Awards and Honors, Business, Education and Schools, Environment and Ecology, Environmental Health Heroes, NonProfit and Charities

California Safe Schools Celebrates its 25th Anniversary Honoring Environmental Health Heroes!

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- On Monday, December 4, 2023 at the California Endowment in historic downtown Los Angeles, California Safe Schools, a celebrated children's environmental health and environmental justice non-profit celebrated its 25th Anniversary with an event called "Your Life is Now" honoring seven trailblazing health and safety heroes and organizations.

California Safe School's founder and Executive Director, Robina Suwol, welcomed guests stating, "The solution to the environmental challenges facing us can only be found if we actively engage as a community. We are enormously happy to celebrate such accomplished individuals whose efforts continue to make our world a much better place."

"I could not be prouder to support CA Safe Schools and 'Your Life is Now' as we work for environmental justice for all," said Assembly Member Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles). "We must ensure all communities have clean air and water and work with 'Your Life is Now' to ensure our communities are involved."

"We thank each of these leaders for their passion and commitment to student success and safety. Thank you California Safe Schools, and congratulations on an incredible 25 years of truly impactful work," added Clayton Heard, Senior Field Representative from the Office of Assembly Member Josh Lowenthal.

DISTINGUISHED 2023 HONOREES

Lowell Anger, joined the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office in January 1995 and has been a Head Deputy District Attorney of the Environmental Crimes Division and the Organized Crime and Hate Crimes Division. He received the 2016 Project LEAD Award for the outstanding teacher in the District Attorney's program that works with at-risk fifth graders. Throughout his career, Lowell has been a frequent guest lecturer in schools throughout Los Angeles County.

Enrique Baeza, Branch Chief Peace Officer, California Department of Toxic Substances, Office of Criminal Investigation. Enrique is one of the first in the nation to create an Environmental Justice unit within a Law Enforcement office and has also been recognized for outstanding performance in the investigation and prosecution of a polluter in the highest traditions of the US Department of Justice.

Maria Dolores R. Dalusong has worked for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Division for 20 years and is now Chief of the Vectorborne Disease Surveillance Program. She also serves on the Los Angeles Unified Integrated Pest Management Committee to protect children and all school stakeholders from pesticide exposure.

Mui Koltunov, Ph.D., Research Scientist Supervisor II, Branch Chief of the Environmental Chemistry Laboratory in Pasadena for the Department of Toxic Substances Control. Dr. Koltunov and her team established the Toxic Crusaders Program to work specifically with K-12 students and teachers to learn about toxic chemicals in consumer products and the environment.

Pete Treebumrung, Combines analytics and technology into visual map layers that provide a simple but transformative understanding of data to enable clear communication and focus problem-solving. Projects he has completed include, "Asthma Alley, CA", "The Diesel Death Zone of Los Angeles" and "The Poverty-Pollution Loop".

Los Angeles 10th District PTSA Children are the main focus of everything the PTA does with Informed parental involvement in the schools being essential to effective educational programs. Issues on their agenda: gun control, drug abuse, vaping, homelessness, teenage suicide, cultural diversity and belonging and social media impacts.

Los Angeles 31st District PTSA The 31st District PTSA serves 6 councils and over 110 PTA/PTSA units in the San Fernando Valley, Sunland and Tujunga area. Their areas of focus are: student and school success, health and safety, arts and culture, and advocacy.

"Congratulations to all the honorees. Your hard work and dedication to ensuring that children have safe schools free from harmful pesticides is admirable and wholeheartedly appreciated," said Joel Torrez, Jr. Environmental Health Deputy Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn.

Noemi Emeric-Ford, US EPA Region IX Director, Southern California Field Office said, "Protecting children from harm isn't just a responsibility, it's a commitment to shaping a safer future. Honoring those who have been champions to identify and eliminate toxic exposures in schools underscores the California Safe Schools Coalition's dedication to nurturing healthy spaces for our most precious resource - our children."

Each honoree was presented with California Safe Schools engraved Hero Award designed by celebrated artist Michael Bruza. Catering for the event was by Wolfgang Puck.

About California Safe Schools:

Founded by Robina Suwol in 1998, California Safe Schools (CSS) is children's environmental health and environmental justice coalition. CSS achieved national prominence by spearheading the Los Angeles Unified Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy, the most stringent pesticide policy in the nation for K-12 public schools and the first to embrace the "Precautionary Principle" and "Right to Know". The success of the policy led to California's Healthy Schools Act. Today the LA Unified IPM policy serves as an international model for school districts and communities.

On October 6, 2005, Governor Schwarzenegger signed AB 405 (Montanez) sponsored by California Safe Schools. The bill bans experimental pesticides, whose health effects are unknown, from California k-12 public schools. As a result, more than 6 million California children and hundreds of thousands of school children are protected from experimental chemicals, whose health effects are unknown.

Learn more: https://www.calisafe.org/

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

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

African American Youth Climate Summit, COP28 Dubai, Education and Schools, Environment and Ecology, United Nations Climate Change Conference

Renowned Climate Activist and HBCU Green Fund Founder, Felicia Davis, Unveils Empowering Global Youth Initiatives at COP28

ATLANTA, Ga. -- Distinguished climate activist and founder of the HBCU Green Fund, Felicia Davis, took center stage at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, making groundbreaking announcements that underscore the organization's commitment to global climate action and youth empowerment.

In a momentous press conference, Davis announced the official opening of the HBCU Green Fund's new Africa office in Senegal and revealed plans for the third annual Pre-COP Africa, African American Youth Climate Summit, set to take place in Dakar in June 2024.

"Establishing a significant presence in Africa positions HBCU Green Fund to give voice to people most impacted by climate change and help to cultivate innovative youth leadership," Davis commented.

Cheikhou Thiome, HBCU Green Fund's Africa director adds, "Our Pre-COP29 summit will bring young leaders, activists, and innovators from the United States and across Africa together in Dakar, Senegal to engage in constructive dialogues, share insights, and ignite climate action."

HBCU Green Fund's Managing Director, Illai Kenney, shared insights into the organization's extensive involvement at COP28, with eight delegates from the United States credentialed through partner Omega Institute, and network representatives from 12 African countries. Kenney emphasized the HBCU Green Fund's dedication to empowering future leaders through supporting youth led projects in Africa and the US.

"We have a unique Eco Spring Break program that is a service-learning experience connecting HBCU students with peers in West Africa that involves hands-on environmental restoration projects. The program offers students, faculty, and alumni the chance to plant trees, dig wells, plant gardens and gain firsthand experience in addressing environmental challenges," said Kenney.

Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali, executive vice president, National Wildlife Federation; Hussein Kassim, Ghana project director; Sharon Gakii Mureithi, Kenya project director, and Denise Ayebare, Uganda local youth coordinator joined Davis, Kenney and Thiome for the press conference.

In addition to the press conference, HBCU Green Fund delegates actively contributed to multiple COP28 side events. Davis delivered a powerful keynote speech at the Uganda Pavilion emphasizing the role of youth in addressing the climate crisis. She also participated in a panel discussion with Dr. Ali at the Kenya Pavilion and Lucky Abeng, a coordinator from Nigeria, organized a conversation that included contributions from Davis and Mithika Mwenda, executive director of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance. Davis also contributed to side events organized by young climate leaders from Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, and Tanzania.

Another member of the delegation, Pamela Fann of Impact Energy, moderated a discussion about the energy transition with Davis as a panelist. Fann also coordinated sessions for partner organization, Harambee House/Center for Environmental Justice, featuring renowned environmental justice leader and executive director, Dr. Mildred McClain.

Young leaders in the HBCU Green Fund delegation played a pivotal role in several youth events. Kenney, a former youth activist and the youngest speaker at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development in South Africa in 2002, spoke about cultivating young leaders at the launch of the Stone Soup for a Sustainable World Curriculum. She also organized and facilitated the HBCU Green Fund's day-long workshop and 2024 strategy session for youth delegates. The workshop included a briefing by the founder of the Chisholm Legacy Project, Jacqui Patterson, along with her team, on the Global Afro-Descendant Climate Justice Collaborative.

In response to the overall outcome of COP28 Davis says, "A stronger commitment to phasing out fossil fuels remains a reach, however, acknowledging the need to transition away from fossil fuels is still a small step forward. Ultimately, it is action rather than rhetoric that will make the difference for vulnerable communities already impacted by climate change." She continued, "The HBCU Green Fund's impactful presence at COP28 reflects its commitment to global climate action, sustainability, and empowering the next generation of leaders in the fight against climate change."

For more information on the HBCU Green Fund, Sustainable Africa Network, or the 2024 Pre-COP Africa, African American Youth Climate Summit visit https://hbcugreenfund.org/ or check for @hbcugreenfund on social media.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Aerospace and Aviation, Books and Publishing, Entertainment, Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles

Legacy Launch Pad Publishing Releases ‘Sustainability in the Air’ to Offer Climate Change Hope

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Legacy Launch Pad Publishing proudly presents "Sustainability in the Air: The Innovators Helping the Aviation Industry Take Climate Action" (ISBN: 978-1-956955-80-4 [ebook]; 978-1-956955-81-1 [paperback]), co-authored by Shashank Nigam and Dirk Singer, respectively the Founder & CEO and the Head of Sustainability of aviation consulting firm SimpliFlying.

Amidst growing environmental concerns and the urgent need for climate action, the aviation industry faces a pivotal moment. In their new book, "Sustainability in the Air," Dirk Singer and Shashank Nigam delve into the industry's challenges while offering a beacon of hope through a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable aviation.

The aviation industry finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with the environmental consequences of its operations. While today aviation's global share of greenhouse gases is around 3%, that could grow to 22% if left unchecked. But the authors of "Sustainability in the Air" argue that this is not a doomsday scenario; it's a call to action.

Through eight crucial principles, Nigam and Singer shine a light on the positive changes that aviation can bring about while offering concrete solutions to navigate this critical juncture:

1 - Tie growth to sustainability: Align business models with sustainability to ensure that growth is synonymous with reduced carbon emissions.

2 - Combine incentives and mandates: Encourage sustainable practices through a balance of incentives and regulatory mandates.

3 - Apply the "polluter pays principle" as a "clean skies" fund: Create mechanisms where industry contributions directly mitigate environmental impacts.

4 - Focus on global equity, including the "Global South": Promote equitable access to sustainable aviation solutions across the world.

5 - Ensure aviation doesn't take more than its fair share: Prioritise responsible resource allocation to minimise environmental harm.

6 - Emphasise transparency, accountability, and targets: Establish clear, measurable sustainability goals and hold the industry accountable.

7 - Encourage industry cooperation and knowledge sharing: Foster collaboration among aviation stakeholders to accelerate innovation and change.

8 - The eventual goal should be true-zero, not net-zero: Strive for complete decarbonisation.

In all, the authors present a wide-ranging view of innovation in aviation, all while illustrating the complex web of considerations companies must navigate to become sustainable. Fortunately, Nigam and Singer's research has pointed to an optimistic view of the future. "Sustainability in the Air" isn't just a roadmap; it tells the stories of people in the aviation industry and within climate tech, planning for aviation's net zero future.

Here are just a few of the stories that are featured:

* While Greta Thunberg was taking a catamaran across the Atlantic to avoid flying, Anders Forslund and his wife Klara were sitting in an aircraft hangar in Gothenburg, Sweden designing a completely new kind of electric aircraft for their company 'Heart Aerospace'

* Greg Constantine and Dr. Staff Sheehan, the founders of Air Company have made vodka and perfume out of thin air. Now they are using that technology to make carbon neutral jet fuel

* Mariam Musallam Al-Qubaisi has broken down barriers in becoming Etihad Airways' first Emirati head of sustainability, with the airline having pioneered a range of environmental initiatives under her tenure

* Robin Spierings has been selected as one of the 2023 Women of the Future, 50 in ESG for her work in managing a global competition, The SkyTeam Sustainable Flight Challenge where airlines are vying to see how sustainable their flights can be.

"Sustainability in the Air" is available on all major online platforms, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

For more information about Shashank Nigam, Dirk Singer, and "Sustainability in the Air," please visit the book's official website at http://sustainabilityintheair.com/.

About the Authors:

Shashank Nigam is the founder and CEO of SimpliFlying. Having consulted for more than 100 airlines over 15 years, Nigam is a frequent keynote speaker and has been widely featured in major media outlets like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and the BBC. His previous book, "SOAR," was an Amazon bestseller and is currently being taught to Masters students at Cranfield University (UK) and Embry-Riddle (USA). "Sustainability in the Air" is his second book, and he is the host of a leading podcast with the same name.

Dirk Singer is the Head of Sustainability at SimpliFlying, an industry-leading aviation consulting firm dedicated to shaping a greener and more environmentally conscious future for air travel. He is also the co-founder of several successful creative agencies including Honey, Rabbit and Cow. Singer's career has spanned more than two decades, during which he has written white papers, newsletters and essays on climate change related issues, reaching thousands of subscribers in the aviation industry. "Sustainability in the Air" is his first book.

About Legacy Launch Pad Publishing:

A boutique publishing company for entrepreneurs, Legacy Launch Pad has published numerous Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling authors whose books have been featured on such shows as Today and Good Morning America as well as in The New York Times and USA Today. Learn more: https://www.legacylaunchpadpub.com/.

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

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Education and Schools, Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles, NonProfit and Charities, Product Launches, Sciences

Announcing the Launch of the Green Chemistry Teaching and Learning Community (GCTLC)

WILMINGTON, Mass. -- Beyond Benign, in partnership with sponsors and partners including the American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute (ACS GCI), is excited to announce the launch of the Green Chemistry Teaching and Learning Community (GCTLC): an online hub for everyone in the green chemistry community to share, connect, learn, and grow together.

Developed in collaboration with green chemistry leaders and educators worldwide, the GCTLC is a dynamic virtual space where community members can develop connections, find mentors, share resources, and enhance their knowledge through peer-led learning.

"We created the GCTLC alongside passionate educators, industry partners and stakeholders within the green chemistry education community to ensure it truly serves everybody," said Dr. Jonathon Moir, GCTLC Senior Program Manager. "Because we cultivated this platform together, the GCTLC exists as a teaching and learning platform and also a living testament to the unity and collaboration underpinning our community."

Designed with K-12 educators, higher-ed faculty, and student leaders in mind, the GCTLC serves as a central meeting space for green chemistry enthusiasts to connect in real time.

"The GCTLC fills a big gap, particularly in the education space," said Dr. Glenn Hurst, Professor at University of York and GCTLC Leadership Committee Member. "The challenge to transform our community and make a real difference in the widespread integration of green chemistry into education is one the GCTLC is perfectly placed to address."

The GCTLC is a one-stop shop for everything green chemistry. Key features include:

* a robust community space where users can locate and connect with other community members based on profession, institution, and other key identifiers;

* an extensive library of valuable educational resources and curriculum materials from community members from across the world;

* forums and groups, allowing users to delve deeper into specific green chemistry topics and seek advice from their peers;

* and continued learning opportunities, including courses and special events.

"The GCTLC is a powerful resource that will drastically improve our teaching community's ability to collaborate, share, and, ultimately, adopt new green chemistry curriculum," said Dr. Adelina Voutchkova, ACS GCI Director of Sustainable Development. "We are proud to partner with Beyond Benign on this venture."

The overarching objective of the GCTLC is to advance the widespread incorporation of green chemistry principles within educational settings and, as a result, various industrial sectors.

"The green chemistry community is incredibly powerful when we unite to empower and inspire one another," said Dr. Amy Cannon, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Beyond Benign. "The GCTLC acts as a catalyst for our movement, providing a place for ideas and knowledge to flow freely in real time. We're excited to join educators and leaders throughout the world in this hub, where we'll have the opportunity to accelerate our impact."

MilliporeSigma, the Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, and the Argosy Foundation have played a pivotal role in the successful launch of the GCTLC through their generous funding. Additionally, this initiative has garnered crucial support from other foundational sponsors, including Cell Signaling Technology, BASF, Hexion, and the Washington State Department of Ecology.

Register to join the GCTLC platform at: https://gctlc.org/form/registration

Find us on X (Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About Beyond Benign:

Beyond Benign, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit envisions a world where the chemical building blocks of products used every day are healthy and safe for humans and the environment. Beyond Benign's mission is to foster a green chemistry community that empowers educators to transform chemistry education for a sustainable future. Beyond Benign is working to equip educators from K-20 with the ability to teach chemistry and STEM through a lens of sustainability grounded in the 12 principles of green chemistry. By providing educators with tools, training and a peer support network, educators are equipped to train the next generation of scientists and citizens with the skills and knowledge to create and choose products that are safe for human health and the environment.

Co-founded in 2007 by Dr. John Warner, the co-founder of the field of green chemistry, and Dr. Amy Cannon, who holds the world's first Ph.D. in Green Chemistry, Beyond Benign has an extensive history of service. Over the past 15 years, Beyond Benign has trained over 6,500 K-12 teachers in sustainable science and green chemistry, designed over 200 open-access lessons, reached over 35,000 youth and community members through outreach, & partnered with 140 universities to transform chemistry education. Together we can catalyze the development of green technological innovations that result in safer products and processes in support of a sustainable, healthy society.

Learn more: http://beyondbenign.org/

Learn more about the GCTLC platform at: https://gctlc.org/

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

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Books and Publishing, Business, Entertainment, Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles, NonProfit and Charities, Product Launches

Black Women in STEM Pen New Children’s Science and Nature Book for HBCU Green Fund’s Publishing Arm Launch

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Fostering their continued efforts to create innovative programs to lead the charge in building a more sustainable future, the HBCU Green Fund, founded by environmental leader, Felicia Davis, has launched a self-titled publishing brand. Their first release, "MSITU: The Old-Growth Forest," is written by three women in STEM, Spelman college students and alumna, Serena Echols, Imani Blue and Nia McKenzie, and illustrated by Niara Powell. Released today, the children's science and nature book takes young readers on a magical journey into an old-growth forest where the native plant species live in perfect balance until their delicate equilibrium is disrupted by outsiders.

"We hope to ignite the imagination of young readers," said Echols, a recent Spelman College graduate. "By weaving messages about teamwork, understanding and the power of nature, we hope to teach young readers about unity, the forest, and the importance of nurturing and protecting the environment."

Illai Kenney, director of HBCU Green Fund comments, "In order to effectively address the issue of Climate Change we must take from African and Native American cultures and instill the interconnectedness of humans, nonhumans and the environment from birth. Small children that learn environmentally-friendly habits like conserving water and recycling will pass it down generations. The fate of the planet is in the hands of our youth so teaching them to care for their natural environment will result in a more sustainable world."

"MSITU is a delightful read that inspires environmental stewardship," adds Davis. "Young readers are introduced to an urban old-growth forest that they can visit to get a better understanding of nature and for memories that will last a lifetime. A special bonus is to learn about the exceptional authors and illustrator of the book."

The HBCU Green Fund publishing group aims to empower and amplify the voices of HBCU authors by providing a platform for them to contribute to the conversation on environmental issues within the HBCU community and beyond. Based in Washington, DC and Atlanta, the HBCU Green Fund is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization working with historically Black colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad to advance sustainability and environmental justice, promote student engagement in green initiatives, and train the next generation of global green leaders.

The organization's Atlanta University Center Clean Energy Fellows Program introduces students to career opportunities in the clean energy sector and connects students with Black entrepreneurs that provide training in renewable energy technologies. Their Eco Spring Break Service-Learning trip enables HBCU students, faculty, and alumni to spend a week in an African village where they can help, and learn from, the vulnerable communities that contribute the least, but are most impacted by the effects of climate change. The West Atlanta Project, funded by a Bezos Earth Fund grant as part of the Greening American Cities Initiative, will enhance access to healthy food, outdoor activities, green transportation options, and education, with a Truly Living Well Farm serving as the project anchor.

"MSITU: The Old-Growth Forest," published in collaboration with JSJ Media, is available for on Amazon.com and wherever books are sold.

For more information about HBCU Green Fund books or programs visit hbcugreenfund.org or @hbcugreenfund on social media.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

* Edrea Davis, Jazzmyne PR

818.613.9521 | edmedia@dogonvillage.com

* Makeda Smith, Jazzmyne PR jazzmynepr@gmail.com

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles, Software

Aravenda Among Select Startups Chosen for Google Accelerator Program Dedicated to Supporting Women Founders

FAIRFAX, Va. -- Aravenda, a Techstars and VIPC portfolio company, has proudly secured a spot as 1 of 11 companies in the prestigious Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders. This significant accomplishment spotlights Aravenda's leadership in propelling innovation within the market of resale software, while simultaneously establishing a benchmark for sustainable practices in the resale market.

Aravenda's Consignment Software for small to mid-sized resale businesses, coupled with its white label enterprise products allows companies, governments, universities, and non-profits to reallocate and resell unused resources, improving sustainability on a global level.

"The impact we have on reducing carbon emissions is huge," said Carolyn Thompson, Founder & CEO of Aravenda.

"Every 25,000 pounds that are recycled monthly, reduces CO2 emissions by 1 million pounds a year. Consignment stores across the globe make major impacts, but large companies and organizations who choose us to automate their internal asset reallocation programs meet carbon neutrality goals 10x faster than they ever imagined by using our product."

Randy Howard, VP of IT and Customer Success at Aravenda added, "Being a part of the Google Accelerator program will help us continue what we have started and expand our product beyond the 10 countries where we currently serve clients."

The Women Founders cohort of Google's accelerator program is a powerful initiative designed to empower and uplift women-led businesses. Annual reports indicate that less than 3% of venture capital investments are granted to women. To fill this gap, programs like Google's Startup Accelerator create a space for women founders to propel their businesses. As a participant in this esteemed cohort, Aravenda will have the unique opportunity to receive specialized mentorship from Google experts, leverage the cutting-edge capabilities of Google's cloud computing resources, access crucial technical guidance, and benefit from invaluable networking with like-minded stakeholders.

This milestone underscores Aravenda's steadfast commitment to leading innovation in resale technology and fostering sustainable asset reallocation practices.

For more information about Aravenda, please visit https://www.aravenda.com/.

To learn more about Google Startups Accelerator: Women Founder cohort follow them on social media @Googleforstarups or meet the newest class of 2023 Women Founded Companies at https://developers.googleblog.com/2023/08/meet-google-for-startups-accelerator-women-founders-class-of-2023.html

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.techstars.com/

https://www.virginiaipc.org/

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

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Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles, Government, NonProfit and Charities, Sports and Activities

California’s Sacramento River Trail and Rail Trail Inducted into Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Hall of Fame

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation's largest trails advocacy organization, today announced that California's Sacramento River Rail Trail and Sacramento River Trail will be inducted to its iconic Hall of Fame.

Nestled beneath the Cascade and Trinity mountains, the trails provide 21 miles of transportation and recreation along California's largest river. The trail pair was selected for outstanding merits, including RTC's expanded eligibility criteria this year, which prioritizes multiuse trails that deliver exceptional accessibility and user experience, and contributions to the connectivity of regional trail and active transportation systems.

"Across the country, connected trail systems are proving their significance as essential community assets-creating safe space for people to be active outside, connecting neighbors and neighborhoods, and creating more transportation and mobility options for entire regions," said Ryan Chao, president of RTC. "This year's Hall of Fame nominees were examples of exceptional trails that are fundamental to our vision of a future where trails connect everyone, everywhere. The Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail stand out by illustrating the impact of connecting trails in ways that provide opportunities for recreation, transportation and intimate connections to the history and nature steeped in place."

Once serving as a travel and trade route for indigenous peoples, then later by a subsidiary of the Central Pacific Railroad, the Sacramento River Rail Trail and Sacramento River Trail provide opportunities for the community to be active, access the outdoors, and connect to neighborhoods and destinations in and around the City of Redding, including the Shasta Lake Recreation Area and the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. The trails also serve as a backbone for a developing regional trail system that encompasses more than 250 miles and will eventually stretch from the Shasta Dam to Redding's southern neighbor, Anderson, and beyond.

"We are excited to share with the world that the Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail are indeed Hall of Fame worthy. We are grateful for our many partners who have collaborated on the development and expansion of the trails and our many users and support organizations who make the trails better every day. We invite you to visit and experience these world-class trails and scenic river," said Kimberly Niemer, director of community services for the City of Redding.

The trails are home to the Sundial Bridge, an awe-inspiring feature that links both sides of the Upper Sacramento River. The 700-foot-long, cable-stayed, glass and steel working sundial spanning the Sacramento River attracts an estimated 100,000 global visitors each year.

The bridge, park and Redding's vast network of trails-built in phases over the past three decades - have helped transform the region. The vast regional system of trails is a product of a partnership managed by the City of Redding, the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service with the support of local groups, foundations, other agencies and community members.

"We are proud to partner with the City of Redding and other groups in managing these trails that improve the quality of life for residents of our area, while offering destination-worthy opportunities for outdoor recreation," said Jennifer Mata, manager of the BLM's Redding Field Office.

The trail pair was among three nominees voted on by the public between Jul. 31 and Aug. 7, 2023, securing nearly 48% of the vote. The Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail duo is the 37th inductee in RTC's Hall of Fame, joining an exemplary list of trails recognized for their outstanding scenic value, use, amenities, historical significance and community benefit. More than 30,000 votes were cast in the 2023 Hall of Fame contest. The other nominees were the Hennepin Canal State Trail in Illinois and the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail network in South Carolina.

For more information about the Hall of Fame, visit railstotrails.org.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is the nation's largest trails organization - with a grassroots community more than 1 million strong - dedicated to building a nation connected by trails, reimagining public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike and be active outdoors.

Connect with RTC at https://www.railstotrails.org and @railstotrails on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT: Patricia Brooks, Patricia@matchmapmedia.com, 202.351.1757

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/y6U-Re1nKRM

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.traillink.com/trail/sacramento-river-rail-trail/

https://www.cityofredding.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks

https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2013/september/12/the-road-to-a-thousand-wonders/

https://www.railstotrails.org/our-work/trail-promotion/rail-trail-hall-of-fame/

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

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Construction and Building, Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles, Restaurant, Hotel and Hospitality, Travel and Tourism

Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is First Hawaiian Hotel to Receive LEED v4 Gold Certification

KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii -- After a massive renovation of an iconic resort that prioritized resource conservation, sustainable operations, and care for local culture, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort has received LEED Gold certification, sustainability consulting firm VCA Green announced today.

Global real estate investment company Kennedy Wilson (NYSE: KW) partnered with design firm Walker Warner Architects and Architect of Record Delawie following a devastating 2011 tsunami to transform the property's 81 acres into a premier Hawaiian resort.

The renovation was completed while staying true to original features, including a 150 guest hale spread across several village-like crescents, the Shipwreck Bar, and a petroglyph field, respecting archeologically significant sites or "kapu" while embracing an environmentally friendly design.

Sustainability consulting firm VCA Green is shepherding several of the resort's amenity spaces, including the Spa, Moana (the resort's main restaurant), and Employee Village, through the LEED v4 Building Design & Construction process and has secured Gold Certification for Moana. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world that promotes healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.

"LEED continues to provide a meaningful, global framework for advancing sustainability within real estate and helped to guide our sustainability strategy throughout our innovative redevelopment project," said Alex Spilger, Head of Global ESG at Kennedy Wilson. "We are very proud to celebrate our LEED Gold accomplishment at Kona Village."

Kona Village is a water-neutral site that utilizes native plants, ponds that help the island's natural biodiversity thrive, and a reverse-osmosis non-potable water irrigation system. Solar panels and battery storage are designed to subsidize 100% of the site's energy use, while the all-LED lighting design reduces light pollution. Bike facilities and on-site amenities promote employee and guest wellness as well as reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-burning cars to move from place to place. The intense attention to each detail of the site's materials, layout, and operations awarded each section of the property full points in several LEED categories.

To commemorate Kona Village's outstanding dedication to sustainability, U.S. Green Building Council President and CEO Peter Templeton held a plaque dedication ceremony at the resort on July 25, 2023.

"Kona Village's LEED certification demonstrates tremendous green building leadership. All over the world, the hospitality industry is recognizing that green building works and enhances a company's triple bottom line-people, planet, and profit," Templeton said. "By incorporating green building practices, hotels are raising the bar for the global market, positively impacting the quality of our built space by providing everyone with access to healthy, green, and high performing buildings. Kona Village is a prime example of how the innovative work of project teams can create local solutions that contribute to making a global difference."

More information: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/kona-village

MEDIA CONTACT:
Robyn Vettraino
VCA Green
949-683-4645
rvettraino@vca-green.com
https://vca-green.com/

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Photo Caption: Developer, owner, sustainability consultant and CEO of the USGBC attended a LEED plaque ceremony to dedicate the first of three LEED certifications for Kona Village's three distinct sections. From left to right: Alex Spilger: Head of Global ESG - Kennedy Wilson; Peter Templeton: President and CEO - U.S. Green Building Council; Robyn Vettraino: Principal - Verde, A VCA Company; Sandra Estornell: Managing Director - Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort; Matt Comisar: Development Manager - Kennedy Wilson; Mike Eadie: Managing Director, U.S. Development and Construction - Kennedy Wilson; Scott Bedingfield: Project Director, Kona Village - Kennedy Wilson.

Related link: https://vca-green.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Awards and Honors, Business, Education and Schools, Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles, NonProfit and Charities

Children’s Health Champion California Safe Schools Celebrates 25th Anniversary and Honors Earth Day Heroes

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Founded by Robina Suwol in 1998, California Safe Schools (CSS) is a children's environmental health and environmental justice non-profit. CSS achieved national and international prominence by spearheading the Los Angeles Unified School District's (LAUSD) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy, and for the past 25 years been a leader in protecting children's health and the environment.

In honor of Earth Day, California Safe Schools celebrates outstanding heroes who strive daily to protect human health and our environment.

2023 Earth Day Heroes:

Patricia Hill began her career in front of the camera, then broke into production as the first female cameraperson. Her credits are innumerable: Cheers, Frasier, M*A*S*H, The Waltons, Everyone Loves Raymond and many others. Patricia has continually used her skills to help others. She documented an irrigation project by the Gambia River, was the photographer for Ted Danson's American Oceans Campaign later called Oceana, organized a delegation to document human rights violations in Central America and helped lobby in Washington. She also judged animated submissions for the Environmental Media Association.

Qihao Huang is a 12th grade student at Abraham Lincoln High School helping his community as a volunteer with Chinatown Community Equitable Development, Project Angel Food, Teens Leading Change, Chinatown Teen Council, and YUCA. Through his work, he has become aware of the challenges elderly face including language barriers.As a result, he has established his own non-profit to help low-income people as an advocate against gentrification, ensuring access to support and resources. Qihao also participates in community service events such as the Lincoln Park Clean-Up, LA Marathon, and Rose Parade.

Stephanie Lewis is a Senior Environmental Scientist at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). Her main work focuses on working with California Native American Tribes to ensure that they are aware of investigative and remediation projects that are anticipated to take place on their culturally affiliated and sensitive lands. As an advocate for introducing young people to STEM, Stephanie serves on the board of the Hyde Park Organization Partnership for Empowerment, California Science Center Foundation MUSES program, which funds students to attend science classes, and is chair of the Los Angeles Council of Black Professional Engineers scholarship committee.

Adrian Martinez

Based in Los Angeles, Adrian works on clean air, clean energy, and healthy communities issues as a deputy managing attorney for Earthjustice in its "Right to Zero" campaign. He also serves as the Chair of Earthjustice's Transportation Practice Group. Adrian currently serves on San Pedro Bay Ports Sustainable Supply Chain Advisory Committee and the California Public Utilities Commission and California Energy Commission Disadvantaged Communities Advisory Committee. He co-teaches a class on Environmental Justice Law at the University of California Los Angeles. Adrian also volunteers on the board of several nonprofits and serves on the advisory board for the Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at UCLA Law School.

Caroline Martinez

Caroline is a first grader who is no stranger to environmental advocacy. She has attended many hearings with her father, Adrian Martinez of Earth Justice, to advocate for electric buses in Los Angeles. She aspires to be an electric car designer.

Chief Ernie P. Teutimez-Salas, Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians/Kizh Nation

Chief Ernie P. Teutimez -Salas has proven to be the most recognized and most accurately documented, direct lineal-descendant of former native ancestors of Kizh/Gabrieleño Villages or (rancherias), the villages of Sibangna Siba, Tameobit & Atongai / Tamet, from any Gabrieleño Indians in Gabrieleño History. Chief Salas is the grandchild of Nicolas Jose who was a man of great power and had an important part in the rebellion of 1784 at Mission San Gabriel. Chief Salas has taught his Tribe to have self-respect and to keep their culture and way of living alive while being the stewards of the land in its protection and preservation for future generations.

Matthew Teutimez

Matthew Teutimez has been designated by his Tribe to possess and share Kizh-Gabrieleño ecological knowledge and traditional practices taught to him by Chief Ernie P. Teutimez-Salas and Elders of the Kizh-Gabrieleño Tribe. He serves as the Tribal Biologist and Director of Resources, specializing in ethnobotanical and cultural uses of native flora and fauna. Matthew is the founder and executive director he Laboratory for Indigenous Knowledge Systems (LINKS), a non-profit created to integrate and apply indigenous methods and knowledge into environmental stewardship, food, medicine, and land management projects. Matthew is a member of the California Environmental Protection Agency's (CalEPA) Tribal Advisory Committee; CALEPA's Community Science Model Workgroup; the City of Los Angeles' Tree Ambassador Program; and Los Angeles Sanitation & Environment's Biodiversity Workgroup.

Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians/Kizh NationKizh (Kitc, Quiichi)

The People of the Willow and Tule Brush Houses.The Kizh name derives from the dome-style dwellings used for houses. For millennia, the Kizh have created a complex and beautiful culture, which included religion, astronomy, rich and varied cuisine, economy, and complex social structures. The Kizh developed ingenious ways to live sustainably from the gifts of the Creator on the land of the Los Angeles Basin and southern Channel Islands. The Kizh were one of two California tribes who mastered boat-building and developed a maritime culture utilizing the resources of the open ocean and coastal estuaries and bays. The lineage of the original people of the Los Angeles Basin still survives today within the Kizh Nation Tribe and its people continue to protect and preserve their cultural heritage, identity, and ancestral lands.

Robina Suwol, founder and executive director of California Safe Schools added, "In honoring these phenomenal self-less individuals, we are acknowledging their tremendous efforts that have resulted in the protection of not only current generations, but future generations to come."

Learn more: https://www.calisafe.org/

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

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Awards and Honors, Business, Environment and Ecology, Free News Articles

Taylor Wilshire and the Wilshire Foundation again win the Global Excellence Award (GEA) for 2023

NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Taylor Wilshire and the Wilshire Foundation have again won the Global Excellence Award (GEA) from the Consortium of International Social and Financial Responsibility (CISFR). This award highlights the Wilshire Foundation's outstanding success in creating sustainable solutions through partnership, innovation, and best practices in order to advance its mission of eradicating poverty by fostering development and promoting affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all.

"We are determined to take the bold and transformative steps that are urgently needed to shift the world to a sustainable and resilient path as we embark on this collective journey," Wilshire stated.

As conflicts and divisive international issues arise, the Wilshire Foundation has advanced its humanitarian efforts and funding capabilities to provide shelter and placement for refugees from wars and establish self-sustained communities in India and Africa. The foundation recognizes that international trade can be an engine for inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction while creating an important source of income for both the private and public sector in developing countries. This mission to transform poverty goes hand-in-hand with strategies to improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth-all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.

"Partnerships and collaborations between nations, researchers, and industry teams have highlighted the incredible things we can do together as we promote awareness of sustainable change. The result is transforming not only human equality but also creating economic solutions that deliver new inspiration to every generation on our planet. Our dedicated teams are already bringing us closer and closer to seeing real change," Taylor said.

During a time when most companies and institutions are battling severe economic fluctuation and political crises, the Wilshire Foundation has been receiving praise and funding that will expand its sustainable, innovative, and award-winning programs and projects. Inspired by the tenets of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization (WTO), the foundation's cutting-edge financial structures have put it in the spotlight of companies to continue to watch.

The CISFR's Global Excellence Award will be presented to the Wilshire Foundation in New York, New York, on April 24, 2023. Members of the CISFR include the World Trade Organization, the United Nations, International Conscious Capital, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

For more information, visit: http://www.wilshirefoundation.net/

Related link: http://wilshirefoundation.net/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022