From waste bins to climate wins

Category: Latest Updates

From waste bins to climate wins

Posted on by Board of Trade

Since 2022, Washington Gas has teamed up with WUSA9 for multiple Recycle Days. On March 9, our Springfield, Virginia location volunteers welcomed hundreds of vehicles to drop off items rerouted from landfills to recycling facilities. All that behind-the-scenes work resulted in 26 tons of old paper being reclaimed for a new future.

Want to see something even more inspiring? Check out the cumulative results from our five sponsored Recycle Days.

📝 Paper: 252,000 pounds (129 tons) With the average ream of copy paper containing 500 sheets, 129 tons of paper equals over 25 million pages. That’s enough to stack as high as about 20 Washington Monuments and enough square footage to paper more than 270 U.S. football fields.

🖥️ Electronics: 133,000 pounds (60 tons)

Electronic devices are especially problematic in landfills. Their glass alone can take 1-2 million years to decompose, so every reclaimed electronic is a win. Rescuing old items can also reduce the high-energy needs of raw mining and first-time refining. For example, steel is 100% recyclable and can be repeatedly reused at the same quality, while recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than producing the metal from its original ore.

🌲Trees: 2,100 saved (equivalent)

When envisioning the 2,100 tree equivalents saved overall, picture preserving more than half of the 3,800 flowering cherry trees along the National Mall. Since trees love hydration, they’ll be extra happy to learn that the five combined Recycle Days have conserved more than 154,000 gallons of water.

We thank WUSA9 and everyone in the DMV for being outstanding partners in making small changes that led to staggering results. While we’re very proud of these initiatives, the planning and work toward our energy future are only getting started.

Trash & Trilemma

As we celebrate the immediate wins from Recycle Days, our world is also facing what is known as the Energy Trilemma. If you’re not familiar with this term, it refers to the challenge of balancing our energy systems to be reliable and affordable while supporting climate goals, now and in the future.

  • Reliability means ensuring that energy supplies are consistent and dependable to run homes, businesses and services without interruptions. In 2023, the Washington Gas reliability rate was 99.86%.
  • Truly affordable energy must be equally available and cost-effective for all. The American Gas Association (AGA) confirms that using natural gas has saved families $125 billion over 10 years.
  • Supporting climate goals includes making intelligent, innovative energy decisions that support lower-carbon solutions and long-term efficiency. For example, Washington Gas is making a strategic investment of $1.7 billion over the next five years in pipeline modernization.

From Recycle Days to modernizing our infrastructure, these interlocking steps can help resolve the Energy Trilemma. Our distribution networks enable us to deliver natural gas today and can also provide a foundation for delivering lower-carbon solutions in the years ahead. In the short run, we will primarily pursue energy efficiency and renewable natural gas (RNG) projects. These are ready-now technologies that we will continue to innovate into the future.

Recycling and RNG

While they may seem unrelated, recycling events and RNG share a common thread: transforming waste into wins. Just as recycling helps keep trash out of landfills, RNG technology can convert organic landfill waste into lower-carbon fuel options.

Renewable natural gas can be an exciting, powerful strategy for managing municipal landfill methane emissions. Landfills produce methane because of significant accumulations of biostock: a mix of food and landscape waste, biosolids, manure, digestate, sludges and other organic materials. (Yummy.)

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that, in 2019 alone, the food retail, food service and residential sectors generated 66 million tons of wasted food, with about 60% of this going to landfills. Municipal solid waste landfills, in 2021, generated about the same greenhouse gas emissions as 23.1 million gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one year. Now for the good news. Specialized facilities can collect and process biostock to create concentrated methane gas (RNG). When injected into natural gas pipelines, RNG can provide a readily available renewable energy source. Washington Gas has partnered with various companies to support safe RNG integration into our existing natural gas distribution infrastructure. Strategically located across the DMV service territory, these resources will help ensure reliable, affordable energy while supporting long-term climate goals.

From recycling to RNG, Washington Gas is proud to be the DMV’s modern energy partner. We will soon share more about our plans, including the 2024 results update for our Accelerated Pipeline Replacement Programs.

Please stay tuned, and thank you for 175 years of support. We are honored to provide the safe, reliable energy that powers the DMV.

This is a sponsored piece of content from a member organization at the Board of Trade and does not reflect the views of every member in our organization.

Navigating airline travel programs

Posted on by codeadmin

For D.C. business travelers, United can help you save money and earn rewards

The nation’s capital plays a vital role in United’s network, which is now the largest and most diversified international route network among U.S. airlines. For business travelers in the Washington, D.C., area, we provide convenient access to major cities in the U.S. and beyond with daily nonstop flights from all three D.C. area airports.

Through United for Business, we cater to the needs of business travelers in D.C. and around the world. Whether you’re “flying solo” or work for a large corporation, there are many benefits available that can help make business travel more affordable, enjoyable and convenient.

Travel options for businesses of all sizes

Establishing a relationship with an airline for business travel can help you maximize your travel budget. If you work for a large employer, your company may already have a travel program in place with an airline to receive discounts and rewards.  

If you work for a small to midsize company, or even if you own your own business, you might think you’re too small to partner with an airline – but that’s not the case. United can help even the smallest small businesses save on air travel. If your small to midsize company has employees who travel regularly for business, finding a travel solution can help you save money, earn rewards, and make travel easier and more convenient.

Savings

Savings and discounts are one of the main benefits of business travel programs, and these savings come in many different forms. Discounts are usually based on travel volume as well as the airline’s route structures.

With a travel program in place, you’ll get better rates that are negotiated based on sending the airline certain volumes. Most volume-dependent discounts range between 3 and 5 percent, but larger discounts may be available on higher-class tickets or when the airline wants to build volume on a particular route.

For small to midsize businesses, United for Business offers “off-the-shelf” travel plans based on your travel needs, whether you’re looking to save money, provide your travelers with amenities, or a combination of both.

Another way to save can be found in how you book travel. Booking directly with an airline can save you and your travelers money. When you book direct with United, either on united.com or the United app, you’ll have access to our lowest price points and your travelers will automatically receive your company’s negotiated discounts.

Rewards

Partnering with an airline can also provide many rewards to enhance your travel experience – and not just for C-suite employees. For example, business travelers can earn discounts on amenities from airlines for perks like access to airport clubs and lounges.

Loyalty program benefits, like those available through United MileagePlus, are one of the most common ways to earn rewards.

It’s free for travelers to join MileagePlus® to start earning miles for travel. Miles can be earned and redeemed on flights with United and our airline partners. They can be used for upgrades like elite status matching, flight upgrades, lounge access, priority seating and preferred seating. And MileagePlus miles never expire.

Frequent travelers have the opportunity to earn MileagePlus Premier® status. They’ll enjoy benefits that elevate their travel experience like complimentary access to Economy Plus® and preferred seating, waived fees, upgrades, and priority travel services.

Convenience

Another benefit of having a relationship with an airline like United is convenience, from booking travel to landing at your destination. When you book travel direct on united.com or the United app, you’ll have access to conveniences such as assistance with rebooking options if your flight is canceled or delayed.

With the United app you can book travel, change seats, access your boarding pass, and use other features that make travel easier such as:  

  • Bag drop shortcut – prepay and check in your bags with the app to skip the long line at the airport
  • Terminal guide – get step-by-step, personalized guidance to navigate the airport
  • Bag tracking – track your bags throughout your journey
  • Live Activities – see real-time flight updates on your phone without unlocking it

If you manage travel for your small to midsize business, the United for Business travel management portal offers features that can make this responsibility easier. Through the portal, you can book travel for others, set policies like the maximum budget for a trip, manage form(s) of payment, track travel spend and more.

From D.C. to almost anywhere

“Connecting people. Uniting the world.”

It’s United’s purpose, and it’s what we do for travelers – with those in the D.C. area being no exception. With the largest global route network in the world, we offer business travelers seemingly limitless options for business travel, both domestically and internationally.

United serves travelers from all three D.C. area airports – Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall (BWI), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and our hub at Washington Dulles (IAD).

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

From Baltimore/Washington International we offer nonstop daily flights to five of our U.S. hubs:

  • BWI to Denver International – approximately twice daily
  • BWI to George Bush Intercontinental (Houston) – approximately three times daily
  • BWI to Los Angeles International – approximately once daily
  • BWI to Chicago O’Hare – approximately three times daily
  • BWI to San Francisco International – approximately once daily

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

United serves Ronald Reagan Washington National with daily nonstop flights to five of our U.S. hubs:

  • DCA to Denver International – approximately once daily
  • DCA to New York/Newark – approximately 10 times daily
  • DCA to George Bush Houston Intercontinental – approximately six times daily
  • DCA to Chicago O’Hare – approximately 10 times daily
  • DCA to San Francisco International – approximately once daily

Our United Club at DCA is located at Terminal 2, across from Gate 11.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

United is proud to call Washington Dulles International one of our seven U.S. hubs. We’re the D.C. metropolitan area’s largest airline with more than 215 daily flights, increasing to more than 250 daily flights in the summer.

From Dulles, we offer daily service to approximately 60 destinations in the U.S. and Canada. We serve nearly 40 international destinations from Dulles with either daily or weekly service, depending on the destination.   

At Dulles, we offer four United Club locations and a United Polaris lounge (for eligible customers).

The largest airline network

If you’re traveling beyond the U.S., United now has the largest and most diversified international route network among U.S. airlines. We offer nonstop service to 134 international destinations across 67 countries with more flights to more destinations across the Atlantic and Pacific than all U.S. carriers combined.

Our network is further extended by our relationships with many other airlines around the world. We have alliances and strategic agreements with many of the world’s leading global airlines and travel companies to give travelers more options and help make world travel more accessible.  

In addition, we’re a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance with destinations in nearly 200 countries. The alliance consists of 26 airlines, including Air Canada, All Nippon Airways, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, SWISS and more.  

You can usually book flights with Star Alliance airlines on united.com or the United app just as you would book United flights, if the flight is part of your United itinerary. Plus, you’ll earn miles and status when you fly with most of our airline partners, just as you would when you fly United.

Airline clubs and lounges

Many airlines have airport clubs and lounges for travelers to enjoy while waiting for their flight. United has an extensive network of clubs and lounges around the world including more than 45 United Club locations, six United Polaris® lounges, and select partner lounges worldwide. 

There are a variety of ways you can get United Club access if you’re traveling United or one of our partner airlines – from buying a one-time pass to purchasing an annual membership. Business travelers may be able to earn discounts for amenities including access to clubs and lounges.

United Club locations provide space to work or relax before your flight. You’ll find a variety of seating options; complimentary snacks, beverages and bar service; and free Wi-Fi.  

Long-haul international premium cabin travelers may have access to a United Polaris lounge. These lounges offer premium amenities such as spa-like showers and a private rest area with daybeds so customers can prepare for long flights. We have six United Polaris® lounges, including one at Washington Dulles with 21,000 square-feet of space.

In the D.C. area, travelers can enjoy these United Club locations:

Washington Dulles (IAD)

  • United Club, Midfield Terminal, Concourse C, near Gate C4
  • United Club, Midfield Terminal, Concourse C, near Gate C7
  • United Club, Midfield Terminal, Concourse D, near Gate D8
  • United Club, Midfield Terminal, Concourse C, near Gate C17
  • United Polaris lounge, Midfield Terminal, Concourse C, near Gate C17

Reagan National (DCA)

  • United Club, Terminal 2, across from Gate 11

Sidebar:  Business travelers in the D.C. area are invited to learn more about the travel programs available through United for Business. To start exploring with no obligation, just enter your work email.

Unifying the Region: 104th Mid-Winter Dinner Convenes Greater Washington’s Business Community and Regional Leaders

Posted on by codeadmin

Over 600 members and friends of the Greater Washington Board of Trade gathered for the 104th Mid-Winter Dinner, graciously presented by PNC Bank, and hosted within the majestic walls of the Washington National Cathedral on March 13th. 

In keeping with tradition, the evening offered a blend of sophistication and camaraderie, as leading business figures, community partners, and esteemed officials came together for an unforgettable experience. 

Set against the backdrop of the Cathedral’s grandeur, guests were treated to the exquisite melodies of the National Philharmonic, complemented by the culinary delights of Ridgewells Catering. From the beautiful decor to the inspiring cuisine, every detail contributed to an atmosphere of connection and collaboration. 

The Mid-Winter Dinner stands as a testament to the power of unity, demonstrating how forging bonds and fostering dialogue can fortify our region’s vitality and resilience. 

See more pictures from our 104th Mid-Winter Dinner here 

Thank you to all our sponsors for making this signature event an evening to remember. This includes the Washington National Cathedral for hosting our event, and who is celebrating its first year as a Board of Trade member!   

Harnessing the Power of Data: Unveiling Strategies for Monetization and Security 

Posted on by codeadmin

This late-February Executive Lunch from the Board of Trade brought together industry leaders to delve into the profound realm of data, seeking to unlock its vast potential while navigating the intricate web of regulations and security protocols.  

Spearheaded by Sarah Senyo, Deals Transformation Principal at PwC, and John Sikaitis, Senior Vice President of Data & Technology at CBRE, the event illuminated the path towards harnessing data’s transformative power in an era defined by artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. 

With technology propelling data creation to unprecedented heights, an astonishing 90% of the world’s data assets have materialized within the last 24 months. Yet, despite this exponential surge, a staggering 96% of individuals worldwide remain ensconced in a state of data illiteracy, relying primarily on archaic tools like Excel spreadsheets for interaction. 

Amidst engaging discussions, participants at the executive lunch grappled with the pivotal question of where to commence their data odyssey. At the crux of the dialogue lay multifaceted concerns, ranging from data breaches to privacy encroachments and the specter of liability entwined with AI utilization. The integrity of data and the essence of capturing pertinent data points emerged as paramount considerations, underpinning the overarching goal for effective data utilization. 

Sarah Senyo, providing wisdom on the subject that she’s honed through her work at PwC, advocated for embarking on a profound introspection into one’s data journey. “What is your data journey?” she posited, igniting a spark of introspection among the attendees. With the potential to leverage and monetize data looming large, Senyo emphasized the imperative of taking stock of one’s data inventory. Furthermore, she shared that there are virtues of harnessing internal skill sets of employees and forging strategic partnerships to amplify the impact of data initiatives. 

Echoing Senyo’s sentiment, John Sikaitis at CBRE unveiled two groundbreaking AI solutions poised to revolutionize the data landscape. The first, Introhive’s Customer Intelligence Platform, stands as a beacon of innovation, automating the capture and enrichment of client data while unlocking profound insights into organizational networks and activities. Sikaitis also lauded Thoughtspot, a pioneering platform empowering organization to navigate the labyrinth of data with unparalleled ease. 

The Takeaway: Embrace the data revolution, seize the reins of innovation, and chart a course towards a future where data is not merely a commodity but a catalyst for transformative change. In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the power of data beckons, ready to be harnessed by those bold enough to venture into its depths. 

How our policy team and partners are making an impact in the Greater Washington region

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Our policy team and policy partners have helped our members address critical issues in various legislative and advocacy forums. This includes G.S. Proctor & Associates in Maryland, McGuireWoods Consulting in Virginia, and Holland & Knight and Georgetown Public Affairs in Washington D.C. With the Greater Washington region being so vast, our policy partners allow us to get more work done across the region, especially as 2024 legislative sessions have continued in Annapolis and Richmond.

In Maryland, focused attention was given to transportation and workforce development matters. Testimonies were presented supporting legislative measures such as HB0198, which is part of the Metro Funding Act, aimed at enhancing funding for the Metro system facing a funding gap that could impact transit services across the region. Additionally, our team and partners have helped the Board of Trade voice our endorsement components of the Growing Apprenticeships in Public Safety Act, recognizing the imperative of apprenticeships in bolstering public safety initiatives.

Simultaneously, in Virginia, the Board of Trade has also been engaging legislators about the funding of WMATA in the region. Discourse has also centered on the pivotal role of data centers in the state’s economic landscape. The Board of Trade has emphasized the importance of supporting and nurturing this industry through oral testimonies, citing its contribution to economic growth and innovation.

Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., the Board of Trade actively advocated for the passage of the Secure DC Omnibus, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address escalating crime rates. Additionally, a compelling op-ed authored by our President & CEO, Jack McDougle, published in the Washington Business Journal, delineated actionable steps to tackle public safety challenges within the district.

Across these jurisdictions, our policy team and partners demonstrated unified commitment to advancing legislative agendas and addressing pressing concerns on behalf of the Board of Trade’s membership, underscoring the importance of collaborative advocacy efforts in effecting positive change.

The Board of Trade is looking forward to this March, where we can engage appointed and elected officials at our 104th Mid-Winter Dinner, presented by PNC Bank. This black-tie event at the Washington National Cathedral gathers 600 key leaders from across the region, including state attorneys general, state cabinet secretaries, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, DC councilmembers, officials from Maryland and Virginia, university presidents, and other business leaders.

Board of Trade honors Jermaine Johnson at Annual Chair’s Dinner

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Each year, the Board of Trade celebrates our recent past-chair in an evening of reflection, stories, and laughter with board colleagues, coworkers, family, and friends. We had the pleasure of holding our Annual Chair’s Dinner honoring 2023 Board Chair Jermaine Johnson, Regional President, Greater Washington & Virginia at PNC, on Jan. 23 at the Hay Adams Hotel.   

The intimate gathering provided a moment of reflection as we dive into 2024, offering heartfelt gratitude to Jermaine for his exceptional leadership, unwavering integrity, and tireless dedication to our organization. His invaluable contributions have been instrumental in achieving our goals and advancing the mission of supporting the region’s business community. 

Board members Steve Proctor (2024 Board Chair), Tony Pierce, Tim Gillis, Courtney Spaeth, and our president Jack McDougle shared their personal experiences with Jermaine during his term as Chair and celebrated the ongoing work of the Board of Trade. Poised as a compassionate problem solver, Jermaine’s legacy will be stamped on the Board of Trade’s progress in addressing critical issues such as Metro funding, public safety, downtown revitalization, and overall regional growth.

“Jermaine has been a steady presence within our organization’s leadership for years and has served during some of the most challenging times we’ve faced as a region and business community,” said Jack McDougle. “I am very proud of this organization and where we are today. Thank you, Jermaine, for your leadership and your friendship. The Board of Trade is as strong now as it has been in decades.” 

Tim Gillis highlighted Jermaine’s character as “So humble. So genuine. So real. So effective.” capturing in just a few thoughtful words Jermaine’s impact on the community.

Click here for more photos from our Annual Chair’s Dinner

Jermaine thanked his children and wife, Rae Ann, for joining this celebration and joked he wished his senior executive team had been in attendance to hear some of these accolades! He closed out the evening, sharing his pride in the organization and its role in our community, and promised continued commitment to building a better region for all. 

“The Board of Trade has always been a conduit of institutions, and it has truly been an honor for me to serve as an officer of this organization for the last five years,” said Jermaine. “Our executive committee should be applauded for their work supporting all the great things we did in 2023.”

Jermaine, your exceptional leadership and genuine authenticity have made this past year remarkable. As you join the Board of Trade’s Senior Council, your wisdom and mentorship will continue to be invaluable. Your dedication, alongside that of our fellow board members, is instrumental in supporting the Greater Washington business community.

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