Justmeans's Press releaseshttp://www.justmeans.com/companies?ch=prJustmeans.comFri, 19 Mar 2010 08:24:25 GMThttp://www.justmeans.com en hourly 1 http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Jennifer-Klie-named-Director-of-Operations-for-BrownFlynn-and-BrownFlynn-Learning/4891.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:28:30 GMT BrownFlynn BrownFlynn http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Jennifer-Klie-named-Director-of-Operations-for-BrownFlynn-and-BrownFlynn-Learning/4891.html  CLEVELAND, OH - Eager to utilize her vast experience in operations and finance management, Jennifer Klie has joined BrownFlynn and its sustainability training and education division, BrownFlynn Learning, as the team's new director of operations. Jennifer is poised to help grow and develop the corporate responsibility and sustainability consulting firm--not only in this region but across the country. JENNIFER KLIE joins BrownFlynn with an extensive background in strategic and financial consult Read Full Press release ]]>   CLEVELAND, OH - Eager to utilize her vast experience in operations and finance management, Jennifer Klie has joined BrownFlynn and its sustainability training and education division, BrownFlynn Learning, as the team's new director of operations. Jennifer is poised to help grow and develop the corporate responsibility and sustainability consulting firm--not only in this region but across the country. JENNIFER KLIE joins BrownFlynn with an extensive background in strategic and financial consulting, having worked as a strategy consultant for Mitchell Madison Group before joining National City (now PNC) in 2001. For the next nine years, Jennifer served the financial institution as Senior Vice President and Director of Business Performance Improvement before being promoted to the role of Senior Vice President, Retail Deposits Product Management. Jennifer earned her B.A. in Mathematical Economics from Wesleyan University and her M.B.A. from the University of Chicago. She also has experience in Six Sigma and other performance improvement methodologies. Jennifer is married, has two young children and is treasurer of St. Paul's Cooperative Preschool. As Director of Operations, Jennifer's greatest responsibility will be to streamline the day-to-day business operations for the firm. "This continues to be a priority from BrownFlynn in order to take advantage of the growing market demand for sustainability reporting," explains Jennifer. "With increased pressure from the SEC and the federal government, many companies are realizing the value and necessity of sustainable business practices and non-financial reporting. BrownFlynn is well positioned to answer the call." ABOUT BROWNFLYNN AND BROWNFLYNN LEARNING BrownFlynn is a corporate responsibility and sustainability consulting firm headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio. We partner with clients to integrate environmentally and socially responsible practices into their business strategies and help them communicate those messages internally and externally, creating a cultural shift that results in bottom-line impact. Visit our website for service offerings, case studies and our sustainability resource center. In 2008, BrownFlynn was named the first U.S. certified trainer for the Global Reporting Initiative, the international "gold standard" for sustainability management and reporting. This resulted in the launch of BrownFlynn Learning--the Firm's corporate sustainability education and training division. BrownFlynn Learning teaches companies how to triple their bottom line--environmentally, socially and economically--through workshops, webinars, on-site training, conferences and a variety of other venues. Visit www.brownflynnlearning.com for more information. Links: ------ http://www.brownflynn.com/ http://www.brownflynnlearning.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/AMD-Foundation-to-Sponsor-Game-Design-Workshop-at-2010-Games-for-Change-Festival/4890.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:53:41 GMT Advanced Micro Devices Advanced Micro Devices http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/AMD-Foundation-to-Sponsor-Game-Design-Workshop-at-2010-Games-for-Change-Festival/4890.html  CONTACT: MELANIE TERBEEK BITE COMMUNICATIONS 415.365.0402 MELANIE.TERBEEK@BITECOMMUNICATIONS.COM AMD FOUNDATION TO SPONSOR GAME DESIGN WORKSHOP AT 2010 GAMES FOR CHANGE FESTIVAL _- 2010 MARKS FOUNDATION'S THIRD YEAR IN A ROW TO SPONSOR G4C PROGRAMS - _ SUNNYVALE, CALIF. -- MARCH 18, 2010 --AMD (NYSE: AMD ) today announced the AMD Foundation , in support of AMD Changing the Game , has awarded a $100,000 grant to Games for Change . The funds will be used to sponsor a day-long game Read Full Press release ]]>   CONTACT: MELANIE TERBEEK BITE COMMUNICATIONS 415.365.0402 MELANIE.TERBEEK@BITECOMMUNICATIONS.COM AMD FOUNDATION TO SPONSOR GAME DESIGN WORKSHOP AT 2010 GAMES FOR CHANGE FESTIVAL _- 2010 MARKS FOUNDATION'S THIRD YEAR IN A ROW TO SPONSOR G4C PROGRAMS - _ SUNNYVALE, CALIF. -- MARCH 18, 2010 --AMD (NYSE: AMD ) today announced the AMD Foundation , in support of AMD Changing the Game , has awarded a $100,000 grant to Games for Change . The funds will be used to sponsor a day-long game design workshop for educators at the upcoming 7th annual Games for Change Festival . Games for Change (G4C) is a non-profit that promotes the extraordinary power of video games to address contemporary social issues, including poverty, education and climate change. As part of G4C's signature event, the Games for Change Festival, AMD will sponsor a day-long workshop to help middle and high school teachers, non-profit leaders, and others develop social issue game design programs for their school curriculums or after-school programs. The workshop will be held on May 24, 2010, at Parsons The New School For Design in New York City, and is designed to accommodate up to 150 participants. The sponsorship supports AMD's signature education initiative, AMD Changing the Game, which is designed to promote social issue game development as a tool to inspire teens to learn, improve their science, technology, education and math (STEM) skills, and become more attuned to global social issues. "Our nation's teachers are the most powerful resource we have to advance digital game creation as a learning tool for teens, and this workshop is geared specifically for those influential educators," said Allyson Peerman, President, AMD Foundation. "AMD and Games for Change share a belief that through digital gaming and game development, we can help create an entire new generation of creative, critical and civic-minded thinkers, with a particular emphasis on enhancing important science, technology, engineering and math skills." "Each year, social issue games gain more prominence and visibility within the gaming and educational communities, as those communities increasingly recognize the potential of games to engage youth in meaningful ways on pressing global issues," said Alex Quinn, Executive Director, Games for Change. "This workshop can have a valuable and lasting impact in this space by putting educational technology tools in the hands of a broad network of leaders who serve so many of these young people." The workshop will inspire and help educators by providing them with information on the software tools available for game design and will showcase past and present youth game development programs. The workshop will also feature presentations by youth game design experts and thought leaders. Workshop participants will receive discounted registration to the remainder of the Games for Change festival which will also feature a panel dedicated to the workshop's subject matter. More information on the workshop can be found here . AMD CHANGING THE GAME AMD Changing the Game is designed to take gaming beyond entertainment and inspire youth to learn critical education and life skills by equipping them to create digital games with social content. The program's purpose is to promote the use of youth game development as a tool to inspire learning and improve science, technology, education and math (STEM) skills. The initiative is rooted in AMD's commitment to and experience in supporting education, and the company's passion and expertise in the graphics processor and gaming industries. Since its launch in June 2008, AMD Changing the Game has: Funded 14 organizations that enable youth game development Provided a grant to help fund the new video game design category for the 2010 and 2010 Scholastic Art color: #333333;">Funded the development of a youth game development curriculum with PETLab and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). Earlier this year, BGCA chapters in Larimer County, Colorado and Marlborough, Massachusetts kicked off new "Game Tech" programs that teach club members how to understand game design and create their own games. Co-sponsored the Malaysian Cybergames Festival 2010, including the "Dare to Create" digital game design and development workshop Co-sponsored the 2008 and 2009 Games for Change Festival Funded an online toolkit to help nonprofits create games on social issues Sponsored a video contest with the Learning Games Network that explored the intersection of education and gaming ABOUT THE AMD FOUNDATION The AMD Foundation connects and empowers individuals with knowledge, thereby opening doors to opportunity. The Foundation's signature program, AMD Changing the Game, supports initiatives designed to help youth harness the power of digital games with social content, while learning critical Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) skills and life skills. The Foundation also funds the AMD Employee Giving Program which supports AMD employees' community interests by matching their personal donations of time and money to local organizations and schools. SUPPORTING RESOURCES AMD Changing the Game fan page on Facebook AMD Changing the Game video ABOUT AMD _ _ADVANCED MICRO DEVICES (NYSE: AMD) IS AN INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY COMPANY DEDICATED TO COLLABORATING WITH CUSTOMERS AND TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS TO IGNITE THE NEXT GENERATION OF COMPUTING AND GRAPHICS SOLUTIONS AT WORK, HOME AND PLAY. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT HTTP://WWW.AMD.COM AMD, THE AMD ARROW LOGO, AND COMBINATIONS THEREOF ARE TRADEMARKS OF ADVANCED MICRO DEVICES, INC. OTHER NAMES ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND MAY BE TRADEMARKS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. Links: ------ http://www.amd.com/us-en/Corporate/InvestorRelations/0,,51_306,00.html http://www.amd.com/us-en/0,,3715_14217_15653,00.html http://www.amd.com/us-en/0,,3715_14217_15653_15654,00.html http://www.gamesforchange.org/ http://www.gamesforchange.org/fest2010 http://www.gamesforchange.org/f-program-2010#edu http://www.facebook.com/pages/AMD-Changing-the-Game/140367960938?ref=search&sid=1442517351.1984453407..1 http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=309075789699 http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.AMD.COM/US/PAGES/AMDHOMEPAGE.ASPX ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/KRAFT-FOODS-TO-REPLACE-U-S--SALES-FLEET-WITH-NEW-FORD-FUSIONS--WILL-HELP-REDUCE-FUEL-USE--CO2/4889.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:53:33 GMT Ford Ford http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/KRAFT-FOODS-TO-REPLACE-U-S--SALES-FLEET-WITH-NEW-FORD-FUSIONS--WILL-HELP-REDUCE-FUEL-USE--CO2/4889.html  Kraft Foods, the world's second-largest food company, takes delivery of 2,500 2010 Ford Fusions for its national sales staff Kraft Foods cites total cost of ownership, including fuel economy benefits, as the driving force in replacing U.S. sales fleet with new Ford vehicles Ford's fleet share through December 2009 was 24.8 percent - a 1.9-point increase over the same period in 2008 - and the company's share of commercial and government fleets was the highest of any vehicle manufacturer Dea Read Full Press release ]]>   Kraft Foods, the world's second-largest food company, takes delivery of 2,500 2010 Ford Fusions for its national sales staff Kraft Foods cites total cost of ownership, including fuel economy benefits, as the driving force in replacing U.S. sales fleet with new Ford vehicles Ford's fleet share through December 2009 was 24.8 percent - a 1.9-point increase over the same period in 2008 - and the company's share of commercial and government fleets was the highest of any vehicle manufacturer Dearborn, Mich., March 11, 2010 - For Kraft Foods - the world's second-largest food company - the 2010 Ford Fusion has proven to be an ideal solution in helping to reduce fuel use and C02 emissions for 2,500 members of the company's national sales staff. Kraft Foods has worked with Ford to meet its sales fleet vehicle needs for more than 25 years. After conducting a thorough lifecycle cost analysis of dozens of vehicles from various manufacturers, the company decided on the Fusion for its U.S. sales fleet. "Transportation and Distribution is one of six sustainability focus areas at Kraft Foods," said John Dmochowsky, sales fleet manager, Kraft Foods. "The company has realized substantial fuel and cost savings over the last several years by switching from six- to four-cylinder engines." Dmochowsky says one of the goals with its sales fleet program is to reduce fuel use and C02 emissions. Over the past two years, Kraft Food's U.S. sales fleet has reduced its C02 emissions by 6.5 percent. "It comes down to total cost of ownership and the right vehicle for the job, and we hit both elements with the Ford Fusion," he said. "In addition to being fuel efficient, the Fusion has a comfortable, spacious interior and an attractive design. It's a good reflection on Kraft Foods." That careful attention to all aspects of a fleet vehicle is drawing more companies like Kraft Foods to Ford, according to Ford Sales Analyst George Pipas. "Fleet customers are giving Ford more consideration because they're watching their costs carefully, and they know that our residual values, fuel economy and quality have improved significantly," said Pipas. "The projected resale value of Ford vehicles from the 2009 to 2010 model year increased by more than $1,300 per vehicle - that's more than any other full-line manufacturer." For Ford, the strength and breadth of the company's current product lineup is growing its share of the national fleet market. Ford's fleet share through December 2009 was 24.8 percent - a 1.9-point increase over the same period in 2008 - and the company's share of commercial and government fleets was the highest of any vehicle manufacturer, with F-Series trucks, E-Series vans, Focus, Fusion and Escape as top sellers. # # # About Ford Motor Company _Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com ._ Links: ------ http://www.ford.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Investor-Guidance-on-Climate-Change/4888.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:47:58 GMT Verisae Verisae http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Investor-Guidance-on-Climate-Change/4888.html  By Lara Greden, Environmental Product Strategist CONSISTENCY IN REPORTING TO INVESTORS DRIVES SECS INTERPRETIVE GUIDANCE ON CLIMATE CHANGE With the SEC's newly issued interpretive guidance on climate change, managers are reminded yet again of the pressing need to harmonize reporting across stakeholder groups: financial, environmental compliance, customers, and the public. As a law enforcement agency, the SEC's Commissioner, Elisse Walter, stated that the interpretive guidance does not alter Read Full Press release ]]>   By Lara Greden, Environmental Product Strategist CONSISTENCY IN REPORTING TO INVESTORS DRIVES SECS INTERPRETIVE GUIDANCE ON CLIMATE CHANGE With the SEC's newly issued interpretive guidance on climate change, managers are reminded yet again of the pressing need to harmonize reporting across stakeholder groups: financial, environmental compliance, customers, and the public. As a law enforcement agency, the SEC's Commissioner, Elisse Walter, stated that the interpretive guidance does not alter or add any new legal requirements. Rather, it sets a standard framework for companies to disclose information in the interest of shareholders. The guidance outlines consideration in the areas of existing regulations, pending regulations, business risks or opportunities, and physical impacts of climate change. Previous examples of the SEC issuing interpretive guidance on disclosures include Y2K and preliminary merger negotiations. Disclosure of management's analysis from a financial perspective is at the heart of the SECs guidance on climate change. The SEC noted that one driver for issuing this guidance is the myriad of places that companies currently include reports to the public for their environmental and carbon impacts. Corporate sustainability reports, reporting to the EPA and state environmental agencies and voluntary initiatives such as the EPA Climate Leaders program and Climate Disclosure Project are several of the places that companies release information and statements. Companies include data on carbon footprints, analysis of carbon taxes, and positioning in carbon cap and trade schemes. They also include success stories on projects that achieved notable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, often focusing on replacing equipment with energy efficient models or implementing control and monitoring systems in buildings. TO THE PEOPLE WORKING TO ANALYZE A COMPANY'S POSITION, ACHIEVE REDUCTIONS, AND REPORT ON STATUS, THE MULTIPLICITY OF REPORTING AUTHORITIES MAKES CONSISTENCY A REAL CHALLENGE FOR DRIVING THE BOTTOM-LINE. While there is not a one-size-fits-all approach for analysis of climate related impacts to a business, the common implication for all businesses is gathering the necessary inputs to support analysis. This includes information on the regulatory environment and trends in the marketplace. It also includes data from business operations, including electricity and natural gas consumption of buildings, other building energy use, fuel usage by vehicle fleets, fugitive emissions from refrigerants, and employee travel. Looking into their supply chains, companies such as Walmart are collecting data on sourcing of raw materials, manufacturing processes, transportation, and packaging. Those inputs are assessed using carbon footprint calculation protocols such as the General Reporting Initiative which provide standard tables of emissions factors and guidance on allocation of emissions to jointly owned or operated ventures. Benchmarking against others in the industry or other facilities within an organization, such as looking at the top ten performers of distributed facilities, helps companies prioritize investments in recommissioning and retrofits. The analysis and data gathering functions cross departments: accounting, finance, energy, maintenance, procurement and EH">Energy companies such as PPL have been among the first to report on climate risks to the SEC. The message of significance within the SEC's decision to issue guidance on disclosure is that climate change and carbon are to be analyzed with respect to the bottom line. Finding the projects with the highest ROI or the best market opportunities to exploit with respect to carbon reduction is the common element managers across departments will work towards as they cooperate in carbon analysis and reporting requirements. CLICK TO WATCH SUSTAINABILITY RESOURCE PLANNING (SRP) OVERVIEW Verisae delivers a broad range of sustainability solutions to over 40 global clients with a service network of over 7,500 third-party providers consisting of 60,000 application users. Our integrated sustainability platform actively tracks over 2.1 million assets across 23,000 sites. We help measure, manage, and monetize energy costs and carbon emissions. We prove a rapid return on investment (ROI) for sustainability. Links: ------ http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.VERISAE.BIZ/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Carbon-Emissions-Management/4887.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:46:40 GMT Verisae Verisae http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Carbon-Emissions-Management/4887.html  CARBON EMISSIONS MANAGEMENT IN THE CARBON AGE We are entering what has been termed by some to be the "carbon age." This is determined by a growing revelation and an awareness of the need to become sustainable in everything that we do, both individually and collectively. For organizations, this means the creation of a whole new line of thought, dedicated to the impact that carbon can and will have on the business operations as carbon emissions management becomes more commonplace. The traditio Read Full Press release ]]>   CARBON EMISSIONS MANAGEMENT IN THE CARBON AGE We are entering what has been termed by some to be the "carbon age." This is determined by a growing revelation and an awareness of the need to become sustainable in everything that we do, both individually and collectively. For organizations, this means the creation of a whole new line of thought, dedicated to the impact that carbon can and will have on the business operations as carbon emissions management becomes more commonplace. The traditional measurements deployed and maintained through IT systems and asset management programs will be clearly insufficient in the new carbon age. Carbon emissions management will be required and for many organizations this is a completely new philosophy. The performance of corporate assets has rarely been measured in terms of the real energy that they use, rather in terms of efficiency in relation to the cost of the purchased energy itself. CARBON EMISSIONS MANAGEMENT REQUIRES AN ASSET OWNER TO CALCULATE THE ASSOCIATED GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS CREATED AS A CONSEQUENCE OF THE ASSETS BEING USED. AT THIS POINT IN TIME, CARBON MAY ITSELF NOT HAVE A DIRECT AND TANGIBLE COST, BUT WE ARE SEEING A TREND TOWARD THIS OUTCOME IN MANY AREAS OF THE DEVELOPED WORLD. When a "cap and trade" scheme is initiated to try and contain greenhouse gas emissions, carbon emissions management becomes a critical component of the business structure. In this case, an organization is judged according to the amount of energy that is recorded against it and by simple calculation a volume of carbon emissions associated is revealed. An overall nationwide cap on the amount of carbon emissions that can be emitted means that suddenly, carbon has itself become a tradable commodity. When carbon has a value on the balance sheet, suddenly the organization must obtain a means for gauging the ultimate efficiency of each of its assets. This is the only way that carbon emissions management can be initiated and can provide the figures necessary to enable an organization to improve. Carbon emissions management will work from a calculated baseline and will help to ensure that the company is now much more highly efficient in the use of energy. CARBON EMISSIONS MANAGEMENT REQUIRE ADDITIONAL BUSINESS TOOLS Carbon emissions management should be a welcome additional business tool for the corporate executive. At the very least, it will help to pinpoint inefficiencies in asset use and consequent energy consumption and as energy is always one of the largest costs of any business, operating costs will be driven down. It goes without saying that the first rule for the business executive is to educate. Before carbon emissions management can be put into play, a baseline situation must be revealed. Be aware that in the United Kingdom a trading scheme is in the process of introduction and in the years ahead organizations in that country will be forced to trade for the right to emit carbon as a consequence of doing business. Many imagine that this kind of trading scheme will be introduced by other principal governments around the world. CARBON AGE DEBATES SHOULD NOT STOP AIMS FOR SUSTAINABILITY Whether you believe the carbon age is real, implied or imaginary, you cannot discount the need for increased attention when it comes to saving and sustainability. Our traditional forms of energy represent a finite resource and as we are far from a position of being able to turn to alternative energy, prudence is advisable. CLICK TO WATCH SUSTAINABILITY RESOURCE PLANNING (SRP) OVERVIEW Verisae delivers a broad range of sustainability solutions to over 40 global clients with a service network of over 7,500 third-party providers consisting of 60,000 application users. Our integrated sustainability platform actively tracks over 2.1 million assets across 23,000 sites. We help measure, manage, and monetize energy costs and carbon emissions. We prove a rapid return on investment (ROI) for sustainability. Links: ------ http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.VERISAE.BIZ/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/The-End-of-Publishing/4886.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:26:24 GMT New Society Publishers New Society Publishers http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/The-End-of-Publishing/4886.html  There's a rather dramatic video making the rounds of publishing circles, created by Dorling Kindersley Books in the UK. The video is called The End of Publishing , and it is a homage to an exceptionally moving video called The Lost Generation which we blogged about here nearly two years ago. Please watch the video right through if you can - like The Lost Generation , The End of Publishing really makes its point after the halfway mark. The future of publishing is a hot topic these days - so m Read Full Press release ]]>   There's a rather dramatic video making the rounds of publishing circles, created by Dorling Kindersley Books in the UK. The video is called The End of Publishing , and it is a homage to an exceptionally moving video called The Lost Generation which we blogged about here nearly two years ago. Please watch the video right through if you can - like The Lost Generation , The End of Publishing really makes its point after the halfway mark. The future of publishing is a hot topic these days - so much of our industry is being affected by the digital revolution, and speculation is rampant as to where it might all end up. Ebooks, digital piracy, competing for the attention of readers in a world where content is abundant and increasingly free - all these are issues that we grapple with on a daily basis. We'd like to know what you think about where publishing (and books themselves) are headed. Have your reading habits changed? Do you think they will evolve in the future? Do you read ebooks, or are you a traditionalist who could never trade paper for a Kindle? Please share your thoughts in the comments below (or on our Facebook page if you're reading there). Links: ------ http://www.dorlingkindersley-uk.co.uk/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Weq_sHxghcg&feature=player_embedded http://newsociety.com/blogs/index.php/2008/04/28/lost_generation http://newsociety.com/blogs/index.php/2008/04/28/lost_generation http://newsociety.com/blogs/index.php/2008/04/28/lost_generation http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Weq_sHxghcg&feature=player_embedded http://www.facebook.com/NewSocietyPublishers ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/CR-Magazine-Announces-100-Best-Corporate-Citizens-List/4885.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:53:49 GMT Sustainable Life Media Sustainable Life Media http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/CR-Magazine-Announces-100-Best-Corporate-Citizens-List/4885.html  March 16, 2010 - Corporate Responsibility Magazine (CRM) released yesterday its 11th annual 100 Best Corporate Citizens List , including top companies like Microsoft, Nike, and Verizon. The list is considered among America's three most important business rankings. Based on over 360 data points of publicly available information, the The 100 Best Corporate Citizens List is known as the world's top corporate responsibility ranking. Citizens are selected from the large-cap Russell 1000 HERE ARE Read Full Press release ]]>   March 16, 2010 - Corporate Responsibility Magazine (CRM) released yesterday its 11th annual 100 Best Corporate Citizens List , including top companies like Microsoft, Nike, and Verizon. The list is considered among America's three most important business rankings. Based on over 360 data points of publicly available information, the The 100 Best Corporate Citizens List is known as the world's top corporate responsibility ranking. Citizens are selected from the large-cap Russell 1000 HERE ARE THE TOP TEN PERFORMERS OF 2009: companies, which include the largest securities and represents roughly 90 percent of the US market. Selected companies were ranked in seven categories: Environment, Climate Change, Human Rights, Philanthropy, Employee Relations, Financial Performance, and Governance. HP Intel General Mills IBM Kimberly-Clark Abbott Labs Bristol-Meyers Cocal-Cola Company Gap Inc. Hess Corp. Among the top 100 are 88 companies that are listed on the NYSE Euronext exchange, emphasizing their commitment to corporate responsibility and integrity in the global market. Duncan L. Niederauer, CEO of NYSE Euronext, says this "important initiative" speaks volumes about the quality of the international marketplace, in which these companies are observing high standards and best practices. CRM Publisher Jay Whitehead notes the weight the List has on business performance: "Company stakeholders from investors to customers to employees to regulators watch the 100 Best Corporate Citizens List closely, and are using it now more than ever to make important decisions. As a result, making the List is worth millions or even billions in increased shareholder and brand value." Because of the competitive dynamic resulting from each report, Whitehead is seeing companies improve particularly in the climate change, environment, and human rights categories. Links: ------ http://www.thecro.com/files/CR100Best3.pdf http://www.russell.com/Indexes/data/fact_sheets/us/Russell_1000_Index.asp http://www.euronext.com/landing/listedSecurities-12650-EN.html ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/AB-InBev-Shoots-for-Sustainable-Brewing-Crown/4884.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:51:42 GMT Sustainable Life Media Sustainable Life Media http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/AB-InBev-Shoots-for-Sustainable-Brewing-Crown/4884.html  March 17, 2010 - Anheuser-Busch InBev announced this week an aggressive set of three year sustainability goals under their Better World commitment, including a reduction in water usage from operations of 30% by 2012, which would make them the brewing industry's global leader in water efficiency. In 2007, the world's largest brewer used 5.03 liters of water for every liter of production, and by 2009 had reduced that number to 4.3 liters. Their goal of 3.5 liters by 2012 represents a 30% reducti Read Full Press release ]]>   March 17, 2010 - Anheuser-Busch InBev announced this week an aggressive set of three year sustainability goals under their Better World commitment, including a reduction in water usage from operations of 30% by 2012, which would make them the brewing industry's global leader in water efficiency. In 2007, the world's largest brewer used 5.03 liters of water for every liter of production, and by 2009 had reduced that number to 4.3 liters. Their goal of 3.5 liters by 2012 represents a 30% reduction in water use from their 2007 usage and an almost 20% reduction from their 2009 usage. In addition to water goals, AB InBev has also established a large set of environmental goals under the Better World program. By 2012, the company hopes to increase their brewery waste recycling and reuse rate to 99%, up from 97.2% in 2007 and 98% in 2009. Since 2007, they have reduced energy use per liter of production by 10.9%, and they hope to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and energy use an additional 10% for every liter produced by the end of 2012. Carlos Brito, Chief Executive Officer of Anheuser-Busch InBev , commented that "Our global goals, including our 3.5 hectoliter water usage goal, mark a major step forward for our Company and are a central part of our vision to be the Best Beer Company in a Better World. Reducing our environmental impact is one of the three Better World pillars we focus on, next to promoting responsible drinking and contributing to the communities in which we operate." If AB InBev reaches their goals, they would become the world's most water efficient brewer. One of their major American competitors, Miller Brewing, has presented the same goal of a 3.5:1 water/beer production ratio , but their timeline extends until 2015. MillerCoors, a partnership between Miller and Coors brewing companies, also ranks among the most efficient brewers , recycling 98% of all waste and recording a 4.1:1 water/beer production ratio in 2009. Links: ------ http://www.ab-inbev.com/ http://www.ab-inbev.com/ http://sustainablelifemedia.com/content/content/story/brands/miller_light_on_water_transparent http://sustainablelifemedia.com/content/content/story/brands/millercoors_great_beer_great_sustain ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Supreme-Court-To-Take-A-Second-Look-at-Michigans-Asian-Carp-Injunction/4883.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:18:57 GMT Circle of Blue Circle of Blue http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Supreme-Court-To-Take-A-Second-Look-at-Michigans-Asian-Carp-Injunction/4883.html  _The high court originally rejected a request to order Chicago-area locks closed to keep the invasive fish out of the Great Lakes._ Great Lakes' politicians gathered in Michigan last month to discuss the severity of the Asian carp threat in the area. Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox spoke during the conference. On Friday, the Supreme Court will reconsider a motion Cox filed to block Asian carp from the Great Lakes. The Supreme Court has agreed to reconsider Michigan's motion to force the cl Read Full Press release ]]>   _The high court originally rejected a request to order Chicago-area locks closed to keep the invasive fish out of the Great Lakes._ Great Lakes' politicians gathered in Michigan last month to discuss the severity of the Asian carp threat in the area. Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox spoke during the conference. On Friday, the Supreme Court will reconsider a motion Cox filed to block Asian carp from the Great Lakes. The Supreme Court has agreed to reconsider Michigan's motion to force the closure of Chicago-area locks and stop the spread of Asian carp into the Great Lakes. Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox talked about the Supreme Court's plans during a "town hall" forum at Saginaw Valley State University Monday, _the Saginaw News_ reported . Cox hosted a similar forum in Traverse City in February. The legal motion, which Cox filed in December, is part of a broader effort by the attorney general to reopen a decades-old lawsuit filed by several states against Chicago and Illinois over the Chicago Waterway System, the century-old network of canals and locks that were built to divert the city's sewage into the Illinois River instead of Lake Michigan. The ongoing diversion of Great Lakes water, and the canals and locks that are part of it, have allowed a series of invasive species to cross between the Great Lakes and the rivers, including zebra mussels and the round goby. Cox's office confirmed Tuesday that the Supreme Court will reconsider his injunction request Friday, and told Circle of Blue that the court is scheduled to consider Cox's larger request to reopen the Chicago diversion case on April 16. Asian carp--an invasive fish species that has been making its way up the Mississippi and Illinois rivers for years--threaten to disrupt the Great Lakes ecosystem if they get into the lakes. A series of Chicago-area locks and canals are all that that separate the fish from Lake Michigan and the rest of the Great Lakes at this point. While their DNA has been detected in the water on both sides of the locks, they are not known to have established a self-sustaining population in Lake Michigan. The bighead carp variety of Asian carp can grow up to 100 pounds and four feet long, eating their weight in plankton daily. The smaller silver carp can grow up to 40 pounds, and are known for jumping out of the water at the sound of boat motors, hitting and injuring boaters. Scientists fear that the carp could disrupt the food chain in the Great Lakes, threatening the game fish population and the region's $7 billion sportfishing industry. Links: ------ http://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw/index.ssf/2010/03/cox_us_supreme_court_will_reconsider_temporary_closure_of_chicago_locks_to_prevent_spread_of_asian_carp_into_great_lakes.html http://www.circleofblue.org/waternews/2010/world/block-those-flying-fish-great-lakes-politicians-pressure-illinois-washington-on-asian-carp/ http://www.circleofblue.org/waternews/2010/world/asian-carp-threaten-great-lakes-and-pressure-politicians/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Senate-Committee-to-Vote-on-Clean-Drinking-Water-Bill/4882.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:09:50 GMT Circle of Blue Circle of Blue http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Senate-Committee-to-Vote-on-Clean-Drinking-Water-Bill/4882.html  _The bill emphasizes the importance of water and sanitation in U.S. foreign aid._ The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will vote at its next business meeting on a bill to provide safe drinking water to 100 million people, according to a committee staff member. The meeting is tentatively scheduled for March 23, the staff member told Circle of Blue. The Paul Simon Water for the World Act was introduced nearly one year ago, but has not been acted on by the Foreign Relations Committee. "Ou Read Full Press release ]]>   _The bill emphasizes the importance of water and sanitation in U.S. foreign aid._ The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will vote at its next business meeting on a bill to provide safe drinking water to 100 million people, according to a committee staff member. The meeting is tentatively scheduled for March 23, the staff member told Circle of Blue. The Paul Simon Water for the World Act was introduced nearly one year ago, but has not been acted on by the Foreign Relations Committee. "Our bill will reestablish U.S. leadership on water around the world," said the bill's sponsor, Senator Richard Durbin, Democrat of Illinois, at a press conference in 2009. "By bringing safe water and basic sanitation to 100 million of the world's poorest people, the Paul Simon Water for the World Act will make America safer by reaffirming our standing as a leader in the fight to end global poverty," Durbin said. "It will help prevent humanitarian catastrophes and dangerous conflicts around the world." To help provide clean drinking water, the bill would create an Office of Water within the U.S. Agency for International Development and a diplomatic position in the State Department to increase the importance of water and sanitation for U.S. foreign policy. Currently, water policy at USAID is managed across several offices and bureaus. Members of both political parties are among the 30 co-sponsors. Similar legislation -- the Water for the Poor Act -- was passed in 2005, establishing the United Nations Millennium Development Goal targets for water and sanitation as key elements of U.S. foreign assistance programs. The current bill gives more detailed guidance on how to achieve those goals. Meanwhile, the House version of the bill is being held up in the Foreign Affairs Committee because it is part of a larger overhaul of foreign aid legislation, according to committee communications director Lynne Weil. In order to restructure the U.S. water policy bureaucracy, both Senate and House versions of the bill would amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. The chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Representative Howard Berman, Democrat of California, is working on re-writing that act, which guides how the U.S. conducts its foreign aid programs. "Any legislation that amends the Foreign Assistance Act is being considered for inclusion in the foreign assistance reform bill," Weil told Circle of Blue. "That's why individual pieces haven't been considered separately." Berman's bill, the Foreign Assistance Reform Act , would require the President to submit a national strategy for reducing global poverty and assisting economic growth in developing countries. The legislation would create an advisory council to complete annual assessments of the effectiveness of foreign aid programs. Weil said that Berman intends to introduce the bill later this year. Links: ------ http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=s111-624 http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h111-2139 ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/DuPont-Circuit--amp--Packaging-Materials-Opens-New-Technical-Lab-in-China/4881.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 08:30:17 GMT DuPont DuPont http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/DuPont-Circuit--amp--Packaging-Materials-Opens-New-Technical-Lab-in-China/4881.html  Night view of the DuPont China Global R"> The CPM Shanghai Team attending the new Shanghai lab opening. In light of the skyrocketing growth of the electronics industry in China, DuPont Circuit & Packaging Materials (CPM) opened its new lab in Shanghai, China. Located in the DuPont China R">"DuPont is bullish about the Greater China market's strong demand for electronic products," said Peter Irvine, global business director, DuPont Circuit "> To view the complete press release, click here . Read Full Press release ]]>   Night view of the DuPont China Global R"> The CPM Shanghai Team attending the new Shanghai lab opening. In light of the skyrocketing growth of the electronics industry in China, DuPont Circuit & Packaging Materials (CPM) opened its new lab in Shanghai, China. Located in the DuPont China R">"DuPont is bullish about the Greater China market's strong demand for electronic products," said Peter Irvine, global business director, DuPont Circuit "> To view the complete press release, click here . Links: ------ http://www2.dupont.com/Packaging_and_Circuits/en_US/ http://www2.dupont.com/China_Country_Site/zh_CN/index.html http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/gyzg/t563425.htm http://www2.dupont.com/Packaging_and_Circuits/en_US/news_events/article20100315.html ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/LABELS-FOR-EDUCATIONSM--JOINS-THE-GRAMMY-FOUNDATION--TO-SUPPORT-MUSIC-EDUCATION-IN-CHICAGO-SCHOOLS/4880.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:55:40 GMT Campbell Soup Company Campbell Soup Company http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/LABELS-FOR-EDUCATIONSM--JOINS-THE-GRAMMY-FOUNDATION--TO-SUPPORT-MUSIC-EDUCATION-IN-CHICAGO-SCHOOLS/4880.html  CONTEMPORARY JAZZ SAXOPHONIST MINDI ABAIR ANNOUNCES DONATION _ _ CAMDEN, N.J., MAR. 18, 2010 - CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY'S (NYSE: CPB) _Labels for Education_ program, which has supported music programs in thousands of schools since its inception in 1973, joined the GRAMMY Foundation(R) to bring Artist Ambassador and Contemporary Jazz Saxophonist, Mindi Abair to Alcott Elementary School in Chicago to promote the importance of music education in schools. Abair's appearance is the first of fou Read Full Press release ]]>   CONTEMPORARY JAZZ SAXOPHONIST MINDI ABAIR ANNOUNCES DONATION _ _ CAMDEN, N.J., MAR. 18, 2010 - CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY'S (NYSE: CPB) _Labels for Education_ program, which has supported music programs in thousands of schools since its inception in 1973, joined the GRAMMY Foundation(R) to bring Artist Ambassador and Contemporary Jazz Saxophonist, Mindi Abair to Alcott Elementary School in Chicago to promote the importance of music education in schools. Abair's appearance is the first of four that will be sponsored by _Labels For Education_ and the GRAMMY Foundation. Each event, which will be held in select schools across the country, features a different GRAMMY Foundation Artist Ambassador sharing a personal experience of music discovery with students. Other participating Artist Ambassadors will include Kate ">Research has shown that when students have access to enrichment programs including music and arts, they tend to also perform better in the classroom. Unfortunately, music programs are being eliminated at many elementary and secondary schools due to the budget pressures impacting schools across the country. "Our partnership with the GRAMMY Foundation has enabled the _Labels For Education_ program to provide schools access to the innovative resources students need today for a well-rounded music education," said Anne Pizarro, Campbell's _Labels For Education_ Director. Through the partnership, the GRAMMY Foundation's proprietary Discovery Through Music(tm) curriculum will be made available to nearly 60,000 schools nationwide that are registered in this year's _Labels For Education_ program. ABOUT CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high-quality foods and simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, and healthy beverages. Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of market-leading brands, including "Campbell's", "Pepperidge Farm", "Arnott's", and "V8". For more information on the company, visit Campbell's website at www.campbellsoup.com . ABOUT THE GRAMMY FOUNDATION The GRAMMY Foundation was established in 1989 to cultivate the understanding, appreciation and advancement of the contribution of recorded music to American culture -- from the artistic and technical legends of the past to the still unimagined musical breakthroughs of future generations of music professionals. The Foundation accomplishes this mission through programs and activities that engage the music industry and cultural community as well as the general public. The Foundation works in partnership year-round with its founder, The Recording Academy(R), to bring national attention to important issues such as the value and impact of music and arts education and the urgency of preserving our rich cultural heritage. Campbell's _Labels For Education_ program is proud to be the official education partner of the GRAMMY In The Schools programs. For more information, please visit _WWW.GRAMMYINTHESCHOOLS.COM_. Links: ------ http://www.campbellsoup.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Into-social-media-Like-what-EDF-does-Intern-with-us-/4879.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:15:59 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Into-social-media-Like-what-EDF-does-Intern-with-us-/4879.html  March 16, 2010 | Posted by JULIE STOFER We're looking for a Temporary Communications Associate to work with us (from April through August) on our social media strategy and to help us develop and manage this summer's Climate Corps project. APPLY BY MARCH 23! JOB DESCRIPTION The Associate will join a fast-paced, dynamic, nationwide team in EDF's Corporate Partnerships and Marketing Communications programs to assist in 1) conceiving and implementing a growth plan for EDF's established Innova Read Full Press release ]]>   March 16, 2010 | Posted by JULIE STOFER We're looking for a Temporary Communications Associate to work with us (from April through August) on our social media strategy and to help us develop and manage this summer's Climate Corps project. APPLY BY MARCH 23! JOB DESCRIPTION The Associate will join a fast-paced, dynamic, nationwide team in EDF's Corporate Partnerships and Marketing Communications programs to assist in 1) conceiving and implementing a growth plan for EDF's established Innovation Exchange social media presence and 2) managing communications activities for Climate Corps, an innovative summer fellowship program that places talented students in leading companies to develop actionable energy efficiency plans. The Associate will be responsible for a wide range of communications and project management activities including participating in online communities; finding, developing and managing stories and videos for the Innovation blog; conducting blogger research and outreach; engaging with and maintaining internal information tracking systems for our program's 50+ fellows and companies; performing research and analysis related to energy efficiency in buildings; and contributing to the strategic planning for the future of Climate Corps and EDF's broader social media presence. This position will require a high degree of relationship management, involving coordination between EDF's program staff, internal marketing and communications team, the Climate Corps fellows and host company contacts to ensure timely and well-vetted content. JOB SIGNIFICANCE: Improving energy efficiency in buildings is the single most cost-effective way to combat global warming. EDF developed Climate Corps to overcome organizational barriers hindering the adoption of energy efficiency investments. The Summer Associate will be critical to helping EDF make the business case for energy efficiency and increase the awareness of the program in the media. For general information about working at EDF, please view EDF's Internship Guidelines . QUALIFICATIONS * Familiarity with a wide range of social media tools, including forums, blogs, podcasts, video and Twitter * MBA candidate (preferred) * Familiarity with corporate sustainability issues (preferred) * Demonstrated professionalism in speaking with company managers and/or directors * Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills * Project management and cross-functional experience preferred * Ability to take initiative and work independently * Ability to think strategically and creatively * Strong organizational skills and ability to work simultaneously on multiple projects * Experience writing for publications and/or blogs a plus TO APPLY APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 23, 2010. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis - PLEASE APPLY PROMPTLY. E-mail cover letter and resume to Ms. Julie Stofer at edfsocialmedia@gmail.com OR click here to apply online . Please send the cover letter and resume as separate attachments, labeled as follows: EDF-Communications-[your last name]-Cover and EDF-Communications-[your last name]-Resume. In your cover letter, highlight aspects of your experience that are relevant for this job, including volunteer service, and explain why you are interested in working with this organization. AA/EOE. Links: ------ http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.EDF.ORG/PAGE.CFM?TAGID=48838 http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=48265 mailto:edfsocialmedia@gmail.com http://www.justmeans.com/jobs/environmental-defense-fund/12754.html ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Grant-Awarded-to-Generate-Green-Economic-Alternatives-in-Appalachia/4878.html Thu, 18 Mar 2010 06:51:35 GMT Brighter Planet Brighter Planet http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Grant-Awarded-to-Generate-Green-Economic-Alternatives-in-Appalachia/4878.html  SAN FRANCISCO, CA - _Wise Energy and Sustainable Economic Diversification and Development Project _has been awarded $5,000 from the Brighter Planet Project Fund , a micro-granting program focused on fighting climate change. The project will encourage local sustainability and renewable energy initiatives in Wise County, Virginia. By holding community forums and encouraging the growth of alternative economic systems that will replace mountain-top removal coal mining, _Wise Energy _will help grow Read Full Press release ]]>   SAN FRANCISCO, CA - _Wise Energy and Sustainable Economic Diversification and Development Project _has been awarded $5,000 from the Brighter Planet Project Fund , a micro-granting program focused on fighting climate change. The project will encourage local sustainability and renewable energy initiatives in Wise County, Virginia. By holding community forums and encouraging the growth of alternative economic systems that will replace mountain-top removal coal mining, _Wise Energy _will help grow the green economy and improve the sustainability of the region. The project also aims to create jobs that give workers an alternative to the coal mining industry. Along with hosting community events to raise awareness on the issues, the grantees will conduct a series of interviews across the region to identify what the community needs most and what tools exist to achieve their goals. Powered by Brighter Planet's social website to nominate and vote on projects of merit, the Project Fund seeds the growth of the climate movement from the ground up. With six worthy projects nominated this month, members cast the most votes for _Wise Energy__. _Brighter Planet customers endow the Project Fund by using the company's products and services. Brighter Planet community members vote for next month's grant recipient starting April 1st. Submissions are now open for April's Project Fund grant of up to $5,000. ABOUT BRIGHTER PLANET Brighter Planet (www.brighterplanet.com ) helps people manage their environmental footprint. The clean-energy start-up is pioneering fresh green solutions that are accessible to everyone, fit one's lifestyle, and are fun to share. To date, more than 100,000 customers have used the company's climate change solutions, the Brighter Planet Visa debit and credit cards and Offsets by Brighter Planet, to invest in reputable American renewable energy projects. MORE BRIGHTER PLANET LINKS: Blog Twitter Facebook Vimeo ### Links: ------ http://brighterplanet.com/project_fund_projects http://brighterplanet.com/ http://www.brighterplanet.com/ http://vimeo.com/6580315 http://blog.brighterplanet.com/ http://twitter.com/brighterplanet http://facebook.com/brighterplanet http://vimeo.com/brighterplanet ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Intel-Science-Talent-Search-2010-Winners-Announced/4877.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:08:48 GMT Intel Corporation Intel Corporation http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Intel-Science-Talent-Search-2010-Winners-Announced/4877.html  WASHINGTON, D.C., March 16, 2010 - Honoring the next generation of American innovators, Intel Corporation and Society for Science & the Public today announced the winners of America's oldest and most prestigious pre-college science competition, the Intel Science Talent Search. Erika DeBenedictis, 18, of Albuquerque, N.M., won the top award of $100,000 from the Intel Foundation for her project developing a software navigation system to help improve spacecraft travel through the solar system. Erik Read Full Press release ]]>   WASHINGTON, D.C., March 16, 2010 - Honoring the next generation of American innovators, Intel Corporation and Society for Science & the Public today announced the winners of America's oldest and most prestigious pre-college science competition, the Intel Science Talent Search. Erika DeBenedictis, 18, of Albuquerque, N.M., won the top award of $100,000 from the Intel Foundation for her project developing a software navigation system to help improve spacecraft travel through the solar system. Erika's research found that the gravity and movement of planets create "easy transit routes," which will ultimately help spacecraft move faster and with less fuel. Second place honors and $75,000 went to David Liu, 18, of Saratoga, Calif., for his work to develop a system to recognize and understand digital images. David's work has already been used to examine aerial images to identify hazards to buried oil pipelines and could also be used to enable unmanned aerial vehicles and Web-based image searches. Third place honors and $50,000 went to Akhil Mathew, 18, of Madison, N.J., for his math project on Deligne categories, a setting for studying a wide range of algebraic structures with ties to theoretical physics. "These 40 Intel Science Talent Search finalists demonstrate that we have the capability in this country to cultivate the next generation of innovators, scientists and entrepreneurs," said Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini. "These young scientists are proof that curious, eager minds coupled with inspiring, knowledgeable teachers are the foundation for world-changing innovation." Other top honors from the competition include: FOURTH PLACE: Lynnelle Ye, 18, Palo Alto, Calif., received a $40,000 award for her project that provided strategies for winning at a computer game titled "Graph Chomp." FIFTH PLACE: Eric Brooks, 16, Hewlett, N.Y., received a $30,000 award for his research studying racial genetic factors that may affect the spread of prostate cancer. SIXTH PLACE: John Capodilupo, 18, of Grand Rapids, Mich., received a $25,000 award for his project that used cluster analysis of objects in the night sky to study the structure and evolution of the early universe. SEVENTH PLACE: Benjamen Sun, 17, of Grand Forks, N.D., received a $25,000 award for his work studying how sand, dust and other debris on city streets can adsorb** pollutants from rain and, thus, contaminate city water sources. EIGHTH PLACE: Katherine Rudolph, 18, of Naperville, Ill., received a $20,000 award for her math project that investigated dense packing of identical spheres, the results of which can be used in fields from chemistry to cryptology. NINTH PLACE: Yale Fan, 18, of Beaverton, Ore., received a $20,000 award for his research that demonstrated the advantages of quantum computing in performing difficult computations. TENTH PLACE: Linda Zhou, 18, of River Edge, N.J., received a $20,000 award for her project that researched how to reverse drug resistance in breast cancer cells. The remaining 30 finalists each received at least $7,500 in awards. This year's Intel Science Talent Search finalists hail from 18 states and represent 36 schools. Of the 1,736 high school seniors who entered the Intel Science Talent Search 2010, 300 were announced as semifinalists in January. Of those, 40 were chosen as finalists and invited to Washington, D.C., to compete for the top 10 awards. The Intel Science Talent Search encourages students to tackle challenging scientific questions and develop the skills necessary to solve the problems of tomorrow. Over the past 68 years, Science Talent Search finalists have gone on to win seven Nobel Prizes, two Fields Medals, three National Medals of Science and 11 MacArthur Foundation Fellowships. Society for Science & the Public, a nonprofit organization dedicated to public engagement in scientific research and education, has owned and administered the Science Talent Search since its inception in 1942. "The Science Talent Search was founded on the idea that scientific accomplishment is the first step on the road toward solving the world's most challenging problems," said Elizabeth Marincola, the organization's president. "Society for Science & the Public is proud to join Intel in congratulating Erika and all of the Intel Science Talent Search 2010 finalists. Their hard work and dedication will inspire other budding scientists to take their first steps down the road of discovery." More information can be found on the Intel Science Talent Search 2010 at www.intel.com/pressroom/kits/events/sts2010 . To view ongoing updates about the Intel Science Talent Search 2010, join the Facebook group at www.facebook.com/pages/Inspired-by-Education/32855637280 and follow Twitter updates at www.twitter.com/intelinspire . To learn more about Society for Science & the Public, visit www.societyforscience.org . THE INTEL EDUCATION INITIATIVE Intel's commitment to education extends far beyond the Intel Science Talent Search. Over the past decade alone, Intel has invested more than $1 billion, and its employees have donated more than 2.5 million hours toward improving education in 50 countries. To learn more about the Intel Education Initiative, visit www.intel.com/education and the CSR@Intel blog at blogs.intel.com/csr . To join Intel's community of people sharing their stories with the hope of becoming a catalyst for action and a voice for change in global education, visit www.inspiredbyeducation.com . Links: ------ http://www.intel.com/pressroom/kits/events/sts2010 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Inspired-by-Education/32855637280 http://www.twitter.com/intelinspire http://www.societyforscience.org/ http://www.intel.com/education http://blogs.intel.com/csr http://www.inspiredbyeducation.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/AMD-Corporate-Responsibility-Blog--AMD-Changing-the-Game/4876.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:00:36 GMT Advanced Micro Devices Advanced Micro Devices http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/AMD-Corporate-Responsibility-Blog--AMD-Changing-the-Game/4876.html  Sometimes I really love it when I'm wrong. Like many people, I often rely on gut instincts to guide me through life, especially on issues where thoughtful analysis has run its course. But sometimes those instincts fail me. And in the case of AMD Changing the Game , I couldn't be happier that my gut took a swing and a miss. When our team was designing this program to be our lead initiative on AMD's approach to improving youth education, I found myself rolling my eyes when gaming was proposed as Read Full Press release ]]>   Sometimes I really love it when I'm wrong. Like many people, I often rely on gut instincts to guide me through life, especially on issues where thoughtful analysis has run its course. But sometimes those instincts fail me. And in the case of AMD Changing the Game , I couldn't be happier that my gut took a swing and a miss. When our team was designing this program to be our lead initiative on AMD's approach to improving youth education, I found myself rolling my eyes when gaming was proposed as the focus. Didn't my two teen-aged boys' fixation on playing Halo and Gears of War to all hours of the night annoy me? Didn't my daughter's delight in sitting in front of a computer screen caring for her Webkinz equally frustrate me? Yes. It was all true. But there was a key distinction that I was not initially grasping. AMD Changing the Game is not about kids _playing_ games. It's about them using PC technology to _create_ games on important issues like the environment, energy, poverty and disaster relief, among a variety of issues that teach kids about the world we live in. So the question quickly switched from "Why gaming?" to "Why not gaming?" A 2008 Pew Research Center study confirms that nearly every U.S. teen - 97 percent - plays video games. At the same time, other studies cite boredom as a leading contributor to why kids drop out of school. Meeting kids where they are is the essence of AMD Changing the Game. An initiative of the AMD Foundation , AMD Changing the Game funds programs and gives AMD-based desktop and notebook PCs to schools, nonprofits and other organizations that are on the cutting edge of education by teaching youth how to develop social-issue games. We have partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America to help develop a curriculum for Game Tech, their after-school game development program for kids, and equipped two BGCA tech centers in Ft. Collins, Colorado and Marlborough, Massachusetts each with 10 PCs to enable kids to create games. In February, we brought AMD Changing the Game to Asia by co-sponsoring the Malaysian Cybergames Festival 2010 , including the "Dare to Create" digital game design and development workshop that will enable more than 2,000 rural Malaysian youth to experience basic game design. Last week, we took a big leap with the program when the AMD Foundation awarded a $65,000 grant to the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers . It will be used to help fund the Alliance's new video game design category for the 2010 and 2011 Scholastic Art font-size: 10pt;">My instincts may not always be right. But that's not such a bad thing. What do you think about kids creating games to learn about technology and the world around them? _Ward Tisdale is Director of Global Community Affairs for AMD. His postings are his own opinions and may not represent AMD's positions, strategies or opinions. Links to third party sites are provided for convenience and unless explicitly stated, AMD is not responsible for the contents of such linked sites and no endorsement is implied._ Links: ------ http://www.amd.com/us-en/0,,3715_14217_15653_15654,00.html http://www.amd.com/us-en/0,,3715_14217_15653,00.html http://www.bgca.org/ http://mycore.com.my/index.php?option=com_eventlist&view=details&id=6&Itemid=62 http://www.artandwriting.org/ http://allianceforyoungartistsandwriters.blogspot.com/2010/03/new-grant-boosts-video-game-category-of.html http://www.artandwriting.org/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Cisco-Opens-Entrepreneur-Institute-in-Paraguay/4875.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:45:44 GMT Cisco Cisco http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Cisco-Opens-Entrepreneur-Institute-in-Paraguay/4875.html  CISCO OPENS ENTREPRENEUR INSTITUTE IN PARAGUAY FUNDACIN PARAGUAYA TO SERVE AS FIRST TRAINING CENTER FOR THE CISCO ENTREPRENEUR INSTITUTE IN THE COUNTRY ASUNCION, Paraguay, March 11, 2010 - Cisco today announced the inauguration of the Cisco(R) Entrepreneur Institute in Paraguay to help owners of small and medium-sized businesses improve their business skills and learn how to effectively use information and communications technologies. The first training center will be the Fundacin Paraguaya Read Full Press release ]]>   CISCO OPENS ENTREPRENEUR INSTITUTE IN PARAGUAY FUNDACIN PARAGUAYA TO SERVE AS FIRST TRAINING CENTER FOR THE CISCO ENTREPRENEUR INSTITUTE IN THE COUNTRY ASUNCION, Paraguay, March 11, 2010 - Cisco today announced the inauguration of the Cisco(R) Entrepreneur Institute in Paraguay to help owners of small and medium-sized businesses improve their business skills and learn how to effectively use information and communications technologies. The first training center will be the Fundacin Paraguaya, which during the first year will provide basic courses from the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute curriculum to more than 100 Paraguayan entrepreneurs. Fundacin Paraguaya is a company that promotes entrepreneurship among individuals with few resources, helping them to create jobs and increase their family income. HIGHLIGHTS: The Cisco Entrepreneur Institute resulted from an agreement signed between Cisco and the Fundacin Paraguaya. The initiative aims to contribute to the development of small and medium-sized businesses through the use of ICT, the expansion of broadband penetration, and the transfer of knowledge about business practices and information and communications technologies. Initially the Fundacin Paraguaya will provide Cisco Entrepreneur Institute courses in the city of Asuncin. Workshops for entrepreneurs and business people will start on March 5 and 6. Courses will be delivered through a combination of e-learning, in-person lessons and audiovisual material. Students at the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute will have access to Web 2.0 technologies and advanced and open architecture tools such as Moodle (the mostly widely used e-learning platform in the world), as well as collaboration technologies like Cisco WebEx(R) for a more comprehensive learning experience. Courses at the institute will be based on the experiences of successful entrepreneurs, business leaders and major companies, combined with Cisco's practical knowledge acquired in more than 25 years of business experience. The institute uses teaching resources made available from institutions such as Stanford University, Cornell University and My Own Business, a nonprofit organization with more than 15 years of experience supporting the creation of successful businesses. SUPPORTING QUOTES: JUAN PABLO ESTEVEZ, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, CISCO SOUTHERN CONE (LATIN AMERICA) _"Entrepreneurship is a key dynamic of economic growth and the generation of jobs in the country. Cisco wants to be a strategic ally to foster innovation, technological development and productivity among Paraguayan entrepreneurs. The Cisco Entrepreneur Institute will take advantage of all the potential and value of information and communications technologies to strengthen entrepreneurs' skills and make them competitive."_ _"We want to contribute to the development of the country through the education of its entrepreneurs. Helping the country's entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses through the use of technology will contribute to the generation of sustainable companies capable of facing the new challenges of the global market."_ ROBERTO URBIETA, DIRECTOR OF ENTERPRISING EDUCATION (EDUCACIN EMPRENDEDORA) OF FUNDACIN PARAGUAYA _"The launch of the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute in Paraguay, in alliance with Fundacin Paraguaya, reinforces our commitment to promote the entrepreneurship culture in the country and help the gestation of new ventures that propel national development."_ _"We know that in Paraguay we have the talent, willingness and vision to do business, but we need initiatives like this to give support and training so that entrepreneurs and owners of micro, small and medium-sized businesses strengthen their knowledge and develop successful ideas."_ THE CISCO ENTREPRENEURSHIP INSTITUTE IN LATIN AMERICA Currently, the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute is present in the following countries of Latin America: Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica and Peru, and has the support of the government of each country. In Mexico, the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute has trained 120 owners of small and medium-sized businesses during its two years of presence in the country. In Chile, the institute has trained the owners of 200 small businesses. In Colombia, the institute works with the Red Nacional de Emprendimiento del Ministerio de Comercio Industria y Turismo (National Venture Network of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism) and with the Servicio Nacional de Aprendizaje, SENA (National Learning Service). During the first six months, the institute trained about 4,500 entrepreneurs in Colombia. Last December the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute opened its doors in Peru, in alliance with the Asociacin Pro Bienestar y Desarrollo, or PROBIDE, to train 800 entrepreneurs in Lima during its first year. In Costa Rica the most recent institute in Latin America was opened, in alliance with ITS InfoCom and Parque Tec, which during the first year will train 500 Costa Rican entrepreneurs. ABOUT FUNDACIN PARAGUAYA Fundacin Paraguaya is a social vanguard company that searches for innovative solutions to poverty and unemployment, and spreads those solutions proactively to the world. In addition, it promotes urban and rural entrepreneurship through three related strategies: A program of micro-finance that supports micro-business owners and emerging entrepreneurs generally overlooked by other micro-finance institutions. An economic education program for children and young people (junior achievement). A self-sufficient agricultural school that teaches organic agriculture and business skills to young people of few resources coming from rural areas, to transform them from "poor peasants" to "rural entrepreneurs." The three programs are separated but strongly integrated at an operating level so that each program enriches and is enriched by the other two. This synergy of "added value" is the strength that guides the "business model" of the institution. For further information please visit: www.fundacionparaguaya.org.py ABOUT CISCO Cisco, (NASDAQ: CSCO), the worldwide leader in networking that transforms how people connect, communicate and collaborate, this year celebrates 25 years of technology innovation, operational excellence and corporate social responsibility. Information about Cisco can be found at http://www.cisco.com . For ongoing news, please go to http://newsroom.cisco.com . Cisco equipment in emerging markets is supplied by Cisco Systems International BV, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cisco Systems, Inc. # # # Cisco, the Cisco logo, Cisco Systems and Cisco WebEx are registered trademarks or trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document or Website are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company. For further information about the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute in Paraguay: FUNDACIN PARAGUAYA Roberto Urbieta Director of Enterprising Education (Educacin Emprendedora) Telephone number: (595) 21 602 277 Ext.111 urbieta@fundacionparaguaya.org.py Links: ------ http://www.fundacionparaguaya.org.py/ http://www.cisco.com/ http://newsroom.cisco.com/ mailto:urbieta@fundacionparaguaya.org.py ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Ford-Launches-Chapter-2-of-the-Fiesta-Movement/4874.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:38:25 GMT Ford Ford http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Ford-Launches-Chapter-2-of-the-Fiesta-Movement/4874.html  If you thought the original Fiesta Movement was cool, wait until you dive into Chapter 2. This time it enlists 40 people to tell the story of the newest Ford car in 16 cities across the country. The Fiesta Movement was a social media initiative designed to create excitement about the new Ford Fiesta, putting the small car on the minds of thousands of people nationwide in the U.S. in 2009. Fiesta Movement Chapter 2 consists of 20 teams comprised of two agents each. These agents were selected Read Full Press release ]]>   If you thought the original Fiesta Movement was cool, wait until you dive into Chapter 2. This time it enlists 40 people to tell the story of the newest Ford car in 16 cities across the country. The Fiesta Movement was a social media initiative designed to create excitement about the new Ford Fiesta, putting the small car on the minds of thousands of people nationwide in the U.S. in 2009. Fiesta Movement Chapter 2 consists of 20 teams comprised of two agents each. These agents were selected from over 1,000 applicants. Their mission will be to redefine the way Fiesta is brought to market by interacting with consumers online and offline, while bringing Fiesta to their communities. "This was a natural progression from the first phase of the Fiesta Movement," said Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances manager. "Chapter 2 will still be rooted in social media, but this time the content will also live offline and find its way into new mediums. Fiesta needs to clearly be the star now as the agents share their work within their communities and beyond." Agents will complete a series of missions, where they will compete in challenges locally that leverage the best of their communities, allowing them to open the discussion about Fiesta through social media and beyond. After completing a challenge, agents will produce and place the creative content online at www.fiestamovement.com, where followers also can keep up with their favorite agents. The best content will be recognized based on online consumer interaction and consumers' opinions about the agents' work, and will be amplified in local media and events as well as through a variety of national mediums. One of the missions in Chapter 2 is called "Show the World UR Personality," where agents will design their Fiesta wrap, working with designers to create a wrap that fits their team's personality. Their personalized Fiesta will be delivered to the agent team, and the best wrap, as voted on by the fans on www.fiestamovement.com, will later be available to consumers. Additionally, the winning wrap will be integrated into a future national Fiesta display. The first Fiesta Movement generated more than 6.2 million YouTube views, more than 750,000 Flickr views and nearly 4 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement also set a Guinness World Record for the most attendees at a tweetup during the Fiesta Movement Awards Celebration in West Hollywood in December. This unprecedented event brought together 1,149 Fiesta Movement agents and Twitter friends. Links: ------ http://www.fiestamovement2.com/ http://www.fiestamovement2.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/New-Loan-to-Indigenous-Designs-for-Groundbreaking-Project/4873.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:30:59 GMT RSF Social Finance RSF Social Finance http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/New-Loan-to-Indigenous-Designs-for-Groundbreaking-Project/4873.html  Former RSF borrower Indigenous Designs has just received another loan from RSF, this time in the form of a Program-Related Investment (PRI). Indigenous Designs is a Fair Trade and certified organic apparel company that sources from over 1,000 hand-knitting artisans located primarily in South America. The new loan from RSF will specifically support Indigenous Designs as they work with TransFair USA to create the very first standards and procedures for a U.S. apparel and home goods Fair Trade cert Read Full Press release ]]>   Former RSF borrower Indigenous Designs has just received another loan from RSF, this time in the form of a Program-Related Investment (PRI). Indigenous Designs is a Fair Trade and certified organic apparel company that sources from over 1,000 hand-knitting artisans located primarily in South America. The new loan from RSF will specifically support Indigenous Designs as they work with TransFair USA to create the very first standards and procedures for a U.S. apparel and home goods Fair Trade certification. The program with TransFair aims to provide an opportunity to create new "Best in Class" methods surrounding supply chains for Fair Trade and organic certifications in the clothing industry. Two of the major goals of Indigenous Designs' involvement in the project include empowering and protecting the farmers and artisans producing the cotton, materials, and clothes, as well as educating the public about organic and Fair Trade apparel. For Indigenous, their supply chain often begins with a farmer in the field where chemical-free organic cotton is grown. The organic cotton then migrates into the hands of the artisans who knit the fibers into garments, which are finally made available to the consumer. Since their founding in 1994, Indigenous has been a leader in responsibly sourcing natural and organic fibers. "Pioneering companies like Indigenous Designs will pave the way for consumers to demand more information about working conditions at factories and farms where their clothes are made," says Todd Stark, TransFair COO, of the collaborative project between the two organizations. Watch this short video to hear some other perspectives (including that of RSF CEO Don Shaffer) on the exciting progress Indigenous Designs has made in their field: To learn more about Indigenous Designs, visit indigenousdesigns.com . By Kyle Foley Links: ------ http://www.transfairusa.org/ http://www.indigenousdesigns.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/New-York-Port-Authority-To-Clean-Up-Its-Act/4872.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:19:36 GMT Sustainable Life Media Sustainable Life Media http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/New-York-Port-Authority-To-Clean-Up-Its-Act/4872.html  March 15, 2010 -The Port Authority and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today launched an aggressive program to replace up to 636 of the oldest, most polluting trucks serving the Port of New York and New Jersey with newer models that generate less pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The $28 million program is designed to encourage the owners of up to 636 pre-1994 drayage trucks that regularly serve the port to purchase newer vehicles. Truckers are eligible if they regularly call on Read Full Press release ]]>   March 15, 2010 -The Port Authority and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today launched an aggressive program to replace up to 636 of the oldest, most polluting trucks serving the Port of New York and New Jersey with newer models that generate less pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The $28 million program is designed to encourage the owners of up to 636 pre-1994 drayage trucks that regularly serve the port to purchase newer vehicles. Truckers are eligible if they regularly call on the Port Authority's marine terminals. The program is partly funded by a $7 million EPA grant , with the remainder coming from Port Authority funds. The bi-state agency also announced today a truck phase-out plan in which pre-1994 model trucks would no longer be able to call on Port Authority marine terminals beginning January 1, 2011. Trucks not equipped with engines that meet or exceed 2007 federal emissions standards will no longer be able to call on the Port Authority marine terminals beginning on January 1, 2017. Under the program, trucks drivers will be eligible for the following assistance: A 25 percent grant toward the total purchase price of a replacement truck - averaging between $20,000 and $60,000 - which must be model year 2004 to 2008, equipped with an engine model year 2004 to 2007. Low-interest financing (5.25 percent over five years) for up to 75 percent of the total purchase price of a replacement truck Tetra Tech will manage the overall program, including outreach, monitoring and reporting services. ACCION USA Inc., a leading nonprofit organization that provides assistance to credit-challenged small businesses, will administer the program funds. Links: ------ http://www.sustainablelifemedia.com/content/story/strategy/epa_ghg_threaten_public_health ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Planet-Green-Launches-24-Hour-Eco-Programming-with-VERGE/4871.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:18:05 GMT Sustainable Life Media Sustainable Life Media http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Planet-Green-Launches-24-Hour-Eco-Programming-with-VERGE/4871.html  March 15, 2010 - Discovery Communication's eco-lifestyle network, Planet Green, announced the launch of its new VERGE programming. The three-hour primetime block will feature "misfits, mavericks and innovators who challenge the status quo and are on the verge of changing their world and creating a better tomorrow." Debuting March 29, 2010, VERGE aims to inspire its viewers to become emotionally invested in its compelling stories, creating a ripple effect that could change public mindsets abou Read Full Press release ]]>   March 15, 2010 - Discovery Communication's eco-lifestyle network, Planet Green, announced the launch of its new VERGE programming. The three-hour primetime block will feature "misfits, mavericks and innovators who challenge the status quo and are on the verge of changing their world and creating a better tomorrow." Debuting March 29, 2010, VERGE aims to inspire its viewers to become emotionally invested in its compelling stories, creating a ripple effect that could change public mindsets about conscious living. The ultimate goal is motivating the public to begin taking actions towards sustainability. As the first and only mainstream media network that focuses on sustainability, Planet Green reaches 50 million homes through it's television content and an even larger audience through its online content, which includes PlanetGreen.com and its sister site TreeHugger.com . As for the on-air content, Planet Green says Verge will be "forward-looking", with a refreshed graphics package, innovative logo delivery (as exemplified by the program's "emerging E"), and an eclectic mix of eco-interstitials with program mentions. VERGE's premier week lineup will include shows such as "Blood, Sweat, and Takeaways" - revealing the effect that mass produced food has on others, and "Operation Wild" - following Florida Fish & Wildlife as they protect one of the country's last great national reserves, the Everglades. Laura Michalchyshyn, President and GM of Planet Green, says the launch of VERGE and the network's switch to 24-hour programming represents a natural evolution for the company. "We're expanding our network dialogue to include stories of passionate people doing forward-thinking things. These are the change makers who are inspiring us to think differently, sustainably and positively for the future - whether they're chefs, urbanites-cum-farmers, fashion designers or technological innovators. Audiences will be amazed by their stories." Links: ------ http://planetgreen.discovery.com/ http://www.treehugger.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Southern-Turner-Alliance-Lands-First-Solar-Deal/4870.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:16:31 GMT Sustainable Life Media Sustainable Life Media http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Southern-Turner-Alliance-Lands-First-Solar-Deal/4870.html  March 16, 2010 - The CNN media mogul's newest venture with energy giant Southern Company, Southern Turner Renewable Energy, has landed their first U.S. project. They will be purchasing a 30 megawatt solar project in northern New Mexico from the thin film solar manufacturer First Solar. First Solar will continue acting as the engineering, procurement and construction contractor for the project, according to Recharge . The construction will begin this month and should be completed before the end Read Full Press release ]]>   March 16, 2010 - The CNN media mogul's newest venture with energy giant Southern Company, Southern Turner Renewable Energy, has landed their first U.S. project. They will be purchasing a 30 megawatt solar project in northern New Mexico from the thin film solar manufacturer First Solar. First Solar will continue acting as the engineering, procurement and construction contractor for the project, according to Recharge . The construction will begin this month and should be completed before the end of 2010. First Solar will also be under contract with Southern Turner for continuing operations and maintenance of the plant, which uses 500,000 thin film photovoltaic panels - a product the company already manufactures. The alliance between Southern Company and Turner was formed in late January of this year to pursue the development of large scale photovoltaic energy projects in the southwestern United States. One goal of the partnership is to further commercialize cutting-edge solar technologies, in turn making them more cost competitive with traditional sources of energy. While one of the major assets of the alliance is their vast land holdings on which they can build renewable energy projects (Turner is the largest single landowner in North America), the company's first project actually sits on land adjacent to that of Turner's. Power from the project, dubbed Cimmaron I, is already sold as well - Southern Turner has signed a 25 year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, an energy wholesaler servicing 44 electricity cooperatives in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming. This is not Turner's first dealings with First Solar either - the company purchased Turner Renewable Energy LLC, a company funded by Turner, in 2007. Links: ------ http://www.firstsolar.com/en/index.php/ http://www.rechargenews.com/energy/solar/article208714.ece http://www.southerncompany.com/ http://www.sustainablelifemedia.com/content/content/story/strategy/turner_ratcliffe_form_renewable_energy_powerhouse ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Q-amp-A--How-General-Electric-is-Tackling-the-Water-Crisis/4869.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:12:29 GMT Circle of Blue Circle of Blue http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Q-amp-A--How-General-Electric-is-Tackling-the-Water-Crisis/4869.html  _Circle of Blue interviews General Electric Water's Director of marketing Jeff Fulgham._ By Andrew Maddocks Circle of Blue _Director of marketing for General Electric Water Jeff Fulgham is at the forefront of the multi-billion dollar company's conservation plans. Fulgham has to understand the water-energy nexus, as well as the ongoing water rights battles in order to push GE forward. From implementing environment- and bottom line-friendly policies for GE and its clients, to tackling local w Read Full Press release ]]>   _Circle of Blue interviews General Electric Water's Director of marketing Jeff Fulgham._ By Andrew Maddocks Circle of Blue _Director of marketing for General Electric Water Jeff Fulgham is at the forefront of the multi-billion dollar company's conservation plans. Fulgham has to understand the water-energy nexus, as well as the ongoing water rights battles in order to push GE forward. From implementing environment- and bottom line-friendly policies for GE and its clients, to tackling local water shortages across continents, Fulgham reveals how the corporate sector is reshaping its relationship with one of the world's most precious resources._ FROM THE 50,000-FOOT PERSPECTIVE, HOW FAR HAVE WE COME IN THE PAST FOUR OR FIVE YEARS IN THE CORPORATE WATER SECTOR? At a macro level, it's the same basic factors we were looking at four to five years ago, but just on steroids. In particular, this imbalance of supply and demand is the macro driver. Globally we've reached a tipping point, depending on whose data you look at -- global demand now is exceeding supply. In some parts of the world it's much greater than others. What we see is that imbalance is being made up by water reuse, desalination continues growth but at a slower pace than what we saw five years ago, and we're drawing down our reserves. When you look at major reservoirs, whether it's Lake Mead or its peers around the world, we're tapping into reserves, underground aquifers and other places to make up that deficit. We're seeing that becoming more of an issue. So we're working two drivers -- one is trying to reduce that demand, and then create new supplies through things like desalination, water re-use and other technologies. The second piece we see is water quality, which is hitting our customers in two places. They're having lower quality water coming to their asset -- industrial plant, municipality, whatever -- and they're also having to meet more stringent regulations on the discharge side in some places in the world. They're pinched in the middle, at least in the developed world. We still see some challenges in Eastern Europe and other places where policy isn't keeping up, so water quality continues to deteriorate. The third big thing that's really starting to get attention, that didn't have nearly as much five years ago, is water pricing. That's really a driver for the first two megatrends. Water price still is not equivalent to [the resource's] value in most places. It makes it tough to justify some of the investment to improve our situation. It's one of the challenges we run into with beneficial water reuse and really approaching a lot of the development in a smarter way. Customers aren't feeling a cost for their water so they're reluctant to spend money to improve their situation. Tucked into those three big trends are the regulatory components around water quality, water rights issues, and policy in general from an incentive standpoint and penal standpoint. IT'S ONLY RECENTLY THAT THESE PIECES HAVE EVEN BEEN LOOKED AT IN THE SAME UNIVERSE. Yes, that's exactly right. In many parts of the world unfortunately they're still not. As we work with India, we see this total disconnect between the need for power generation growth -- 60,000 megawatts of power needed -- and for wastewater treatment. We're trying to bring some of those bodies together to talk about co-solution here. If you would co-locate a wastewater treatment and rescue plant and use that as source water for your power plant, all of a sudden it's a new game. But it's really hard to bring the right people together in some parts of the world. IS CO-SOLUTION A PIECE OF THE MAJOR TRENDS THAT COULD EMERGE FROM THE ROAD MAP YOU'VE GIVEN US IN THE CORPORATE SECTOR? The energy and water nexus piece, to us, comes in three or four different areas; one is power generation itself. Power continues to be a big hog of water. Depending where you are in the world more than 50 percent of water consumption is going to power generation. So project out 10 to 20 years and the ways we're going to meet the new power generation needs are potentially more water intensive than in the past. In the past there was a lot of once-through cooling in power. While it touched a lot of water, it wasn't that much consumption, and the water was relatively unchanged from front to back. Now we see a lot more consumptive water use. As you look at power generation of the future it's a different mix, and that mix has a different demand on water. That's one piece of the whole power energy nexus. The other piece is to generate fuels we need in the future to meet the broader energy demand. Fuels production is incredibly thirsty. The other piece connected to that is the unconventional gas base. As we see the growth of shale in various gas regions in the U.S., or in Australia, these new sources are very water intensive, in production and recovery and wastewater. You could also push that one step further to coal mining. COULD YOU TALK MORE ABOUT INDIA'S DISCONNECT BETWEEN POWER GENERATION AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT? If you think of it as a country you're missing something; each of the states is so very different. Just from climate to environment you can go from desert to monsoon and everywhere in between. You've got this very dynamic country with very dynamic states with incredibly different philosophies on government, policy everything else. You have very high numbers of people with essentially untreated wastewater. You've got an incredible demand, with food and population growth and everything else. And you have an even greater pinch on the water supplies. You've got all these weird dynamics going on at the same time you have a growing middle and upper class that are demanding water. You've got all these demand-side pieces for both water and energy. What we're struggling with, because there are very independent groups at the federal and state level that address both water and power. It makes it hard to look at kind of a joint solution. I think they're underestimating the impact of the need for water on this power growth. There's a heck of a need for interplay between seeing this as an opportunity, solving this waste problem and at the same time giving yourself a nice sustainable water supply for the power industry. IF YOU WERE TO WALK INTO WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM OR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND DRAW A ROAD MAP FOR FIVE YEARS, WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF THE UNTOLD STORIES THAT MAYBE ARE EMERGING ON THE RADAR? Agriculture is a real challenge. I think of basic things like, why are we subsidizing the price of water for farmers, which removes any desire to reduce consumption, while at the same time not subsidizing low flow or alternate irrigation methods? There's enough data and technology out there proving we could reduce our water needs for irrigation by 50 to 70 percent globally, with technology that's affordable today. But there's no incentive as long as we're subsidizing the price of water, not technology. So, if I were king, I would first address this wacky imbalance of water use for agriculture, for irrigation. As we grow from 6.3 billion to 9 billion people in the next 30-plus years it's only going to get worse. We can attack water consumption in the industrial sector. But even if we cut that in half we only make a dent in the imbalance because of the agricultural demand. I think we have to deploy companies like Toro and John Deere with great low-flow irrigation technologies first. It's also a big vicious circle. As we over irrigate, we wash all the phosphorus-based materials into the lakes and streams. This run-off concern causes water quality challenges, so you end up with this loop that you just can't fix I think we can really get ahead of that. I do think there's greater opportunities in incentives than penalizing. We're working now with the U.S. government for a 30 percent tax credit for instance, for beneficial reuse in an industrial sector, with the right energy footprint. You can't do a total tradeoff with high-energy consumption in order to produce that water. There's this opportunity to incentivize the right behavior rather than smack people when they don't behave. We're big fans of incentive versus mandates, and that type of regulatory policy. So we think investment tax credits that worked in wind could work in water reuse. There are other ways to incentivize municipalities to do the right thing. It doesn't take a lot of investment to go from a municipal wastewater plant that's treating to discharge and clean up tertiary treatment, and purify for beneficial reuse for power or whatever industry. We'd love to see a lot more of that going on rather than dumping back to sea. HOW ARE YOU SEEING GE TAKING ON INTERNAL WATER USE, AND INTERNALIZING YOUR OWN PROCESSES AND THINKING? WHAT ARE YOU LEARNING, AND WHAT CAN OTHER COMPANIES LEARN FROM YOU? We've really aggressively gone after water consumption in our own sites. In May 2008 we committed to reduce our own consumption 20 percent by 2012. We've upped that to 25 percent reduction by 2015. We're already well down that path. We've got about 7,000 rooftops or so around the world, and so we've been working on a step-by-step process across all of our business units looking at the big water consumers. We work very closely with our corporate environmental team, and look at the top 100 water users. Then we do treasure hunt events where we take groups into major water-consuming sites and do a full river-to-river assessment. We look at at all the ways we could reduce consumption from the inlet to the outlet, and look. A lot of this is improving operating procedure, not spending a bunch of money to install a lot of equipment. It's smarter operating. We're also installing water re-use systems, waste water treatment, cooling towers where once-through might have been used, replacing old lime softening with reverse osmosis, much more water-smart systems. We're going plant by plant through this step-by-step process to reduce our own consumption, and we're having a lot of success. WHAT MOTIVATED GE TO CUT ITS OWN WATER USE? It started as the right thing to do to help solve the world's biggest environmental challenges and drive profitable growth for GE. It was a goal that we set just like greenhouse gas reduction and other things. What it's become is the individual plants look at investment and water improvement to have a return on investment that justifies the capital invested. It's brought a lot of real savings which drop right to the bottom line that they weren't necessarily looking at. It gets back to water cost again. One of the big industrial GE plants thought of their water as essentially free. They were drawing it out of a river, and didn't think about paying for the discharge either. In reality, with account pumping costs and labor and everything else, there was a tremendous cost to their water that they weren't really seeing. It wasn't like a water bill that we would see on our home expenses. So when you bring all that to light, it was a fantastic return on investment. YOU APPEAR TO BE IN A UNIQUE POSITION THAT CAN EXTEND LESSONS AND METHODOLOGIES YOU DEVELOP INTERNALLY TO YOUR CLIENTS. It's a lot of work to do that, but people are willing and able. It's definitely beneficial. In some cases GE is almost a tougher customer than most of our customers. We're a very demanding company. We have to have that solid return that meets GE's own financial goals. It's a great process. We've learned a ton working with our own GE plants that we can take to our customers. ARE YOU LOOKING AT ANY ADDITIONAL CONSERVATION TARGETS BEYOND 2015? We're going to walk before we run, but we feel like we can do significantly better. It's kind of low-hanging fruit, and as we look at the next 100 plants, it gets harder and harder. A lot of our assets are commercial buildings. There's not a lot you can do beyond low-flow toilets and that kind of thing. It ends up being very marginal return on the investment. What we're looking at is the large consumers, the big industrial plants. There are literally billions of gallons of water we can reduce, so that's what we're really going after. HOW DO THE HUMAN RIGHTS DIMENSIONS OF WATER FACTOR INTO YOUR WORK WITHIN GE OR WITH CLIENTS? It's a huge deal for us, one that we challenge ourselves with and that we are challenged with. We do quite a bit with GE Foundation. Typically the Foundation gives somewhere around $100 million through health care and various other parts of our business. We're a big part of that. We're giving pure water systems to hospitals in Ghana. So around the world we do philanthropic things. But those aren't long-term sustainable, repeatable things. Those are individual efforts we make to improve lives. What we're trying to do is make a more widespread impact, at that bottom of the pyramid. We have a small, internal board within our water business. We have our monthly reviews, and constantly look for opportunities to work with governments and customers around the world. There's three legs to that stool: One, you have to have technology that honestly is hard for GE at times. We're always trying to take the next frontier of the coolest new technology. In most cases that's not what's needed at the bottom of the pyramid. You need simple to maintain, inexpensive technology. Sometimes it's tough for us because we innovate way at the front end, and we have to think a little bit differently. There's a technology component to it. The second leg of the stool is around funding. There's a lot of funding. We work with a number of big foundations like the Gates Foundation and Tata Foundation in India that are interested in helping this problem, but want to partner up with someone like GE. The third thing we look for is a local entrepreneur on the ground, somebody that has a vested interest and can really make this work. There's 600,000-plus villages in India and 200,000 of those have water quality below human health standards. It's tough to go solve challenges of 200,000 villages. So we're trying to build repeatable, sustainable programs that might be funded by a third party and implement our technologies. But we might also enable a local entrepreneur to install a water kiosk and sell water for a few rupees a day to citizens of that village and make it sustainable, and so you can create a small-business model there. We're looking at water kiosks in China, we've got about 1,000 in India, we're looking at solar-based kiosks that are independent of the grid in Pakistan -- we have a number of projects around the world that are experiments in making these local business models work. ANY OTHER TRENDS YOU'RE SEEING? We're seeing a wonderful trend at the college level. I work quite a bit at schools looking at new talent, and there's a wave of water-based classes and MBAs with an environmental and water background. It was really neat over the last couple years to see interest level rise. People that never would have thought about water or the environment, you know, the Harvard MBA types, are all of a sudden passionate about trying to address this challenge. That's an area that I think is exciting, to see the twenty-somethings care very differently than I know I did when I came out of school. _Andrew Maddocks is a reporter for Circle of Blue. Reach Maddocks at andrew@circleofblue.org. To read more about emerging trends in the world of water click here ._ Links: ------ http://www.circleofblue.org/waternews/2010/world/taking-the-pulse-of-global-freshwater-issues/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/DuPont-CEO-Ellen-Kullman-Talks-Business-at-University-of-Northern-Iowa/4868.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:08:12 GMT DuPont DuPont http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/DuPont-CEO-Ellen-Kullman-Talks-Business-at-University-of-Northern-Iowa/4868.html  DuPont Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman recently spoke at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) as the inaugural speaker in a new distinguished guest lecture series that will feature top corporate leaders. Ellen addresses the audience at the University of Northern Iowa. Ellen discussed how science plays a large role in today's business environment and shared four key leadership behaviors: Engagement. Employees must understand what's important, have support and be aligned around a common goal. Read Full Press release ]]>   DuPont Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman recently spoke at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) as the inaugural speaker in a new distinguished guest lecture series that will feature top corporate leaders. Ellen addresses the audience at the University of Northern Iowa. Ellen discussed how science plays a large role in today's business environment and shared four key leadership behaviors: Engagement. Employees must understand what's important, have support and be aligned around a common goal. Setting the right tone. The leader must set the tone, keeping in mind the company's core values. Being an enabler. Energize and work with people and figure out how to get things done. Accountability. Be accountable for and committed to getting things done. "Mrs. Kullman brought up many of the points we've discussed in my organizational management class. It's nice to hear first-hand how important these things are in the business world," said UNI student Tyler Koenig. Ellen talks with a group of UNI College of Business Administration students. Links: ------ http://www2.dupont.com/Our_Company/en_US/executives/kullman.html http://www.uni.edu/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Update-Clean-Energy-Flowing-In-Greensburg/4867.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:03:05 GMT Brighter Planet Brighter Planet http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Update-Clean-Energy-Flowing-In-Greensburg/4867.html  The answer may be blowin' in the wind, but it's not always easy to find. For Greensburg, Kansas, it took a devastating natural disaster, a visionary commitment by residents, an arduous fund raising effort, and a lengthy planning and building process, to get the clean energy flowing. But that day is finally here. Leveled in 2007 by a EF-5 tornado that destroyed more than 95% of the buildings in this town of 1500 residents, Greensburg vowed to rebuild as the greenest town in America. Now, less t Read Full Press release ]]>   The answer may be blowin' in the wind, but it's not always easy to find. For Greensburg, Kansas, it took a devastating natural disaster, a visionary commitment by residents, an arduous fund raising effort, and a lengthy planning and building process, to get the clean energy flowing. But that day is finally here. Leveled in 2007 by a EF-5 tornado that destroyed more than 95% of the buildings in this town of 1500 residents, Greensburg vowed to rebuild as the greenest town in America. Now, less than three years later, that commitment has paid off as the first of ten massive new wind turbines begin to spin outside town. The Greensburg Wind Farm by NativeEnergy came online this month, and we're thrilled that members of the Brighter Planet community were able to play a key role in making this story a reality. As charter supporters of this wind farm, every Brighter Planet cardholder helped fund its construction every time you swiped your card to buy gas and groceries. Thanks everybody! It's great to see another inspiring example of innovative ways we can come together to build a clean energy future. The ten turbines, each capable of producing up to 1.25 MW of electricity, will provide enough clean energy to power the town several times over -- this allows Brighter Planet members who contributed to the project to claim rights to some of the clean energy produced, with enough left over for the town of Greensburg also to claim carbon neutrality. The sheer scale of these turbines is awesome; each one is as tall as a 35-story building, with blades a long as the wingspan of a Boeing 747. An eyesore for local residents? Quite the contrary -- the only concerns raised during the placement process came from folks who wanted the project located where it could be seen from their homes. Links: ------ http://brighterplanet.com/products/debit_card ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Developing-Climate-Action-Plans/4866.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 07:59:24 GMT International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP) International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP) http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Developing-Climate-Action-Plans/4866.html  MANY BUSINESSES AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS ARE MOVING FORWARD WITH EFFORTS TO UNDERSTAND AND MITIGATE GHG EMISSIONS INSPITE OF THE LACK OF A COMPREHENSIVE NATIONWIDE GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) REDUCTION POLICY AND ASSOCIATED PROTOCOLS. In many cases, this a means to stay ahead of regulation and address global climate change. As numerous organizations have learned the hard way, developing and implementing a climate action plan for the first time can be a daunting and complicated task. Paul Horton will sh Read Full Press release ]]>   MANY BUSINESSES AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS ARE MOVING FORWARD WITH EFFORTS TO UNDERSTAND AND MITIGATE GHG EMISSIONS INSPITE OF THE LACK OF A COMPREHENSIVE NATIONWIDE GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) REDUCTION POLICY AND ASSOCIATED PROTOCOLS. In many cases, this a means to stay ahead of regulation and address global climate change. As numerous organizations have learned the hard way, developing and implementing a climate action plan for the first time can be a daunting and complicated task. Paul Horton will share his expertise and guide you through the key elements of an effective, integrated climate action plan, identify critical stumbling blocks, and provide practical ways to ensure success. THIS COURSE MEETS ON-LINE ON WEDNESDSAYS (APRIL 7, 14, 21, 28) AT 10:00 AM PACIFIC TIME FOR 60-90 MINUTES. Links: ------ http://sustainabilityprofessionals.org/workshop-instructor-paul-horton ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Online-Radio-Show-Dives-into-Catch-Shares/4865.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 07:25:24 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Online-Radio-Show-Dives-into-Catch-Shares/4865.html  March 15, 2010 | Posted by TOM LALLEY Tom Lalley AMANDA LELAND and I were guests on MOIR'S ENVIRONMENTAL DIALOGUES the other day. The host, Rob Moir is the president and executive director of the OCEAN RIVER INSTITUTE . Rob has had an illustrious career as an educator, scientists and environmental activist and wanted to hear from EDF about catch shares. This is an important time for fishing as a new CATCH SHARES POLICY gets underway. Links: ------ http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.EDF.O Read Full Press release ]]>   March 15, 2010 | Posted by TOM LALLEY Tom Lalley AMANDA LELAND and I were guests on MOIR'S ENVIRONMENTAL DIALOGUES the other day. The host, Rob Moir is the president and executive director of the OCEAN RIVER INSTITUTE . Rob has had an illustrious career as an educator, scientists and environmental activist and wanted to hear from EDF about catch shares. This is an important time for fishing as a new CATCH SHARES POLICY gets underway. Links: ------ http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.EDF.ORG/PAGE.CFM?TAGID=79 http://blogs.edf.org/edfish/files/2010/03/Tom-Lalley-with-fish.jpg http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.EDF.ORG/PAGE.CFM?TAGID=11755 http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.VOICEAMERICA.COM/VOICEAMERICA/VEPISODE.ASPX?AID=45032 http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.OCEANRIVER.ORG/INDEX.PHP http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.EDF.ORG/PAGE.CFM?TAGID=48250 ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/How-Much-Water-Does-the-Delta-Need-State-Board-Set-to-Hold-Hearing/4864.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 07:14:11 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/How-Much-Water-Does-the-Delta-Need-State-Board-Set-to-Hold-Hearing/4864.html  March 15, 2010 | Posted by MARK HITCHCOCK _ Mark Hitchcock is a Legal Fellow at EDF._ EDF supported the 2009 water policy reform package passed by the California legislature, but we have always maintained that the true test of the legislation will be how effectively its provisions are implemented. An early test of the legislation begins on March 22-24, when the State Water Resources Control Board ("SWRCB") will hold a public hearing to develop flow criteria for the Sacramento - San Joaquin D Read Full Press release ]]>   March 15, 2010 | Posted by MARK HITCHCOCK _ Mark Hitchcock is a Legal Fellow at EDF._ EDF supported the 2009 water policy reform package passed by the California legislature, but we have always maintained that the true test of the legislation will be how effectively its provisions are implemented. An early test of the legislation begins on March 22-24, when the State Water Resources Control Board ("SWRCB") will hold a public hearing to develop flow criteria for the Sacramento - San Joaquin Delta. The hearing is an immensely important opportunity for the SWRCB to determine how much water is needed in the Delta to restore and protect its natural resources. The Legislation The hearing is a central part of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Reform Act of 2009 ("Reform Act'), one piece of the five water reform bills passed in November, 2009. The Reform Act established a new governance structure for state agencies responsible for the Delta with the goal of managing the Delta in sustainable way. The bill created a new Water Code 85086 that directs the SWRCB to, "pursuant to its public trust obligations, develop new flow criteria for the Delta ecosystem necessary to protect public trust resources." Under the public trust doctrine, the SWRCB is entrusted with protecting the Delta's aquatic resources for the benefit of the people of California. The doctrine protects a wide-range of Delta uses, including "navigation, fishing, recreation, ecology and aesthetics ." Thus, the Reform Act charges the SWRCB with developing flow levels that will ensure the biological health of the Delta estuary. Keys to Success: * Public Participation: The legislation requires that "[t]he flow criteria shall be developed in a public process" and that the hearing "shall provide an opportunity for all interested persons to participate." Twenty-four parties submitted testimony to the SWRCB and will participate in the hearing, including state and federal agencies, cities, water districts and environmental groups. * Use of the Best Available Scientific Data: The legislation requires the SWRCB to use the "best available scientific information" in its assessment of the Delta's needs. This means that the SWRCB should rely on the most recent and rigorously peer-reviewed studies relevant to the Delta ecosystem. It does not mean that the SWRCB should adopt "certainty" as its evidentiary standard. * Focus on the Specific Needs of the Delta: The legislation requires the SWRCB to focus on the basic flow requirements needed for a healthy Bay-Delta ecosystem without considering, at this point, how such flows would be implemented or the potential water supply impacts of such implementation. Indeed, the legislation is explicit that no water rights can be affected by the Board's public trust flow determination unless and until a full adjudicatory water right proceeding is held at a later date Links to a Successful Bay Delta Conservation Plan A key benefit to having the State Board address public trust flow needs at this point is to allow the timely incorporation of its recommendations into the Bay-Delta Conservation Plan ("BDCP"). As my colleague Ann Hayden noted , the BDCP Steering Committee has struggled to determine the instream flows needed to protect and recover the ecosystem, and this flows determination will be important information that must be incorporated into the BDCP before the plan is finalized later this year. As the BDCP Steering Committee analyzes the biological effects of a new conveyance, it is essential that the needs of the Delta ecosystem be fully taken into account. It's Time to Get These Flows Right With falling fish populations and the viability of the Delta ecosystem increasingly in question, the time is overdue to establish policies that guarantee a healthy and sustainable Delta ecosystem. That was one of the fundamental goals of 2009 water reform legislation, and now it is up to the SWRCB to restore the public's trust and show that the legislation will truly be implemented in a manner that sets California on a path to long-term water solutions. Links: ------ http://blogs.edf.org/waterfront/2009/11/04/water-policy-reform-package-is-good-for-california/#more-365 http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/waterrights/water_issues/programs/bay_delta/deltaflow/docs/notice121609.pdf http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/waterrights/water_issues/programs/bay_delta/deltaflow/docs/notice_rev012910.pdf http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/09-10/bill/sen/sb_0001-0050/sbx7_1_bill_20091112_chaptered.pdf http://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=5293103314594063658&q=227+Cal.+Rptr.+161&hl=en&as_sdt=2002 http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/waterrights/water_issues/programs/bay_delta/deltaflow/entity_index.shtml http://blogs.edf.org/waterfront/2009/11/11/no-slam-dunk-for-the-peripheral-canal/#more-374 ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Strategy-and-the-Commons/4863.html Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:41:20 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Strategy-and-the-Commons/4863.html  March 16, 2010 | Posted by JERRY MICHALSKI Our inaugural EDFix module has focused on the Commons, with calls about governing the Commons , sharing green patents , bottom-up problem solving of global problems, life cycle cost analysis and most recently a dive into sharing data among health care institutions . Our guests have been stellar. Shortly we'll shift to a module about the green opportunities in vehicle fleets, but before we do, let's see what insights about our interactions with the C Read Full Press release ]]>   March 16, 2010 | Posted by JERRY MICHALSKI Our inaugural EDFix module has focused on the Commons, with calls about governing the Commons , sharing green patents , bottom-up problem solving of global problems, life cycle cost analysis and most recently a dive into sharing data among health care institutions . Our guests have been stellar. Shortly we'll shift to a module about the green opportunities in vehicle fleets, but before we do, let's see what insights about our interactions with the Commons we might apply to organizational strategy. Our guest for this next call, Silke Helfrich, brings deep insights about the Commons from a German perspective. She first got our attention with this Commons Manifesto and a simpler post on Shareable.net. We'll focus this call on Silke's article "The commons as a common paradigm for social movements and beyond " and discuss why and how the concept of the Commons might matter to sustainable business. Please join us on Monday, March 22, 2010 at noon ET (9am PT) for the call: Phone number: +1 (213) 289-0500 Code: 267-6815 Links: ------ http://blogs.edf.org/innovation/edfix-calls/ http://blogs.edf.org/innovation/2010/01/21/edfix-call-5-governing-the-commons/ http://blogs.edf.org/innovation/2010/02/02/edfix-call-6-greenxchange-nike-davos/ http://blogs.edf.org/innovation/2010/02/18/edfix-call-7-bottom-up-global-problem-solving/ http://blogs.edf.org/innovation/2010/01/05/edfix-call-4-open-data-and-what-are-srigs/ http://blogs.edf.org/innovation/2010/02/28/edfix-call-8-open-source-processes-in-business/ http://commonsblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/17/commons-manifesto-strenghten-the-commons-now/ http://shareable.net/blog/web-of-life?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter http://commonsblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/28/the-commons-as-a-common-paradigm-for-social-movements-and-beyond/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Speaker-Spotlight--Alexandra-Kent--Civic-Ventures/4862.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:50:17 GMT Social Enterprise Alliance Social Enterprise Alliance http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Speaker-Spotlight--Alexandra-Kent--Civic-Ventures/4862.html  ONE OF THE STRENGTHS OF THE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE SUMMIT IS THE DIVERSITY OF THE ATTENDEES AND THE PEOPLE THEY SERVE, INCLUDING A DIVERSITY OF AGES. Civic Ventures focuses on engaging millions of baby boomers as a vital workforce for change. ALEXANDRA CSPEDES KENT, A SPEAKER AT THE SUMMIT, is Director for the Purpose Prize at Civic Ventures. The Purpose Prize offers $100,000 in awards for social innovators over 60 creating new methods for solving the worlds biggest problems. The Purpose Prize is a Read Full Press release ]]>   ONE OF THE STRENGTHS OF THE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE SUMMIT IS THE DIVERSITY OF THE ATTENDEES AND THE PEOPLE THEY SERVE, INCLUDING A DIVERSITY OF AGES. Civic Ventures focuses on engaging millions of baby boomers as a vital workforce for change. ALEXANDRA CSPEDES KENT, A SPEAKER AT THE SUMMIT, is Director for the Purpose Prize at Civic Ventures. The Purpose Prize offers $100,000 in awards for social innovators over 60 creating new methods for solving the worlds biggest problems. The Purpose Prize is awarded to individuals who discover new opportunities, invent new programs and foster lasting social change. Prior to coming to Civic Ventures, Alexandra promoted civic leadership and financial literacy. She directed community programs for the Coro Center for Civic Leadership, where she designed and facilitated intensive leadership programs for groups of teens, working professionals, retirees and partner institutions, including the University of California at San Francisco. At Juma Ventures, a social enterprise employing low-income teens, Alexandra managed the nation's largest Individual Development Account (IDA) Program and implemented the local arm of SEED, a national policy demonstration testing the feasibility of a matched savings account system for children. Alexandra currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Treasure Island Homeless Development Initiative. We are so excited to see Alexandra speak in April. If you have not yet registered for the summit, you can register here and get updates at twitter.com/socent10 . Links: ------ http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://SE-ALLIANCE.ORG/SUMMIT.CFM http://www.civicventures.org/ http://www.encore.org/prize http://se-alliance.org/summit_10registration.cfm http://twitter.com/socent10 ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Distribution-of-Solar-Lamps-Begins-in-Mali/4861.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:47:41 GMT Center for Financial Inclusion Center for Financial Inclusion http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Distribution-of-Solar-Lamps-Begins-in-Mali/4861.html  We are pleased to announce that today, on March 15th, the Center's Energy Links Project received its first batch of 400 Solar Kits delivered to Bamako, Mali, and that distribution operations are beginning as we speak. This milestone comes at the heels of a year of efforts in identifying the right partners to establish a commercial venture and play the roles of importer and distributors. Energy Links has recently entered an agreement with HORONYA, a leading importer of solar material in Mali. The Read Full Press release ]]>   We are pleased to announce that today, on March 15th, the Center's Energy Links Project received its first batch of 400 Solar Kits delivered to Bamako, Mali, and that distribution operations are beginning as we speak. This milestone comes at the heels of a year of efforts in identifying the right partners to establish a commercial venture and play the roles of importer and distributors. Energy Links has recently entered an agreement with HORONYA, a leading importer of solar material in Mali. The fifteen year-old company that had the desire to make solar solutions available to poor Malian households and it will be supported in this endeavor by a range of MFIs and NGOs with a network of savings groups as its retail channel, in particular to reach remote rural areas and off-grid households. Each kit contains two LED lamps, a small, portable solar panel and a cell phone charger. Best of all, each kit will be sold for less than US $25! We understand that the price is within the purchasing power of most clients, but some will need a loan from their savings groups while a few others will be able to pay cash. With 800 solar lamps on the ground and in Malian households, we are excited to bring improvements to people's life by offering a LOW COST, FUEL EFFICIENT, HEALTH FRIENDLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY LIGHTING SOURCE. To learn more about the Center's Energy Links Project > Links: ------ http://www.centerforfinancialinclusion.org/Page.aspx?pid=1314 ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/-quot-The-Responsibility-Revolution-quot--a-New-Book-by-Seventh-Generation-Co-Founder-Jeffrey-Hollender/4860.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:43:15 GMT Seventh Generation Seventh Generation http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/-quot-The-Responsibility-Revolution-quot--a-New-Book-by-Seventh-Generation-Co-Founder-Jeffrey-Hollender/4860.html  On the one-year anniversary of the collapse of Lehman Brothers, President Obama summoned corporate America "to a new era of responsibility." Considering this year's low point in values, the growing mistrust of business, and the decline of brand loyalty, we have no choice but to rethink corporate responsibility and discover new ways to get past green washing and lip service and to seize on sustainability as a source of innovation. The costs of not doing better at doing good are too high. "THE R Read Full Press release ]]>   On the one-year anniversary of the collapse of Lehman Brothers, President Obama summoned corporate America "to a new era of responsibility." Considering this year's low point in values, the growing mistrust of business, and the decline of brand loyalty, we have no choice but to rethink corporate responsibility and discover new ways to get past green washing and lip service and to seize on sustainability as a source of innovation. The costs of not doing better at doing good are too high. "THE RESPONSIBILITY REVOLUTION: How the Next Generation of Businesses Will Win" (Jossey Bass; March 15, 2010. $27.95), argues that for too long, our definition of what constitutes "responsible" corporate behavior has been dangerously timid. To confront the economy's and society's daunting challenges, companies must do more than monitor factories, donate to charities, and trumpet efforts to be a little less bad. The responsibility revolution is about reimaging companies from within: innovating new ways of working; instilling a new logic of competing; redefining the very purpose and possibility of business. Written by Jeffrey Hollender, co-founder and chairman of Seventh Generation, the country's leading brand of non-toxic household products and a pioneering "good company," and Bill Breen, the co-author with Gary Hamel of "The Future of Management," this blueprint for CSR 2.0 tells how revolutionary companies -- ranging from industry heavyweights like IBM, Nike and British merchandising giant Marks insurgent good companies focus on innovation rather than reputation. Nike harnesses the creativity of its designers through the Considered Index, which rates the ingredients for each product and suggests more sustainable alternatives. The 2009 Air Jordan XX3 is the first version of Nike's most celebrated sneaker to marry sustainability and performance -- and is expected to sell 500,000 pairs. These and many more actionable strategies from the book will help businesses large and small win the race to the future. In fact, a recent study by A.T. Kearney found that during the recession, companies authentically committed to sustainability outperformed their industry peers by an average of 15%, adding an average of $650 million to their market capitalization. As the economy improves, doing good will be the key to doing well. Why? Because authentically responsible companies outdo their competitors at confronting the transformational forces that are changing the way business is done today: The growing army of activist consumers and watchdog non-governmental organizations, who expect global brands to promote social well-being; A talent war for A+ employees who demand a karmic paycheck in addition to their salary; Stakeholders who are pressuring institutional investors to adopt a responsible investing strategy; Global climate change is forcing business to confront a world of scarcer resources and a swarm of new regulations. With Internet-savvy customers scrutinizing companies' activities and organizing boycotts at the slightest sign of misbehavior, "bad" businesses have nowhere to hide. Fringe notions that business should be environmentally and socially sustainable have moved to the mainstream -- and the business landscape has been fundamentally transformed. In an entertaining and inspiring read, Hollender and Breen show that those companies that effectively commit to a genuine socially and environmentally responsible business and culture will land on the upside of the change curve and create real, sustainable value. ABOUT THE AUTHORS: JEFFREY HOLLENDER is the co-founder, Executive Chairman and Chief Inspired Protagonist of Seventh Generation Inc. His blog, Inspired Protagonist, is a closely-followed resource spotlighting socially responsible business practices on the global stage. He has led Seventh Generation from its humble beginnings to its current position as the nation's fastest growing brand of natural home and personal-care products. As a leading authority on issues related to green consumerism, he frequently addresses social and environmental responsibility issues at national and international venues. He co-founded and was a director of Community Capital Bank, a New York financial institution that invests in affordable housing and community development. He serves on the Board of Directors of Greenpeace USA, Healthy Child Healthy World, Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility, the Environmental Health Fund, Verite, and Alloy Inc. He's also helping to build the American Sustainable Business Council, a national coalition of over 150,000 executives and entrepreneurs who are working to create a more equitable and sustainable economy. BILL BREEN is Seventh Generation's editorial director and the co-author, with Gary Hamel, of "The Future of Management," which was selected by Amazon.com as the best business book of 2007. He was the founding senior editor on the original team that launched Fast Company, where he led the launch of its special issue on design and wrote some of the magazine's most talked about articles on leadership, competition, innovation, and risk. He speaks to business audiences throughout the country and has appeared on CNN, Fox, CBS Radio, National Public Radio, and other media outlets. ABOUT THE BOOK: THE RESPONSIBILITY REVOLUTION _How the Next Generation of Businesses Will Win_ Jossey-Bass March 15, 2010; $27.95; 240 pages ISBN: 978-0470558423 For more information, please contact: Meghan Butler Seventh Generation Phone: (802) 658-3773 Mark Fortier Fortier Public Relations Phone: 212-675-6460 Links: ------ mailto:meb@seventhgeneration.com mailto:mark@fortierpr.com ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Seventh-Generation-Partners-With-Author-Alexandra-Zissu/4859.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:41:30 GMT Seventh Generation Seventh Generation http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Seventh-Generation-Partners-With-Author-Alexandra-Zissu/4859.html  It's that time of year again, time to pick up your cleaning supplies to give your house a good scrub down for spring. But not so fast, before you reach for your favorite cleaning product, there's a new line of household disinfectant wipes and sprays on store shelves that "kill germs_*_ naturally" with the help of botanically pure plant extracts. Seventh Generation, the company that has lead the "responsible cleaning" charge for the past twenty years, is tapping into the disinfecting power of t Read Full Press release ]]>   It's that time of year again, time to pick up your cleaning supplies to give your house a good scrub down for spring. But not so fast, before you reach for your favorite cleaning product, there's a new line of household disinfectant wipes and sprays on store shelves that "kill germs_*_ naturally" with the help of botanically pure plant extracts. Seventh Generation, the company that has lead the "responsible cleaning" charge for the past twenty years, is tapping into the disinfecting power of the herb thyme, to introduce an EPA registered disinfectant that kills germs_*_ naturally! The company is also partnering with eco-lifestyle consultant and author of "The Conscious Kitchen" (March 2010, Clarkson Potter/ Publishers), Alexandra Zissu, to educate consumers about no compromise solutions to clean their homes. "Parents are in information overload and afraid that we're not doing enough to keep our families healthy," said Zissu. "Now there is a simple choice with Seventh Generation's new botanical disinfectant that kills germs_*_ naturally." Here's some food for thought, 37 percent of parents buy organic produce when available (according to a survey conducted by Harris Interactive and commissioned by Seventh Generation), yet most will put that organic produce on a surface that was cleaned with cleaning products that may contain harsh chemicals. "I make a conscious choice to avoid food grown with chemical pesticides. So when it comes to cleaning my kitchen, I make a similar effort," said Zissu. "Cleaning product residues can remain on surfaces post-scrubbing. I don't want those getting on my carefully sourced organic chicken! This is easily avoided by using a botanical disinfecting cleaner that doesn't need a rinse step." Here are a few of Zissu's other tips for maintaining a healthy kitchen: HOME IS WHERE THE CLEAN IS Your standard cleaners are good for removing soils and dirt from kitchen surfaces, but to tackle germs you need a cleaner that is effective against bacteria and viruses. Many cleaners contain ingredients that have antimicrobial properties such as vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, but the germ killing power of these is not necessarily guaranteed. To be sure you are killing germs, use an EPA registered disinfectant. Seventh Generation tapped into the disinfecting power of the common garden herb thyme, to create a disinfecting cleaner that is EPA registered to kill germs_*_naturally. SEVENTH GENERATION GREEN KITCHEN TIPS... ADD ONE _CHANGE IS GOOD___ Choosing cleaning products without indoor air pollutants like volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, is a simple and effective way to reduce your indoor air pollution. How do you tell if the product you're using contains a VOC? If it has that "clean" smell, chances are that the smell is actually chemicals that can be dangerous to our health. _THINK BEFORE YOU SPRAY___ Residues from cleaning products can last on a surface for a long time and travel to areas that we do not intend them to. Don't contaminate your food by prepping it on a surface that may contain harsh chemical residues -- rinse cleaning products from food preparation surfaces carefully or use botanical disinfecting cleaners that do not require a rinse step. _MAKE THE OLD NEW AGAIN___ Think twice about the items that you're using to clean and dry your kitchen equipment and dishes. Use rags (like old t-shirts and washcloths) instead of paper towels. If you aren't prepared to kick your paper towel addiction just yet, use only recycled versions that are unbleached or haven't been whitened with chemicals containing chlorine. _THE WRITING IS ON THE... SPONGE___ Be sure to read the fine print on sponges and do not purchase antimicrobial sponges, as they might have been treated with pesticides. Remember to store sponges in a dry place and frequently clean them by popping wet sponges in a microwave for two minutes or boiling sponges for three minutes in water. _MOM WAS RIGHT, WASH YOUR HANDS_ Wash your hands with soap and water before and after prepping food, and always before eating. So much of what can be potentially harmful in a kitchen can be reduced by this simple act that doesn't require any harsh chemicals whatsoever. Seventh Generation's disinfecting sprays and wipes are the first disinfecting cleaners to meet Whole Foods Market's stringent ingredient standards. The active ingredient in the line is thymol, a component of thyme oil which is derived from the herb thyme With the help of breakthrough technology developed by CleanWell Company, the power of this popular herb has been harnessed into a product that is effective against Influenza A Virus including H1N1 and other germs_*_. The four-SKU disinfectant line available for retail shelves in February 2010 includes: Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner, 26oz (MSRP $2.99 - $3.99) Seventh Generation Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner, 26oz (MSRP $2.99 - 3.99) Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes, 35-count canister (MSRP $2.99 - $3.99) Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes, 70-count canister (MSRP $4.99 - $6.69) Retailers expected to introduce the new product line include Whole Foods Market, Target, Kroger, Publix, Super Valu, Stop margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; clear: both;"> For more information, please contact: Erin Bobal Phone: (212) 938-0166 Website: www.seventhgeneration.com Meghan Butler Phone: (802) 540-3519 Website: www.seventhgeneration.com Links: ------ http://www.seventhgeneration.com/ http://www.seventhgeneration.com/corporate-responsibility/2008 http://www.cleanwelltoday.com/ mailto: mailto:ebobal@coynepr.com http://www.seventhgeneration.com/ mailto:meb@seventhgeneration.com http://www.seventhgeneration.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/The-Katrina-chronicles--Formaldehyde-laced-trailers-set-to-claim-another-set-of-victims/4858.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:35:53 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/The-Katrina-chronicles--Formaldehyde-laced-trailers-set-to-claim-another-set-of-victims/4858.html  The Washington Post ran a front-page article Saturday , written by Spencer Hsu, which reported the auction sale by FEMA of most of the 120,000 notorious formaldehyde-tainted trailers it had purchased five years ago to house the victims of Hurricane Katrina. The article cites FEMA as saying that "wholesale buyers from the auction must sign contracts attesting that trailers will not be used, sold or advertised as housing, and that trailers will carry a sticker saying, 'Not to be used for housing Read Full Press release ]]>   The Washington Post ran a front-page article Saturday , written by Spencer Hsu, which reported the auction sale by FEMA of most of the 120,000 notorious formaldehyde-tainted trailers it had purchased five years ago to house the victims of Hurricane Katrina. The article cites FEMA as saying that "wholesale buyers from the auction must sign contracts attesting that trailers will not be used, sold or advertised as housing, and that trailers will carry a sticker saying, 'Not to be used for housing'." Think that's likely to be enough? Think again. Consider this excerpt from a consumer alert issued by the Attorney General of Arkansas, Dustin McDaniel: "Proceed with caution, extreme caution, if you are tempted to respond to what appears to be an attractive offer for a travel trailer or manufactured home." He and others pointed to the high likelihood that the trailers will now enter a market where they may be sold and resold repeatedly and the warning label removed or ignored. Hsu cites one woman who several years ago purchased a trailer for her son - days before all the publicity broke about dangerous levels of formaldehyde. Now she's worried about him keeping the trailer, but also has qualms about selling it to someone else. "This is like history repeating itself," she said. "People are all going to buy them, move into them and then start getting sick." Some buyers appear to have fewer qualms: The highest bidder for the FEMA trailers says he already has buyers - retailers who intend to resell the trailers - for the 15,000 units he bought at auction, adding that formaldehyde is a "non-topic" that his buyers don't even ask about. This story vividly illustrates just how enduring the lifecycles of dangerous chemicals can be when our policies let chemicals get so deeply embedded into commerce without requiring they be shown to be safe. It's not an isolated incident. In another recent front page Washington Post article , Lyndsay Layton documented the difficulties faced by the food industry in trying to replace a chemical used to make the lining used inside virtually every food can sold in America. That chemical is bisphenol A (BPA) - a hormone-like compound which is found in the bodies of 93% of the American public, and is now suspected of interfering with human reproduction and early development. Some 6 billion pounds of BPA are produced annually. But back to formaldehyde, an estimated 46 billion pounds of which are made annually. TSCA SHARES THE BLAME A year ago, in the House of Representatives' first oversight hearing on the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in decades, I testified about how the structural flaws in this 34-year-old law played a key role in allowing those FEMA trailers to be built and to deliver a second knock-out blow to Katrina victims. The FEMA trailers were made using plywood imported from China. That plywood is made using adhesives that release high levels of formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. China makes a low-formaldehyde product for export to Europe and Japan, and even for domestic use in China, because in those markets there are regulatory limits in place. But they have a ready market here in the U.S. for the cheaper, more dangerous plywood because we have no such restrictions. That plywood ended up in the FEMA trailers - and continues to be sold into countless other markets across the country. In 2008, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was petitioned under TSCA to regulate this use of formaldehyde. It denied the petition, citing its insufficient legal authority under TSCA and saying that further study is needed. Meanwhile, the tainted trailers live on and are now slated to expose yet another group of unwitting victims as they descend to the next sad stage in their lifecycle. Ironically, unique among all federal environmental laws, TSCA is supposed to give EPA the ability to reduce risk along the entire lifecycle of a chemical, from its production and distribution, through its use and all the way to disposal of products containing it. But TSCA made actually exercising any of that authority dependent on EPA proving a chemical presents an "unreasonable risk," something it was unable to do even for asbestos back in 1991, and which it has never tried again. It's long past time we had a federal law that gives EPA the power to protect Americans from dangerous chemicals already on the market - and to prevent future repeats of episodes like the FEMA trailer debacle. That will only happen when producers are compelled to prove their chemicals are safe as a condition for entering or remaining in commerce. I urge you to join the _SAFER CHEMICALS, HEALTHY FAMILIES _ campaign in pressing for real reform of TSCA that will serve the next generation of Americans far better than it did the last. And tell your members of Congress to do the same. Links: ------ http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/12/AR2010031202213_pf.html http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/22/AR2010022204830.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formaldehyde http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=12814 http://www.justmeans.com/HTTP://WWW.SAFERCHEMICALS.ORG/ https://secure2.edf.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1640 ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Is-it-Patriotic-to-Prop-Up-Your-Home/4857.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:33:25 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Is-it-Patriotic-to-Prop-Up-Your-Home/4857.html  Source: Capitol City Scaffolding padding: 0px; float: right; width: 310px;"> Source: Home Performance Resource Center Given the potential synergies between home efficiency repairs and home elevation (something we've mentioned before on our blog ), a campaign to benefit construction and bolster household resilience could also boost jobs in domestic manufacturing. With more than one out of every fourteen Louisiana jobs in the manufacturing sector , this work would provide a stimulus for bot Read Full Press release ]]>   Source: Capitol City Scaffolding padding: 0px; float: right; width: 310px;"> Source: Home Performance Resource Center Given the potential synergies between home efficiency repairs and home elevation (something we've mentioned before on our blog ), a campaign to benefit construction and bolster household resilience could also boost jobs in domestic manufacturing. With more than one out of every fourteen Louisiana jobs in the manufacturing sector , this work would provide a stimulus for both installation contractors and industrial companies in the Pelican State. It's all the more reason whythe proposed HOME STAR program should take the logical step of including home elevation within eligible activities for weatherization grants. Wouldn't that be something to celebrate this Fourth of July? Links: ------ http://blogs.edf.org/restorationandresilience/files/2010/03/031210-American-Flag-Hardhat.jpg http://www.hprcenter.org/publications/domestic_manufacturing_shares.pdf http://www.hprcenter.org/ http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/03/12/made-in-the-u-s-a-efficiency-materials/ http://www.census.gov/econ/census07/ http://www.usitc.gov/publications/332/ITS_4.pdf http://blogs.edf.org/restorationandresilience/files/2010/03/031510-Domestic-versus-Foreign-Home-Repair-Inputs-UPDATED.jpg http://blogs.edf.org/restorationandresilience/2010/02/23/can-a-jobs-bill-increase-resilience-in-louisiana/ http://www.bls.gov/sae/eetables/saetableb7.pdf http://www.cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/03/05/obama.energy/index.html?section=cnn_latest ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/How-to-Clean-Up-Freight-See-our-New-Report--quot-The-Good-Haul-quot-/4856.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:30:16 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/How-to-Clean-Up-Freight-See-our-New-Report--quot-The-Good-Haul-quot-/4856.html  Today, we released _The Good Haul_ , a report that highlights how clean freight innovations improve reliability, while also reducing freight-related health and environmental risks. The U.S. freight system needs to be modernized in a way that reduces environmental impacts. _THE GOOD HAUL_ [PDF] PROFILES 28 PROJECTS, PROGRAMS, AND TECHNOLOGIES around the U.S. and internationally that do just that. That is, they have simultaneously increased freight reliability while lowering air pollution and gr Read Full Press release ]]>   Today, we released _The Good Haul_ , a report that highlights how clean freight innovations improve reliability, while also reducing freight-related health and environmental risks. The U.S. freight system needs to be modernized in a way that reduces environmental impacts. _THE GOOD HAUL_ [PDF] PROFILES 28 PROJECTS, PROGRAMS, AND TECHNOLOGIES around the U.S. and internationally that do just that. That is, they have simultaneously increased freight reliability while lowering air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. These cases studies include practice changes, like eco-driving , as well as new technologies, like the Port of Virginia's hybrid diesel locomotive . The case studies also include large, planned freight hub clean up projects, such as the CREATE program in Chicago and the Clean Air Action Plan at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. NONE OF THE PROJECTS HIGHLIGHTED IN_ THE GOOD HAUL_ARE INDUSTRY STANDARDS OR HAVE BEEN ADOPTED BROADLY, BUT THEY OUGHT TO BE. Funding is one of the barriers to widespread adoption of these practices, technologies and projects. Smart, directed, public investments that demand a better freight transportation system that _also_ reduce pollution, can chip away at this barrier. The federal transportation bill now being drafted by Congress is one place to begin this smart approach. FREIGHT IS THE FASTEST GROWING TRANSPORTATION SECTOR, and as we discussed in a post last week , pollution from freight--everything from trucks to tugboats to rail locomotives--is a huge health and environmental challenge. Over the next few weeks, we'll profile several of the innovations highlighted in our report. STAY TUNED FOR EXAMPLES that prove that that U.S. freight system can be cleaner _and_ more efficient at the same time. Links: ------ http://www.edf.org/goodhaul http://www.edf.org/documents/10881_EDF_report_TheGoodHaul.pdf http://blogs.edf.org/transportation/2010/02/01/video-with-vehicle-fleets-small-changes-add-up/ http://www.portofvirginia.com/media/15486/pr-green%20goat.pdf http://createprogram.org/ http://www.cleanairactionplan.org/ http://blogs.edf.org/transportation/2010/03/01/we-gotta-clean-up-freight-transportation%e2%80%99s-hidden-cost-to-health-and-the-planet/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/72-Hour-Campaign-Generates-300-000-Calls/4855.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:27:04 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/72-Hour-Campaign-Generates-300-000-Calls/4855.html  Our regular readers will remember this recent post about the launch of our 72 HOURS FOR CLEAN AMERICAN POWER calling campaign. EDF joined forces with 10 fellow environmental organizations to flood the Senate with calls demanding action on climate change legislation. We're happy to say the campaign was a big success. An amazing 300,000 OF YOU CALLED OUR SENATE HOTLINEduring those 72-hours. We can't thank you enough for your efforts. You made sure that the Senate got your message: America need Read Full Press release ]]>   Our regular readers will remember this recent post about the launch of our 72 HOURS FOR CLEAN AMERICAN POWER calling campaign. EDF joined forces with 10 fellow environmental organizations to flood the Senate with calls demanding action on climate change legislation. We're happy to say the campaign was a big success. An amazing 300,000 OF YOU CALLED OUR SENATE HOTLINEduring those 72-hours. We can't thank you enough for your efforts. You made sure that the Senate got your message: America needs a comprehensive climate and clean energy bill, and we need it now. Lots of you have told us that you'd like to do even more. Keep in mind that our 100,000 letter campaign is still going on. You can make sure your Senators get the same message in writing -- that a climate and clean energy bill should be a national priority. Links: ------ http://blogs.edf.org/climate411/2010/03/02/72-hours-thousands-of-calls/ http://blogs.edf.org/climate411/2010/02/23/help-edaf-get-100000-letters-for-climate-action/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Girl-Scouts-Honor-DuPont-CEO-as-Woman-of-Distinction/4854.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:22:08 GMT DuPont DuPont http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Girl-Scouts-Honor-DuPont-CEO-as-Woman-of-Distinction/4854.html  The Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay Council (GSCBC) and the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) recently presented the coveted 2010 Woman of Distinction award to DuPont Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman , a former Girl Scout. "I am honored to receive this award from the Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay Council," said Ellen. "Through participation in Girl Scouts I learned important life skills, such as the value of teamwork, that have helped me every day in my working life." The Women of Distinction Read Full Press release ]]>   The Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay Council (GSCBC) and the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) recently presented the coveted 2010 Woman of Distinction award to DuPont Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman , a former Girl Scout. "I am honored to receive this award from the Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay Council," said Ellen. "Through participation in Girl Scouts I learned important life skills, such as the value of teamwork, that have helped me every day in my working life." The Women of Distinction program was founded in 2000 to honor Delaware women who have made significant contributions to their companies and communities. Each of the program's honorees have helped shape the professional landscape for Delaware women, improved their communities through philanthropy and community service, and paved the way for future female leaders. The women have lived by the Girl Scout Promise and Law, which embody universal values of service, hard work, honesty, integrity and patriotism. Ellen answers questions from Girl Scouts during roundtable discussions. Ellen with Girl Scouts who participated in the roundtable discussions. This year's program featured a public "conversation" segment in which Ellen answered questions submitted by Girl Scouts from throughout the Delmarva Peninsula. It also debuted pre-event roundtable discussions with 65 Girl Scouts, led by both Ellen and GSUSA CEO KATHY CLONINGER. The roundtables enabled the Girl Scouts to ask questions of these successful businesswomen directly related to life careers. To see the video, "DuPont CEO Encourages Area Girl Scouts," from 1150AM WDEL radio, in Wilmington, Del., click here . ANNE HOGAN, CEO of GSCBC, said Ellen's achievements in science, technology, engineering and mathematics are an inspiration to girls who wish to pursue careers in the sciences. "Ellen Kullman aptly embodies the New Girl Scouts Leadership Experience, which teaches girls to discover more about themselves and their abilities, to connect and collaborate with others, and to take action with courage and confidence to make the world a better place," Anne said. Links: ------ http://www.girlscouts.org/ http://www2.dupont.com/Our_Company/en_US/executives/kullman.html http://www.wdel.com/video.php ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/First-Affirmative-Kicks-Off-2010-BaseCamp-SRI-Conference-Series/4853.html Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:27:18 GMT First Affirmative Financial Network First Affirmative Financial Network http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/First-Affirmative-Kicks-Off-2010-BaseCamp-SRI-Conference-Series/4853.html  COLORADO SPRINGS--MARCH 16, 2009--First Affirmative Financial Network, the leading provider of investment management and consulting services to financial advisors and their socially conscious clients, has announced the launch of the 2010 BaseCamp SRI conference series. The regional mini-conferences are designed to refresh the perspective of financial professionals who work with or wish to work with investors who want their money doing double duty: making money and making a difference. The fi Read Full Press release ]]>   COLORADO SPRINGS--MARCH 16, 2009--First Affirmative Financial Network, the leading provider of investment management and consulting services to financial advisors and their socially conscious clients, has announced the launch of the 2010 BaseCamp SRI conference series. The regional mini-conferences are designed to refresh the perspective of financial professionals who work with or wish to work with investors who want their money doing double duty: making money and making a difference. The five-city series starts in San Francisco on March 23rd, with subsequent stops in Portland on April 20th, Denver on May 12th, New York on June 16th, and Seattle on July 15th. The 2010 BaseCamp SRI series will culminate with the Summit Camp to be held the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort ">First Affirmative specializes in socially responsible, sustainable, and transformative investment management and consulting, and supports a nationwide network of investment professionals who specialize in serving socially conscious investors. First Affirmative produces the annual SRI in the Rockies Conference , the premier gathering of the sustainable and responsible investment industry in North America. # # # Links: ------ http://basecampsri.firstaffirmative.com/index.php http://www.sriintherockies.com/ http://basecampsri.firstaffirmative.com/ mailto:danielleburns@firstaffirmative.com http://www.firstaffirmative.com/ http://www.sriintherockies.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/City-of-Holyoke--Mass---and-Cisco-Collaborate-on-Urban-Renewal-With-Smart-Connected-Communities-Vision/4555.html Fri, 12 Feb 2010 13:12:32 GMT Cisco Cisco http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/City-of-Holyoke--Mass---and-Cisco-Collaborate-on-Urban-Renewal-With-Smart-Connected-Communities-Vision/4555.html  CITY OF HOLYOKE, MASS., AND CISCO COLLABORATE ON URBAN RENEWAL WITH SMART+CONNECTED COMMUNITIES VISION PROJECT TO ESTABLISH VIBRANT 21ST CENTURY NEIGHBORHOOD AIMS TO CREATE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY, IMPROVE EDUCATION AND RETAIN RESIDENTS HOLYOKE, Mass. - Feb 10, 2010 - Cisco today announced that it is collaborating with the city of Holyoke, Mass., to establish a cooperative relationship that advances the city's community vision for revitalization and stability. Faced with familiar urban planning Read Full Press release ]]>   CITY OF HOLYOKE, MASS., AND CISCO COLLABORATE ON URBAN RENEWAL WITH SMART+CONNECTED COMMUNITIES VISION PROJECT TO ESTABLISH VIBRANT 21ST CENTURY NEIGHBORHOOD AIMS TO CREATE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY, IMPROVE EDUCATION AND RETAIN RESIDENTS HOLYOKE, Mass. - Feb 10, 2010 - Cisco today announced that it is collaborating with the city of Holyoke, Mass., to establish a cooperative relationship that advances the city's community vision for revitalization and stability. Faced with familiar urban planning challenges such as unemployment, population loss in the town center to rapid growth in Holyoke suburban neighborhoods, and delivery of services to a moving population, the city of Holyoke is taking an innovative approach in investigating the positive effect that an Internet-based, connected community model can play in helping to revitalize the local economy. By working collaboratively toward a common vision of Smart+Connected Communities , the city and Cisco intend to use technology to deliver urban services in a different way in order to generate new economic opportunity, to improve the delivery and quality of education, and bolster population retention. To meet this shared goal, Cisco and Holyoke intend to carry out planning and related activities to select a central downtown district as a pilot project that will be modernized with the latest network solutions within a proposed flagship innovation district. The process aims to define a new model for providing citizens with critical urban services such as education, healthcare, and improved access to local and state government. The initial pilot is expected to provide a localized blueprint for redevelopment that can be progressively rolled out across all of Holyoke's neighborhoods, with the aim of spurring long-term economic, social and environmental sustainability within the entire city. As a result, citizens are expected to enjoy a more collaborative environment, one that fosters their involvement in reaching the community's goals for transformation and connectivity. FACTS/HIGHLIGHTS Cisco's Smart+Connected Communities initiative will integrate into Holyoke's Center City Vision Plan (CCVP), which sets a framework for revitalization and sustainability in the city, with the goal of generating economic opportunity, improving the delivery and quality of education, bolstering population retention, and improving healthcare access. Today's memorandum of understanding establishes Holyoke as the first city to pilot a model 21st century neighborhood within the United States, based on Cisco's services-led vision of Smart+Connected Communities . Holyoke is also focusing efforts on developing a new transportation hub and is investigating the potential for multi-use buildings to improve services in areas such as education, healthcare and support for micro-businesses. The renewal architecture created in the pilot is intended to serve as a proof of concept for other cities and economic regions in Massachusetts and beyond that are seeking to adopt similar development plans. The Cisco(R) Smart+Connected Communities initiative is designed to provide cities and communities with smart and connected solutions for utilities, safety and security, connected real estate, transportation, healthcare, learning, sports venues, and government services. By providing a network-enabled blueprint for successful 'smart' cities of the future, Smart+Connected Communities solutions help transform physical communities into connected communities that can help realize sustainable economic growth and GDP, enable environmental sustainability through resource management and operational efficiencies, and enhance quality of life for residents. Cisco is a key participant in the effort to establish a world-class, high-performance computing center in Holyoke, working with Gov. Deval Patrick, Holyoke officials, and leaders from MIT, the University of Massachusetts, Boston University, and other academic institutions across New England. Cisco and its business partners are already helping communities that are seeking to improve the quality of life, sustainability and economic value through technology, from major regional efforts such as OneCommunity in Cleveland, through the proposed renewal of large regions of cities such as the Toronto Waterfront being revitalized by Waterfront Toronto and Hunters' Point in San Francisco. Cisco is a significant member of the Massachusetts high-tech community, with more than 1,900 employees based in offices in Boxborough, Tewksbury, and Boston. In December 2009 Cisco acquired Massachusetts-based Starent Networks, a leader in mobile Internet products and solutions, further increasing Cisco's presence in the region. Holyoke's existing commitment to develop leadership capabilities in the application and development of next-generation computing technologies and in researching clean cost-competitive energy made the city a natural choice to base an innovative project of this nature. SUPPORTING QUOTES ELAINE A. PLUTA, MAYOR, CITY OF HOLYOKE, MASS. _"The city of Holyoke has a deep history in innovation and is dedicated to the success and well-being of its residents. In working with Cisco to implement next-generation solutions, Holyoke will be well equipped with the tools necessary to build a more collaborative, modern and culturally rich environment for work and play. We view the joint initiative with Cisco as a way of giving back to our citizens and ensuring that future generations can also enjoy a thriving and sustaining community that they are proud to call home."_ WIM ELFRINK, CHIEF GLOBALISATION OFFICER AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CISCO SERVICES _"Cisco's vision for Smart+Connected Communities is to transform physical communities into connected communities that run on networked information to help drive broad economic, social and environmental sustainability. We are honored to collaborate with Mayor Pluta and the city of Holyoke to establish the 21st century neighborhood as an inspirational model for cities seeking to transform themselves through revitalization. We share a common vision to use the network as the platform to create a more collaborative and sustainable environment for the citizens of Holyoke."_ SUPPORTING RESOURCES: For more information on Cisco Smart+Connected Communities, please visit http://www.cisco.com/go/smartconnectedcommunities . Further information on Holyoke, Mass. www.holyoke.org High-Performance Computing Center and Research Program in Holyoke, www.innovateholyoke.com Cisco completes acquisition of Tewkesbury, Mass.-based Starent Technologies ABOUT CISCO SYSTEMS Cisco, (NASDAQ: CSCO), the worldwide leader in networking that transforms how people connect, communicate and collaborate, this year celebrates 25 years of technology innovation, operational excellence and corporate social responsibility. Information about Cisco can be found at http://www.cisco.com . For ongoing news, please go to http://newsroom.cisco.com . # # # Cisco, the Cisco logo and Cisco Systems are registered trademarks or trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company. This document is Cisco Public Information. CONTACT INFORMATION: Press Contact(s) Marc Musgrove Cisco Systems, Inc. +1 408 525 6320 mmusgrov@cisco.com Investor Relations Contact(s) Dan Ferguson Cisco Systems, Inc. 508-769-5596 danfergu@cisco.com Industry Analyst Relations Charles Guyer Cisco Systems, Inc. +1 978 936 0825 chguyer@cisco.com Links: ------ http://www.cisco.com/go/smartconnectedcommunities http://www.cisco.com/go/smartconnectedcommunities http://www.cisco.com/go/smartconnectedcommunities http://www.cisco.com/go/smartconnectedcommunities http://www.holyoke.org/ http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=090611_holyoke&csid=Agov3 http://www.innovateholyoke.com/ http://newsroom.cisco.com/dlls/2009/corp_101309.html http://www.cisco.com/ http://newsroom.cisco.com/ mailto:mmusgrov@cisco.com mailto:danfergu@cisco.com mailto:chguyer@cisco.com ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/John-Blooms-The-Genius-of-Money-Reimagines-the-Financial-World/4248.html Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:50:19 GMT RSF Social Finance RSF Social Finance http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/John-Blooms-The-Genius-of-Money-Reimagines-the-Financial-World/4248.html  _The Genius of Money_ is RSF Director of Organizational Culture John Bloom's newly published collection of essays and interviews about "reimagining the financial world." In the author's own words, "To understand money in the deepest sense is to journey inwardly to grapple with the 'money self,' to become more conscious economic participants in financial transactions with the world, and last but not least, to work to meet the material needs of others so that our economic needs are met through oth Read Full Press release ]]>   _The Genius of Money_ is RSF Director of Organizational Culture John Bloom's newly published collection of essays and interviews about "reimagining the financial world." In the author's own words, "To understand money in the deepest sense is to journey inwardly to grapple with the 'money self,' to become more conscious economic participants in financial transactions with the world, and last but not least, to work to meet the material needs of others so that our economic needs are met through others' work." John examines money from a diversity of perspectives - historical, artistic, spiritual, social - and includes interviews with individuals who have transformed their own relationships to money while working to transform the way the world works with money. The book is timely in light of the current economic climate, and as John himself says, "It is time to look at the hard issues, especially money, in a new way that incorporates spirit and social values." Click here to visit publisher Steiner Books' website, where _The Genius of Money_ is now available for purchase. The book can also be purchased through indiebound.org or amazon.com . John Bloom's writings can be found on the RSF Reimagine Money blog and on his own blog: transformingmoney.blogspot.com . Links: ------ http://www.steinerbooks.org/detail.html?id=9780880106344 http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780880106344 http://www.amazon.com/Genius-Money-Interviews-Reimagining-Financial/dp/0880106344/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1255467633&sr=8-1 http://rsfsocialfinance.org/blog/ http://transformingmoney.blogspot.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/RSFs-February-Grant-Making-Activity/4852.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:31:03 GMT RSF Social Finance RSF Social Finance http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/RSFs-February-Grant-Making-Activity/4852.html  Students at the Chengdu Waldorf School (RSF grantee) in China RSF's Donor Advised Funds are innovative financial vehicles that allow an individual, group, family, corporation, trust, or foundation to help fund charitable organizations that align with their values. After a tax-deductible contribution to RSF, the donor advisor can then recommend grants out of his or her fund to qualified non-profit organizations. Once the contribution has been made to RSF, we invest the money through our Impact Read Full Press release ]]>   Students at the Chengdu Waldorf School (RSF grantee) in China RSF's Donor Advised Funds are innovative financial vehicles that allow an individual, group, family, corporation, trust, or foundation to help fund charitable organizations that align with their values. After a tax-deductible contribution to RSF, the donor advisor can then recommend grants out of his or her fund to qualified non-profit organizations. Once the contribution has been made to RSF, we invest the money through our Impact Investing Portfolios , which ensure deep impact and strong mission-alignment with our core social and environmental missions. The following organizations received $267,337.88 in grant funding from our Donor Advised Funds in the month of February: FOOD AND AGRICULTURE Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association Institute for Policy Studies Michael Fields Agricultural Institute Navdanya Education and the Arts Austin Eurythmy Ensemble Center for Anthroposophy Center for the Arts, Religion and Education Charter Foundation Chengdu Waldorf School Children of Nepal Colin Young/Russian American Educational Exchange Grameen Shikkha Green America Proxy Democracy READ Global Rudolf Steiner College ShadeTree Multicultural Foundation Sunbridge College Triskeles Foundation SOCIAL FINANCE Vermont Sustainable Exchange OTHER Partners in Health (Haiti relief) By Caitlyn Kowalczyk _Caitlyn Kowalczyk is Program Assistant for Philanthropic Services at RSF Social Finance._ Links: ------ http://rsfsocialfinance.org/2010/03/services/giving/advised-funds/ http://rsfsocialfinance.org/2010/03/services/investing/impact-investing-portfolios/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/New-Ceres-Report-a-Roadmap-for-Sustainability/4851.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:26:31 GMT Sustainable Life Media Sustainable Life Media http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/New-Ceres-Report-a-Roadmap-for-Sustainability/4851.html  March 12, 2010 - Activist U.S. coalition Ceres has released a report urging companies to make immediate and meaningful energy and resource improvements if they want to keep pace with social concerns about climate change and sustainability. The Boston-based group, whose members manage roughly $7 billion in assets, is a nationwide network of socially concerned investors, public interest, and environmentalist groups. Their message in the report is clear: Companies that embrace sustainability in Read Full Press release ]]>   March 12, 2010 - Activist U.S. coalition Ceres has released a report urging companies to make immediate and meaningful energy and resource improvements if they want to keep pace with social concerns about climate change and sustainability. The Boston-based group, whose members manage roughly $7 billion in assets, is a nationwide network of socially concerned investors, public interest, and environmentalist groups. Their message in the report is clear: Companies that embrace sustainability in their practices as energy prices rise, the world's population grows, and water becomes scarce will have the competitive advantage to stay ahead in the market. Companies like General Electric, railroad corporation CSX, and Wal-Mart have already shown what climate-related risks they face and the steps they have taken towards sustainable production and operations because of those risks. In the next ten years, consumers and investors will expect the same comprehensive disclosure from other businesses. Ceres President Mindy Lubber said that companies should be viewing sustainability as a competitive race: "If businesses deepen their efforts to solve social and environmental threats, it will position them to innovate and compete in the fast-changing, resource-constrained global economy. It is no longer enough for companies to have special projects or initiatives. Comprehensive sustainability strategies are expected." 21st Century Corporation: The Ceres Roadmap for Sustainability: Lays out 20 EXPECTATIONS FOR SUSTAINABILITY that companies should begin to practice immediately, which raises the bar for leadership Each expectation contains four broad areas key to corporate sustainability: Governance , Stakeholder Engagement , Disclosure , and Performance . Each area needs to be addressed for a comprehensive sustainable business strategy More than 200 COMPANY BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLES, across the full range of what is currently possible and what companies need to do in the future, are contained in the full report. The full report also features more than 250 RESOURCES AND TOOLS from global experts, organizations, and thought leaders. Links: ------ http://www.ceres.org/Page.aspx?pid=1211 http://www.ceres.org/Page.aspx?pid=1216 http://www.ceres.org/Page.aspx?pid=1217 http://www.ceres.org/Page.aspx?pid=1219 http://www.ceres.org/Page.aspx?pid=1223 ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Invest-in-America-Alliance-to-Fund-American-Technology-Companies--Create-Jobs-for-College-Grads/4850.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:21:17 GMT Intel Corporation Intel Corporation http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Invest-in-America-Alliance-to-Fund-American-Technology-Companies--Create-Jobs-for-College-Grads/4850.html  Intel Capital leads venture capital industry commitment to invest $3.5 billion in U.S. companies. Pledge by 17 corporations to increase hiring goals in 2010 resulting in 10,500 new jobs for college graduates. Invest in America Alliance unveiled by Intel CEO in Washington, D.C. during a speech outlining the need for a culture of investment in the United States. WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 23, 2010 - Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini today announced a $3.5 billion initiative to support investm Read Full Press release ]]>   Intel Capital leads venture capital industry commitment to invest $3.5 billion in U.S. companies. Pledge by 17 corporations to increase hiring goals in 2010 resulting in 10,500 new jobs for college graduates. Invest in America Alliance unveiled by Intel CEO in Washington, D.C. during a speech outlining the need for a culture of investment in the United States. WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 23, 2010 - Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini today announced a $3.5 billion initiative to support investment in U.S.-based growth-oriented industries and detailed a commitment to significantly increase jobs available this year for recent college graduates. Otellini announced these initiatives in a speech titled "Rebuilding the Foundations of American Growth," delivered at The Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C. The Invest in America Alliance, led by Intel and supported by many leading venture capital firms and corporations, aims to further anchor the nation's competitiveness on the global stage. It serves as the private sector's complement to existing state and federal job creation programs through long-term investment in industries and talent poised to produce the next breakthroughs in technology innovation. The Alliance is a two-pronged effort. The first includes a commitment from Intel Capital, Intel Corporation's global investment organization, and 24 leading venture capital firms to invest $3.5 billion in U.S.-based technology companies over the next 2 years. These investments, which include a new, $200 million Intel Capital Invest in America Technology Fund, will target key innovation and growth segments such as clean technology, information technology and biotechnology. Joining Intel in this effort is Advanced Technology Ventures, Braemar Energy Ventures, Bridgescale Partners, Canaan Partners, DCM, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, Flywheel Ventures, Good Energies, Institutional Venture Partners, Investcorp Technology Partners, Khosla Ventures, Kleiner Perkins Caufield ">Second, the Invest in America Alliance also includes commitments from 17 technology and other corporate leaders to increase their hiring of college graduates, some by as much as two times, to create the products and provide the services of tomorrow. Companies joining Intel in this pledge are Accenture, Adobe Systems Incorporated, Autodesk, Broadcom Corporation, CDW LLC., Cisco, Dell, eBay, Inc., EMC Corporation, GE, Google, Inc., HP, Liberty Mutual Group, Marvell Semiconductor Inc., Microsoft Corporation, and Yahoo!. "Strong, enduring economies grow out of a culture of investment and a commitment to innovation," Otellini said. "We simply must have a clear, consistent strategy to promote innovation, investment and start-up companies. There are things business can do, and ought to do, independent of what government achieves. "It would be a long-term mistake to let our future scientists and engineers sit idle after graduation. Today's announcements are both an investment in the country's innovators and a signal to the global marketplace about America's commitment to innovation and future competitiveness." Other venture capital firms and corporations are expected to join the Invest in America Alliance with investment funds or hiring goals in the coming weeks and months. Today's announcement follows Intel's commitment last year to invest $7 billion to upgrade its U.S. manufacturing facilities that are now producing the most advanced semiconductor technology in the world. This investment also supported 7,000 high-wage, high-tech manufacturing American jobs and more than 4,000 contract jobs for technicians and construction workers in Arizona, New Mexico and Oregon. VENTURE CAPITAL INVESTMENT Clean technology, information technology and biotechnology are vital segments of the emerging U.S. economy and important for global competitiveness. The $3.5 billion commitment from Intel Capital and leading venture capital firms will help create jobs in current market segments and also in newer industries such as molecular diagnostics, bioinformatics, electric vehicle ecosystem and wireless infrastructure. "Venture capital investments have played an important role in creating jobs at home and keeping America at the leading edge of technology globally," said Arvind Sodhani, president of Intel Capital and Intel executive vice president. "With $3.5 billion of equity capital to invest in the most promising new ventures in the country, our collective goal is to continue to drive technology innovation and stimulate economic activity." As part of the overall commitment, Intel Capital announced today the $200 million Intel Capital Invest in America Technology Fund. Over the past two decades, Intel Capital has made over 1,350 investments in U.S. businesses, totaling more than $6.2 billion. In 2008, venture-backed companies provided over 12 million U.S. jobs (11 percent of private sector employment in the United States).1 COLLEGE GRADUATE HIRING Of the companies joining Intel in a commitment to significantly increase hiring of college graduates in 2010, many will be doubling graduate hiring over 2009 levels. In total, this represents 10,500 jobs for graduates to be hired for a range of positions. While the new jobs will largely be for those with engineering and computer science backgrounds, positions available also include financial analysis, marketing, management consulting, sales and other business skills in the majority of states across America. The hiring at these companies extends beyond those now graduating. For example, Intel's overall hiring plan for the year includes graduates and other experienced hires. "Many more college graduates will now be able to put their education to work thanks to these 17 companies. We hope this is just a start and welcome companies across all industries to join this open effort," said Richard Taylor, vice president and director of Human Resources for Intel. "Many college graduates have been among the hardest hit by the economic downturn and providing them a place in the economy today is the best way to ensure America's innovation and competitiveness tomorrow." For these and other positions available at Intel, see Intel.com/jobs . Start-ups seeking funding can find contact information on the Intel Capital website http://www.intel.com/capital A transcript of Otellini's speech, along with additional detail concerning the Invest in America Alliance, are available at www.intel.com/pressroom/kits/InvestinAmerica . ABOUT INTEL Intel (NASDAQ: INTC), the world leader in silicon innovation, develops technologies, products and initiatives to continually advance how people work and live. Additional information about Intel is available at www.intel.com/pressroom and blogs.intel.com . Links: ------ http://www.intel.com/jobs http://www.intel.com/capital/about/contact.htm http://www.intel.com/pressroom/kits/InvestinAmerica http://www.intel.com/pressroom/index.htm http://blogs.intel.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/2011-F-Series-Super-Duty-Power-Stroke-Diesel-Cleanest-Ever--Fuel-Economy-Greatly-Improved/4849.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:14:57 GMT Ford Ford http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/2011-F-Series-Super-Duty-Power-Stroke-Diesel-Cleanest-Ever--Fuel-Economy-Greatly-Improved/4849.html  he all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty features all-new diesel and gas powertrains that deliver best-in-class torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy The Ford F-Series Super Duty equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke(R) V-8 turbocharged diesel engine averages an 18 percent improvement for pickup models and up to 25 percent improvement for chassis cabs versus 2010 models. Trucks equipped with new base 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine average a 15 percent improvement versus 2010 Read Full Press release ]]>   he all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty features all-new diesel and gas powertrains that deliver best-in-class torque and horsepower as well as class-leading fuel economy The Ford F-Series Super Duty equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke(R) V-8 turbocharged diesel engine averages an 18 percent improvement for pickup models and up to 25 percent improvement for chassis cabs versus 2010 models. Trucks equipped with new base 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine average a 15 percent improvement versus 2010 models The new diesel engine is B20 biodiesel compatible and the new gas engine is E85 compatible, providing customers a wide range of fueling options Best-in-class fuel economy and class-leading capability - towing of 26,400 pounds and a 6,520-pound payload - is due largely to the all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift(R) six-speed automatic transmission, providing more than half the overall improved fuel economy _2011 F-Series Super Duty_ ST. LOUIS, March 9, 2010 - The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty delivers best-in-class torque, horsepower, towing and payload capability - and does it all more efficiently, resulting in less fuel usage and extended maintenance intervals that can translate directly into bottom-line savings for customers. "The 2011 Super Duty is not only the most powerful, most capable and fuel-efficient heavy-duty pickup truck on the road, it performs the tough jobs with even more efficiency than ever before," said Doug Scott, truck group marketing manager. "Customers can be confident that Super Duty's class-leading capability comes with Ford's 'and solution' of best-in-class fuel economy." All-new diesel and gas engine powertrains are the backbone of the 2011 Super Duty's best-in-class towing (26,400 pounds for F-550 chassis cab with fifth-wheel hitch) and payload capability (6,520 pounds for F-350 dual rear-wheel pickup). The Ford-designed, Ford-engineered and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine produces best-in-class 735 ft.-lb. of torque at 1,600 rpm and best-in-class 390 horsepower at 2,800 rpm. The new engine is compatible up to B20 biodiesel fuel as well. The new 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine also boasts best-in-class numbers of 405 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm and 385 horsepower at 5,500 rpm. The new engine is E85 compatible. Mated to each engine is the all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission. The added feature content and overall efficiency of the transmission are the main reasons for the improved fuel economy. The all-new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel averages an 18 percent improvement for pickup models and up to 25 percent improvement for chassis cabs versus 2010 models. Trucks equipped with new base 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine average a 15 percent improvement versus 2010 models. "The new transmission is a 'clean-sheet' design, developed specifically to handle the significantly increased torque produced by the new diesel engine and the higher rotational speeds produced by the new gas engine, and to deliver the power to the wheels seamlessly and efficiently for heavy-duty truck customers," said Al Bruck, transmission engineering manager. "Each system and component was scrutinized to deliver optimum performance." Here's a closer look at what was achieved and the benefits to the customer: NEW TORQUE CONVERTER THAT LOCKS AT A FAR LOWER RPM THAN THE COMPETITION: The new, stronger torque converter is core to the improved transmission performance. One key component is the long-travel turbine damper that allows the transmission to lock earlier, at a lower rpm, which translates to less slip and more fuel efficiency. The new transmission locks down to 900 rpm, which is about 200 rpm less than the outgoing product and more than 100 rpm less than competitors. The second key component of the torque converter is the closed-piston design. This design allows for better control of the lock-up clutch, which enables controlled converter clutch slip during lock-to-lock upshifts that are seamless to the customer. - CUSTOMER FUEL ECONOMY BENEFIT: Locked converter operation at lower speeds means less wasted heat energy and better fuel economy. OPTIMIZED SHIFT AND CONVERTER LOCK-UP SCHEDULE: After analyzing the entire shift schedule, Ford calibration engineers fine-tuned it by measuring and optimizing the fuel flow. The system recognizes light or heavy throttle use, and puts the transmission in the right gear for best performance and efficiency. The entire operating range has been optimized to get the best fuel economy by locking up the converter as soon as possible and as much as possible. - CUSTOMER FUEL ECONOMY BENEFIT: Optimizing the shift schedule and lock schedule ensures customers automatically operate in the most efficient gears and save fuel. GEARING AND DOUBLE-OVERDRIVE: The 6R140 transmission has a ratio span of about 5.9, which is quite a bit wider than competitors. This wider span means the transmission has a deeper first gear that allows customers to get the load moving quicker, and a tall overdrive ratio for good highway efficiency. While the gearing itself is important, the key to overall efficiency is matching that gearing to the correct axle. With the diesel engine, up to four axle ratios are available on the pickups - 3.31, 3.55, 3.73 and 4.30. Matching up the gearing with the right axles means better overall efficiency. - CUSTOMER FUEL ECONOMY BENEFIT: The double-overdrive gear means even if a customer gets a downshift on the highway, the transmission remains in overdrive. Also, the F-450 pickup went from a 4.88 axle to a 4.30 axle at launch for the 2011 model mated to the wide ratio span of the transmission. This and other optimizations mean the F-450 now has about a 30 percent improvement in fuel economy. OPTIMIZED PUMPING PRESSURE: A certain amount of pressure is required to hold the clutches together so they don't slip. The trick is to have the right amount of pressure to do the job. Too much pressure wastes fuel. The solution is to optimize the size of the pump and precisely control the pressure for all operating conditions. - CUSTOMER FUEL ECONOMY BENEFIT: At highway speeds, for example, the line pressure is reduced, which helps save fuel. The system maintains the right amount of pressure for any given speed range. The less energy needed for internal pump pressure means less fuel used. OPTIMIZED DRAINBACK TO REDUCE SPIN LOSSES: A main objective is to get the fluid through the main barrel to lubricate and cool components, and get it back to the sump as quickly as possible. This reduces windage and parasitic loss. The clutch friction plates were designed to allow fluid to flow through them efficiently for cooling and reduced drag. Clutch housings, connecting shells and the main case housing were optimized to quickly drain the fluid out of rotating components and back into the sump. - CUSTOMER FUEL ECONOMY BENEFIT: Fewer parasitic losses due to reduced churning of fluid increases fuel economy. WARMER OPERATING TEMPERATURE: Tied in with spin losses, the 6R140 cooling system has been optimized to allow for the proper amount of cooling when towing heavy loads in high ambient temperatures, while running at an overall higher stabilized temperature. This higher stabilized temperature lowers the viscosity and helps the fluid flow more easily, which reduces parasitic losses and saves fuel. The fluid also warms up faster because it does not flow to the cooling circuit until properly warmed up. Faster warm-up also reduces overall parasitic losses. - CUSTOMER FUEL ECONOMY BENEFIT: Fewer parasitic losses due to reduced fluid viscosity translates to less internal drag on the system and increases fuel economy. LIGHTER, MORE EFFICIENT THAN COMPETITION The 6R140 transmission is about 25 pounds lighter than those of competitors. The new engines are lighter than the outgoing products as well, which altogether means much more efficient power flow on a pound-for-pound basis. The 6R140 also has a 150,000-mile fluid change interval, which is 2 times greater than the outgoing product. A patent-pending high-efficiency dual-media filter is the main reason for the extended maintenance interval, which is another savings for customers. CLEANEST POWER STROKE EVER The new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel employs an aftertreatment system to help comply with 2010 federal regulations to reduce NOx levels in diesel emissions by more than 80 percent compared with the previous standard. The Ford aftertreatment system is a three-stage process; a key component is the use of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). Injection of DEF to reduce NOx is a proven technology that's been used throughout the automotive industry. Unlike other strategies used to control NOx, the DEF system allows the diesel engine to run at its optimum range in terms of fuel mixture. Some systems require the engine to run richer - which can be harmful to diesel engines - in order to control the NOx. The aftertreatment system works like this: STEP ONE: CLEANING AND HEATING - The first step in cleaning the diesel exhaust occurs when the exhaust stream enters the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC). The role of the DOC is twofold. First, it converts and oxidizes hydrocarbons into water and carbon dioxide. This conversion happens at about 250 degrees Celsius. Second, the DOC is used to provide and promote heat, using specific engine management strategies, into the exhaust system. Through appropriate thermal management, this heat increases the conversion efficiency of the downstream subsystems in reducing emissions. STEP TWO: KNOCKING OUT THE NOX - The next step in the process is what's known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). In this process, the NOx in the exhaust stream is converted into water and inert nitrogen, which is present in the atmosphere and harmless. Before the exhaust gas enters the SCR chamber, it is dosed with DEF, an aqueous solution that is approximately 67.5 percent water and 32.5 percent pure urea. When heated, the DEF splits into ammonia and carbon dioxide. These molecules are atomized and vaporized, then enter a mixer that resembles a corkscrew. This twist mixer evenly distributes the ammonia within the exhaust flow. The ammonia enters the SCR module, which contains a catalyzed substrate, and through chemical reactions combines and converts the NOx and ammonia into the harmless inert nitrogen and water. Dosing occurs between 200 and 500 degrees Celsius. STEP THREE: SCRUBBING AWAY THE SOOT - The final part of the cleansing system for the diesel exhaust gas involves the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The DPF traps any remaining soot, which is then periodically burned away, known as regenerating, when sensors detect the trap is full. The regeneration process sees temperatures in excess of 600 degrees Celsius to burn away soot. This industry-proven technology ensures that the new 6.7-liter diesel is the cleanest Power Stroke ever, as well as the most fuel-efficient. "Having this diesel designed in-house at Ford meant we were able to work on optimizations and refinements right from the start," said Tim Ogilvie, vehicle energy supervisor. "We're able to deliver to customers a more refined, more fuel-efficient Super Duty, with class-leading torque and horsepower and the class-leading capability they demand." ### ABOUT FORD MOTOR COMPANY Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com . Links: ------ http://www.ford.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Seek-continual-improvement-of-our-health--amp--safety-performance/4848.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:08:07 GMT International Council on Mining and Metals International Council on Mining and Metals http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Seek-continual-improvement-of-our-health--amp--safety-performance/4848.html  HEALTH AND SAFETY Through the ICMM Sustainable Development Framework, ICMM member companies have committed to Principle 5 'SEEK CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT OF OUR HEALTH ">Assessing and managing the risks and hazards to human safety and health is the cornerstone of the ICMM Health ">CO-SPONSORED WEBSITE MIRMGate, developed by Australia's University of Queensland Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre, enables users to find carefully-chosen good practice risk management information, identify ha Read Full Press release ]]>   HEALTH AND SAFETY Through the ICMM Sustainable Development Framework, ICMM member companies have committed to Principle 5 'SEEK CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT OF OUR HEALTH ">Assessing and managing the risks and hazards to human safety and health is the cornerstone of the ICMM Health ">CO-SPONSORED WEBSITE MIRMGate, developed by Australia's University of Queensland Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre, enables users to find carefully-chosen good practice risk management information, identify hazards through the entire life cycle of operations and get decision-making help for both long and short term problems. Links: ------ http://www.mirmgate.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/U-S--Congressman-Sees-R-amp-D-at-RTP/4847.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:03:41 GMT DuPont DuPont http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/U-S--Congressman-Sees-R-amp-D-at-RTP/4847.html  (left to right) U.S. Congressman David Price with Dave Miller in front of DuPont E">House of Representatives member David Price recently visited DuPont's Research Triangle Park (RTP) site to learn about DuPont, meet with employees and tour the facility, which is located in his congressional district. Dave Miller , president, Electronics & Communications (E&C) , provided an overview of how DuPont and the E"> (left to right) Dale Poser and Yueli Wang with Rep. Price as Pat O'Callaghan shows a Read Full Press release ]]>   (left to right) U.S. Congressman David Price with Dave Miller in front of DuPont E">House of Representatives member David Price recently visited DuPont's Research Triangle Park (RTP) site to learn about DuPont, meet with employees and tour the facility, which is located in his congressional district. Dave Miller , president, Electronics & Communications (E&C) , provided an overview of how DuPont and the E"> (left to right) Dale Poser and Yueli Wang with Rep. Price as Pat O'Callaghan shows a PV cell during poster session. During a town hall meeting with approximately 150 employees, Rep. Price discussed his role as a member of the U. S. House Appropriations Committee and complimented employees on their commitment to innovation. "Investment in research and development is important for helping North Carolina maintain a competitive advantage on the international level," said Rep. Price. "DuPont has been an important part of the North Carolina success story in attracting business investment and retaining jobs." "We appreciate Rep. Price for taking an interest in our business and spending time with us," Dave said. "Not only was it beneficial from a relationship standpoint, but it also allowed him to see first-hand how the research and development work we're doing is contributing to the overall viability of Research Triangle Park." Links: ------ http://price.house.gov/ http://www2.dupont.com/Heritage/en_US/related_topics/research_triangle_park.html http://www2.dupont.com/Our_Company/en_US/executives/dmiller.html http://www2.dupont.com/Our_Company/en_US/business/electronics_communications.html http://www2.dupont.com/MCM/en_US/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/DuPont-Recognized-for-Helping-Rebuild-Greensburg/4846.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:00:12 GMT DuPont DuPont http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/DuPont-Recognized-for-Helping-Rebuild-Greensburg/4846.html  Tom Schuler (left) and Jeff Gordon nail the sign for the first Habitat for Humanity house in Greensburg, Kansas. DuPont and Ogilvy recently received a gold award from One Show Entertainment in recognition of the show, "Helping Rebuild Greensburg." One Show Entertainment seeks to recognize the intersection of brands and entertainment - in film, television, music, gaming and beyond - and to award innovation and creativity. This year, only 22 awards were presented worldwide. The "Helping Rebuil Read Full Press release ]]>   Tom Schuler (left) and Jeff Gordon nail the sign for the first Habitat for Humanity house in Greensburg, Kansas. DuPont and Ogilvy recently received a gold award from One Show Entertainment in recognition of the show, "Helping Rebuild Greensburg." One Show Entertainment seeks to recognize the intersection of brands and entertainment - in film, television, music, gaming and beyond - and to award innovation and creativity. This year, only 22 awards were presented worldwide. The "Helping Rebuild Greensburg" show documents how DuPont in partnership with customers made an initial donation of more than 30 innovative products and services worth nearly $750,000 to help rebuild homes and businesses in tornado-ravaged Greensburg, Kansas, in the USA. The town was leveled by one of the largest tornados in U.S. history in 2007. Very few structures remained in the aftermath of the deadly EF5 tornado and more than 1,500 people were displaced after losing their homes. "DuPont employees and customers came together to help the families in Greensburg. We care about protecting lives, we care about building homes and we care about safeguarding communities," said Tom Schuler , president, DuPont Building Innovations. "We are pleased to support the people of Greensburg with sustainable products that will help make a difference in the renewal of the town." The materials, which included key end-use products from DuPont customers, provide a number of benefits to homeowners in Greensburg for safety and energy efficiency, using sustainable materials for both inside and outside their homes. Among the DuPont products provided are: * DuPont(tm) Tyvek(R) Weatherization Systems , including DuPont(tm) Tyvek(R) Homewrap(R) and Tyvek(R) AtticWrap(tm) * DuPont(tm) Corian(R) and DuPont(tm) Zodiaq(R) surfaces * DuPont(tm) SentryGlas(R) interlayers * DuPont(tm) StormRoom(tm) with Kevlar(R) * DuPont(tm) RealTouch(R) laminate flooring * DuPont(tm) Garden Products * DuPont(tm) Air Filtration products Key DuPont customer donations included: * Mohawk Smartstrand(R) carpet with DuPont(tm) Sorona(R) renewably sourced polymer * Johnson Controls air conditioning systems using energy efficient, non-ozone-depleting DuPont(tm) Suva(R) 410-A refrigerant Planet Green television network, inspired by Greensburg residents' desire to rebuild "green," chronicled the rebuilding of Greensburg. To learn more about how DuPont is supporting Greensburg, visit planetgreen.com . Links: ------ http://www.ogilvy.com/ http://www.oneclub.org/os/ose/showcase/?year=2010 http://www2.dupont.com/Consumer/en_US/greensburg_home.html http://www2.dupont.com/Our_Company/en_US/executives/schuler.html http://www2.dupont.com/Tyvek_Weatherization/en_US/ http://www2.dupont.com/Tyvek/en_US/index.html http://www2.dupont.com/Tyvek_Weatherization/en_US/products/residential/resi_atticwrap.html http://www2.dupont.com/Corian_Global_Landing/en_US/index.html http://www2.dupont.com/Zodiaq_Global_Landing/en_US/index.html http://www2.dupont.com/SafetyGlass/en_US/ http://www2.dupont.com/Stormroom/en_US/index.html http://www2.dupont.com/Laminate_Flooring/en_US/ http://www2.dupont.com/Garden_Products/en_US/index.html http://www2.dupont.com/Air_Filtration/en_US/index.html http://www.mohawkflooring.com/carpeting/smartstrand/default.aspx http://www2.dupont.com/Sorona/en_US/ http://www.johnsoncontrols.com/publish/us/en.html http://www2.dupont.com/Refrigerants/en_US/products/Suva/index.html http://planetgreen.com/ ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Can-the-U-S--Compete-with-China-Fred-Krupp-Says--quot-Yes-quot-/4845.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:54:23 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/Can-the-U-S--Compete-with-China-Fred-Krupp-Says--quot-Yes-quot-/4845.html  March 12, 2010 | Posted by SHARYN STEIN China's growing economic power is a growing concern for many Americans. Can the U.S. continue to compete with China in the global marketplace? In a new piece for Reuters, EDF President Fred Krupp says "yes" -- through the power of comprehensive climate and energy legislation. Fred talks about the new "tripartisan" effort to pass a climate and clean energy bill in the U.S. Senate. He also talks about how that effort is our best hope to beat China in Read Full Press release ]]>   March 12, 2010 | Posted by SHARYN STEIN China's growing economic power is a growing concern for many Americans. Can the U.S. continue to compete with China in the global marketplace? In a new piece for Reuters, EDF President Fred Krupp says "yes" -- through the power of comprehensive climate and energy legislation. Fred talks about the new "tripartisan" effort to pass a climate and clean energy bill in the U.S. Senate. He also talks about how that effort is our best hope to beat China in the world's clean energy markets -- and win the jobs those markets create: Along with Sens. Graham, Kerry, and Lieberman, I believe we can match the scale of China's centralized industrial policy by fully deploying the engine of American prosperity: our marketplace. It is the only tool we have with the scale and capital to compete with China. If the U.S. puts a limit on carbon pollution, we will send a clear signal to the marketplace that will unleash a massive wave of private investment in low-carbon energy sources and technologies like carbon capture and storage that would allow us to compete with the Chinese. Only when American policy creates a profit motive for investors, inventors and entrepreneurs, will we have a chance to win the race. You can read the full piece here. Links: ------ http://blogs.reuters.com/environment/2010/03/11/can-the-u-s-compete-with-china-in-the-green-economy/?p=16521?tempedition=debatehub http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=870 http://blogs.reuters.com/environment/2010/03/11/can-the-u-s-compete-with-china-in-the-green-economy/?p=16521?tempedition=debatehub ]]> http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/In-Xynthias-Wake--Increased-Awareness-of-the-Link-between-Windstorm-Vulnerability-and-Wetland-Loss/4844.html Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:52:31 GMT Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Defense Fund http://www.justmeans.com/press-releases/In-Xynthias-Wake--Increased-Awareness-of-the-Link-between-Windstorm-Vulnerability-and-Wetland-Loss/4844.html  March 12, 2010 | Posted by SEYI FAYANJU Storm surge aftermath in Aytr, Charente-Maritime (Source: Associated Press) The communities of the Cte de Lumire, a string of seaside resorts on France's Atlantic coast, sit an ocean away from the bayous of coastal Louisiana. Better accustomed to hosting Parisians and (the original) Orleanais on their weekend getaways, the towns received a rude visit from an unexpected guest late last month. Unfortunately, this one left a lot more than broken furnitu Read Full Press release ]]>   March 12, 2010 | Posted by SEYI FAYANJU Storm surge aftermath in Aytr, Charente-Maritime (Source: Associated Press) The communities of the Cte de Lumire, a string of seaside resorts on France's Atlantic coast, sit an ocean away from the bayous of coastal Louisiana. Better accustomed to hosting Parisians and (the original) Orleanais on their weekend getaways, the towns received a rude visit from an unexpected guest late last month. Unfortunately, this one left a lot more than broken furniture and unpaid tabs when it cleared out. Arriving on February 28, Xynthia, a late winter windstorm, walloped southwestern France with rain and fierce gusts of more than 100 miles per hour. Two days of violent weather left at least 47 dead in France and caused an estimated $4 billion in damages across western Europe. This disaster highlighted both the global need for enhanced community resilience measures and the importance of wetland defenses in areas like France's Atlantic coastline. The folks at StormSmart Coasts noted Swiss Re has estimated that SEVERE WINDSTORMS ACCOUNTED FOR 75-80% OF ALL EUROPEAN INSURED LOSSES that only 7% of French coastal communities in the path of winter windstorms have risk prevention plans that delineate permitted building zones. In addition, many seaside homes in the Cte de Lumire are built with unreinforced masonry, leaving them vulnerable to severe damage during storms of Xynthia's strength. Unchecked real estate development in coastal areas (often on drained wetlands) has exacerbated the problem by placing millions of people in the line of fire of storms like Xynthia. Indeed, between 1970 and 2007, making them by far the most damaging natural disasters in Europe. A section of sea wall destroyed by Xynthia, le de R, Charente-Maritime (Source: Associated Press) While France has over 6,200 miles of sea walls, these manmade defenses have proven woefully inadequate due to chronic underinvestment, deferred maintenance (with some sea walls dating back to the 18th century), and the CONTINUED DISAPPEARANCE OF COASTAL MARSHLANDS. One solution to bolster community resilience would be for towns to restore the wetlands that had served as natural defenses against storm surges in the past. Over the past two decades, France has enhanced its legal protection of wetlands, and earlier in February, Chantal Jouanno, France's Secretary of State for Ecology, launched a EUR20 million wetlands action plan to maintain French marshes. However, this is a relatively small amount to cover the 7,000 square miles of wetlands in metropolitan France. Storm damage in La Faute-sur-Mer, Vende after Xynthia (Source: Getty Images) Think of what could have been saved (to say nothing of the jobs that could have been created) if the MARSHES OF FRANCE'S COASTS HAD BEEN RESTORED AS NATURAL BARRIERSMULTIPLE LINES OF DEFENSE for communities along France's windswept Atlantic Coast. against wave action. Scientists have estimated that, on average, three linear miles of wetlands reduces hurricane-strength storm surges by one foot. The combination of natural buffers with concrete and stone sea walls could have provided The crisis facing this region is indicative of the global market for companies that can advise communities seeking resiliency measures against weather disasters. This includes fields like home elevation, storm window design, and wetland restoration. This is part of the reason why Louisiana must actively incubate the sorts of firms that can develop solutions in these areas, not just for Cajun communities down on the bayou, but for their French cousins along the Bay of Biscay. Links: ------ http://blogs.edf.org/restorationandresilience/files/2010/03/031110-Flooding-in-Aytre.jpg http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/europe/02/28/europe.storms/ http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601203&sid=a7DKIof_RVm8 http://www.businessinsurance.com/article/20100307/ISSUE01/303079973 http://la.stormsmartcoasts.org/2010/03/03/with-crumbling-seawalls-and-limited-resources-france-struggles-with-storms/ http://www.benfieldgroup.com/SiteCollectionDocuments/Benfield/Research%20and%20Publications/B14.pdf http://blogs.edf.org/restorationandresilience/files/2010/03/031110-Sea-Wall-in-Ile-de-Re-after-Xynthia.jpg http://www.ramsar.org/cda/en/ramsar-news-archives-2010-france-launches-2nd-wetlands-plan/main/ramsar/1-26-45-437%5E24376_4000_0__ http://blogs.edf.org/restorationandresilience/files/2010/03/031110-La-Faute-sur-Mer-post-Xynthia.jpg ]]>