project participants, who will receive free or reduced-cost mobility solutions in exchange for participation in an ongoing research study that aims to identify the community- and city-level impacts of the proposed intervention.

The Bard Center for Environmental Policy is leading the project's research planning, literature review, and survey execution as part of the project's commitment to solution optimization for low-income communities. The POINT CDC will serve as an overall consultant and advisor for project activities, consistent with the organization's mission to support youth development and the cultural and economic revitalization of the Hunts Point section of the South Bronx.

"This project will provide important information about how shared mobility can support the transportation needs of low-income commuters," said Eban Goodstein, Director of Bard's Graduate Programs in Sustainability.

Equitable Access to Cleaner Transit Solutions

Over 160,000 Bronx residents are estimated to rely primarily on cars to get to and from workplaces on a weekly basis. Public transportation, on which New York City residents depend more than the five next most populous U.S. cities combined, is unreliable in the Bronx due to tightly-packed transit systems primarily designed to bring commuters through, rather than to or from, the borough. Seventy-two percent of Bronx residents rely on personally-owned vehicles to get to work or school on a daily basis, more than any other New York City borough, and with about half of these residents using both personally-owned vehicles and public transportation during daily transit. By eliminating the need for personally-owned vehicles, the Smart Mobility Program aims to lower the number of vehicles on public roads.

Asthma Reduction Goals

Lowering asthma rates, and providing increased access to healthcare services for young mothers and children living in the South Bronx, is a core concern for the proposed intervention. The asthma hospitalization rate in the Bronx is 700% higher than in the rest of New York State and 70% higher than in the rest of New York City. Bronx residents are at triple the risk of asthma-related death when compared with the national average, with an average child asthma rate of 20%. Residents' proximity to central highways in the Bronx (I-87, I-95, I-295, US-1) is a primary contributor to asthma rates, as is reduced access to medical care for low-income residents. Outdated infrastructure is considered partly responsible for the Bronx' healthcare disparities and risks, with nearly 40% of Bronx' housing units built in or before 1939.

Infants are particularly vulnerable to diesel exhaust and other prevalent environmental risks in the Bronx; teen birth rates in the Bronx continue to be 75% higher than in any other New York borough, with infant mortality rates at least 25% higher than in the rest of the city. Healthcare access for prospective mothers in the Bronx is essential, with Bronx mothers disproportionately likely to die during childbirth; compared with those of other boroughs, Bronx mothers have the highest rates of obesity, diabetes, and other key health risks that affect infant and material mortality.

About Greenspot

Founded in 2014, Greenspot has partnered with dozens of domestic and international leaders to revolutionize mobility by facilitating EV access and adoption and helping reduce the amount of cars owned per household by one. Recognized with a 2018 Governor's Environmental Excellence Award for its work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in New Jersey, Greenspot is a rising national leader in cleaner, safer, and smarter mobility. Greenspot's unique platform optimizes EV charging station use and is future-proofed to enable improved service value over time as EV ridership increases and available technologies advance.

Greenspot's Smart Mobility Program is estimated to have removed approximately 650 personally owned vehicles from public roads, driving a reduction in vehicle miles travelled (VMT) by an estimated 4.5 million and reducing carbon emissions by over 1,750 tons; SMP members have saved over $11M in costs associated with car ownership, maintenance, insurance, and fueling, while reducing gasoline usage by over 300,000 gallons. To learn more about Greenspot, visit http://joingreenspot.com/.

About Empire Clean Cities

Empire Clean Cities (ECC) brings comprehensive experience managing previous vehicle technology grants and PEV planning and implementation of grants from both the US DOE and other federal and state agencies. ECC has participated in numerous research-based grants funded by US DOE and NYSERDA, including a literature review, survey and data collection, fuel efficiency and savings calculations, case studies, and other related research activities. ECC works closely with both the National Labs and CUNY schools.

Next Steps

This project is currently seeking access to roadside parking spots in the South Bronx in high-population or high-traffic areas; to propose a project site for this program, please contact Daniel Kessler, Director of Grants for Greenspot, at the information provided below.

Contact:
Daniel Kessler
Director of Grants
O: (617) 645-0189
E: Daniel@joingreenspot.com

Greenspot has partnered with Empire Clean Cities, New York City's designated Clean Cities Coalition, to propose a research-driven integration of an advanced electric mobility platform in the South Bronx. The proposed project consists of a network of dual-port, zero-emission publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs (ADA-accessible) paired with publicly-shared EVs (PSEVs) whose use will be subsidized for the target community.

Related link: http://joingreenspot.com/

Spodak Dental Group Spends 43rd Anniversary At Their Ninth Annual Beach Cleanup Event

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Spodak Dental Group celebrated the company's 43rd Anniversary by giving back to their community and cleaning up the Delray's beach. The Ninth Annual SDG Beach Cleanup was held Sunday, June 2 at the Delray Beach South End, South Tower 5, and more than 60 pounds of trash was removed by more than 75 community members.

The amount of waste in the world's oceans is increasing at a rapid pace, with much of it cluttering the seabed and clogging up the stomachs of sea creatures. For ocean lovers, Spodak Dental Group's Annual Beach Cleanup event brings an opportunity to ensure Delray's waterways and oceans stand a fighting chance against increasing numbers of debris and waste.

"The beach cleanup is not only about cleaning the beach, but also about creating awareness in our community," said Dr. Craig Spodak, general dentist. "By partnering with other Earth-conscious local companies, we are able to increase our reach and make a great impact."

Spodak Dental Group partnered not only with the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, but also other local businesses including Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Delray Beach Water Sports, Caloosa Water Wear, Pizza Rustica, Delivery Dudes and Saltwater Brewery. Together the team was able to collect 120 cigarette butts, 50 bottle caps, 20 plastic bottles, 20 plastic straws and plastic utensils and two yards of fishing line/rope, among other items.

The statistics speak for themselves. More than 1 million plastic bags are used worldwide every minute, with estimates pointing toward 160 million metric tons ending up in the ocean by 2025. This is the ninth event that Spodak Dental Group has hosted and the team is dedicated to cleaning their local beach for many years to come.

About Spodak Dental:

Spodak Dental Group, a 2017 Inc. 5000 honoree, is a comprehensive dental destination providing all general and specialty services in one convenient, state-of-the-art, LEED Gold Certified facility. The team of General and Restorative Dentists, Endodontists, Periodontists, Prosthodontists, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and Anesthesiologists are uniquely equipped to treat all dental health needs. Spodak Dental Group is located at 3911 W. Atlantic Ave. Call (561) 498-0050 or visit https://www.SpodakDental.com/ for more information.

Spodak Dental Group celebrated the company's 43rd Anniversary by giving back to their community and cleaning up the Delray's beach. The Ninth Annual SDG Beach Cleanup was held Sunday, June 2 at the Delray Beach South End, South Tower 5, and more than 60 pounds of trash was removed by more than 75 community members.

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

Simplifile Joins the Arbor Day Foundation’s Time for Trees Initiative

PROVO, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents and counties, today announced that it is joining the Arbor Day Foundation for the launch of its Time for Trees(TM) initiative, a commitment to plant 100 million trees in forests and communities worldwide by 2022, alongside its partners. Simplifile has previously partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of Earth Month and has helped to plant 7,882 trees since 2014.

This year, Simplifile is sponsoring the planting of 2,289 trees with the Arbor Day Foundation. The trees will be planted in the Georgia Upper Altamaha Watershed, which the Arbor Day Foundation has identified as its greatest area of need. The Altamaha River watershed supports the largest concentration of rare species of any river in the state. More than 10 rare endangered plant and animal species are found in or along the river.

"We founded Simplifile Cares in 2015 because we wanted to be able to give back, not just to our community, but to worthy causes nationwide," said Simplifile President Paul Clifford. "Bringing together our employees, customers and communities to support the Arbor Day Foundation in its launch of the Time for Trees initiative is an honor, and we look forward to doing all we can to help drive awareness around trees as a scalable solution to the world's most critical environmental issues."

The Time for Trees initiative will leverage trees as a simple, powerful way to reverse the damage done by climate change and address the urgency of preserving the necessities of life - like clean air and water, healthy food and a livable climate - which are becoming increasingly compromised. This initiative is unique in that it will be powered by corporations, communities as well as individual citizens, showcasing the simplicity of tree planting - in one backyard or at scale. As part of this call to action, the Arbor Day Foundation is also inspiring 5 million tree planters to join in this initiative through existing partnerships and community programs.

"The Time for Trees initiative is an important step in protecting the necessities of life, but we can't do it alone. We're thrilled that partners like Simplifile are committed to coming together to drive change," said Dan Lambe, President of the Arbor Day Foundation.

To learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation's Time for Trees initiative or how to get involved, please visit https://timefortrees.org.

About Simplifile:

Simplifile, the nation's largest e-recording network, was founded in 2000 to connect settlement agents and county recorders via its e-recording service. Today Simplifile has broadened its services to include collaboration tools and post-closing visibility for mortgage lenders and settlement agents working together on real estate documents. Through Simplifile, users can securely record, share and track documents, data and fees with ease.

To learn more, visit https://simplifile.com/ or call 800.460.5657.

About Arbor Day Foundation:

Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation has grown to become the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees, with more than one million members, supporters, and valued partners. During the last 45 years, more than 300 million Arbor Day Foundation trees have been planted in neighborhoods, communities, cities and forests throughout the world. Our vision is to help others understand and use trees as a solution to many of the global issues we face today, including air quality, water quality, climate change, deforestation, poverty and hunger.

As one of the world's largest operating conservation foundations, the Arbor Day Foundation, through its members, partners and programs, educates and engages stakeholders and communities across the globe to involve themselves in its mission of planting, nurturing and celebrating trees.

More information is available at https://www.arborday.org/.

Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents and counties, today announced that it is joining the Arbor Day Foundation for the launch of its Time for Trees initiative, a commitment to plant 100 million trees in forests and communities worldwide by 2022.

Related link: https://simplifile.com/

Pennsylvania Goes ‘Live’ With EnergyCAP Energy Management Information Solution

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- EnergyCAP, Inc. (ECI) is pleased to announce that its EnergyCAP Enterprise software-based solution is now in full production use by The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (CoPA). CoPA will rely on EnergyCAP to track, audit, and analyze more than 10,000 Commonwealth utility accounts, with an annual utility spend in excess of $125 million.

ECI-via its Bill CAPture(SM) service-will enter invoices from more than 150 utility vendors into EnergyCAP, enabling the Commonwealth to more easily evaluate and reduce energy use for approximately 4,000 buildings. The project was rolled out in conjunction with the Penn State Facilities Engineering Institute (PSFEI) and will measure the Commonwealth's performance in reducing its overall energy consumption to meet Governor Tom Wolf's Executive Order 2019-01.

Commodities tracked within EnergyCAP include electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, steam, and fuel oil. EnergyCAP's Bill CAPture service processes each line item of the utility bills in PDF format, allowing for detailed audits, analysis, and reporting.

The EnergyCAP solution includes an interface to facilitate the transfer of data from EnergyCAP to the Energy Risk Management Application operated by PSFEI. PSFEI provides energy management and procurement services to CoPA, and their efforts will be aided by having direct, automated access to statewide energy across all agencies.

"For the first time in the Commonwealth, we will have an enterprise-wide system in place to track utility consumption and identify areas where we can reduce our usage to meet the governor's goal of reducing our consumption by 3 percent each year moving forward," said PA General Services Deputy Secretary for Property and Asset Management Julien Gaudion. "The EnergyCAP solution will also assist us in our efforts to measure the effectiveness of the more than $80 million investment we've made in energy conservation measures through the Guaranteed Energy Savings Act (GESA) program, which has realized more than $4.6 million in annual savings to date."

The comprehensive implementation project began in early 2018, and the first phase for electricity and natural gas accounts was completed in spring 2019. On-going annual user training sessions will be provided to state personnel at the departmental level as part of the comprehensive EnergyCAP solution.

About EnergyCAP:
Since 1982, EnergyCAP, Inc. has helped more than 10,000 energy managers in government, education, and commercial organizations drive value from their utility bills and energy data. Clients use our comprehensive EnergyCAP software-based solution to streamline utility bill processing and auditing, track energy and greenhouse gas data, process campus and tenant allocations, target reduction goals, benchmark facilities, submit to ENERGY STAR, measure and verify energy & cost savings, create budgets and forecasts, and much more.

For more information, visit: https://www.energycap.com/

Twitter and Facebook: @energycap

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/hAyzE4zS1Es

EnergyCAP, Inc. (ECI) is pleased to announce that its EnergyCAP Enterprise software-based solution is now in full production use by The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (CoPA). CoPA will rely on EnergyCAP to track, audit, and analyze more than 10,000 Commonwealth utility accounts, with an annual utility spend in excess of $125 million.

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

Wente Vineyards Announces 2019 Sustainability Report Card for Earth Day

LIVERMORE VALLEY, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In honor of today's Earth Day, Wente Vineyards is proud to share an updated series of green initiatives and programming, all of which reflect the winery's longstanding (136 years and counting!) and ongoing commitment to sustainable winegrowing.

As of 2019, Wente Vineyards, America's oldest, continuously operated family winery, is among only 2 percent of California wineries to have achieved the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing ("CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE") designation for both its vineyard and winery. Any winegrowing operation hoping to attain the CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE designation must meet a stringent set of criteria in order to preserve and protect their land, water, and air, but also demonstrate ethical leadership with how they treat their employees and local communities.

Wente Vineyards was one of 18 pilot wineries to achieve certification in 2010, and beginning with the 2017 vintage, the winery will include the official CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE logo on all packaging to help increase demand for sustainable wines.

The Wente family's sustainability philosophy dates back to 1883, but today's fifth generation winegrowers Karl & Niki Wente have recently upgraded the winery, vineyard and tasting rooms to meet (and exceed) their family's CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE-inspired goals.

A comprehensive list of recent additions to the sustainability 'menu' at Wente Vineyards can be found HERE: https://www.charlescomm.com/Big-News/wente-vineyards-announces-2019-sustainability-report-card.html - or summarized below:

WATER USE EFFICIENCY
* BlueMorph UV light system implemented
* All production facility water re-used for (minimal) irrigation
* On-property water treatment pond

SOIL & NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT
* 1/3 processed grape tonnage spread back into vineyards for soil management
* Cover crops recycled into self-renewing organic fertilizer for bio-diversity & pest control

ENERGY EFFICIENCY
* STARS Filtration Unit (Selective Tartrate Removal System), reduces energy load during winery's cold stabilization process
* Natural skylights & supplemental LED lights improve energy efficiency, replacing incandescent & halogen light fixtures

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
* In 2018, 77 percent of Wente Vineyards' consumables waste was diverted from landfill and recycled

BENEFICIAL PESTS & BIODIVERSITY
* Native beneficial grasses & 100 head of cattle provide grass management & soil fertilization
* Aero falconry, owl boxes, raptor perches & electronic squawk boxes for starling, gopher & ground squirrel management
* On-site weather stations use UC Davis-developed mildew pressure models to pinpoint exactly where to spray, if at all
* Natural oils (clove, black pepper and cinnamon) smother mildew & control pests

COMMUNITY
* Award-winning Make Time(tm) initiative strengthens Wente Vineyards' long-standing pledge of creating a culture of balance for its employees. Click here for a complete list of initiatives: https://www.charlescomm.com/Big-News/wente-vineyards-announces-2019-sustainability-report-card.html
* The Wente Foundation for Arts Education has raised over $5 million for local organizations to improve the quality of life for underserved local children.

About Wente Vineyards:

Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is the oldest continuously-operated, family-owned winery in the country, now owned and managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Wente family. The winery draws from certified sustainable Estate vineyards in the Livermore Valley, San Francisco Bay and Arroyo Seco, Monterey appellations to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines. Wente Vineyards is distributed in all 50 states and in over 70 countries worldwide.

In 2011, Wente Family Estates was named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast and a top 30 wine company by Wine Business Monthly. 2012 marked the 100th anniversary of the Wente family bringing Chardonnay cuttings to California from France. Today, the Wente clone of Chardonnay is the most widely planted in California.

Located just east of San Francisco in the historic Livermore Valley, Wente Vineyards is recognized as one of California's premier wine country destinations. In 2018, the winery took a leadership role in its longstanding mission to inspire employees and guests to make time for what really matters, as realized through Wente Vineyards' best practices, outstanding wines and wine country experiences. The property features wine tasting, world-class concerts, award-winning fine dining and championship golf. For more information, visit https://wentevineyards.com/.

For press inquiries and images, please contact Kimberly Noelle Charles or Rachel Chittick at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.

In honor of today's Earth Day 2019, Wente Vineyards is proud to share an updated series of green initiatives and programming, all of which reflect the winery's longstanding (136 years and counting!) and ongoing commitment to sustainable wine growing.

Related link: https://wentevineyards.com/

Nirmala Narine’s YA Historical Fantasy Novel with Diverse Characters, Lays the Foundation for a Whole New Crop of Environmentalists

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Vanadala Publishing (www.nirmalanarine.com), a division of NNGL, announces the publication of "Ellishiva Cinnamon and The Sixth Element" (ISBN: 978-0996207126, paperback), a novel of environmental stewardship, by best-selling author, social responsible entrepreneur, humanitarian and global lifestyle television host, Nirmala Narine.

"Ellishiva honors the lives of millennials and Gen Z of all backgrounds," says Narine, "bringing awareness to a catastrophic Earth they might one day inherit, through the lens of Mother Nature, humanized in the novel as the Va'Nature race."

New York City - 1600 CE - The island of Manhattan is a dense unpolluted jungle. Known only by the ancient Lenape name of Mannahatta, this lush and wild jungle holds an impossible secret hidden from human eyes.

A world where the Va'Natures, endangered and extinct animals, and fantastic beasts now have a voice and are elevated above their current status; alien species serve as analogies to human affairs and magically becomes a metaphor for responsible understanding and management of the Earth's resources and fragile eco-system.

"My new female superhero! Yummy plant-based recipes, unique martial arts, yoga - I can easily unearth Elli's magical world into mine," says Nectarios Rodriguez, age 13, New Paltz Middle School, N.Y.

AS WAR, GREED, POLLUTION AND DEVASTATION drag the natural world to the edge of massive extinction; the Va'Nature Supreme Being brings a child to life: Ellishiva Cinnamon. Deep in the colony of Mannahatta and under the tutelage of her guardian Rajah, twelve-year-old Ellishiva spends her days nurturing saplings for human sustenance and maladies. Relatable to any child today, Ellishiva must deal with her pain-in-the-butt brother Hektor, her clingy little sister Amber, and her well-meaning caretaker, Lady Malinia - the world's biggest nag.

But Ellishiva's protected ecosystem of endangered species shatters one day when the wrath of an ancient evil enters her world, ambushes her, and speaks a cryptic prophecy. Worst of all, no one will believe her story, not even her best friend, Samara. As the evil gains strength and threatens to destroy all she holds dear, Ellishiva must grapple with fear, trust and the dangerous task of discovering organic magic to sustain Earth's ecosystem-or stand by and watch everyone she loves, and the Earth itself, perish. Through it all, Ellishiva struggles with bullying, self-esteem, peer pressure and the knowledge that she was born of duty, not love.

"For centuries, our ancestors shared time-honored values across generations and kinship with their environment. Ellishiva is a cultural injection - inspiration for climate-change naysayers -enchanting botany and biology back-story - a role model to empower girls and helps to erode the crumbling tropes that science is for the opposite gender," says Narine.

About Author Nirmala Narine:

Nirmala scribbled her first words on mango trees, as well as the side of her unpainted childhood home in Guyana, South America. When Nirmala was ten years old, she and her family left her densely jungled village for another jungle: New York City. There, Nirmala traded mango trees for keyboards, and never looked back.

Nirmala has traveled to more than 167 countries, is a sought-after global trends expert, and is the founder of Nirmala Narine Global Living, revealing a mindful path to healthy eating habits, global foods, beauty secrets, and the environment. She is the author of multiple best-selling travel-memoir cookbooks, television host of Nirmala's Spice World, and the founder of Nirmala's Farmstead, a foundation dedicated to empowering sexually abused orphans and cultivating future generations of agricultural leaders.

"Ellishiva Cinnamon" is her debut novel series. For more information visit: http://www.ellishivacinnamon.com.

BOOK SUMMARY:
Title: "Ellishiva Cinnamon and The Sixth Element Author: Nirmala Narine"
Publisher: Vanadala Publishing (ISBN: 978-0996207126)
Available in paperback, hardcover and Epub, sold through Amazon, iTunes, Barnes & Noble and through https://www.nirmalanarine.com/.

Review copies and interviews arranged on request.

YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH1sl66KqjXvvu1jklBCgcQ

Twitter: @NirmalaNarine #EllishivaCinnamon #VaNatures #NirmalaNarine #GirlsInStem #PlantBased #1SpiceInfinitePossibilities

Vanadala Publishing, a division of NNGL, announces the publication of "Ellishiva Cinnamon and The Sixth Element" (ISBN: 978-0996207126, paperback), a novel of environmental stewardship, by best-selling author, social responsible entrepreneur, humanitarian and global lifestyle television host, Nirmala Narine.

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

Cornerstone Ranch Expansion Preserves Land and More than Doubles Space

PRINCETON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cornerstone Ranch started out 18 years ago with 24 acres in Princeton. A recent land acquisition of 31 acres in Rutland more than doubles the size of this woman-owned and operated business.

Susan Connell, Cornerstone's founder and owner, explains that not only was this land purchase a benefit to the ranch, but to the community as a whole. "The land is now preserved from future development. The scenic backdrop provides outdoor recreational activities for all ages. Trail rides, sleigh rides, riding lessons, pony rides, birthday parties and group outings are some of the many activities we host throughout the year," she says.

This expansion provides an increased ability to host more birthday party events, summer ice cream socials (each flavor is named after a horse on the ranch) and barbecues. There's a small animal yard for petting, horse-drawn wagon rides with a historical spin and accelerated "Learn to Ride" clinics for adult riders to improve and learn new skills.

There's even the "Wild Child Express Trolley" for kids to enjoy. The trolley was originally located at the University of New Hampshire and served as a concession stand outside of the college. It's an original from the Classic Trolley Company and today it serves as a place to get a cool ice cream on a hot day.

Connell is dedicated to educating people from all walks of life about the history and culture which makes people's love for horses so strong.

"I promote safe, humane equestrian activities by educating and engaging people in the sport of riding and driving horses in a safe, friendly and non-competitive atmosphere. Sharing the ranch with so many individuals and families traveling from far away and locally is very rewarding. Seeing joy on people's faces as they return from a trail ride, often on a horse we have rehabilitated, is truly a rewarding and heartwarming experience," Connell says.

For more information, visit: https://www.cornerstoneranch.org/.

Watch a video (YouTube): https://youtu.be/E-Uh8WYn-fA.

About Cornerstone Ranch:

This family-run business is opened year-round. Two of Connell's children, Julia and John, both work on the ranch in addition to many volunteers, some of whom have helped out for more than 10 years. Many of their horses have been turned in by people who could no longer care for them. Cornerstone devotes the time, patience and experience required to rehabilitate and retrain them.

Cornerstone Ranch started out 18 years ago with 24 acres in Princeton. A recent land acquisition of 31 acres in Rutland more than doubles the size of this woman-owned and operated business.

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

Timely World Event Comes to Atlanta, GA Organized by ALLATRA International Public Movement

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- "THE UNIVERSAL GRAIN. Game of Professionals. Society. The Last Chance" to be held on May 11, 2019 beginning at 10 a.m. ET, ALLATRA International announced today. This momentous event will be held at Georgia Aquarium, in the Oceans Ballroom in the city of Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

This is a Free Event. Attendance is by invitation only. Register here: https://allatra.tv/universalgrain/

"We are all people, and we all have one place of residence - the Earth, one nation - humanity, one value - life, thanks to which we can adequately realize ourselves and the meaning of our existence in a higher spiritual and moral aspect. Unification of People is the Key to Survival of Mankind!" -- Excerpt from the report "On the Problems and Consequences of Global Climate Change on Earth. Effective Ways to Solve These Problems."

Video Trailer "THE UNIVERSAL GRAIN" - https://youtu.be/M6DPiIqtPNs

This historic event will be attended by hundreds of thousands of people of diverse cultures, religions, and ethnic groups representing communities from around the world. People themselves are initiating this momentous event with the goal to raise vital questions that concern topics of peace, humanness, and empathy.

We will touch on the question as to why we have such world problems as wars, international conflicts, racial and religious discrimination, misinterpretation of information by mass media, consumer-oriented society, etc. This is a pivotal opportunity on such a significant scale for humanity to look into the eyes of each other and unite, not only in words, but in deeds.

People will gather in Atlanta as well as conference halls around the world and connect to the Atlanta event via live internet broadcast. Journalists and mass media representatives will also be present in many countries. We invite all people of goodwill to join us in Atlanta, USA or via live broadcast!

See registration link for a growing list of participating countries and locations. https://allatra.tv/universalgrain/

About ALLATRA:
ALLATRA International Public Movement is a format of interaction outside of politics and religion. This global Movement, already joined by millions of people from over 140 countries, is open to all people of good will regardless of their place of residence, nationality, social status, religion or political affiliation. The activities of this volunteer, all people's movement, are aimed at reviving spiritual and moral values in the world community and establishing a peaceful dialogue around cultural, social, spiritual and moral conditions of life within society.

This is a unique, peaceful global movement in which people, in their spare time, successfully implement an entirely new form of communication, an interaction which results in the unification of people around the world based on the principles of honesty, kindness, and justice.

Please visit https://allatra.org to learn more about ALLATRA International Public Movement and its activities

Twitter: @AllatRaMovement #allatraunites

Media Contact:
ALLATRA International Public Movement, USA,
Marina Ovtsynova
ALLATRA IPM participant,
Phone:770-317-4768
email: gp.universalgrain@allatra.tv

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/M6DPiIqtPNs

"THE UNIVERSAL GRAIN. Game of Professionals. Society. The Last Chance" to be held on May 11, 2019 beginning at 10 a.m. ET, ALLATRA International announced today. This momentous event will be held at Georgia Aquarium, in the Oceans Ballroom in the city of Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Related link: https://allatra.org

Mixed Media Art Exhibit Captivates Mojave National Preserve Visitors – ‘Earth Through Time’

KELSO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mojave National Preserve is presenting "Earth Through Time: Providence Mountains and the Mojave National Preserve," a solo, mixed media exhibition of paintings, etchings and installation art at the Desert Light Gallery, Kelso Visitors Center, by nationally celebrated National Park Service Artist in Residence, Britney Penouilh.

The Visitors Center is at 90942 Kelso Cima Rd, Kelso, CA 92309 and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Monday, March 29 - June 30, 2019.

Penouilh's work is a captivating series of visual monologues embracing the dynamism of a changing landscape as viewed through "geologic time." Based in Los Angeles, a trained geologist, an accomplished artist and a Magna Cum Laude graduate of New Orleans University, Britney's exhibit references 650 million years of transmutation in the Mojave's Providence Mountains. Her paintings feature environmental tropes that associate land changes with surface techniques that are additive and reductive.

"Her creative process is engaging and mimics the earth processes of deposition and erosion," notes Bob Killen, Mojave National Preserve Artist Foundation President. "As you traverse the gallery, each piece provides a compelling visual narrative that illustrates the history of the land and man's early and current intersection with Mojave geology."

Britney Penouilh invested a year exploring the backcountry of the Mojave National Preserves' Providence Mountains. "I developed the exhibit through exploration," she explains, "research with park service staff, and while hiking with my camera during golden hour, I journaled each day and concepts evolved into sketches. Over the term of my residency, I worked on translating how the Eastern California Shear Zone shaped the Mojave, and the Mojave shaped man (and woman)."

The diversity of the exhibit artwork exceeds the term, "Mixed Media." For example, the process of her paintings include selected pages from Michel Digonnet's book "Hiking the Mojave Desert" - she oiled, burned and collaged the pages on to wooden panels - paint and plaster are layered, applied and removed mimicking erosion of the land. Areas of her exhibit that would be appreciated only as complimentary texture are something more- it is the thing itself. Other visual monologues include strips of fabric that hang from wall-mounted hands and the ceiling, gracefully casting shadows as it draws from a space of sinister stalagmites and stalactites within the Mitchell Caverns.

Britney also created plaster hands, which gesture uplift of the land, while grated sheet metal in a hidden wall mount bisects impressionistic mountains, indicative of the intrusive bodies of hot granitic magma that once formed ore deposits of iron, gold, silver, and lead. It is these ore deposits that are responsible for producing the most profitable mines in Eastern California. Other sculptural works include a wall installation of naturally occurring minerals cast in polymer gypsum and a set of hands holding silicone cast bird feathers in a piece that signifies the Mojave people as a people of Dreams.

"Mixed Media is a challenging art discipline," says Gabe Thorburn, who Directs the Artists in Residence Selection program. "Britney's art achieves a cohesive resonance between each piece to create a whole experience," he says. "Visitors to the Desert Light Gallery and the Mojave will find themselves deeply engaged in this show because Britney's introspection and talented hands have created a deep appreciation for the Earth Through Time for all of us."

Event information: https://www.mojaveair.org/artist-in-residence/the-desert-light-gallery/

Learn more about the Mojave National Preserve Artist Foundation at: https://www.mojaveair.org/

Follow on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/mnpartistsfnd/

Mojave National Preserve is presenting "Earth Through Time: Providence Mountains and the Mojave National Preserve," a solo, mixed media exhibition of paintings, etchings and installation art at the Desert Light Gallery, Kelso Visitors Center, by nationally celebrated National Park Service Artist in Residence, Britney Penouilh.

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

Aquariums can play a crucial role in sustaining marine and freshwater species vulnerable to climate change

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Looking beyond the sharks and manta rays that catch the eye of visitors, researchers find great conservation potential in the wealth of fish and corals residing in the world's zoos and aquariums, says Species360 Conservation Science Alliance. A study published this week in Journal for Nature Conservation (April 2019) reports that aquariums hold 21 percent of the coral species that are Vulnerable to Climate Change (VCC), Evolutionary Distinct (EDGE), and assessed by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ (IUCN RL).

In the study, Species360 Conservation Science Alliance researchers, in collaboration with the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC), the Interdisciplinary Center for Population Dynamics at the University of Southern Denmark, Stellenbosch University, and the Zoological Society of London, evaluate conservation potential of 3,370 fish and coral species residing in 594 aquariums that share real-time data worldwide using the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS).

The full announcement is here: https://www.species360.org/serving-conservation/press-release-aquarium-conservation-2019/

Comments:

Dr. Dalia A. Conde research author, Director, Species360 Conservation Science Alliance, and Associate Professor, University of Southern Denmark:

"Our study shows an important representation of species diversity in institutions where managers and scientists are recording observations ranging from reproduction to environment. Access to real-time information about populations of vulnerable and evolutionary distinct species makes it possible to identify whether 'backup populations' exist that can help conservation efforts in situations such as the current coral reef crises."

Dr. Kira Mileham, Strategic Partnership Director, IUCN Species Survival Commission:

"Facing issues of such magnitude as changing climate, ocean acidification and over-fishing requires the conservation community to work together to strategically decide which efforts we must focus on and how to best save species. Experts within the zoo and aquarium community have vital roles to play in the success of these conservation efforts. This study shows the value in different sets of data combining to highlight where the greatest needs and opportunities lie for us to work together."

Wendy Foden, South African National Parks and Chair, IUCN Species Survival Commission's Climate Change Specialist Group:

"The dramatic declines in coral reefs globally are of grave concern. As the world grapples with how best to respond, the vital conservation roles of aquariums and zoos become increasingly clear. Building and maintaining such biodiversity 'safe-houses' provides a backup plan against increasingly extreme and unexpected events, as well as against the declines that growing threats like climate change and habitat loss bring. They also bring us fascinating glimpses into creatures' lives which we might never have in the wild."

Rita da Silva, Research Author and Fellow of Species360 Conservation Science Alliance and PhD student at the University of Southern Denmark:

"From this study we were able to identify that more than half of the coral species dying off the coast of Florida are in aquariums. These populations can provide critical knowledge and hope for re-introductions when the threats are controlled."

Brian Zimmerman, Chief Zoological Officer, Zoological Society of London:

"The ZIMS database enables the Zoological Society of London's two Zoos to directly contribute insight to conservation efforts across the globe. The data captured here allows the zoological community to more easily share information and to track and measure vast conservation efforts. The ZIMs database has played a key role in our conservation efforts of fresh water fish through international collaboration and communication."

About the Study:

The paper has been published in the Journal of Nature Conservation led by Dalia A. Conde, Director of the Species360 Conservation Science Alliance, member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission's (Thereafter IUCN-SSC) Conservation Planning Specialist Group and Rita da Silva, Research Fellow of Species360 Conservation Science Alliance and PhD Student, Both Dalia and Rita academic work is at the Department of Biology and the Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics (CPop) at the University of Southern Denmark. Authors include: Wendy Foden, Global Change Biology Group, Department of Botany and Zoology, University of Stellenbosch, South Africa, South African National Parks, and Chair of the IUCN-SSC Climate Change Specialist Group; Paul Pearce-Kelly, Senior Curator of Ectotherms, Zoological Society of London, and Member of IUCN-SSC Climate Change and Conservation Planning Specialist Group and; Meredith Knott, Product Owner, Aquatics and Husbandry at Species360, and Member of the IUCN-SSC Otter Specialist Group; and Brian Zimmerman, Chief Curator at Zoological Society of London (ZSL).

OPEN DATA from the study is available at Species360 Conservation Science Alliance, and the original paper is open access and can be downloaded here.

About Species360 and the Conservation Science Alliance:

Species360, a non-profit NGO and global leader in wildlife care and conservation, supports a growing membership of nearly 1,200 aquarium, zoo, university, research and government entities on 6 continents and in 96 countries. Working together, these institutions have built the world's largest database of wildlife knowledge, the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS).

The Species360 Conservation Science Alliance is a science-based consortium of progressive conservation leaders and researchers working together to advance species conservation outcomes globally. The Conservation Science Alliance operates under an agreement for cooperation among independent institutions to achieve the shared endangered wildlife conservation objective of 'using data in the fight to stop extinction.'

Learn more at: https://www.species360.org/

Conservation Science Alliance sponsors and partners include Copenhagen Zoo, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA, and Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

Looking beyond the sharks and manta rays that catch the eye of visitors, researchers find great conservation potential in the wealth of fish and corals residing in the world's zoos and aquariums, says Species360 Conservation Science Alliance. A study published this week in Journal for Nature Conservation reports that aquariums hold 21 percent of the coral species that are Vulnerable to Climate Change.

Related link: https://www.species360.org/

Black History Month: Climate Leadership Takes Root February 22-23, 2019

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Delivering the inaugural Black History Month welcome remarks, Bay Ecotarium and Smithsonian Affiliated Aquarium of the Bay President and CEO, George Jacob shared his vision for the $260 million Climate Literacy and Ocean Conservation Living Museum in the making in San Francisco.

Twin iridescent orbs inspired by fish scales, ohlone shell mounds and ocean geometry rise above rippling waves of the San Francisco anchored with a third parabolic cortex that serves as an artificial intelligence robotic pod fostering dynamic climate content.

"Set in three acres of 'zone green' this unique living science museum aims to immerse, move hearts and minds to precipitate continues action to transform lives and induce a lifestyle change towards symbiotic sustainability with nature," said Jacob, the visionary at the helm of this ambitious landmark world class project.

What makes this narrative unique is that it celebrates the indigenous perspectives of environmental stewardship by over 90 native American tribes include the ohlone, the chumash, the miwok, the yokutz et al, who have been stewards of the land for centuries.

With many cities including Oakland, Berkeley and San Francisco declaring Climate Emergencies, never has the momentum been greater to establish a climate and ocean conservation museum. Even as environmental justice and conversations seeking transcendence from marginalized to mainstream engagement, took center stage as author Carl Anthony shared through his powerful new book the need of the hour resonated with the hundreds of attendees who flocked the Aquarium of the Bay to celebrate.

"Our partnership and SANKOFA DAYS at The BAY establish our shared commitment to the principles that stand at the core of this movement for environmental justice and sustainability embodied in the words of Dr. King, 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly,'" says Executive Director of The NorCalMLK Foundation, Aaron Grizzell.

"In our griot tradition, we seek to construct a new narrative that will resound, and raise mindfulness and collective consciousness of our environmental legacy... a respect, care, and love for our mother Earth; as well as, awaken and ignite our youth to take up the banner for environmental justice and climate change action to secure the future for coming generations," says, Board Member Angelique Tompkins.

Bay.Org / Bay Ecotarium:
Our mission is enabling conversations on climate resilience and ocean conservation globally, while inspiring actionable change locally by protection and preservation of the San Francisco Bay and its ecosystems, from Sierra to the Sea(TM).

* Aquarium of the Bay
* Sea Lion Center
* The Bay Institute
* The Bay Academy
* Eco Center at Heron's Head Park
* The Bay Model Alliance

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

NorcalMLK Foundation:
The Northern California Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3), charitable organization dedicated to extending Dr. King's vision by fostering a new paradigm that unlocks the promise in every person through ongoing, targeted initiatives throughout the San Francisco bay area and the northern California region. NorcalMLK impacts thousands of lives annually through its three initiatives: Healthy Communities, Learning Communities and Celebrating Communities. Learn more at: https://norcalmlkfoundation.org/

The Links, Incorporated:
The Links, Incorporated is an international organization of over 12,000 professional women of color who are committed to purposeful service. Links members are role models, mentors, activists and volunteers dedicated to active service in our communities. Information: http://www.linksinc.org/

Twitter: @AquariumOTheBay @linksinc #NorcalMLK #ClimateLiteracy

Delivering the inaugural Black History Month welcome remarks, Bay Ecotarium and Smithsonian Affiliated Aquarium of the Bay President and CEO, George Jacob shared his vision for the $260 million Climate Literacy and Ocean Conservation Living Museum in the making in San Francisco.

Related link: https://bayecotarium.org/

AUCNET INC, JAPAN announces opening of US Sales and Operations Center as AUCNET DIGITAL PRODUCTS USA, LLC in Austin, Texas

AUSTIN, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Tokyo based AUCNET Inc (AUCNET) has announced that it has opened U.S. operations in Austin, Texas where it will maintain a new smart phone processing division to be known as AUCNET Digital Products USA, LLC (AUCNET DP USA). The company will provide Asset Recovery services and other contracted services to the U.S. Carrier, OEM, Insurance, Retail and Enterprise wireless space.

"We are very excited to announce the opening of our U.S. Sales and Operation Center to partner with our existing and future customers to provide direct services in the U.S. as well as the benefit of our Global enterprise capabilities," said Katsuhiko Ichii, Managing Executive Officer of AUCNET and CEO of AUCNET DP, USA.

AUCNET has tapped 2 respected industry veterans to lead the Sales and Operations efforts for AUCNET DP USA. Greg Roberts, will be COO. Roberts has worked in wireless reverse logistics, repair, asset recovery and recycling for 15+ years and has held leadership and executive roles at Touchstone Wireless, Brightpoint, USA, Ingram Micro Mobility and Worldwide Distributing. Most recently he was CEO of Greenstream, Intl. David Lundberg, will be Senior VP, Sales and Marketing.

Lundberg is a 30 year veteran in mobile and wireless having been one of the founders of ReCellular Inc, a partner in Touchstone Wireless LP and he has also held executive positions at Brightpoint USA and Greystone Data Technology. He was previously EVP, Business Development at Greenstream, Intl.

AUCNET's U.S. market presence allows them to leverage acquisition of devices and other digital communication products for their global world class auction platform.

"This, coupled with logistics and processing capabilities existing in Austin, will elevate AUCNET DP USA to a position of superior Asset Recovery Services in the U.S. market and abroad," said COO, Greg Roberts. "We afford our customers highest market values through expansive global marketing and auctioning of products on various e-commerce platforms."

The primary functions of the company including management of Finance, Operations, IT, HR and Quality/Engineering will all be based in the Austin, Texas location for AUCNET DP, USA. The company maintains R2 Certification status and ISO 14001 certification.

About AUCNET:
AUCNET INC. (3964.T) is a corporation publicly traded on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. AUCNET INC. provides information-based distribution services for B2B online auctions in several vertical markets globally. These markets include used cars, motorcycles, cut flowers, digital equipment, medical equipment, as well as brand items and used PCs. AUCNET INC. was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

Learn more: http://aucnetusa.com/

Tokyo based AUCNET Inc (AUCNET) has announced that it has opened U.S. operations in Austin, Texas where it will maintain a new smart phone processing division to be known as AUCNET Digital Products USA, LLC (AUCNET DP USA). The company will provide Asset Recovery services and other contracted services to the U.S. Carrier, OEM, Insurance, Retail and Enterprise wireless space.

Related link: http://aucnetusa.com/

Institute for Global Innovation announces Awards for Neural Network, AI, and VR apps for Sustainability

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- For four years, governments, private industry, and academia have striven to find effective solutions for the 17 Sustainable Development Goals as defined by the U.N. at the 2015 Plenary Session in New York. Now a new approach is being pioneered by the Institute for Global Innovation, a worldwide NGO which seeks to scour the globe for the most efficient technologies to solve these challenges, according to IGI Directors Soani Gunawan, Amy Chang, and John Toomey.

Starting this year, they will offer Awards to promising startups, institutions, and individuals who display innovative and creative thinking in eight areas: AI, Neural Networks, Virtual Reality, Smartphone apps, Swarm Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Mind Mapping, and Cloud Technology. The prize is not financial, but consists of connections, publicity, and advice.

"Traditional efforts towards insuring our Earth's survival emphasize governmental intervention," says Gunawan. "We want to find and extensively promote under-the-radar approaches that come from sources who sometimes lack the wherewithal to refine and publicize their work."

The Institute brings together tech firms, non-profits, academia, and individuals in the service of the greater good. It is an outgrowth of a partnership between Global Action 17, Friends Beyond Borders, and the World Mind Network, whose Board of Trustees includes six Nobel Laureates.

Unlike traditional award protocols, the Institute stays involved with the winners for as long as is feasible. They screen successful proposals through committees at Oxford, Stanford, Princeton, Berkeley, Yale, Harvard, and Cambridge, and where necessary assist participants in finding appropriate startup incubators, accelerators, and crowdfunding platforms. The overarching goal is to create an efficient worldwide apparatus for finding, developing, funding, and publicizing the best new technologies for attaining the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

Previous winners include students and staff at King's College, Cambridge, for developing Mind Maps devoted to evaluating the best Carbon Capture protocols, and TradeAID in Ghana, a Fair Trade Federation Cooperative which provides empowers local women who make and market traditional West African handicrafts.

About The Institute for Global Innovation:
The Institute for Global Innovation is an international NGO devoted to planetary survival. It is always interested in new partnerships with organizations which share its goals. Its members seek to inspire individuals and groups by promoting and improving upon the thousands of unheralded projects around the world which deserve support.

To find out more contact globalaction17@gmail.com, or visit http://instituteforglobalinnovation.net/

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Feb. 15, 2019 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- For four years, governments, private industry, and academia have striven to find effective solutions for the 17 Sustainable Development Goals as defined by the U.N. at the 2015 Plenary Session in New York. Now a new approach is being pioneered by the Institute for Global Innovation, a worldwide NGO which seeks to scour the globe for the most efficient technologies to solve these challenges, according to IGI Directors Soani Gunawan, Amy Chang, and John Toomey.

Related link: http://instituteforglobalinnovation.net/

Valentine’s Day Protest Outside NYC’s Brazilian Consulate!

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Nonprofit JaneUnChained News Network announced today that New York environmental activists will converge on Brazil's Consulate in Manhattan on Valentine's Day, Thursday, February 14! The group plans to march several blocks from the Brazilian Consulate to the United Nations to demand Brazil's new President be prevented from selling off the Amazon to the highest bidder!

This large group of demonstrators plans to do a mass die-in at the Consulate and, again, outside the UN! Dozens of protesters will fall to the ground simultaneously to symbolize the death and destruction that will occur if President Jair Bolsonaro is allowed to go through with his plan.

NYC protest location:
225 East 41st Street, New York, NY
Protest: 10am Eastern
Die in and March: 10:30am
Date: 14, February 2019
https://www.facebook.com/events/1182261351950422/

Similar demonstrations will be happening simultaneously in Los Angeles, Barcelona, Berlin, Paris, Buenos Aires and other major cities around the globe.

Our planet is in a climate crisis. We are facing ecological collapse and have entered a mass extinction. Brazil's new president intends to privatize the Amazon, allowing for skyrocketing animal agriculture, mining, and roads. This will result in major deforestation and threaten a region known as the lungs of the earth.

Reference: https://www.ecowatch.com/jair-bolsonaro-deforestation-amazon-indigenous-2625049379.html

The environmental and indigenous rights group Amazon Watch has described Bolsonaro's plan as reckless, saying it will bring untold destruction to the planet's largest rainforest and threatens the existence of indigenous peoples and diverse species who call the rainforest home.

Reference: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2018/dec/31/tribes-brazil-genocide-jair-bolsonaro

If these plans go forward, a vital carbon sink would be lost along with 20 percent of the global oxygen supply. Our demand is for the United Nations to intervene and call on Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro to abandon his plans to privatize the Amazon.

We insist that legislation is put in place to enforce a ban on new highways, land clearing, animal agriculture and mining in the Amazon.

Thousands have signed online petitions denouncing this outrageous plan:

https://www.change.org/p/united-nations-stop-bolsonaro-from-destroying-the-amazon

https://amazonwatch.org/take-action/pledge-solidarity-with-brazils-resistance

The Save Movement: http://thesavemovement.org/climate-save-movement/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/tFDH1ahX760

Nonprofit JaneUnChained News Network announced today that New York environmental activists will converge on Brazil's Consulate in Manhattan on Valentine's Day, Thursday, February 14! The group plans to march several blocks from the Brazilian Consulate to the United Nations to demand Brazil's new President be prevented from selling off the Amazon to the highest bidder.

Related link: https://janeunchained.com/

Clean PVC Certification Announced for PVC-Based Products

ANDOVER, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Clean PVC LLC, an environmental consulting organization, today announced the launch of its Clean PVC(R) Certification program. The program identifies flooring, wallcovering, upholstery, and other PVC-based products that have been found safe via REACH compliance for use in sustainable building projects. REACH is a regulation adopted to improve the protection of human health and the environment from risks posed by chemicals.

To become Clean PVC Certified, products must pass testing confirming they have less than 0.1 percent by product weight of any Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) authorized on the REACH Candidate List.

Clean PVC+(TM) Certified products contain bio-based plasticizers or no plasticizers and are also phthalate-free. Testing is performed by SGS, the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company.

A Clean PVC Certified or Clean PVC+ Certified label lets architects and designers quickly distinguish products containing the safest forms of PVC from those that may not. Flooring manufacturers such as Shannon-Teknoflor and Upofloor-Kahrs indicate that their Clean PVC-Certified products have been more readily specified than similar products.

Learn more about Clean PVC(R) Certification and its benefits at: http://cleanpvc.org/.

Clean PVC LLC of Andover, Massachusetts is a private, environmental consulting organization unaffiliated with any company, trade group or association. It assists manufacturers in certifying that their PVC-based products are safe for use in sustainable building projects.

Clean PVC LLC
68 Park Street
Andover, MA 01810
888-877-4413
cleanpvc.org

Clean PVC is a registered trademark in the U.S., Canada, and the European Union. Trademark pending in Japan, and China.

Clean PVC LLC, an environmental consulting organization, today announced the launch of its Clean PVC(R) Certification program. The program identifies flooring, wallcovering, upholstery, and other PVC-based products that have been found safe via REACH compliance for use in sustainable building projects. REACH is a regulation adopted to improve the protection of human health and the environment from risks posed by chemicals.

Related link: http://cleanpvc.org/

Investigation Launched into ‘Sustainability’ of Controversial Logging Plans

PETROLIA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Petrolia-based Lost Coast League (LCL) today announced that the growing controversy over Humboldt Redwood Co.'s (HRC's) plans to log virgin forests at Rainbow Ridge stepped up a notch when auditors for the highly regarded Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) announced they will be reviewing the "sustainable" certification associated with two of the company's key logging plans.

The announcement came late last week in response to a grievance letter filed July 31 by the Lost Coast League (LCL) and signed by some 100 concerned citizens, businesses, organizations and elected officials.

The letter follows decades of protests, intense local debate, and social media acrimony surrounding the potential destruction of some of California's last unprotected and unentered forest stands, located about 25 miles south of Eureka in the headwaters of the Mattole River.

LCL asserts that FSC's coveted "green" label applies only to lumber harvested from HRC's second-growth (cutover) forest stands-meaning that forest products derived from old, primary forests are ineligible for "sustainable" certification. HRC charges more for FSC-labeled "sustainably" sourced lumber in response to demand by eco-conscious consumers.

Robert J. Hrubes, lead investigator with SCS Global Services, FSC's auditing firm, responded to the letter by proposing a method to "ascertain conformity" to FSC standards. This method will involve a field review of the controversial logging plans on Sept. 11.
"May we assume that HRC will preserve the status quo for the operations in question until the investigation is completed?" asked LCL's Ellen Taylor in an email to Hrubes.
"That is a question that you should direct to HRC," Hrubes replied, adding that HRC "is free to take whatever actions they wish to take.
"While I cannot speak for HRC, I expect it is very highly unlikely that any site-disturbing forest management activities will take place in the 'Rainbow Ridge' area prior to the mid-September audit."

"In other words," said Taylor, "there is no guarantee whatsoever that HRC will not log the old trees while the investigation is taking place, thereby voiding the process of investigation."

Any suspension of the controversial logging plans while the SCS investigation takes place would come as welcome news to citizens groups opposed to the destruction of these unique ancient forests situated on steep unstable slopes, and the species that depend upon them.

In recent weeks HRC has escalated tensions by deploying a paramilitary-style security corporation, Lear Asset Management, that has threatened nonviolent protesters with tasers and attack dogs, sought to deprive protesters of sleep by playing loud music and shining bright lights at them at night, and tugging at the "lifelines" that keep them suspended in precarious tree-top perches near the ridge.

"Consumers embrace certified wood because they want to keep the old, original forests standing and preserve their public trust values of water, wildlife and fish," LCL's Michael Evenson said. "They believe certified wood comes from carefully managed second- and third-growth stands without the use of poisons.

"Should HRC cut this forest down before the inquiry is completed HRC will have abandoned any claim to sustainability and be destroying the evidence of a primeval intact ecosystem flourishing on their lands."

For the full text of the grievance letter click here - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BZ2_pTlZntpE-X1T9TCwbDbnuYBSb3zb/view.

About the Lost Coast League:
Founded in 1961 as the Mattole Action Committee, the Lost Coast League is a grassroots organization made up of working professionals pledged to protect the public trust resources of this unique area. Collectively we believe that conserving what is left of our old growth forests-and restoring the vast majority of lands that have already been damaged-is important not only for our local ecosystem, but for the global community as well.

The Lost Coast is home to a vast number of plant and animal species indigenous and only found in the Pacific Northwest. We work closely with board members and consultants from other local non-profit organizations to maintain wildlife values in this region.

Learn more about LCL at: https://www.lostcoastleague.org/

Twitter: @loastcoastleague #rainbowridge #TheLostCoast

The Petrolia-based Lost Coast League (LCL) today announced that the growing controversy over Humboldt Redwood Co.'s (HRC's) plans to log virgin forests at Rainbow Ridge stepped up a notch when auditors for the highly regarded Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) announced they will be reviewing the "sustainable" certification associated with two of the company's key logging plans.

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

Mattole Residents file Grievance over Certification of HRC Ancient Forest Logging

PETROLIA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Petrolia-based Lost Coast League (LCL) on Tuesday filed a formal grievance with SCS Global Services for certifying as sustainable a logging plan by Humboldt Redwood Co. (HRC) on untouched, primary forests in the Mattole River watershed on Rainbow Ridge.

SCS has contracted to review timber companies' practices for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification program. Firms awarded certification are allowed to brand their lumber as coming from sustainably managed lands. This can bring companies higher prices per unit at lumber yards and preferred market positions.

In the grievance letter the LCL contends that cutting those old forests is a violation of FSC standards, which restrict "sustainable" production to previously managed forests and prohibit the conversion of old, mature forests to plantations.

Secondly, the LCL letter cites FSC standards that require HRC to "use integrated pest management and silviculture systems which avoid, or aim at eliminating, the use of chemical pesticides," clearly limiting herbicide use to what LCL terms "extreme and exceptional circumstances."

To date, however, nearly 25 percent of HRC (and sister company Mendocino Redwood Co, or MRC) holdings have been chemically treated. LCL contends that the timber company is using herbicides well beyond the "extreme and exceptional threshold." (The HRC/MRC website notes 78,000 acres have been treated with herbicides. But more acres have been treated since the time of that assertion -- including some 163 acres of previously un-entered Douglas-fir/mixed hardwood stands at Rainbow Ridge in the Mattole watershed.)

According to LCL President Ellen E. Taylor, "Our efforts to resolve this issue directly with the company have been extensive and fully exhausted. For this reason we seek resolution through the dispute resolution process afforded under SCS and FSC policy."

The League's David Simpson added, "There is a wide community interest in seeing the health of the Mattole watershed restored. Since 1980 many resident landowners, together with state and federal agencies, have committed enormous private and public resources to moving the restoration process forward.

"Logging Rainbow Ridge's native forests cannot qualify as sustainable under any reasonable criteria, especially under FSC's published standards, and would only serve to set back the gains our community's restoration efforts have made."

Filing this letter sets into motion a formal grievance process. SCS has five business days to acknowledge the letter and 14 days to respond as to whether an investigation is warranted and what recourses are available for resolution.

In submitting the letter, LCL is joined by over 40 Mattole residents, as well as the Mattole Salmon Group, members of the Mattole Restoration Council, the Center for Biological Diversity, the Environmental Protection Information Center (EPIC), Ecological Rights Foundation, Institute for Sustainable Forestry, Forests Forever, Californians for Alternatives to Toxics, Julia Butterfly Hill, actor Peter Coyote and more than 50 additional concerned citizens.

About The Lost Coast League:

Founded in 1961 as the Mattole Action Committee, the Lost Coast League is a grassroots organization made up of working professionals pledged to protect the public trust resources of this unique area. Collectively we believe that conserving what is left of our old growth forests-and restoring the vast majority of lands that have already been damaged-is important not only for our local ecosystem, but for the global community as well.

The Lost Coast is home to a vast number of plant and animal species indigenous and only found in the Pacific Northwest. We work closely with board members and consultants from other local non-profit organizations to maintain wildlife values in this region.

Learn more about LCL at: https://www.lostcoastleague.org/.

The Petrolia-based Lost Coast League (LCL) on Tuesday filed a formal grievance with SCS Global Services for certifying as sustainable a logging plan by Humboldt Redwood Co. (HRC) on untouched, primary forests in the Mattole River watershed on Rainbow Ridge.

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

Two Arrested at Civil Disobedience Protest on Rainbow Ridge

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Forests Forever, a non-profit forest protection advocacy group, today announced that five employees of Lear Asset Management, a security contractor for Humboldt Redwood Co. (HRC), swept down on protesters camped near a logging road on Rainbow Ridge in the Mattole River watershed at about 5 a.m. yesterday (July 22).

With tasers drawn the guards forcibly restrained two non-resisting protesters who had refused a request to leave, placing them under citizens arrest and confiscating personal equipment including solar panels and a camera.

The guards contacted the Humboldt County Sheriff's Dept., which arrived on the scene about 8 a.m. and took custody of the arrestees, who were later booked and released with pending court dates. At this writing the road blockade remains in place.

At issue is about 1,100 acres of primary, or ancient, forest consisting of Douglas-fir and diverse hardwoods, as well as natural coastal prairies. The area is vital habitat for listed species including but not limited to the Pacific fisher, pine marten, Northern spotted owl, Northern Goshawk, Golden eagle, Coho salmon, Sonoma tree vole, and the rare fungus agarikon (Fomitopsis officinalis).

Logging of these forests along Rainbow Ridge could take place under two currently approved Timber Harvesting Plans. Opponents of the plans have raised objections about the validity of at least one of these plans, as well as calling into question the "green" certification accorded to HRC by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Not only is HRC logging virgin forest on its lands, but also is poisoning hardwoods through the use of a highly controversial practice known as "hack and squirt." Such practices should disqualify any timber company from FSC certification, critics say.

Rainbow Ridge is run by San Francisco's Sansome Partners, of which the Fisher family (best known for its GAP clothing) are major investors.

On the other side of the fight are citizens groups including the Lost Coast League (LCL), which has undertaken conservation projects in the area since the 1970s. LCL has sought from HRC to permanently protect Rainbow Ridge, outright purchase being one option, but thus far the company has refused.

Rainbow Ridge is bordered to the east by Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home of the Rockefeller Grove, at 9,000 acres the largest contiguous virgin redwood forest remaining in the world. To the west lies the King Range National Conservation Area.

Preservation of Rainbow Ridge would thus safeguard a corridor between the two neighboring areas, providing enormous conservation values in an age of species decline and global warming.

About Forests Forever:

Forests Forever was founded in 1989 during the historic campaign to save the Headwaters ancient redwood forest in Humboldt County, California.

For almost 30 years we have been rallying Calif. in defense of the state's 17 million acres of woodland ecosystems and watersheds. Forests Forever is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization. Our Federal Employer ID Number is 68-0201338. Our website is http://www.forestsforever.org.

Forests Forever, a non-profit forest protection advocacy group, today announced that five employees of Lear Asset Management, a security contractor for Humboldt Redwood Co. (HRC), swept down on protesters camped near a logging road on Rainbow Ridge in the Mattole River watershed at about 5 a.m. yesterday (July 22).

Related link: http://forestsforever.org/

Spodak Dental Group and Surfrider Foundation Partnered for the Eighth Annual Beach Cleanup Event

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Spodak Dental Group and the Surfrider Foundation Palm Beach Chapter partnered for the Eighth Annual SDG Beach Cleanup and cleaned more than 140 pounds of trash from Delray's beach. The event was held Sunday, June 24 at the Delray Beach South End, South Tower 5, and more than 55 community members joined forces to ensure a safe and clean beach.

The amount of waste in the world's oceans is increasing at a rapid pace, with much of it cluttering the seabed and clogging up the stomachs of sea creatures. For ocean lovers, Spodak Dental Group's Annual Beach Cleanup event brings an opportunity to ensure Delray's waterways and oceans stand a fighting chance against increasing numbers of debris and waste.

"The beach cleanup is all about awareness, and we're proud to be creating that in our community," said Dr. Craig Spodak, owner and general dentist. "There is so much opportunity to be an environmental steward in our community, and to encourage local businesses and community members to do so as well, and it's great because we all benefit from a clean beach."

Spodak Dental Group partnered not only with the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, but also other local businesses including Delray Beach Water Sports, Caloosa Water Wear, Pizza Rustica and Saltwater Brewery. Together the teams were able to collect cigarette butts, single-use plastic bags, paper and plastic cups, plastic cartons, and more.

The statistics speak for themselves. More than 1 million plastic bags are used worldwide every minute, with estimates pointing toward 160 million metric tons ending up in the ocean by 2025. This is the eighth event that Spodak Dental Group has hosted and the team is dedicated to cleaning their local beach for many years to come.

About Spodak Dental:

Spodak Dental Group is a comprehensive dental destination providing all general and specialty services in one convenient, state-of-the-art, LEED Gold Certified facility. The team of General and Restorative Dentists, Endodontists, Periodontists, Prosthodontists, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and Anesthesiologists are uniquely equipped to treat all dental health needs. Spodak Dental Group is located at 3911 W. Atlantic Ave.

Call (561) 498-0050 or visit https://www.SpodakDental.com/ for more information.

About Surfrider Foundation:

The Palm Beach County Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation is a grassroots, non-profit, environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network. Founded in 1997, the Palm Beach County Chapter is only one of 60 chapters located along the East, West, Gulf, Hawaiian and Puerto Rican coasts. The Palm Beach County Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation is located at P.O. Box 3607, Lantana, FL 33465. Email info@surfriderpbc.org or visit https://palmbeachcounty.surfrider.org/ for more information.

Spodak Dental Group and the Surfrider Foundation Palm Beach Chapter partnered for the Eighth Annual SDG Beach Cleanup and cleaned more than 140 pounds of trash from Delray's beach. The event was held Sunday, June 24 at the Delray Beach South End, South Tower 5, and more than 55 community members joined forces to ensure a safe and clean beach.

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

Simplifile Re-Teams with the Arbor Day Foundation to Honor Earth Month

PROVO, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents, and counties, today announced it once again partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to celebrate Arbor Day 2018 and April's Earth Month. This year, Simplifile planted 2,275 trees in the Mississippi River Valley, a location the Arbor Day Foundation has identified as the "area of greatest need," and donated $1 per tree planted to the Arbor Day Foundation.

2018 marks the third year Simplifile has partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation, planting a total of 5,575 trees in our nation's forests since 2014.

"Giving back is an intrinsic part of Simplifile's core values, which is why we founded Simplifile Cares in 2015," said Simplifile President Paul Clifford. "Being able to bring our employees together to support the Arbor Day Foundation and other worthy causes makes our other corporate efforts that much more worthwhile, and we're honored to once again contribute to the restoration of America's forests and landscapes."

"We are thankful for Simplifile's partnership and their tree planting efforts," said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Because of their commitment forests and the lives they impact have been changed for the better."

In addition to Simplifile, more than 300 corporations and communities joined the Arbor Day Foundation to commemorate this year's Arbor Day and Earth Month. April 27 marked the 146th observance of Arbor Day and capped off April's month-long Earth Month celebration of environmental education and conservation.

For more information or to get involved in next year's festivities, visit: https://www.celebratearborday.com/.

About the Arbor Day Foundation:

Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation has grown to become the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees, with more than one million members, supporters and valued partners. Since 1972, more than 300 million Arbor Day Foundation trees have been planted in neighborhoods, communities, cities and forests throughout the world. Our vision is to help others understand and use trees as a solution to many of the global issues we face today, including air quality, water quality, climate change, deforestation, poverty and hunger.

As one of the world's largest operating conservation foundations, the Arbor Day Foundation, through its members, partners and programs, educates and engages stakeholders and communities across the globe to involve themselves in its mission of planting, nurturing and celebrating trees.

About Simplifile:

Simplifile, the nation's largest e-recording network, was founded in 2000 to connect settlement agents and county recorders via its e-recording service. Today Simplifile has broadened its services to include collaboration tools and post-closing visibility for mortgage lenders and settlement agents working together on real estate documents. Through Simplifile, users can securely record, share, and track documents, data, and fees with ease.

To learn more, visit https://simplifile.com/ or call 800-460-5657.

Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents, and counties, today announced it once again partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to celebrate Arbor Day 2018 and April's Earth Month.

Related link: https://simplifile.com/