ESG Concerns In Oil And Gas Sectors Led To A Surge In Downgrade Pressure In January, Report Finds

NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Downgrade potential surged in the oil and gas sector in January on the back of a revised industry risk assessment issued Jan. 25. This was owing to environmental, social, and government (ESG) concerns as many governments formally endorse adoption and transition to renewable energy alternatives. Specifically, this led to nine issuers on our list being placed on CreditWatch with negative implications, temporarily boosting downgrade…

NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Downgrade potential surged in the oil and gas sector in January on the back of a revised industry risk assessment issued Jan. 25. This was owing to environmental, social, and government (ESG) concerns as many governments formally endorse adoption and transition to renewable energy alternatives. Specifically, this led to nine issuers on our list being placed on CreditWatch with negative implications, temporarily boosting downgrade pressure, which has largely subsided since.

While still considerably higher than 642 issuers a year ago, overall potential bond downgrades dropped to 1,137 as of the end of January, from 1,178 a month earlier, said S&P Global Ratings Research in an article published today, «ESG Concerns In Oil And Gas Sectors Led To A Surge In Downgrade Pressure In January, Which Was Realized By Mid-February.»

«Even though we did see downgrade pressure jump for the oil and gas sector in January, the broader trend of a decrease in potential bond downgrades continued for a sixth consecutive month,» said Sudeep Kesh, head of S&P Global Credit Markets Research. «Six of the nine CreditWatch placements were resolved through downgrades in the issuer credit rating, one remains to be resolved, and two have been removed with an affirmation of the rating.»

So far in 2021, financial institutions continue to lead potential bond downgrades at 158, followed by the media and entertainment sector at 135 issuers, together accounting for more than 25% of the potential bond downgrades. Downgrade risk continues to soften in the two sectors as we anticipate a deceleration in the pace of downgrades this year, though it remains elevated.

Potential downgrades are issuers rated ‘AAA’ to ‘B-‘ by S&P Global Ratings with either negative rating outlooks or ratings on CreditWatch with negative implications.

This report does not constitute a rating action.

The reports are available to subscribers of RatingsDirect at www.capitaliq.com. If you are not a RatingsDirect subscriber, you may purchase copies of these reports by calling (1) 212-438-7280 or sending an e-mail to research_request@spglobal.com. Ratings information can also be found on S&P Global Ratings’ public website by using the Ratings search box located in the left column at www.standardandpoors.com. Members of the media may request copies of these reports by contacting the media representative provided.

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SOURCE S&P Global Ratings

Advocate for Climate Change to Help Save the Planet

MISSION, Kan., Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — (Family Features) Climate change is an issue that impacts everyone, especially children. The impacts can be seen first-hand, as the planet warms, and human fingerprints are all over the consequences: bigger, stronger hurricanes; deadly heat waves; more intense downpours; and devastating wildfires.

<a…

MISSION, Kan., Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — (Family Features) Climate change is an issue that impacts everyone, especially children. The impacts can be seen first-hand, as the planet warms, and human fingerprints are all over the consequences: bigger, stronger hurricanes; deadly heat waves; more intense downpours; and devastating wildfires.

In fact, 60% of Americans are concerned about climate change, according to a survey by the Potential Energy Coalition. For many moms, having a child is what made them start to care about climate change in the first place. Eighty-three percent of moms are concerned about climate change and want to do something about it.

«It’s hard to study climate change and aspects of climate change and be a mother because the data’s very real to you,» said Dr. Emily Fischer, atmospheric chemist and associate professor in the Department of Atmospheric Science at Colorado State University. «We need a massive shift in the way we produce energy within 10 years, the same time period I need to save and plan to send my daughter to college. We’re hoping moms will realize climate change impacts their children and that we have solutions, but we need to act relatively quickly.»

If you’re not sure where to begin, these ideas from the climate scientists at Science Moms can add up to create meaningful solutions.

Learn about climate change. Education is a powerful tool, so learning all you can about climate change is one of the best ways to get involved.

«Sorting through myriad information online can be daunting,» said Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, scientist and professor at Texas Tech University. «That’s why Science Moms was created. This nonpartisan group of leading climate scientists, who are also mothers, aims to break down climate change through simple, engaging content.»

Raise your voice. Leaders have the ability to truly take action on the scale needed to make lasting progress on this challenge, but they need to know that it’s a top priority of individuals. You can add your name to petitions and invite others to do the same, attend local meetings to voice your support for reducing carbon pollution and clean energy projects and meet with elected leaders to ensure they know you stand behind them. Of all the actions you can take, one of the most powerful is telling your representatives this is an issue you care about.

«By investing in a clean energy future and common-sense solutions that keep families and communities safe, government leaders have the ability to enact policies that escalate on a scale we could never achieve alone,» Hayhoe said. «They all need to know we stand behind their decisions to tackle this issue.»

Talk about it. In order to avoid some of the worst impacts of climate change, fast action is needed. Share what you learn with your neighbors and other parents to help make everyone more aware of the issue. Also remember that environmental concerns aren’t just for adults. Oftentimes, concern for the climate comes from children. Talking with your kids about the importance of good stewardship and empowering them to make a difference can affect how the next generation approaches concerns like climate change and pollution.

Make climate-conscious choices. There are nearly countless examples of smaller actions you can take to adapt your own home and life. Options to consider include switching to electric cars, buying green electricity (now available in 24 states), putting solar panels on your roof, insulating your house or adding more plant-based foods to your diet.

For more information and to get involved, visit sciencemoms.com.

Michael French
mfrench@familyfeatures.com 
1-888-824-3337
editors.familyfeatures.com

About Family Features Editorial Syndicate

A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com.

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SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate

Gold Fields Welcomes NERSA Approval Of South Deep Solar Plant

JOHANNESBURG, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Gold Fields Limited (Gold Fields) (JSE: GFI) (NYSE: GFI) welcomes the electricity generation licence approved today by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) for the construction of a 40MW solar power plant at its South Deep mine.

The acting CEO of NERSA now has to authorise the license, a decision that should be forthcoming over the next two weeks. All the regulatory approvals to proceed with the…

JOHANNESBURG, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Gold Fields Limited (Gold Fields) (JSE: GFI) (NYSE: GFI) welcomes the electricity generation licence approved today by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) for the construction of a 40MW solar power plant at its South Deep mine.

The acting CEO of NERSA now has to authorise the license, a decision that should be forthcoming over the next two weeks. All the regulatory approvals to proceed with the project are then in place.

Gold Fields will update its definitive costings and finalise all the required internal processes to commence the project as soon as possible. The solar plant has the potential to provide around 20% of South Deep’s average electricity consumption.

Says Nick Holland, Gold Fields’ CEO: «The solar power plant will increase the reliability and affordability of power supply to South Deep, ultimately enhancing the long-term sustainability of the mine.

«The approval of this licence sends a strong, positive message to mining companies and their investors, potentially leading to decisions being taken to sustain and grow mining operations in the country, especially in deep-level, underground, marginal mines. Enabling companies to generate their own power also gives Eskom room to address operational issues at its power plants.»

Gold Fields’ energy objectives are based on four pillars – energy must be reliable, available, cost-effective and clean – which promote a shift to self-generation using renewable energy sources. «We are fully committed to making our contribution towards net-zero emissions,» says Holland.  

During 2020, Gold Fields successfully implemented solar and wind power plants, backed by battery storage, at two of its Australian mines, Agnew and Granny Smith, and committed to renewables at its other Australian mines, Gruyere and St Ives, as well as the Salares Norte project in Chile when it starts operations in 2023. All its other mines are also reviewing renewable energy options.

Since full commissioning of the Agnew microgrid, renewable electricity averages over 55% of total supply at the mine. During 2020, renewable electricity averaged 8% for the Australia region and 3% of total Group electricity. Once the South Deep project is commissioned, renewable’s contribution to the Group total will rise to approximately 11%.

Holland says: «We expect our investment in renewable and low-carbon energy sources to contribute significantly to our carbon emission reductions over the next few years. Power from the South Deep solar plant will partially replace coal-fired electricity from Eskom, enabling us to significantly reduce our Scope 2 carbon emissions.»

Notes to editors

About Gold Fields

Gold Fields is a globally diversified gold producer with nine operating mines in Australia, Peru, South Africa and West Africa (including the Asanko JV), as well as one project in Chile. We have total attributable annual gold-equivalent production of 2.2Moz, attributable gold-equivalent Mineral Reserves of 51.3Moz and Mineral Resources of 115.7Moz. Our shares are listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) and our American depositary shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

Enquiries

Investors

Avishkar Nagaser
Tel:  +27 11 562-9775
Mobile:  +27 82 312 8692
Email: Avishkar.Nagaser@goldfields.com

Thomas Mengel
Tel:  +27 11 562-9849
Mobile:  +27 72 493 5170
Email: Thomas.Mengel@goldfields.com

Media

Sven Lunsche
Tel: +27 11 562-9763
Mobile: +27 83 260 9279
Email: Sven.Lunsche@goldfields.com

 

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SOURCE Gold Fields Limited

Toyota Mobility Foundation Designates First Mobility Pilot Technologies and Collaborators for Indiana Future Mobility District Initiative

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Today, the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and Energy Systems Network (ESN) designates May Mobility and Udelv as the first two deployments of the Future Mobility District initiative. The Future Mobility District initiative, established in collaboration with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), aims to foster innovation through industry partnerships and propel research and development in advanced mobility technologies in <span…

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Today, the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and Energy Systems Network (ESN) designates May Mobility and Udelv as the first two deployments of the Future Mobility District initiative. The Future Mobility District initiative, established in collaboration with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), aims to foster innovation through industry partnerships and propel research and development in advanced mobility technologies in Indiana. TMF has established the Future Mobility District initiative in support of Toyota’s mission of Mobility for All and commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in this case to the Goal # 11 of Sustainable Cities and Communities.

The Future Mobility District will support deployments focused on improving overall movement of people and goods to validate their role in the changing mobility ecosystem. Designed with local community input, this human-centered framework will facilitate implementation activities and commercialization of an array of cooperative options.

May Mobility, a leader in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology and shuttle operations, will begin operating two 6-month non-concurrent AV shuttle services for passengers in the cities of Indianapolis and Fishers. The Indianapolis deployment is designed to increase mobility options by providing a connection from the nearby Vermont Station – along IndyGO’s Red Line – to areas west of downtown. The fixed-route service will be open to the general public when operations begin in May 2021 and will include five Lexus RX450h vehicles equipped with May Mobility’s autonomous technology alongside one wheelchair-accessible Polaris GEM shuttle.

«The May Mobility team is thrilled to be partnering with the Toyota Mobility Foundation and Energy Systems Network to bring this new AV shuttle service to Indianapolis and Fishers,» said Edwin Olson, co-founder and CEO of May Mobility. «Our mission is to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options that can seamlessly integrate with the available public and private services. And with every new deployment, we are able to expand our capabilities to better serve the riders and communities.»

Prior to launching its operations, May Mobility will establish its regional headquarters at the Indiana Internet of Things (IoT) Lab in Fishers. Founded in 2017, the Indiana IoT Lab is one of the nation’s first to bring together various players in the growing IoT sector and contributes to making central Indiana a thriving hub of innovation, education, and networking opportunities. May Mobility will subsequently commence autonomous vehicle operations in Fishers in November 2021.

We’ve built our community to be smart and entrepreneurial in both business and lifestyle to make way for opportunities such as this,» said Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness. «The partnership with ESN, Toyota Mobility Foundation, and May Mobility allows Fishers to be at the forefront of personal mobility in Indiana.»

Udelv, the world’s leading autonomous delivery platform for last and middle mile delivery, improves living quality in cities by reducing overall traffic and carbon footprint through their highly effective and innovative Delivery Management System (DMS), comprised of an automated cargo pod (the uPod®) and a cloud-based operating system, the UdelvOS. Udelv’s DMS is the only true contactless delivery system in the world. Through Udelv’s uPod, goods are retrieved from an individual compartment by consumers without direct contact with the vehicle’s driver. Udelv will begin operations of their program in 2021 in Indianapolis with one Toyota Sienna equipped with their innovative DMS technology.

«We are excited to now also deploy our platform on a Toyota Sienna in Indianapolis and allow for true contactless delivery and improved customer service levels while lowering cost and pollution in the process», says Daniel Laury, CEO of Udelv.

«As we actively pursue Mobility for All through our Future Mobility District initiative, we want to continue to partner with like-minded organizations like Udelv and May Mobility who understand the importance of advancing innovation in mobility through community engagement,» shared Ryan Klem, Director of Programs for the Toyota Mobility Foundation. «We are confident they are key players in helping to build the future of sustainable cities and communities.

«The introduction of the Indiana Future Mobility District’s first two mobility services are major steps forward for defining the initiative and validating its model for cost-effective and cooperative mobility technologies,» said Matt Peak, managing director, ESN. «The integration of additive technologies into the region’s existing transportation resources will continue to push central Indiana to the cutting edge of innovation and help inform deployment strategies in other regions.»

Additional details about the Future Mobility District initiative deployments and how to get involved will be made available in the coming months leading up to the launch of these pilots.

About Toyota Mobility Foundation
The Toyota Mobility Foundation was established in August 2014 to support the development of a more mobile society. The Foundation aims to support strong and equitable mobility systems. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise in technology, safety, and the environment, working in collaboration with universities, government, non-profit organizations, research institutions and other organizations to address mobility issues around the world. Solutions till date have aimed at resolving urban transportation problems, expanding the utilization of multi-modal mobility and developing solutions for future generations.

About Energy Systems Network
ESN is an Indianapolis-based nonprofit initiative focused on the development of the advanced energy technology and transportation sectors. Over the last decade, ESN has collaborated with a range of industry, academia, and government partners to deliver sustainable energy and mobility solutions, including electric car sharing, vehicle-to-smart grid communications, mobility-as-a-service, and others. ESN’s mission is to leverage its network of global thought leaders to develop integrated energy solutions to increase quality of life for today and tomorrow. The company’s focus is to: reduce costs, emissions and waste; influence policy; and advance technological innovation. For more information, and to download Emerging Mobility Technologies and Trends, visit www.energysystemsnetwork.com.

About IEDC
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indiana’s economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 15-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov. 

About May Mobility
May Mobility is a leader in autonomous vehicle technology development and deployment. With more than 270,000 autonomous rides to date, May Mobility is committed to delivering safe, efficient and sustainable shuttle solutions designed to complement today’s public transportation options. The company’s ultimate goal is to realize a world where self-driving systems make transportation more accessible and reliable, the roads safer, and encourage better land use in order to foster more green, vibrant, and livable spaces. For more information, visit maymobility.com. 

About Udelv
On a mission to improve people’s lives, road safety and deliver a sustainable industry, Udelv is revolutionizing the logistics space with its Autonomous Delivery Vans (ADV), built specifically for last and middle mile delivery on public roads. Founded in California in late 2017 by Daniel Laury and Akshat Patel, Udelv’s mission is to revolutionize delivery and shape the future of autonomous deliveries. In January 2018, Udelv successfully accomplished the first ever autonomous delivery on public roads. Udelv has since completed nearly 30,000 deliveries for multiple merchants in CA, AZ and TX and is preparing for expansion in many other states. Udelv is the leader in the last and middle mile logistics space through its proprietary delivery & access platform. Udelv’s focus on autonomous vehicles paired with its uPod delivery technology enable long-range and high-capacity deliveries that are eco, business and customer friendly. For more information, visit www.udelv.com.

About City of Fishers
The City of Fishers is a suburb of Indianapolis, Indiana, located in Hamilton County and was named #1 Place to Live in the US by Money Magazine in 2017. Under the leadership of Mayor Scott Fadness, Fishers is known as a smart, vibrant, and entrepreneurial city through its neighborhood development, dedication to supporting high-growth companies, and innovative city processes. With a population of 91,832 (2017), Fishers is one of the fastest growing communities in Indiana and has received national accolades for entrepreneurship, livability, and safety. City branding guidelines and logos can be downloaded here.

Media Contacts: 
Julie Ann Burandt (TMF) – info@toyota-mf.org
Drew Tharp (ESN) – drew@energysystemsnetwork.com
Erin Sweitzer (IEDC) – 317-296-2556 or esweitzer@iedc.in.gov
Afaf Farah (May Mobility) – 248-346-0407 or afaf@telemetryagency.com
Tobias Wessels (Udelv) – press@udelv.com 
Ashley Elrod (City of Fishers, IN) – 317-903-9825 or elroda@fishers.in.us 

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SOURCE Toyota Mobility Foundation

Toyota Mobility Foundation Designates First Mobility Pilot Technologies and Collaborators for Indiana Future Mobility District Initiative

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Today, the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and Energy Systems Network (ESN) designates May Mobility and Udelv as the first two deployments of the Future Mobility District initiative. The Future Mobility District initiative, established in collaboration with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), aims to foster innovation through industry partnerships and propel research and development in advanced mobility technologies in <span…

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Today, the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and Energy Systems Network (ESN) designates May Mobility and Udelv as the first two deployments of the Future Mobility District initiative. The Future Mobility District initiative, established in collaboration with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), aims to foster innovation through industry partnerships and propel research and development in advanced mobility technologies in Indiana. TMF has established the Future Mobility District initiative in support of Toyota’s mission of Mobility for All and commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in this case to the Goal # 11 of Sustainable Cities and Communities.

The Future Mobility District will support deployments focused on improving overall movement of people and goods to validate their role in the changing mobility ecosystem. Designed with local community input, this human-centered framework will facilitate implementation activities and commercialization of an array of cooperative options.

May Mobility, a leader in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology and shuttle operations, will begin operating two 6-month non-concurrent AV shuttle services for passengers in the cities of Indianapolis and Fishers. The Indianapolis deployment is designed to increase mobility options by providing a connection from the nearby Vermont Station – along IndyGO’s Red Line – to areas west of downtown. The fixed-route service will be open to the general public when operations begin in May 2021 and will include five Lexus RX450h vehicles equipped with May Mobility’s autonomous technology alongside one wheelchair-accessible Polaris GEM shuttle.

«The May Mobility team is thrilled to be partnering with the Toyota Mobility Foundation and Energy Systems Network to bring this new AV shuttle service to Indianapolis and Fishers,» said Edwin Olson, co-founder and CEO of May Mobility. «Our mission is to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options that can seamlessly integrate with the available public and private services. And with every new deployment, we are able to expand our capabilities to better serve the riders and communities.»

Prior to launching its operations, May Mobility will establish its regional headquarters at the Indiana Internet of Things (IoT) Lab in Fishers. Founded in 2017, the Indiana IoT Lab is one of the nation’s first to bring together various players in the growing IoT sector and contributes to making central Indiana a thriving hub of innovation, education, and networking opportunities. May Mobility will subsequently commence autonomous vehicle operations in Fishers in November 2021.

We’ve built our community to be smart and entrepreneurial in both business and lifestyle to make way for opportunities such as this,» said Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness. «The partnership with ESN, Toyota Mobility Foundation, and May Mobility allows Fishers to be at the forefront of personal mobility in Indiana.»

Udelv, the world’s leading autonomous delivery platform for last and middle mile delivery, improves living quality in cities by reducing overall traffic and carbon footprint through their highly effective and innovative Delivery Management System (DMS), comprised of an automated cargo pod (the uPod®) and a cloud-based operating system, the UdelvOS. Udelv’s DMS is the only true contactless delivery system in the world. Through Udelv’s uPod, goods are retrieved from an individual compartment by consumers without direct contact with the vehicle’s driver. Udelv will begin operations of their program in 2021 in Indianapolis with one Toyota Sienna equipped with their innovative DMS technology.

«We are excited to now also deploy our platform on a Toyota Sienna in Indianapolis and allow for true contactless delivery and improved customer service levels while lowering cost and pollution in the process», says Daniel Laury, CEO of Udelv.

«As we actively pursue Mobility for All through our Future Mobility District initiative, we want to continue to partner with like-minded organizations like Udelv and May Mobility who understand the importance of advancing innovation in mobility through community engagement,» shared Ryan Klem, Director of Programs for the Toyota Mobility Foundation. «We are confident they are key players in helping to build the future of sustainable cities and communities.

«The introduction of the Indiana Future Mobility District’s first two mobility services are major steps forward for defining the initiative and validating its model for cost-effective and cooperative mobility technologies,» said Matt Peak, managing director, ESN. «The integration of additive technologies into the region’s existing transportation resources will continue to push central Indiana to the cutting edge of innovation and help inform deployment strategies in other regions.»

Additional details about the Future Mobility District initiative deployments and how to get involved will be made available in the coming months leading up to the launch of these pilots.

About Toyota Mobility Foundation
The Toyota Mobility Foundation was established in August 2014 to support the development of a more mobile society. The Foundation aims to support strong and equitable mobility systems. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise in technology, safety, and the environment, working in collaboration with universities, government, non-profit organizations, research institutions and other organizations to address mobility issues around the world. Solutions till date have aimed at resolving urban transportation problems, expanding the utilization of multi-modal mobility and developing solutions for future generations.

About Energy Systems Network
ESN is an Indianapolis-based nonprofit initiative focused on the development of the advanced energy technology and transportation sectors. Over the last decade, ESN has collaborated with a range of industry, academia, and government partners to deliver sustainable energy and mobility solutions, including electric car sharing, vehicle-to-smart grid communications, mobility-as-a-service, and others. ESN’s mission is to leverage its network of global thought leaders to develop integrated energy solutions to increase quality of life for today and tomorrow. The company’s focus is to: reduce costs, emissions and waste; influence policy; and advance technological innovation. For more information, and to download Emerging Mobility Technologies and Trends, visit www.energysystemsnetwork.com.

About IEDC
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indiana’s economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 15-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov. 

About May Mobility
May Mobility is a leader in autonomous vehicle technology development and deployment. With more than 270,000 autonomous rides to date, May Mobility is committed to delivering safe, efficient and sustainable shuttle solutions designed to complement today’s public transportation options. The company’s ultimate goal is to realize a world where self-driving systems make transportation more accessible and reliable, the roads safer, and encourage better land use in order to foster more green, vibrant, and livable spaces. For more information, visit maymobility.com. 

About Udelv
On a mission to improve people’s lives, road safety and deliver a sustainable industry, Udelv is revolutionizing the logistics space with its Autonomous Delivery Vans (ADV), built specifically for last and middle mile delivery on public roads. Founded in California in late 2017 by Daniel Laury and Akshat Patel, Udelv’s mission is to revolutionize delivery and shape the future of autonomous deliveries. In January 2018, Udelv successfully accomplished the first ever autonomous delivery on public roads. Udelv has since completed nearly 30,000 deliveries for multiple merchants in CA, AZ and TX and is preparing for expansion in many other states. Udelv is the leader in the last and middle mile logistics space through its proprietary delivery & access platform. Udelv’s focus on autonomous vehicles paired with its uPod delivery technology enable long-range and high-capacity deliveries that are eco, business and customer friendly. For more information, visit www.udelv.com.

About City of Fishers
The City of Fishers is a suburb of Indianapolis, Indiana, located in Hamilton County and was named #1 Place to Live in the US by Money Magazine in 2017. Under the leadership of Mayor Scott Fadness, Fishers is known as a smart, vibrant, and entrepreneurial city through its neighborhood development, dedication to supporting high-growth companies, and innovative city processes. With a population of 91,832 (2017), Fishers is one of the fastest growing communities in Indiana and has received national accolades for entrepreneurship, livability, and safety. City branding guidelines and logos can be downloaded here.

Media Contacts: 
Julie Ann Burandt (TMF) – info@toyota-mf.org
Drew Tharp (ESN) – drew@energysystemsnetwork.com
Erin Sweitzer (IEDC) – 317-296-2556 or esweitzer@iedc.in.gov
Afaf Farah (May Mobility) – 248-346-0407 or afaf@telemetryagency.com
Tobias Wessels (Udelv) – press@udelv.com 
Ashley Elrod (City of Fishers, IN) – 317-903-9825 or elroda@fishers.in.us 

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SOURCE Toyota Mobility Foundation

Kearney releases new report on the economic costs of climate change

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Three central lessons have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic that can help address climate change, according to the 2021 Council…

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Three central lessons have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic that can help address climate change, according to the 2021 Council Perspective from the global strategy and management consulting firm Kearney. The first lesson involves the capacity and limitations of individuals to change their behaviors when faced with external shocks, the second shows the need for international cooperation to solve global challenges, and the third highlights the crucial role of technology in advancing solutions. The new report by Kearney’s Global Business Policy Council, entitled The economic costs of climate change: lessons learned from COVID-19, explores these lessons and analyzes the role of policy and technology in shaping the outlook for carbon emissions and the global economy.

Heeding these lessons will help policymakers and businesses mitigate the worst effects of climate change, which are already costing economies and companies. Higher temperatures and extreme weather are disrupting a variety of industries from agriculture to logistics to tourism. Investors are also catching on, as 77 percent say that climate considerations are playing a role in their decision-making processes.

The report explores various green technologies, from established methods such as wind and solar power to emerging sectors such as geoengineering. «Developments in several green technologies are truly exciting,» said report co-author Paul A. Laudicina, chairman emeritus of Kearney and founder of its Global Business Policy Council. «We’ve seen incredible growth in a number of key areas such as wind and solar power even throughout the pandemic, and we only expect growth to continue after economies begin reopening at a larger scale.» Laudicina highlighted developments in the «disaster economy» in particular. «We at the Council have been monitoring the ‘disaster economy’ in recent years and expect it to continue growing as extreme weather events persist—and become more destructive.»

Policymakers are also taking action as more governments consider carbon pricing mechanisms, and public and private sectors alike are increasing investments in green technologies. As 79 percent of investors expect climate-related regulations to impact their decisions in the next three years, understanding how policies will impact companies will prove vital. The circular economy is one area to watch as more governments and companies find innovative ways to extend the life cycle of products and minimize waste.

Despite policy and technological developments heading in a mostly positive direction, the outlook for climate change is far from certain. The report explores four possible climate futures, to striking results: carbon emissions could differ by as much as 10,621 million tons of carbon dioxide by 2030, and swings in global GDP could be as high as $29 trillion. «Our scenarios highlight how crucial two drivers—international cooperation and climate technology innovation—will be in determining the outlook for carbon emissions,» argued Erik Peterson, managing director of the Global Business Policy Council and co-author of the report. «The pandemic has only emphasized the extent to which companies need to prepare for external shocks. But with appropriate planning, businesses can build effective resilience strategies to mitigate the growing risks of climate change.»

Read the full report here.

About Kearney

As a global consulting partnership in more than 40 countries, our people make us who we are. We’re individuals who take as much joy from those we work with as the work itself. Driven to be the difference between a big idea and making it happen, we help our clients break through.

To learn more, visit https://www.kearney.com/.

About the Global Business Policy Council

The Global Business Policy Council is a specialized foresight and strategic analysis unit within Kearney. Since its first CEO Retreat in 1992, the Council has been a strategic service for the world’s top executives, government officials, and business-minded thought leaders. Through exclusive global forums, public-facing thought leadership, and advisory services, the Council helps decipher sweeping geopolitical, economic, social, and technological changes and their effects on the global business environment. The Council consistently ranks near the top of the University of Pennsylvania’s list of best private sector think tanks and currently holds the fourth spot globally.

To learn more about the Global Business Policy Council, visit https://www.kearney.com/business-policy.

Media Contact: Meir Kahtan
Meir Kahtan Public Relations, LLC
Phone: +1 212-575-8188
Email: mkahtan@rcn.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kearney-releases-new-report-on-the-economic-costs-of-climate-change-301235783.html

SOURCE Kearney

Kearney releases new report on the economic costs of climate change

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Three central lessons have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic that can help address climate change, according to the 2021 Council…

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Three central lessons have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic that can help address climate change, according to the 2021 Council Perspective from the global strategy and management consulting firm Kearney. The first lesson involves the capacity and limitations of individuals to change their behaviors when faced with external shocks, the second shows the need for international cooperation to solve global challenges, and the third highlights the crucial role of technology in advancing solutions. The new report by Kearney’s Global Business Policy Council, entitled The economic costs of climate change: lessons learned from COVID-19, explores these lessons and analyzes the role of policy and technology in shaping the outlook for carbon emissions and the global economy.

Heeding these lessons will help policymakers and businesses mitigate the worst effects of climate change, which are already costing economies and companies. Higher temperatures and extreme weather are disrupting a variety of industries from agriculture to logistics to tourism. Investors are also catching on, as 77 percent say that climate considerations are playing a role in their decision-making processes.

The report explores various green technologies, from established methods such as wind and solar power to emerging sectors such as geoengineering. «Developments in several green technologies are truly exciting,» said report co-author Paul A. Laudicina, chairman emeritus of Kearney and founder of its Global Business Policy Council. «We’ve seen incredible growth in a number of key areas such as wind and solar power even throughout the pandemic, and we only expect growth to continue after economies begin reopening at a larger scale.» Laudicina highlighted developments in the «disaster economy» in particular. «We at the Council have been monitoring the ‘disaster economy’ in recent years and expect it to continue growing as extreme weather events persist—and become more destructive.»

Policymakers are also taking action as more governments consider carbon pricing mechanisms, and public and private sectors alike are increasing investments in green technologies. As 79 percent of investors expect climate-related regulations to impact their decisions in the next three years, understanding how policies will impact companies will prove vital. The circular economy is one area to watch as more governments and companies find innovative ways to extend the life cycle of products and minimize waste.

Despite policy and technological developments heading in a mostly positive direction, the outlook for climate change is far from certain. The report explores four possible climate futures, to striking results: carbon emissions could differ by as much as 10,621 million tons of carbon dioxide by 2030, and swings in global GDP could be as high as $29 trillion. «Our scenarios highlight how crucial two drivers—international cooperation and climate technology innovation—will be in determining the outlook for carbon emissions,» argued Erik Peterson, managing director of the Global Business Policy Council and co-author of the report. «The pandemic has only emphasized the extent to which companies need to prepare for external shocks. But with appropriate planning, businesses can build effective resilience strategies to mitigate the growing risks of climate change.»

Read the full report here.

About Kearney

As a global consulting partnership in more than 40 countries, our people make us who we are. We’re individuals who take as much joy from those we work with as the work itself. Driven to be the difference between a big idea and making it happen, we help our clients break through.

To learn more, visit https://www.kearney.com/.

About the Global Business Policy Council

The Global Business Policy Council is a specialized foresight and strategic analysis unit within Kearney. Since its first CEO Retreat in 1992, the Council has been a strategic service for the world’s top executives, government officials, and business-minded thought leaders. Through exclusive global forums, public-facing thought leadership, and advisory services, the Council helps decipher sweeping geopolitical, economic, social, and technological changes and their effects on the global business environment. The Council consistently ranks near the top of the University of Pennsylvania’s list of best private sector think tanks and currently holds the fourth spot globally.

To learn more about the Global Business Policy Council, visit https://www.kearney.com/business-policy.

Media Contact: Meir Kahtan
Meir Kahtan Public Relations, LLC
Phone: +1 212-575-8188
Email: mkahtan@rcn.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kearney-releases-new-report-on-the-economic-costs-of-climate-change-301235783.html

SOURCE Kearney

Texas home sales, median price break records while housing inventory hits all-time low

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/– For the sixth consecutive year, the Texas housing market broke records in terms of the number of homes sold and median price, while inventory levels hit a critical all-time low, according to the 2020 Texas Real Estate Year in Review report released today by Texas Realtors.

<img id="prnejpg628bleft" title="Texas…

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/– For the sixth consecutive year, the Texas housing market broke records in terms of the number of homes sold and median price, while inventory levels hit a critical all-time low, according to the 2020 Texas Real Estate Year in Review report released today by Texas Realtors.

Texas Association of Realtors logo.

«Texas real estate sales broke records despite being in the middle of a pandemic,» said Marvin Jolly, 2021 chairman of Texas Realtors. «Housing inventory dropped to historically low levels in many areas of the state, and that shortage of homes for sale made many markets extremely favorable to sellers and challenging for buyers.»

Home sales across the state increased 9.5% in 2020, with 393,615 homes sold. This is a larger increase than the 3.8% increase in 2019.

Housing inventory dropped to 1.7 months of inventory, a decrease of 1.3 months from 2019. According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, a market balanced between supply and demand has between 6.0 and 6.5 months of inventory.

Median home price increased 8% from the prior year to $259,230. Price class distribution showed that the largest percentage of homes sold across the state (34.5%) fell in the $200,000–$299,000 price range.

«The 2021 housing market will be characterized by strong demand with low inventories accompanied by strong price growth,» explained Luis Torres, Ph.D., research economist with the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. «Inventories of homes priced under $300,000 will be especially low, affecting sales in that price range. The economic recovery helped by the additional federal fiscal stimulus and vaccination rates will contribute to Texas housing demand in 2021.»

Active listings statewide declined 22.1% from 2019 to 2020. Homes spent an average of 55 days on the market, four days less than 2019.

Chairman Jolly concluded, «Rising home prices coupled with the housing shortage has made affordability a challenge across our state. These issues remain top of mind for Texas Realtors as we continue through the 87th legislative session. We will continue to champion legislation that will ensure homeownership remains attainable and a sound investment for years to come.»

About the Texas Real Estate Year in Review Report
Data for the Texas Real Estate Year in Review Report is provided by the Data Relevance Project, a partnership among local REALTOR® associations, their MLSs, and Texas REALTORS®, with analysis by the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. The report provides annual real estate sales data from a statewide perspective and for 25 metropolitan statistical areas in Texas. To view the report in its entirety, visit TexasRealEstate.com.

About Texas REALTORS®
With more than 140,000 members, Texas REALTORS® is a professional membership organization that represents all aspects of real estate in Texas. We are the advocates for REALTORS® and private property rights in Texas. Visit texasrealestate.com to learn more.

Contact:

Morgan Moritz
mmoritz@piercom.com

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1317682/Texas_Realtors_Logo.jpg

 

SOURCE Texas Realtors

Book Now: Southwest Airlines Service To Destin/Ft. Walton, Florida, And Bozeman, Montana, To Begin In May 2021 With One-Way Fares As Low As $39

DALLAS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today announced the flexibility and value of Southwest Airlines® now benefits both visitors and hometown travelers booking late…

DALLAS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today announced the flexibility and value of Southwest Airlines® now benefits both visitors and hometown travelers booking late spring and summer travel to Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) in Florida and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Montana. Southwest® service to both destinations begins in May 2021. The carrier’s initial flight schedule for both regions is now available for purchase on Southwest.com.

«We’re adding another destination in the West, our first in Montana, and bringing additional access to the beaches of Northwest Florida just as winter-weary families begin to dream of warm summer escapes in wide-open places,» said Andrew Watterson, Southwest Airlines Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer. «Our arrival in these communities with daily service also ushers a new flexibility and everyday affordability for local travelers flying Southwest for fun, family, or work.»

DESTIN/FT. WALTON BEACH, FLA., DAILY SERVICE BEGINS MAY 6, 2021
Beginning May 6, 2021, Southwest will commence service to an 11th airport in the Sunshine State, bringing a third option for beachcombers to access the Florida panhandle. Southwest Customers will be able to fly nonstop between Destin/Ft. Walton Beach and four destinations: Baltimore/Washington (BWI), Dallas (Love Field), and Nashville, bringing additional connecting or same-plane service to more than 50 cities, with added nonstop service to Chicago (Midway) beginning June 6, 2021. This new service is available for purchase now at Southwest.com:

Fly nonstop between

Destin/Ft. Walton Beach and:

Initial daily service:

One-way fares
as low as:

Baltimore/Washington (BWI)

1 flight each way

$79

Chicago (Midway)

(beginning June 6)

1 flight each way

$79

Dallas (Love Field)

1 flight each way

$69

Nashville

3 flights each way

$69

The number of seats, days, and markets for these fares are limited. See a full list of fares, fare rules, and terms and conditions below and at Southwest.com.

BOZEMAN, MONT., DAILY SERVICE BEGINS MAY 27, 2021
In its 50th year of service, Southwest Airlines adds another of the 50 states to its network, bringing low fares to the state of Montana on May 27, 2021. The addition of Bozeman will connect Customers with Big Sky country, bringing faster access to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky Ski Resort, Custer Gallatin National Forest, and Montana State University. Southwest Customers may now book travel to fly nonstop between Bozeman and both Denver and Las Vegas, and reach southern Montana from more than 50 other Southwest cities on same-plane or connecting service. This new service is available for purchase now at Southwest.com: 

Fly nonstop between

Bozeman and:

Initial daily service:

One-way fares
as low as:

Denver

2 flights each way

(increases to 4 flights

each way on June 6)

$39

Las Vegas

2 flights each way

$39

The number of seats, days, and markets for these fares are limited. See a full list of fares, fare rules, and terms and conditions below and at Southwest.com.

In 2020, Southwest added new service to Hilo, Hawaii; Cozumel, Mexico; Miami; Palm Springs, Calif.; Steamboat Springs; and Montrose (Telluride), Colo., to connect Customers with places and people they love. In 2021, Southwest began service to both Chicago (O’Hare) and Sarasota/Bradenton on Feb. 14. The carrier will begin service to both Savannah/Hilton Head and Colorado Springs on March 11; both Houston (Bush) and Santa Barbara, Calif. on April 12; Fresno, Calif. on April 25; Destin/Ft. Walton Beach on May 6; Bozeman, Mont. on May 27; and Jackson, Miss. on June 6. 

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES SALE FARE RULES
Purchase today, Feb. 25, 2021, through March 4, 2021, 11:59 p.m. Central Standard Time. Destin/Fort Walton Beach, to/from Nashville, Baltimore/Washington (BWI), and Dallas (Love Field) travel valid May 6, 2021, through June 30, 2021. Destin/Fort Walton Beach to/from Chicago (Midway) valid June 6, 2021, through August 16, 2021. Bozeman travel valid May 27, 2021, through Aug. 16, 2021. Except as otherwise specified, Bozeman travel is valid only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Travel to Destin/Fort Walton Beach is valid only on Sundays through Wednesdays. Travel from Destin/Fort Walton Beach is valid only on Tuesdays through Fridays. Fares not available to/from the continental U.S. to/from Hawaii. Seats and days are limited. Fares may vary by destination, flight, and day of the week and won’t be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Travel is available for one-way Wanna Get Away® fares. Fares may be combined with other Southwest combinable fares. If combining with other fares, the most restrictive fare rules apply. Sale fares may be available on other days of the week, but that’s not guaranteed. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward future travel on Southwest, as long as reservations are canceled at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure. Failure to cancel prior to departure will result in forfeiture of remaining funds on the reservation. Any change in itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Standby travel may require an upgrade to the Anytime fare depending on Rapid Rewards® tier status. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Offer applies only to published, scheduled service.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. 
In its 50th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co. continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 56,000 Employees to a Customer base that topped 130 million Passengers in 2019. Southwest has a robust network of point-to-point service with a strong presence across top leisure and business markets. In peak travel seasons during 2019, Southwest operated more than 4,000 weekday departures among a network of 101 destinations in the United States and 10 additional countries. In 2020, the carrier added service to Hilo, Hawaii; Cozumel, Mexico; Miami; Palm Springs, Calif.; Steamboat Springs; and Montrose (Telluride), Colo. Thus far in 2021, Southwest began service to both Chicago (O’Hare) and Sarasota/Bradenton on Feb. 14; and will begin service to both Savannah/Hilton Head and Colorado Springs on March 11; both Houston (Bush) and Santa Barbara, Calif. on April 12; Fresno, Calif. on April 25; Destin/Ft. Walton Beach on May 6; Bozeman, Mont. on May 27; and Jackson, Miss. on June 6. 

The carrier issued its Southwest® Promise in May 2020 to highlight new and round-the-clock efforts to support its Customers and Employees well-being and comfort. Among the changes are enhanced cleaning efforts at airports and onboard aircraft, along with a federal mandate requiring every person to wear a mask at all times throughout each flight. Additional details about the Southwest Promise are available at Southwest.com/Promise.    

Southwest coined Transfarency® to describe its purposed philosophy of treating Customers honestly and fairly, and low fares actually staying low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some carriers offer free checked bags on select routes or in qualified circumstances). Southwest does not charge change fees, though fare differences might apply.  

Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier’s performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. Learn more about how the carrier gives back to communities across the world by visiting Southwest.com/citizenship.  

Book Southwest Airlines’ low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.  

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SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co.

Texas home sales, median price break records while housing inventory hits all-time low

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/– For the sixth consecutive year, the Texas housing market broke records in terms of the number of homes sold and median price, while inventory levels hit a critical all-time low, according to the 2020 Texas Real Estate Year in Review report released today by Texas Realtors.

<img id="prnejpg628bleft" title="Texas…

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/– For the sixth consecutive year, the Texas housing market broke records in terms of the number of homes sold and median price, while inventory levels hit a critical all-time low, according to the 2020 Texas Real Estate Year in Review report released today by Texas Realtors.

Texas Association of Realtors logo.

«Texas real estate sales broke records despite being in the middle of a pandemic,» said Marvin Jolly, 2021 chairman of Texas Realtors. «Housing inventory dropped to historically low levels in many areas of the state, and that shortage of homes for sale made many markets extremely favorable to sellers and challenging for buyers.»

Home sales across the state increased 9.5% in 2020, with 393,615 homes sold. This is a larger increase than the 3.8% increase in 2019.

Housing inventory dropped to 1.7 months of inventory, a decrease of 1.3 months from 2019. According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, a market balanced between supply and demand has between 6.0 and 6.5 months of inventory.

Median home price increased 8% from the prior year to $259,230. Price class distribution showed that the largest percentage of homes sold across the state (34.5%) fell in the $200,000–$299,000 price range.

«The 2021 housing market will be characterized by strong demand with low inventories accompanied by strong price growth,» explained Luis Torres, Ph.D., research economist with the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. «Inventories of homes priced under $300,000 will be especially low, affecting sales in that price range. The economic recovery helped by the additional federal fiscal stimulus and vaccination rates will contribute to Texas housing demand in 2021.»

Active listings statewide declined 22.1% from 2019 to 2020. Homes spent an average of 55 days on the market, four days less than 2019.

Chairman Jolly concluded, «Rising home prices coupled with the housing shortage has made affordability a challenge across our state. These issues remain top of mind for Texas Realtors as we continue through the 87th legislative session. We will continue to champion legislation that will ensure homeownership remains attainable and a sound investment for years to come.»

About the Texas Real Estate Year in Review Report
Data for the Texas Real Estate Year in Review Report is provided by the Data Relevance Project, a partnership among local REALTOR® associations, their MLSs, and Texas REALTORS®, with analysis by the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. The report provides annual real estate sales data from a statewide perspective and for 25 metropolitan statistical areas in Texas. To view the report in its entirety, visit TexasRealEstate.com.

About Texas REALTORS®
With more than 140,000 members, Texas REALTORS® is a professional membership organization that represents all aspects of real estate in Texas. We are the advocates for REALTORS® and private property rights in Texas. Visit texasrealestate.com to learn more.

Contact:

Morgan Moritz
mmoritz@piercom.com

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1317682/Texas_Realtors_Logo.jpg

 

SOURCE Texas Realtors