7 Questions for a Sustainability Professional, Sandra Montalbo – Overland Partners

Category Archive: TxN 20

  1. 7 Questions for a Sustainability Professional, Sandra Montalbo — Overland Partners

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    Texan by Nature’s network of business members is essential to achieving our mission of advancing conservation, and the sustainability professionals in these organizations are important allies in connecting industry with conservation. Professionals such as Sandra Montalbo, Design Performance Manager at Overland Partners, are transforming communities and organizations from within through raising Environmental, Social, and Government (ESG) actions. Overland Partners was a 2022 TxN 20 honoree for their leadership in sustainable architectural design.

    A credentialed LEED AP BD+C expert, Sandra Montalbo champions sustainable design and building certifications such as LEED, meaning the building’s design and operation reach high standards of natural resource conservation. She is also a WELL Accredited Professional (AP), and expert in the WELL Building Standard, a performance-based building and operations certification that requires third-party auditing and performance verification, and has received a Living Future Accreditation

    1. How would you explain the importance of ESG strategy to someone who wasn’t familiar with it?

    ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It’s a way for the public, i.e., investors, stakeholders, and employees, to evaluate an organization. The term ESG is similar to the concept of sustainability in that it prioritizes environmental and social impacts. However, ESG prioritizes governance over economics. Governance is an essential component of ESG which covers corporate structure, management, responsibility, accountability, data protection, etc.

    ESG serves as a gut check for organizations to evaluate whether their actions are aligned with their values. In addition, ESG can help investors and can be viewed as an indicator of an organization’s long-term success. While ESG is a helpful evaluation framework, financial considerations and profitability ultimately track higher with investors.

    2. When planning environmental sustainability targets, what do you use as a guide to set these goals and commitments? (i.e. successful industry models, stakeholder concern, natural resource use?)

    At Overland Partners, we are guided and inspired by our mission to positively influence the world through the practice of architecture. We are committed to being good stewards of the Earth. It’s a core value and an important part of our firm culture. Stewardship is one of the main reasons we signed on to the 2030 Commitment in 2014. The 2030 Commitment is a carbon-reduction framework led by The American Institute of Architects (AIA) to reduce the carbon emissions associated with buildings. It sets incremental goals toward carbon neutrality for all new construction by 2030 and a 20% reduction in carbon emissions for major renovations.

    Our 2030 strategy is integrating low-carbon design strategies and analysis. Our designers understand the environmental impact and carbon emissions associated with the material production, construction, operation, and, ultimately, deconstruction of buildings. Reducing the embodied carbon in our designs requires that we conduct Life-Cycle Analyses (LCA) and energy analyses on projects. LCAs help us evaluate design options and require our designers to research lower-carbon intensive and low VOC materials, right-sizing buildings, and pushing function to outdoor unairconditioned, shaded spaces. Energy analyses help us optimize our buildings’ performance by evaluating optimal massing, orientation, wall assemblies, window-to-wall ratio, etc.

    The 2030 Commitment also requires that firms develop and maintain a Sustainability Action Plan, which has helped us establish incremental goals toward carbon-neutral operations.

    3. What is the first step for implementing ESG strategy for a company looking to engage in environmental sustainability for the first time?

    In my opinion, sustainability and ESG have gained momentum with the Inflation Reduction Act which is encouraging to me as a sustainability professional.

    Thinking globally, I’d start with the United Nations Sustainable Develop Goals (SDG). This can help organizations identify the themes that align with their goals and values. I’d then research third-party certifications/reporting that can help your organization identify focus areas and metrics by which to track and evaluate progress. On a national level, there are resources and organizations that advocate for transparency and accountability, depending on your industry, such as ISO Standards for Environmental Management, Green Business Bureau, and B Corp to name a few.

    On a state level, I’d align myself with organizations with similar values, for example, the work Texan by Nature is doing to develop initiatives around education, advocacy, and certifications help advance collaboration between businesses and conservation. Diving into the Texan by Nature 20is a great place to start for Texas-based companies and organizations interested in taking actionable steps towards positive, holistic, sustainable impact.

    For Overland, it starts with our mission, vision, and values and putting them into action for positive, measurable outcomes for the people, places, projects, and communities we serve. Our pledge to The 2030 Commitment, is a great framework for sustainable design and operation, and the JUST label, which promotes organizational transparency through the lens of Diversity & Inclusion, Equity, Employee Health, Employee Benefits, Stewardship, and Purchasing & Supply Chain. These two tools require intensive metric-based evaluations of our project designs and our organization. Every year, we get a snapshot of our performance at a moment of time. The rigor of tracking and evaluating helps ensure we are making progress toward our organizational goals. They force accountability and offer us a path to better performance.

    We literally pin our progress/shortcomings on the wall and use this as motivation for continuous improvement and performance moving forward.

    The Binational River Conservation Project champions river restoration while also celebrating shared culture and history.

    4. In 2022, what was your most interesting lesson learned in your work as a sustainability professional?

    I was super fortunate to begin my architectural career as a research fellow for the AIA’s Committee on the Environment (COTE). I traveled all over the United States from San Antonio to Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Emeryville, Los Angeles, Kansas City, and Philadelphia. I interviewed 100 architectural professionals at ten high-performance firms that had won the most COTE Top Ten Awards. I then spent a year writing The Habits of High-Performance Firms with the late and forever inspiring Lance Hosey. We evaluated high-performance firms’ design approach, sustainability goals, hiring practices, analysis software, organizational structure, firm culture, and driving ethos.

    The biggest takeaway, for me, was that they cared. These architects, designers, and interns cared so much about doing right by the planet that it carried them through all the challenges of budget, schedules, building code requirements, and deadlines. It’s the reason I chose Overland Partners. I’m so blessed to work with such amazingly talented, hard-working, and dedicated professionals committed to the cause, from our interns to our principals.

    5. What component of working in environmental sustainability is your favorite and why? (i.e. water, wildlife, biodiversity, operational innovation, waste diversion, land, energy etc.)

    At Overland, we are very fortunate to collaborate with aspirational clients who challenge and inspire us. For me, every day is an opportunity to be a force for good in the world and help deliver on our brand promise of “Unlocking the Embedded Potential™” for our clients by sharing knowledge, finding innovative solutions to complex problems, and working closely with my talented colleagues to push our solutions beyond code requirements and what’s immediately apparent… a chance to design healthy spaces that care for the Earth and elevate the well-being for all who experience the places we create. It is so incredibly fun and rewarding to bring our clients and stakeholders into the design process and see the original thinking that evolves. These ideas, when integrated into the design of buildings, have contributed to transformational architecture with far-reaching influence from setting the standards for USGBC’s LEED and Sustainable SITES rating systems to “first-of-their-kind” projects such as the first net-positive restaurant in the world; first hydroponic gardens in a wildlife park; first Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) pillows that serve as the roof for a historic renovation; and first children’s nature center for the prevention and treatment of child abuse to name a few.

    We are able to bring these amazing projects to fruition by staying true to our purpose and promise, and leaning into The Human HandprintTM, the methodology we developed to guide our approach to intentional design and deliver on our promise of holistic, sustainable design with measurable human transformation.

    6. From the eyes of an environmental sustainability professional, what makes a conservation project stand out? What can conservation projects do to make it easier to partner with them?

    At this point, all conservation efforts should be a standout. We are at a critical time where every effort to care for the Earth, with all its resources and diverse species, helps move the needle towards a healthier, more sustainable world.  We are in the beginning of the sixth mass extinction. While that may sound dire to some, humans can also positively influence the trajectory of the climate crisis. Sustainability, stewardship and conservation seem overwhelming, but making positive changes within one’s own sphere of influence can generate positive momentum and outcomes.

    That being said, Overland’s work, in collaboration with Able City, on the Binational River Conservation Project is hugely inspiring to me. This project is an excellent example of community-informed design. This conservation project focuses on the critical role of the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo, a shared resource that sustains life for approximately 6 million people. Cleaning up the river and restoring the riparian ecosystem on both sides of the U.S./Mexico border is essential to the region’s future and serves as a prototype project for border communities worldwide. With conservation as the driver, this project is an opportunity to reimagine the symbiotic relationship between the two Laredos – Nuevo Laredo, Mexico and Laredo, Texas, connecting people, connecting people to nature, preserving the natural environment, promoting cultural bonds, celebrating our shared history, and all of this while addressing immigration issues, national security, and catalyzing economic growth.

    Conservation organizations can leverage social media and YouTube and create meaningful content that brings awareness to conservation issues. Asking for donations and time is important, but it starts with awareness and connection. Conservation messaging should be provocative and compelling while leaving space for the audience to connect and contribute.

    7. What sustainability goal are you most looking forward to working on in 2023?

    I’m most excited to see Overland’s full adoption of The Human Handprint™ App. The Human Handprint™ as a design methodology is not new to the firm. Aspects of The Human Handprint™ have been integral to how we work with clients, engage stakeholders, think about place, and approach sustainable design over decades of experience. While there are many sustainability certifications across the architecture, engineering, and construction industry for measuring building performance and occupant comfort, we design for people and communities.  To address this need, we took the initiative to develop our own system that puts people at the center of design and formalized The Human Handprint™ methodology in 2015. The methodology has evolved since then and we are now on The Human Handprint version 3.  The Human Handprint™ has created a continuous cycle of strategic problem-solving, learnings, and best practices to inform better design decision-making across all market sectors. Since we’re always striving to innovate and work smarter, we built an app to collect project data which feeds into a data visualization dashboard, integrating sustainability, design performance, and measurable human outcomes into one singular, powerful platform. Our Overland design teams are already seeing results when it comes to serving our clients and to elevating design decision-making. It has significantly streamlined our internal project performance tracking and reporting and is building fidelity into our process. The Human Handprint™ App is our firm commitment to people and the planet, creating positive, measurable human transformations.

    Texan by Nature’s vision is for every business, every Texan to participate in conservation and for Texas to be a model of collaborative conservation for the world.

    We’re grateful to Sandra, Overland Partners, and the many sustainability professionals and companies who are future-proofing their businesses and our state with operational innovations and conservation investments that advance environmental sustainability in their sectors and provide successful models for the globe to follow. Learn more about the annual TxN 20 program, which recognizes leadership in environmental sustainability in industry, by visiting the TxN 20 website, and keep an eye out for more insight from other sustainability professionals to come.

    More About Sandra Montalbo
    Sandra Montalbo, LEED AP BD+C, LFA, WELL AP

    Sandra Montalbo is passionate about sustainability. Architecture has provided her the platform to create positive change in the natural and built environment. In 2015, she received the Architectural Research Consortium Center’s (ARCC) King Student Medal for her research, “Architectural Design and Behavioral Effects in the Context of Sustainability.” In 2016, she was selected as the COTE Scholar with AIA National in Washington, D.C. In 2017, Sandra was the lead researcher and primary author of “The Habits of High-Performance Firms.” In 2018, she was awarded the AIA San Antonio’s Rising Star Award and served on the NCARB Experience and Advisory Committee.

    Sandra represented the AIA San Antonio on the City of San Antonio’s Energy & Building’s Technical Working Group to develop The City of San Antonio’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) and served on the USGBC South Texas Regional Council. In 2019, she was awarded the Texas Society of Architects Associate Member of the Year Award, UTSA’s CACP – Distinguished Alumni Award, and a recipient of the AIA National’s 2019 Jason Pettigrew Scholarship. In 2020, she was recognized by the Design Future’s Council as 2022 Emerging Leader at the Annual Leadership Summit “The Future of Environmental Responsibility.” Sandra is currently Overland’s Design Performance Manager and is also a PhD student in the Land Use Planning Management and Design (LPMD) program at Texas Tech University.

  2. TxN 20 Highlights — Transportation

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Transportation.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries that keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Meet the 2022 TxN 20  Honorees leading sustainability in transportation: Cap Metro and DFW Airport.

    12 electric buses purchased in 2021— 2022 Honoree Cap Metro

    Who is Cap Metro?

    Cap Metro is Austin’s regional public transportation provider. CapMetro connects people, jobs and communities by providing quality transportation choices to Central Texas. Created in accordance with Chapter 451 of the Texas Transportation Code, CapMetro was established by a voter referendum on Jan. 19, 1985. The agency is funded in part by a 1 percent sales tax levied by members of its service area.

    How are they setting the standard?

    In the social sector, Cap Metro partnered with H-E-B, Central Texas Food Bank to deploy Help-at-Home kits to elderly and disabled citizens across Austin, dedicating 300-400 service hours a week to the Help-at-Home Kits program. 

    CapMetro used its resources to help provide meals to the hungry in our regions, providing access to basic food necessities without the risks of COVID.

    CapMetro uses 97% renewable energy purchased from Texas wind farms totaling around 8.7 million kilowatt hours of energy. With 12 new electric buses purchased in 2021, CapMetro will increase to 200 electric buses by 2026 to reduce its overall fleet greenhouse gas emissions. 100% of CapMetro’s electricity from Austin Energy is renewable (wind and solar) Green Choice electricity. 

    Powered by 100% renewable electricity from Texas wind farms — 2022 Honoree DFW Airport

    Who is DFW Airport?

    Today, Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) Airport warmly welcomes more than 73 million customers along their journey every year, elevating DFW to a status as one of the most frequently visited super-hub airports in the world. Centered between its owner cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW Airport also serves as a major economic generator for the North Texas region, producing over $37 billion in economic impact each year by connecting people through business and leisure travel.

    How are they setting the standard?

    2,000 DFW employees work to advance ESG initiatives, forming strategic partnerships with several prominent external entities, including the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Coca-Cola, Nestle, the University of North Texas, Avfuel Corporation, and the Dallas Fort Worth Clean Cities Coalition, to advance innovative approaches to sustainability. Additionally, DFW is powered by 100% renewable electricity from Texas wind farms, directly benefiting local economies. As a result, since 2010, the Texas electric grid (ERCOT) has increased from 8% renewables to over 20%. Waste collected from DFW’s food waste program is transported to local farms and compost facilities, resulting in 9 tons of food waste diverted from landfills since 2021.

    15 concessionaires from two terminals have been onboarded to the composting program, and the Airport anticipates expanding the program to additional concessions locations in the coming months. 

    Why Forward Thinking Leaders in Transportation Matter

    According to the EPA, the Transportation sector contributes more to overall U.S. greenhouse gas emissions than any other sector, producing 27% of global emissions in 2020. Since bringing down emissions and getting from point A to point B are musts in the modern world, innovation in transportation is critical to keep a prosperous economy and protect the environment. Sustainability leaders like CapMetro and DFW Airport are keeping the world connected and protected.   

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: Kirby Corporation

    The Houston-based Kirby Corporation operates as the premier tank barge operator in the United States, transporting bulk liquid products throughout all three U.S. Coasts and more. In 2020, they transported 423.4 million barrels of cargo without a spill in the water. Additionally, by 2024, they estimate a 25% reduction of marine CO2 emissions per barrel of capacity. 

    Industry Innovator: Union Pacific

    The Omaha-based Union Pacific delivers integral goods to families and businesses every day with efficiency and reliability. In 2021, they introduced Genset and Green Goat locomotives for service in California, Texas and Chicago, with fuel-savings of more than 20% compared to other diesel locomotives in similar use. Additionally, PSR efforts allowed them to reduce the size of their locomotive fleet, effectively retiring their least-efficient units.

    Industry Innovator: XPO Logistics

    The Greenwich-based XPO Logistics is a top ten global provider of transportation and logistic services. In 2021, they launched a new rail freight service in partnership with Irish Rail to provide a greener, more efficient path to transport goods between Western and Southeast Ireland. Additionally, in European locations, they have installed intelligent LED lighting in 14 more locations, in total covering 55% of their square footage. 

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  3. TxN 20 Highlights — Municipal Services

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Municipal Services.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery,Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Meet the 2022 TxN 20  Honorees leading sustainability in Municipal Services: City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD).

    $1.2 million invested in expanding recycling to parks citywide2022 Honoree City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department

    Who is the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department?

    The Austin Parks and Recreation Department has been the steward of the City of Austin’s public lands since 1928.  As such, they protect and maintain parkland and urban forest. Austin PARD preserve trails, and offer a variety of sports, recreation, educational enrichment, arts programs, cultural opportunities, nature and aquatic activities.

    How the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department sets the standard

    Austin PARD demonstrates that individual efforts can make a big impact: two staff members of the Austin Nature and Science Center sheltered at the center during Winter Storm Uri to care for the wildlife. Because of their dedication, 100 animals were protected during Winter Storm Uri and suffered no significant impacts due to the storm or stress. From wildlife to waste disposal, Austin Parks and Recreation Department’s  Recycling Implementation Plan has invested $1.2 million in expanding recycling to parks citywide by installing landfill and recycling receptacles as paired units on concrete pads with two-way dome lids and clear labels in English and Spanish. PARD Forestry recycles all debris from its tree maintenance program. Once a month, Austin residents can take home free logs from trees that have been removed from the parkland for safety reasons resulting in 980 tons of brush and 80 tons of wood recycled annually.

    Why Forward Thinking Leaders in Municipal Services Matter

    Leadership in environmental sustainability from Municipal Services makes it possible to take care of the places we call home. With a state recycling rate of 22%, below the national average, the efforts of the City of Austin PARD to expand recycling are essential to close the gap in responsible waste disposal in Texas. Austin PARD’s innovative stewardship of urban forests, which provide ecosystem services like erosion control and improved air quality, engages the community with circularity by offering free firewood from landscape management.

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 Honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: Waste Connections

    Waste Connections is a waste disposal company that offers recycling and trash pickup as well as special and hazardous waste disposal. The company has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by outlining a 15 year sustainability target plan and allocating $500 million to achieve the plan’s goals. Waste Connections has also installed 50 gas recovery systems to capture methane gas from landfills, reducing air pollution, and 28 of those gas recovery systems power homes and businesses in the surrounding areas.  

    Industry Innovator: City of San Marcos

    The City of San Marcos is known for its natural beauty and resources, which are stewarded by city management. The City of San Marcos offers its citizens incentives to be more sustainable, including rebates for solar energy and rainwater harvesting. San Marcos also manages the Community Forestry Program, which maintains and restores urban forest ecosystems on over 2004 acres.  

    Industry Innovator: Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center

    Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio sets a statewide example by incorporating sustainability into all their event operations. Trash bags at the convention center are 100% biodegradable and recycling bags are 100% recyclable. The center also uses only Green Seal Certified cleaning products and has invested in energy efficiency by installing solar thermal film on all windows.

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  4. TxN 20 Highlights — Retail

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Retail.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery,Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. Meet the 2022 TxN 20 Honoree leading sustainability in Retail: Yeti.

    6,000 pounds of debris from the Colorado River – 2022 Honoree Yeti

    Who is Yeti?

    In 2006, we founded YETI Coolers with a simple mission: build the cooler we’d use every day if it existed. One that was built for the serious outdoor enthusiast rather than for the mass-discount retailers. One that could take the abuse we knew we’d put it through out in the field and on the water. One that simply wouldn’t break.

    How Yeti sets the standard

    YETIzens, Yeti employees, joined Austin FC and the Colorado River Alliance to volunteer 100+ hours to remove 6,000 pounds of debris from the Colorado River and the surrounding parks in Austin. This makes the river a more enjoyable spot for paddle boarding and kayaking and helps reduce the impact of plastic pollution in this important aquatic ecosystem. YETI’s partnership with Ducks Unlimited aids in the protection of a critical wintering habitat for a massive percentage of North America’s migrating waterfowl species from the pressure of environmental degradation and climate change. A portion of YETI’s annual sponsorship is designated for Ducks Unlimited’s Gulf Coast Initiative, aimed at protecting waterfowl habitats in YETI’s own backyard, contributing $1 million + to community organizations and foundations working on conservation and representation in the WILD. 

    Additionally, since launching hats with NetPlus® materials, YETI has helped divert 17,700 pounds of fishing net waste and achieved an estimated 50% reduction in the carbon footprint of their hat brim plastic compared to using virgin plastic. In 2020, YETI diverted 298,000 pounds of material from landfill and another 157,000 pounds of material through July 2021.

    Why Forward Thinking Leaders in Retail Matter

    Worldwide, the Retail industry contributes 25% of total greenhouse emissions. Scope 3 emissions, the ones companies are indirectly responsible for (i.e.  product disposal by the consumer) make up a large portion of most retailers’ carbon footprints. By making sturdy products designed to last far beyond single use, Yeti is doing their part to reduce product waste and bring down Scope 3 emissions in retail. 

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: Walmart

    The Bentonville-based Walmart helps people around the world save money and live better anywhere, from in their retail stores to through their mobile devices. In 2021, they diverted 81% of waste from landfills and incinerators globally. Additionally, they have committed to help protect, manage or restore at least 50 million acres of land and 1 million square miles of ocean by 2030

    Industry Innovator: Neiman Marcus

    The Dallas-based Neiman Marcus is a luxury retailer offering merchandise and service that cater to the needs of the affluent customer. In 2021, they extended the useful life of over 350,000 luxury items through circular services. Additionally, they reduced Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 23%

    Industry Innovator: Home Depot

    The Atlanta-based Home Depot revolutionizes the definition of “hardware store” by providing retail and home improvement services. In 2020, they helped reduce customers’ greenhouse gas emissions by 20 million metric tons. Additionally, they helped reduce their consumers’ water use by 250 billion gallons

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  5. TxN20 Industry Highlights — Healthcare

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Healthcare.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries that keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Providing Care for Our Environment, the Texas Company Diverting 9,000 lbs of Single-Use Medical Devices – 2022 Honoree: Texas Health Resources

    Who is Texas Health Resources?

    Texas Health Resources is a large Arlington-headquartered health services system that serves much of North Texas and is one of the biggest providers in the country. Their impact extends far beyond human health toward the environment that supports us. Not only did they divert 9,000 pounds of single-use medical devices from landfills, but Texas Health Resources recycled 2 million pounds of materials, such as cardboard, paper, and plastics, and saved 4.1 million kilowatts of energy. 

    The Texas Health Resources Community is able to operate through a variety of roles, including 370 employees that are involved in conservation. Employees in Engineering, Plant Operations, Facilities Management, and Supply Chain Management – work in roles that are tied to the conservation of natural resources. Approximately 20% of those employees have roles involving significant investment in and oversight of building automation systems and other efficiency-related technologies, processes, sourcing, products, and usages.

    Outside of their organization, Texas Health’s Blue Zones Project® Fort Worth (BZP) works with the city of Fort Worth, area school districts, and numerous other city and county governments and community partners to increase health and well-being through a multitude of efforts. From instituting policies that promote well-being to encouraging local schools, businesses, restaurants, and community leaders to adopt healthy behaviors.

    Why Forward-Thinking Leaders in Healthcare Matter

    Healthcare matters for the millions of Texans who rely on the industry to provide quality care and support for themselves and their loved ones. In Texas, eight of the 25 largest employers are related to the medical industry as a hospital or place of research. The Dallas-Fort Worth area has a healthcare industry valued at $52 billion and in San Antonio, one out of every six Texans is employed in healthcare-related jobs and careers. These providers recognize the benefits of a healthy environment on community health and lead the way in advancing conservation through greater resource efficiency and sustainable supply chain strategy while maintaining high-quality care. 

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: Alcon

    The American-Swiss company Alcon specializes in eye care products that help improve their clients’ vision. In 2020, they certified ~95% of manufacturing sites to ISO 14001, making it a standardized environmental management system, with a goal of 100% certification in 2021. Alcon implemented a Zero Manufacturing Waste policy, with ~60% of sites 100% landfill-free for non-hazardous waste disposal. 

    Industry Innovator: AmerisourceBergen

    The Pennsylvania-based AmerisourceBergen strives to provide pharmaceutical products, value-driving services, and business solutions that improve access to care. In 2021, they committed to setting a science-based target in line with the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) guidance. They reduced greenhouse gas emissions by using hybrid vans to deliver medicines and medical products to Alliance Healthcare customers as well as adding an electric vehicle to their animal health fleet in the U.K. 

    Industry Innovator: Johnson & Johnson

    The New Brunswick-based Johnson & Johnson believes that good health is the foundation of vibrant lives which is why its mission is to keep people healthy at every stage of life. In 2021, they had a 34% reduction in CO2 emissions in 2016. Johnson & Johnson also added on-site solar arrays at their facilities in China, Columbia, South Africa, and Thailand. 

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  6. TxN 20 Highlights — Energy Industry

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Energy.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery,Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Meet the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees leading sustainability in Energy: NRG Energy and Vistra Corp.

    Solar and energy storage projects in Texas totaling ~850MW — 2022 Honoree Vistra Corp

    Who is Vistra Corp?

    Vistra is a leading Fortune 500 integrated retail electricity and power generation company based in Irving, Texas, providing essential resources for customers, commerce, and communities. Vistra combines an innovative, customer-centric approach to retail with safe, reliable, diverse, and efficient power generation.

    How does Vistra Corp set the standard?

    Since 2002, Vistra Corp’s Trees for Growth has provided 300K trees through their Trees for Growth program and helped generate environmental savings and health benefits for municipalities and residents valued at ~$37 million annually during the life of the trees. Vistra’s largest financial investment in sustainability is the transformation of its generation portfolio toward low-to-no carbon-emitting resources by responsibly retiring coal assets and investing in transformational growth investments such as solar and energy storage. On. Sept. 29, Vistra announced Phase 1 of its solar and energy storage projects in Texas, a total of ~850MW, which represent a capital investment of approximately $850 million

    Vistra also saved 4 billion gallons of water this year — since 2010, Vistra has reduced the total water withdrawn by 42%. 98% of water withdrawn is discharged. While the use of water is imperative to producing electricity from thermal generation, Vistra understands that water is a limited, expensive, and shared resource that is essential to life. In addition to strong stewardship, conservation is a primary focus at each of Vistra’s generation facilities.

    Fresh produce for ≈ 3,000 people annually through NRG Dewey Prairie Garden — 2022 Honoree NRG Energy

    Who is NRG Energy?

    NRG Energy is a Fortune 200 energy company that provides stable energy through traditional and renewable sources. NRG is paving the way to a brighter, sustainable future and more options for getting there with data, technology, and convenience.

    How does NRG Energy set the standard?

    The NRG Dewey Prairie Garden is a reclamation project of 10 acres of lignite mine near Jewett, Texas; the service garden was created by NRG Energy in partnership with Texan by Nature. The reclaimed land, which was formerly a lignite mine, includes a wetland area, pollinator habitat, and future orchard that will provide 10,000 lbs of fresh produce annually and fresh produce for ≈ 3,000 people annually to alleviate food insecurity in Leon, Freestone, and Limestone Counties. 

    Reliantgives, NRG retail brand Reliant’s charitable program, contributed over $5.5 million dollars and 4,000 volunteer hours to 150 local causes. Reliantgives partners with sustainability and conservation-focused non-profits, including EarthShare, Dallas Zoo, Central and West Texas Zoo, Texas State Aquarium, Galveston Bay Foundation, and the Dallas Arboretum. Additionally, as one of Dallas Zoo’s corporate partners, Reliant has contributed $650K+ to Dallas Zoo over 4 years and provides critical general operating support and support of conservation efforts in 32 countries and 4 continents around the world. The largest part of their conservation spending is on Texas Wildlife conservation efforts.

    Why Forward Thinking Leaders in Energy Matter

    Energy is a key industry in facing the climate crisis. As a national energy leader, models of environmental sustainability by Texas companies set the standard for other states and the globe. Last year, Texas produced more net energy than any other state in the country, and produced 26% of the nation’s wind power. The leadership of Energy companies like NRG and Vistra are driving the positive change needed to ensure Texas can sustainably meet energy needs in the future.

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: Pioneer Natural Resources

    Pioneer Natural Resources, an oil and gas exploration and production company, taps into the pioneer spirit of West Texas to bring innovation to the oil and gas sector. Pioneer has invested $134 million in The City of Midland’s wastewater treatment facility with the goal of using the reclaimed water that will be generated by the facility for operations in place of scarce groundwater in the Permian Basin. Pioneer is also contributing to efforts to protect the Lesser Prairie Chicken through a Conservation Agreement with Assurances (CAA) with US Fish and Wildlife Services to mitigate the impact of operations on Lesser Prairie Chicken Habitat.  

    Industry Innovator: NextEra Energy

    NextEra Energy is an energy and infrastructure company that invests in making infrastructure and energy production more efficient and mitigating the impact of energy production on wildlife. Since 2012, NextEra has invested nearly $40 billion in renewable energy generation and battery storage advancement and is the world’s largest generator of sun and wind energy. To advance wind energy while protecting birds like eagles, NextEra is piloting an emerging technology called IdentiFlight to track and protect eagles in real time. 

    Industry Innovator: Shell

    Shell is one of the world’s leading energy companies, and they are using their leadership position in the global market to promote innovation in energy. The Shell Eco-Marathon is a competition in which students engineer energy efficient, low emissions vehicles to drive progress in transportation. Shell also administers the Accelerate to Zero program, which offers support to companies decarbonizing their business fleet. 

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  7. TxN 20 Industry Highlights — Technology

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Technology.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Meet the 2022 TxN 20  Honorees leading sustainability in Technology: Cirrus Logic and IBM.

    100% of Austin and London facilities transitioned to renewable electricity contracts – 2022 Honoree Cirrus Logic

    Who is Cirrus Logic?

    Cirrus Logic is a leading supplier of audio semiconductors, specializing in developing low-power, mixed-signal processing solutions for mobile technology. 

    How does Cirrus Logic set the standard?

    Cirrus Logic has implemented a waste reduction strategy plan that emphasizes diverting e-waste from landfills. In addition to reselling and recycling electronics, Cirrus Logic donated approximately 380 computers to two organizations: Latinitas and Edinburgh Remakery. The company made significant progress in transitioning to renewable energy, increasing from 15% of renewable-energy-powered global operations to 79% in the 2022 fiscal year. Finally, Cirrus Logic thoroughly evaluated their greenhouse gas emissions to better understand their footprint and has set a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target to reduce their Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 90% by 2030.

    Over 26,500 cubic meters of water recycled in 2021 – 2022 Honoree IBM

    Who is IBM?

    IBM is a world leader in technology, best known for producing computer hardware and software. IBM Cloud allows businesses to organize data and engage with customers in new, seamless ways.

    How does IBM set the standard?

    In 2021, IBM continued to cement their commitment to sustainability by joining the Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact and becoming a founding member of the European Green Digital Coalition. In alignment with like-minded companies, IBM pledged to make important changes to protect the planet, from conserving water and purchasing renewable energy to developing energy-efficient products. In that same year, IBM avoided 90,000 MWh of energy consumption and 26,500 metric tons of CO2 emissions. In addition to conserving energy in their facilities, IBM products are designed to be increasingly efficient, getting four Power9-based server models and four storage products certified under the US EPA ENERGY STAR program.

     

    Why Forward-Thinking Leaders in Technology Matter

    The technology industry is built on innovation and constantly strives to find scalable solutions for problems big and small. According to calculations from the UN, digital technology could reduce the world’s carbon emissions by 17% through improved efficiency. This means tech companies are in a unique position to move not only themselves in a more sustainable direction, but drive innovation in other industries as well. Cirrus Logic and IBM have shown that tech companies can both mitigate their own environmental impact and give consumers sustainable options, creating positive change from the inside out.

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability 
    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: HP Inc.

    • Initially launched in 2019, the HP Sustainable Forests Collaborative strives to counteract deforestation through restoration. In late 2021, the HP Sustainable Forests Collaborative took a big step toward achieving their goals when they became the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) largest corporate partner. They pledged $80 million to aid in addressing the impacts on forests from paper used in printing with HP printers and protect ever-important forest ecosystems.
    • In 2021, 134,000 tons of recycled plastic were used in manufacturing 5.4 million Original HP and Samsung cartridges, including plastic from recycled HP cartridges.

    Industry Innovator: Cisco Systems Inc.

    • Cisco has various platforms and forums for their employees to promote and educate on sustainability. SustainX is Cisco’s annual sustainability speaker series. SustainX has brought experts to give presentations on topics from reducing carbon emissions to environmental justice. Additionally, Cisco encourages employee-led groups and initiatives like GreenHouse, a platform where employees that are passionate about sustainability are encouraged to share and connect with like-minded colleagues, and the Green Team Network, a collection of chapters that raise awareness and sponsor discussions about ways to live more sustainably.
    • Connected Conservation, a wildlife conservation organization based in Zimbabwe, uses Cisco’s surveillance, data, and analytic technology to support their mission of protecting endangered species.

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  8. TxN 20 Industry Highlights — Food, Beverage, and Grocery

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Food, Beverage, and Grocery.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries that keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Meet the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees leading sustainability in the Food, Beverage, and Grocery industry: Sysco and Farmer Brothers.

    $2.5 million to Sustainable Grazing and Wildlife Habitat  – 2022 Honoree Sysco

    Who is Sysco?

    Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing, and distributing food and non-food products to restaurants, healthcare, and educational facilities, lodging establishments and other customers around the world.

    potato field irrigated by a pivot sprinkler system

    How does Sysco set the standard?

    Sysco launched a Volunteer Hours Tool for associates to enter their volunteer hours. Associates are tracking volunteer hours to achieve the Global Good Goal of providing $500 Million for Global Good by 2025. Sysco teamed up with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and Cargill to award $2.5 million to 10 projects to invest in community-led sustainable grazing practices and wildlife habitat to ranchers in support of implementing the largest sustainable grazing effort in the Southern Great Plains, one of America’s most important beef-producing regions. Sysco identified and implemented water-saving opportunities such as recycling water from vehicle washing stations and using rainwater for landscaping at their offices, resulting in over 2.5 billion gallons of water conserved in agriculture.

    77% of waste diverted from landfill in 2021 — 2022 Honoree Farmer Brothers
    Who is Farmer Brothers?

    For over a century, the Farmer Brothers company has built their business on providing extraordinary products at incomparable value to coffee-minded food service operators all across the country. From helping growers use sustainable farming methods at origin, through their supply chain, and eliminating waste in facilities; Farmer Brothers ensures sustainability is at the core of every decision they make.

    How does Farmer Brothers set the standard?

    Farmer Brothers donated over 42K worth of coffee and culinary products to local food banks and community organizations across the country in partnership with Feeding America. Farmer Brothers has also achieved a near 23% reduction in fuel use through reducing truck transportation with a new distribution center. These and other fleet innovations lead to savings of approximately 50,000 gallons of fuel per year, which is equivalent to 96 vehicles, 1,075 oil barrels and 69 homes. By performing waste audits at production facilities, working with local organizations to donate food, and up-cycling goods like coffee burlap and more, 77% of Farmer Brothers’ waste was diverted from landfills in 2021.

    Why Forward Thinking Leaders in Food, Beverage, and Grocery Matters: 

    Food and beverages like coffee are essential to our daily lives, but they can also be resource-intensive. Reducing energy and water intensity to make the same delicious products that fuel us is vital to maintaining quality of life in the future. With 45% of Texas’ water supply expected to be supplied by conservation and water reuse, it is good business  to follow the environmentally sustainable models  exemplified by Sysco and Farmer Brothers in the production of Food, Beverages, and Groceries. 

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability
    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: Aldi

    Aldi is a leader in  sustainable practices in the food industry. Aldi purchases green electricity that covers 100% of its energy consumption. Additionally, Aldi prioritizes reducing plastics, packaging, and waste throughout their stores. Aldi reduced more than 62% of AlDI-exclusive packaging, shifted 19k tons of packaging to recyclable materials, and diverted 74% of operational waste.

    Industry Innovator: Tetrapak

    Tetrapak promotes sustainability throughout their company. Their notable efforts include their circular recycling design through which they recycle and reuse their cartons into new raw material and products. Additionally, Tetrapack’s “Tetra Rex Plant-based” packaging is their carbon-neutral label to reduce carbon emissions in their company.

    Industry Innovator: General Mills

    General Mills is a leader in sustainability as they align their business practices with the UN SDG goals. General Mills’ unique practices include prioritizing regenerative agriculture on 115k acres of land. The company has also shown water stewardship by working to diffuse risks in priority watersheds across their global supply chain. General Mills has 3 active plans in place with the goal of 10 priority watersheds by 2025.

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).

     

     

  9. TxN 20 Industry Highlights — Architecture, Design, and Development

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Architecture.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries that keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Turning their pledge into action, this company has diverted 100.73 Metric Tons of CO2 through carbon offsets purchases – 2022 Honoree: Overland Partners

    Who is Overland Partners?

    Overland Partners is a San Antonio-based architecture and urban design company setting the standard in infusing stewardship into architectural practice.

    Overland Partners implements a rigorous sustainability review process, reevaluating their goals and commitments every three years with 100% of their employees committed to carbon emission reduction. Their pledge to the American Institute of Architecture’s 2030 commitment means they have reported emissions data annually since 2014.

    From this commitment comes action. Overland Partners’ PV panels reduce the amount of electricity generated from fossil fuels. Through the purchase of annual carbon offsets for its operations, Overland Partners offset 100.73 Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in 2021. These offsets translate to the carbon offset from roughly 600 mature trees. The work doesn’t stop there. Overland Partners’ in-house composting program amounts to 5,475 gallons of waste (454 pounds of methane) diverted from landfills each year.


    A Global Design Powerhouse Saving 21 Billion Gallons of Water — 2022 Honoree
    Stantec

    Who is Stantec?

    Stantec is an international engineering, architecture, and design consulting firm that serves a wide range of projects and communities. Experts in innovation, Stantec worked with a top technology company to help improve water conservation and prevent pollution across its supply chain, supporting everything from engineering to capacity building. 

    Stantec’s conservation efforts start at the source, investing $4.4 million to support communities, granting $830,000 in STEM scholarships for underrepresented and BIPOC communities, and providing more than $610,000 in STEM grants. During the annual Stantec in the Community Week (SITC) Stantec employees engage in conservation and volunteering efforts for the communities they serve. In 2021, 2946 employees donated time to 341+ community organizations.

    Why Forward-Thinking Leaders in Architecture, Design, and Development Matter

    Reducing consumption of non-renewable resources, minimizing waste, and creating efficient, healthy, and productive environments are key to building a sustainable future. By making environmentally conscious design decisions at every phase of a project, architects and designers are reducing the negative impacts and carbon footprint of our environment. Smart, forward-thinking designs ensure a future tradeoff of less carbon emissions, less energy consumed, and more water conserved throughout a building’s life cycle. These decisions, combined with community efforts and investments in conservation are driving Texas to a more sustainable future.

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors. 

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the architecture, design, and development industry.

    Industry Innovator: Dewberry

    • Since 2014, Dewberry has reported annual sustainability data for the American Institute of Architecture 2030 Commitment. 94.3% of their projects have met the 25% lighting density reduction target.
    • Dewberry’s Engineering Innovation Building demonstrates a commitment to sustainable design, with a large native grass space and a high-efficiency mechanical system providing a 30% indoor water use reduction and saving 6,795,990 gallons of water thus far.

    Industry Innovator: Jacobs

    • Jacobs has overseen large global projects, such as the Pensacola East Bay Oyster Habitat Restoration Project, which, in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy, placed 33 oyster reefs along the Santa Rosa shoreline and has expanded to the continent’s largest reef reconstruction project.
    • Focusing on the future, Jacobs’ Butterfly Effect program is a new Climate Response Education Initiative teaching young students to learn about sustainability and making positive impacts on climate change.

    Industry Innovator: Gensler

    • With over 188 million square feet of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) registered and 110 million square feet of LEED-certified building projects, Gensler has been able to divert 150 million tons of waste and save 1.2 billion gallons of water annually. 
    • Within a decade, Gensler has committed to eliminating all future net emissions.

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of conservation and environmental sustainability in Texas? Do you want to be recognized for your efforts? Contact Texan by Nature at programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  10. TxN 20 Industry Highlights — Financial Services

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Financial Services.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries that keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Meet the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees leading sustainability in Financial Services: Comerica Bank and North American Development Bank.

    The Company Investing in Environmental Progress with $1.7 Billion Loaned to Green Projects – 2022 Honoree: Comerica Bank

    Who is Comerica Bank?

    Comerica Bank is a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA), a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, that understands the valuable return in supporting our environment. Their $1.7 billion in loans and commitments goes toward 14 green loan categories, including green building (new and retro-fit), bio-fuels, recycling, biogas, energy efficiency, vehicle electrification, brownfield redevelopment, smart grid technologies, wind energy, pollution control, solar energy, green engineering, geothermal, wave or tidal energy, other green services, and products.

    Comerica’s innovative Master of Sustainability Awareness (MSA) program is a colleague education and engagement program dedicated to sustainability. Developed in-house, this program seeks to move employees from learning about sustainability to sharing what they’ve learned and then putting it into action, both at work and at home. The effects are evident, as the organization recycled or repurposed 96 tons of electronic equipment in 2021 and diverted  57% of its total waste from landfills.

    Covering Carbon Offsets for Employee Flights — 2022 Honoree: North American Development Bank

    Who is North American Development Bank?

    North American development bank is a San Antonio-based financial services company dedicated to helping fund the environment and people of both Mexico and Texas. With nearly a 1,255-mile shared border with Mexico, Texas is an optimal location and has benefitted from the Bank’s financing programs. Of the 140 projects located in the U.S., 76 are in Texas, and of the US $1.5 billion in funding provided to projects in the U.S., just over half has gone to support projects in Texas.

    Their commitment beyond our shared region extends to their purchase of carbon offsets for each flight NADBank staff takes on work-related travel. Carbon offsets are voluntary schemes whereby people pay to offset or make up for the emissions their flights produce. This means that even on the go, NADBank employees can give back to the environment. 

    North American Development Bank recognizes the value of conserving our natural resources. NADBank has contributed a significant impact in up to 4.2 million gallons per year by installing more than 20 miles of drinking water distribution lines, more than 5000 new or improved water connections, and installing 3.43 million gallons per day of new or improved wastewater treatment systems capacity. In addition, NADB eliminated 20.5 million gallons per day of untreated or inadequately treated wastewater discharges. 

    Why Forward-Thinking Leaders in Financial Services Matter

    It is no secret that Texas is a national leader in industry and economy, with a GDP of 1.83 trillion dollars in 2021, rising over 3.5 percent from the previous year and taking the claim for second highest GDP in the country. To future-proof this growth, the financial service industry has the opportunity to innovate and invest in environmental sustainability. By investing in green services, and weaving conservation efforts into business strategy, we can secure a prosperous economy and rich natural resources for future generations of Texans.

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year

    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors.

    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: Allegiance Bank

    • Allegiance Bank is a financial services company that prioritizes sustainable practices throughout its company. In 2021, the bank launched its Allegiance Goes Green initiative in 2021 on Earth Day’s 50th anniversary, forming a “Green Team” of 15 bankers who are passionate about environmental issues such as recycling, and reducing their carbon footprint.
    • Additionally, the bank recycled over 221,000 lbs of paper, saving more than 1,885 trees.

    Industry Innovator: JP Morgan Chase Bank

    • JP Morgan Chase introduced a beekeeping program and installed 20 beehives at six of their corporate offices. These hives brought 750,000 bees into the communities that helped pollinate 450 different plant species over 300 square miles of land. The success of these hives will only increase as they plan to introduce more hives to more offices across the country.
    • In 2021, the organization diverted 490 metric tons of solid waste from landfills.

    Industry Innovator: Prosperity Bank

    • Prosperity Bank is a financial services company working towards a more sustainable world by tracking sustainable efforts and their return on investment. Through all of their methods of sustainability and conservation, Prosperity Bank saved $4,276,564.03 in 2021.
    • By tracking financial savings, Prosperity Bank promotes the economic benefits of incorporating sustainable practices in their industry. By investing in efficient energy, the company saved 3,190 kw of energy, equating to $255,268.88.

    Get Involved:

    Is your company at the forefront of sustainability in Texas? Share your work with Texan by Nature by submitting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data that showcases how your company benefits people, prosperity, and natural resources to programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).
  11. TxN 20 Industry Highlights — Agriculture

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    2022 TxN 20: Texan-led leadership in conservation for a sustainable future in Agriculture.

    The Texan by Nature team is excited to present the fourth annual list of Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) Honorees. TxN 20 recognizes outstanding work in conservation and sustainability from Texas-based businesses.

    It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment to conservation, and best practices from the industries that keep Texas running: Agriculture, Architecture, Financial Services, Food, Beverage, & Grocery, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, Municipal Services, Retail, Transportation, and Construction & Manufacturing. 

    Meet the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees leading sustainability in agriculture, Darling Ingredients, and Sanderson Farms.

    Nearly $10 million invested in energy and water efficiency improvements last year — 2022 TxN 20 Honoree Darling Ingredients

    Who is Darling Ingredients?

    Darling Ingredients is the largest publicly traded company turning edible by-products and food waste into sustainable products and is a leading producer of renewable energy.

    How does Darling Ingredients set the standard?

    Darling Ingredients invested nearly $10 million in water and energy efficiency in 2021. Their most substantial sustainable energy investment has been with Diamond Green Diesel, a renewable diesel that reduces emissions up to 85% compared to traditional diesel. Diamond Green Diesel is produced in partnership with Valero Energy Corporation, also headquartered in Texas. All of Darling Ingredients’ plants engage in primary water reduction practices limiting the demand for freshwater supplies across Darling operations resulting in 11 billion gallons of water returned to the environment per year. Darling Ingredients’ employees organized a recycling drive, collecting over 6,000 units of solid waste. In November of 2020, that same team planted 234 trees in the Mosquito River Basin region where their facility is located. 

    226,466 kWh of electricity saved in the calendar year 2021- 2022 — 2022 TxN 20 Honoree: Sanderson Farms

    Who is Sanderson Farms?

    Sanderson Farms is a Fortune 1000 company engaged in the production, processing, marketing, and distribution of fresh and frozen chicken and other prepared food items. Through efforts in conservation, recyclability, renewable energy, and fuel efficiency, Sanderson Farms demonstrates they are dedicated to producing quality, affordable chicken that is not only good for our customers but also good for the environment.

    How does Sanderson Farms set the standard?

    The company has 58 full-time employees company-wide dedicated to environmental and conservation efforts. The environmental services department consists of three managers of environmental services and an environmental coordinator, who are all responsible for monitoring the company’s usage of natural resources such as natural gas and electricity. Sanderson Farms utilizes energy-efficient LED lighting in select processing facilities resulting in 226,466 kWh of electricity saved in the calendar year 2021. Sanderson Farms generated 309,561 MMBTUs of renewable energy or biogas, which reduced the volume of natural gas purchased in their facilities. Sanderson Farms has reduced its water use intensity by 44% since 2008 and saves 1.3+ billion gallons of water annually.

    8,400 acres of land restored naturally — 2022 TxN 20 Honoree: Vital Farms

    Who is Vital Farms?

    Vital Farms’ purpose is rooted in a commitment to Conscious Capitalism, which prioritizes the long-term benefits to each of their stakeholders – farmers and suppliers, customers and consumers, communities and the environment, crew members, and stockholders. Today Vital Farms partners with over 275 small family farms. Every hen is humanely treated, every egg is pasture-raised, and they continue to elevate their own, and the industry’s, standards.

    How does Vital Farms set the standard?

    Approximately 200 family farms commit to Vital Farms exacting standards and the pasture-raised practices they believe are best for hens, cows, and land, resulting in 8,400 acres of natural land restoration. 

    Through Vital Farms’ conservation-minded pasture rotation practice, the land is naturally restored, and herbicides and pesticides are avoided in 300 farms. ZERO waste facilities: all excess egg product is used for other purposes, such as pet food. In addition, Vital Farms utilizes bio-retention features that clean and cool rainwater, provide for the recharge of local aquifers rather than runoff into storm sewers, and conserve over 700,000 gallons of water per year. 

    Why forward-thinking leaders in Agriculture matter

    80% of groundwater in Texas is used for irrigating crops, and according to the State Water Development Board’s 2022 Water Plan, Texas’ population is expected to grow by 70% by 2070. This increase in population means natural resources, including water and the agricultural products that put food on the table, will need to stretch further. To meet these needs while protecting the environment, it’s critical that the agriculture industry in Texas weaves environmental sustainability into its business model. Texas ingenuity in agriculture is helping produce more with less and increase environmental stewardship along the way.

    How TxN20 Honorees Are Selected Each Year
    To select the 2022 TxN 20 Honorees, the TxN Team evaluated submissions and conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies in 12 key industry sectors.
    All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system, from which the top 60 highest-scoring companies moved on to the final round of TxN 20. A selection committee of top industry leaders and experts was then formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final 20 businesses recognized as TxN 20 Honorees.

    Honorable Mentions: Standouts in Sustainability

    In addition to this year’s TxN 20 honorees, here are three industry standouts for best practices in conservation and sustainability coming from companies across the agriculture industry.

    Industry Innovator: DOW Inc

    DOW Inc. is a leader in sustainability with its various initiatives to preserve natural resources. Notable efforts include executing optimization projects that have saved approximately 400,000 mT CO2 annually. Additionally, their efforts in renewable power surpassed their 2025 goals by obtaining 740 MV from renewable sources.

    Industry Innovator: Bayer & Bayer Crop Science

    Bayer & Bayer Crop Science incorporates sustainable practices into their business. Their unique efforts include using plant biotechnology to create herbicide-tolerant plants that reduce the release of GHG from the soil. The company also participates in purchasing electricity from renewable energies. In 2021, 24.7% of their electricity was sourced renewably as they are working towards 100% by 2029.

    Industry Innovator: Dairy Farmers of America

    Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) prioritizes sustainable efforts by aligning with UN SDG goals. DFA has approximately 200 on-farm renewable energy projects with plans to utilize more than 50 anaerobic digesters to convert dairy waste products into green energy. Additionally, DFA focuses greatly on soil health and regenerative agriculture to increase the longevity of soil life and health.

    Get Involved:
    Is your company at the forefront of conservation and environmental sustainability in Texas? Do you want to be recognized for your efforts? Contact Texan by Nature at programs@texanbynature.org.

    To be considered for the official TxN 20 list, companies must:

    • Have operations and employees based in Texas;
    • Share a demonstrated commitment to conservation & sustainability;
    • Showcase tangible efforts, impact, and data in conservation;
    • NOT be a conservation-based nonprofit (501c3).

     

     

  12. 2021 TxN 20 Recap

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    The Texan by Nature 20 (TxN 20) is an effort to recognize the best work in conservation from Texas-based businesses. It’s an opportunity to showcase innovation, commitment, and best practices from a variety of industries. 

    To select the 2021 TxN 20, the TxN Team evaluated submissions as well as conducted independent research across 2,000+ of Texas’ publicly traded and private companies within 12 industry sectors. All companies were evaluated on a 17-point scoring system to narrow down the list of the top 60 companies in Texas. A selection committee of top industry leaders was formed to evaluate the top 60 companies and select the final honorees for the TxN 20. Read the official press release and check out Q&A write-ups with each honoree here.

    In 2021, 20 TxN 20 honorees were selected and unveiled at Texan by Nature’s annual Conservation Summit on November 3, 2021. Below is a recap of blogs highlighting the honorees that include best practices coming from the various industries.

    “They [The TxN 20] are innovators, collaborators, and changemakers,” said Texan by Nature Founder, former First Lady and Laura Bush. “I encourage other companies to follow their example. Together, we can secure a future where our economy, natural resources, and communities thrive”

    – read more in this article from Dallas Innovates.

    Data submissions are NOW OPEN for the 2022 TxN 20 – learn more here!

    Agriculture Industry Honorees: Alamo Group and Sanderson Farms

    Texas leads the nation in number of farms and ranches, with 248,416 farms and ranches that cover 127 million acres, making up 73 percent of land ownership in a state that’s 95 percent privately owned. Not only do these lands provide food and fiber for the world, they also provide critical wildlife habitat and ecosystem services to the 29.1 million Texans that call the Lone Star State home. From 1997 – 2017 there was a net loss of 2.2 million acres of working lands to non-agricultural use. Texas ingenuity within the agriculture industry is helping produce more with less and increase environmental stewardship along the way.

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Agriculture Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.


     

    Architecture, Design, & Development Industry Honorees: HDR and The Beck Group

    Valued at a 3.3 billion dollar industry in 2021, with over 5,000 architecture companies operating in the state, architects plan, design, and develop residential, institutional, recreational, commercial, and industrial buildings. At 29.1 million Texas residents, innovative, mindful, reliable, resilient, and environmentally friendly infrastructure is needed to reduce and mitigate the pressure being put on our natural resources by Texas’ growing population. Sustainable infrastructure positively impacts communities, integrates natural resources, and benefits the bottom line through cost savings. 

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Architecture, Design, & Development Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

    Construction Industry Honorees: CEMEX

    Texas is America’s fifth fastest growing state, with a population of over 29 million, making construction an essential economic activity. From new and expanded roads and bridges to more airport runways, housing developments, electric power grids, pipelines, and wastewater treatment systems — construction is a part of Texans’ everyday lives. From water and energy conservation focused designs to using reclaimed and sustainably harvested materials to landscape-scale restoration projects, construction industry leaders are taking great strides to incorporate conservation into their growth.

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Construction and Manufacturing Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

    Energy Industry Honorees: Shell Oil Company and Vistra Corp

    Texas knows how to harness energy, providing more than one-fifth of U.S.’s domestically produced energy. In 2020, Texas accounted for 43% of the nation’s crude oil production, 26% of its marketed natural gas production, and produced about 28% of all U.S. wind-powered electricity. While maintaining production leadership, energy leaders are actively developing innovative new technologies that protect and conserve natural resources. From recycling and water conservation to renewable energy usage to carbon sequestration to incorporating conservation recommendations as standard practice, the energy industry is working to reduce impact while powering the world.

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Energy Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.


     

    Financial Services Industry Honoree: Bank of America 

    If Texas were an independent nation, it would have the 10th largest GDP on earth. Within this booming economy, the financial services industry takes many forms including banking, insurance, credit, lending, and real estate. An estimated 36 financial services companies from 13 countries either established or expanded operations in Texas between 2009 and 2014. Financial service leaders are dealing with more than just capital; they are actively involved in conservation, from issuing corporate green bonds to supporting the communities they operate in through volunteer efforts to sourcing renewable energy, the financial industry is banking on the environment.

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Financial Services Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

    Food, Beverage, & Grocery Industry Honorees: Desert Door Texas Sotol, Farmer Brothers, H-E-B, and Sysco

    The regional diversity of Texas produces a large variety of food and beverage products which are featured on grocery store shelves and restaurant tables across the nation. It takes effort at all points of the supply chain for environmental conservation. How do food and beverages get to your home? What are the products packaged in? Many food industry leaders are answering these questions placing priority on the environment. From reducing waste by recycling and composting to building and developing efficient infrastructure and supply chains to participating in on-the-ground conservation efforts, Texas’ food and beverage providers are working with Texans, for Texans to ensure our natural resources thrive for generations to come.

    Healthcare Industry Honoree: Texas Health Resources

    Nationally, the healthcare industry drives 18 percent of the total economy, and it’s that big in Texas. The population of Texas is the second largest in the U.S. at over 29 million and is expected to double by 2050. In response to a growing population, existing healthcare is expanding rapidly. The life sciences sector has a significant economic impact in Texas, with an estimated $ 32.1 billion, 135,000 jobs, and $ 3.1 billion in payroll. In North Texas alone, there are 90 hospital members in the Dallas-Fort Worth Hospital Council that have a $14 billion impact on the economy and add 265,000 jobs statewide. Many healthcare providers are leading the way to create healthy communities by incorporating sustainability and green space within their facilities and using nature to provide both healing opportunities to patients and vital habitat for Texas’ flora and fauna.

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Healthcare Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

     

    Municipal Services Industry Honorees: City of San Antonio Office of Sustainability and Waste Management

    Our city’s sustainability offices and waste, water, and energy providers support over 29 million Texans with the resources they need to call Texas home. Cities and municipal service providers across Texas in San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston among many others have sustainability and conservation a part of their decision making processes. From establishing climate action plans to making Lights Out Texas proclamations, to protecting and enhancing our water resources and making our cities great places to live, the municipal services industry has Texas’ natural resources top of mind while serving Texans where they live, work, worship, and play.

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Municipal Services Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

    Retail Industry Honoree: Walmart

    The retail industry is a huge driver in Texas’ economy and creates jobs in communities across the state with 28M people directly employed through retailers and 5.3M additional jobs supported by retail. With 371,000 retail establishments in the state contributing $400B in direct GDP impact, this industry supports and serves Texans from all walks of life. This industry is also serving up sustainability within their own four-walls and to their customers! From closed-loop recycling to LEED Certified buildings to renewable energy sourcing to sustainable packaging, retail leaders are creating a conservation-minded path to positively impact our future.

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Retail Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

    Technology Industry Honorees: Dell Technologies and Texas Instruments 

    Texas is no stranger to technology. Before Silicon Valley, the semiconductor was invented in 1958 at Texas Instruments, and one of the largest computer companies in the world, Dell Technologies originated in Austin. Texas ranks #4 in the nation for the number of tech jobs, with many tech firms providing conservation minded solutions for their employees and customers. As of November 2021, 35 tech companies had relocated to or opened new facilities in the Austin area in 2020 alone. From repurposing and recycling old computers to promoting conservation practices such as native habitat creation on corporate campuses to investing in sustainable infrastructure and sourcing renewable energy, the technology sector is using their innovation to reduce their environmental impact. 

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Technology Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

     

    Transportation Industry Honorees: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and BNSF

    Texas is BIG: the Lonestar State boasts the most roadway in the US at 314,000 miles of road, the largest share of rail lines at 10,400 miles of track, and 400 airports including 2 of the top 15 busiest airports in the nation. In 2020 alone, DFW Airport served 7.7 million passengers! Leaders in transportation are reducing emissions, becoming carbon-neutral, and recycling tens of thousands of tons annually. In an industry not typically synonymous with conservation, Texas transportation companies are driving sustainability advances for others to follow. 

    READ THIS BLOG to learn more about the Transportation Industry Honorees and best practices coming from the industry.

    Learn more about the Texan by Nature 20 at www.TxN20.org 

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