IGT RFP Complete 2-7-25

GLOBAL SOLUTIONS FOR

GLOBAL SIGNAGE SOLUTIONS ONE-STOP RESOURCE FOR YOUR ENTIRE OFFICE EXPERIENCE directedfacilitysolutions.com ed@directedonline.com 917.589.8900

COMPANY BACKGROUND

OFFICE ADDRESS

DirectEd Online provides facility and marketing solutions for Fortune 1000 Companies. With over 40 years of experience, we pride ourselves on being resourceful, adaptive, and capable of facilitating projects in marketing, facilities, real estate, procurement, office services, and events.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE:

Our projects encompass commercial print, wall coverings, architectural signage, digital print, wide format, direct mail, PPE, promotional items, furniture, protective partitions, warehousing, logistics, and fulfillment—all managed through a single source.

We leverage innovative technologies via our online e-stores, which integrate with systems like Coupa, PeopleSoft, and SAP, making projects efficient, streamlined, and cost-effective.

CEO & FOUNDER Edward Sanders is the CEO and Founder of DirectEd Online, providing innovative solutions for marketing, procurement, and facilities professionals for over 40 years. His journey began in Brooklyn, New York, at 13, working in an after-school program for a local print company near Brooklyn College. Over the next five years, he honed his skills in the darkroom, bindery, on press, and as a production manager in NYC. His father's teachings were inspirational: born in 1901, his fundamental advice was simple—perform your duty better than anyone else, and success will follow.

Over the past 45 years, Edward has worked as a production manager, account executive, and director of business development before becoming an entrepreneur and founding DirectEd. The core principles are to provide knowledge, solutions, and insight, always delivered with a smile. Over the next 20+ years, we will continue to evolve and adjust our offerings to remain relevant for our clients.

2 Old Mill Road Caldwell NJ 07006 1140 Broadway New York NY 10003

Parent Company: Directed Online Subs: DIRECTED – DIRECTED FACILITY SOLUTIONS CEO: Edward J Sanders ed@directedonline.com CRO: Edward M Sanders ems@directedonline.com EVP: Wendy Kaplan Schwartz wendy@directedonline.com PM; Gabriella Raffo gabriaella@diretcedonline.com OPS: Matthew Connelly matt@directedonline.com Facilities: Anthony Roces Anthony@directedonline.com VP Finance: Christine Mazawey Christine@directedonline.com VP Promotional: Jill Kaye jill@directedonline.com MPS: Al Moline al@directedonline.com Director Procurement: Zolt Sapy zs@directedonline.com Logistics: Mario Pasquarellio mario@directedonline.com Sales: Justin Riehl Justin@directedonline.com A/R: Paula Gagliardi paula@directedonline.com Design: Jessica Andersen jess@directedonline.com

CEO

Project Manager

President

Creative Director

Production Manager

Machine Operators

Finishing

Packaging

VP Sales

Shipping

Sales Manager

OBD

Account Executives

Business Devo

ABOUT US Directed provides solutions that seamlessly integrate into your business. Our journey began in 1980 with an after-school program at a commercial printer in Brooklyn, NY. Starting from sweeping floors, we progressed through various roles such as bindery, darkroom, stripping, plate making, and pressman, eventually becoming a Print Production Manager in Manhattan by the age of 20. Over the years, our expertise and knowledge have grown exponentially, and we continually share this with our clients and employees.

We specialize in providing global signage and branding solutions for your company. Our services include managing localized approvals, COIs, installations, and filing all necessary permits. With global insurance coverage, you can be confident that your project, regardless of size, will be handled by consummate professionals.

One of the key ingredients to our success comes from the teachings of my father.

He taught us to stay focused on the task at hand, perform our duties better than anyone else, and believe that our dreams will come true. My father, born in 1901, served in World War II and worked for the Penn Central Railroad for 60 years, living to the age of 93. Directed’s determination stems from the belief that "if you build it, they will come," and in our case, it means earning the trust and loyalty of our clients.

IDEAS

INSIGHT

INNOVATION

At Directed, we share ideas and best practices with our customers every day. Some days, our discussions revolve around innovative materials such as stone, seed, and earth-friendly wideformat papers that are compostable or plantable.

Other times, we explore dimensional designs, Zünd cutting techniques, or ClingZ materials that adhere to various surfaces. We even create popout-of-the-box experiences. Each day brings new and unique challenges, and the best part is, we are always eager to learn and help.

We start every project by gaining a thorough understanding of your business objectives.

Collaborating closely with your team, we develop communication strategies designed to achieve those goals. With 60 years of experience in executing countless marketing campaigns, we offer unparalleled insight when delivering detail-oriented programs, always keeping your brand at the forefront of tomorrow.

At Directed, we specialize in delivering innovative print solutions that captivate and inspire. Whether it's crafting a stunning digital brochure, designing an impactful annual report, or creating eye-catching window and event graphics, we're dedicated to making your brand message stand out. Our expertise extends to digital and dimensional mail, as well as promotional materials, ensuring every piece is delivered promptly to maximize your communication impact. Trust Directed to elevate your print communication with creativity and efficiency.

GLOBAL BRANDING & SIGNAGE RFP

LONDON MEXICO

POLAND

VEGAS

CHILE

SPAIN

ROME

TRINIDAD

RENO

COSTA RICA

JAMAICA PROVIDENCE

RFP Questions & Answers

RFP Questions & Answers Directed Online LLC Edward J Sanders – CEO ed@directedonline.com 917.589.8900 2 Old Mill Road Caldwell NJ 07006 1140 Broadway New York NY 10003 1 North Ocean Blvd Pompano Beach FL 33062 1610 Dividend Road Fort Wayne IA 46808 400 N Olcott Ave Harwood Heights IL 60706 General 1.

Please provide your company’s most recently available financial data

4. Please advise as to what level of Customer Service IGT can expect if your solution is selected.

As organizations are reinventing themselves to meet evolving consumer needs and behavior.

Directed helps our clientele achieve transformative change through office environments, visual aides and branding. We combining, deep industry knowledge and state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques with a collaborative approach.

Our hands-on approach reduces risks, improves customer satisfaction, but the “KEY” ingredient is we make every client feel like family, many have been working with us for over 40years+.

5. Please indicate any standard response times/rates, metrics, Service Level Agreements, etc. to support your response.

Standard Responses are 24/48 hours as a standard. However, we strive provide someday answers whenever possible. As with a global client such as IGT we can adjust based upon the time zones where we will be facilitating the projects SLA’s are developed based upon each client and projects, we like to call them milestones and they are shown in the RFP 6. Please provide us with a list of your standard tariffsDuties, Tariffs, Customs & Shipping will be addressed on a country by country basis as they all have slightly similar yet different rules. If awarded this contract we address this accordingly.

2.

3.

Are you willing and able to comply with IGT’s Standard Payment Terms (2% 10 Net 7. What is your geographic coverage?

60)?

Global Yes, 50% Deposits for all work and then 2% 10 Days is acceptable for final payment Please provide no less than three (3) Samples of prior work completed with similar 8. What is your regional capacity?

National customer requirements to those being sought within this RFP. Fried Frank Raymond Pezzuti 917.209.0601 Raymond.pezzuti@friedfrank.com

Bank of New York Edward Ciffone 929.505.2225 Edward.ciffone@bnymellon.com

Springer Nature John Valencio 917.376.4983 j.vallecillo@us.nature.com

Weil Gotshal Manges Carlos Ruiz 917.930.7270 Carlos.ruix@weil.com

Antares Ramses Geronimo 347.344.7004 Ramses.Geronimo@Antares.com

White & Case Tammy Franklin 212.891.7876 Tammy.franklin@whitecase.com

9. If you work with multiple partners, how do you manage the complexity associated with that situation?

Our Teams are all led out of the USA and through 30 year working relationships we have a global team of dedicated professionals. These resources have worked, continue to work on our global client base which is an ongoing business.

10. Do you have established SLA/KPI metrics that you operate to? If yes, please describe.

Yes, we develop these rules, KPI’s and SLA’s based on each clients individual goals.

Often at times we have been told we provide way to much detail, we have learned to take that as a compliment .

RFP Questions & Answers 10. Prices Please provide a detailed cost proposal in a separate excel file or as an attachment. The proposal should include a comprehensive breakdown of all expenses associated with the proposed solution, including main capabilities and specifications. Additionally, please specify any optional enhancements or additional services beyond the outlined requirements.

Agreed, all prices are attached in a separate excel document If the exact pricing is not available at this stage, budget ranges would be acceptable. Please specify any variables that may impact the final cost.

Our prices are based on sizes and letter count of the new branding without a visual being seen and with a notation there will be a logo atop of the letterss Given our rebranding launch date is subject to change and could delay installation; vendors must include storage capabilities and associated pricing in their proposal.

We can provide storage of the materials in our USA facilities for free for 1 year

11. Services Request Vendors must be prepared to provide a comprehensive range of services as requested in this section. All services to be provided are outlined below.

Overall, IGT is looking for a partner with proven experience working for multinationals that can support our rebranding implementation plan.

Directed has its beginnings in 1980 within the print and signage industry. Our beginnings allow us to understand, brand elements, materials, finishes, colors across all platforms of print, signage and textiles. Our 45 years of being in this industry provides with best in practice solutions combining experiences all the while loving what we do, it is a win-win.

11.1. Architectural & Engineering Drawings 1. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the Facility Design Guidelines provided

by IGT. We have reviewed to this point what has been provided and understand the requirements of IGT, 2. Produce architectural and engineering drawings for all signage provided per specifications in the Facility Design Guidelines.

Samples of this are provided in the RFP on the forthcoming pages

3. Communicate effectively with the company issuing the signage design to ensure successful drawing reviews. A successful drawing review will be measured by no errors in the signage fabrication and installation phases.

Upon selection of the Designer and or Architect we will work with them to provide all renderings, shop drawings and samples as required.

4. Provide a process to ensure no errors at installation and how errors are handled in the event they occur.

The process starts with a site survey, followed by an architectural drawing of the façade, roof or wall where the treatments will be installed. At this time we review the existing materials and what is required to be compliant with local laws and rules which govern, best- in-class installation practices.

In the event an issue does happen our standard 24/48 Hour SLA will resolve any issues.

11.2 Permitting Vendors will conduct and /or coordinate all activities necessary; under local regulations and standards, to issue local permissions to install and work on the installation of each and all signage fabricated for each location under the scope of this request.

• Perform activities and due diligence with local real estate agencies to obtain each and all permits required to perform installation. These activities may include but are not limited to:

• Understand the local zoning laws, building codes, and signage regulations. This includes restrictions on sign size, height, illumination, and placement • Check if the building is in a historical district or an environmentally sensitive area, as this may impose additional restriction

• Gather necessary documents such as property owner consent, structural calculations, and electrical plans for illuminated signs • Submit the permit application to the relevant municipal authority. This often includes filling out specific forms and providing all required documentation

• Pay any applicable permit fees, which can vary based on the type and size of the signage • Participate in reviews and approvals with municipalities, including being prepared to make any necessary revisions if the initial application does not meet all requirements

• Preinstallation and final inspections • Permit issuance and any associated documentation on file for future reference and compliance checks

AGEED: TO ALL OF THE ABOVE REGARDING PERMITTING

RFP Questions & Answers

11.3 Fabrication, Removal of Existing Signage, and Installation of New Signage

Safety Protocol: : (AGREED)

Vendors will fabricate, remove existing signage, and install new signage in all locations under the scope of this request.

h.

such as gloves, goggles, and hard hats

Agreed on all below

1. Vendor will provide information on the following fabrication considerations and standards. a.

b. c. d.

e.

On materials and durability: Include what materials will be used for the signs Discuss materials guarantees or warranties for durability and longevity Discuss compliance with relevant industry standards and regulations Discuss ability to work with existing signage designs Discuss typical lead time for fabrication and installation

2. Vendor will discuss process for ensuring proper installation and safety as described and beyond the basic ones outlined below: Site Assessment and Preparation: (AGREED) a. b.

c.

Structural Integrity: Ensure the mounting surface is sturdy enough to support the signage. For exterior signs, check for wind load capacities and structural stability Compliance Check: Review local zoning laws, building codes, and any relevant regulations to ensure the sign complies with all legal requirements Environmental Considerations: Consider factors like weather exposure, sunlight, and potential vandalism for exterior signage

Correct Positioning: (AGREED) d.

Visibility: Ensure the signage is easily visible from intended viewing distances. For example, billboards should be visible from highways, while interior signs should be readable from typical walking distances

e.

Height and Angle: Position signs at appropriate heights and angles for optimal visibility and readability.

Mounting Technique:(AGREED)

f.

g.

Anchor Points: Use the correct type of anchors or mounts depending on the sign weight and surface material.

Electrical Considerations: For illuminated or digital signs, ensure proper electrical connections

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure all installers wear appropriate PPE,

i.

Tool and Equipment Safety: Use tools and equipment safely and according to manufacturer instructions Workers insurance

Final Inspection: : (AGREED) Vendors will ensure each installation has been inspected and meets all standards of quality installation.

11.4 Project Management Services : (AGREED) Vendors will project manage the installation of the signage from requirements understanding and fabrication to post-installation, inspection, functionality testing, and client handover.

Vendors will discuss their project management capabilities including detailed project plans, coordination with partners and customer, process for communicating project progress, anticipating blockers, and adhering to project’s timeline.

12. Timeline Need to discuss in greater detail: 30 days from release of a design to test, make samples, gain approvals of colors, fabricate, create shop drawings, manufacture, ship, obtain permits, schedule and install is not enough time allotted Vendors will submit a rollout installation plan that aligns with the following milestones in the chart below.

• We expect the technical design to be ready by March 31, 2025.

• We expect internal signage for Tier 1A locations to be ready for installation by April 30, 2025. We really need to discuss in thorough detail, are these lit or electrified signs, CAD cut Vinyl's, Wall Papers, ADA compliant signage, etc.

All dates outlined in this project are subject to change. Any adjustments to the timeline may impact costs. Vendors should be prepared to adjust and have flexible scheduling options. All associated costs to variables should be included in the proposal.

AGREED AND WE CAN ADDRESS TOGETHER

TIME-LINE & MILESTONE EXAMPLE

SCOPE OF WORK

Directed can manufacture, sample, design, produce, package, ship, and coordinate site surveys, removals along with installations globally.

This project fits our capabilities to perfection.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT Our team begins every project with a clean slate for the discovery and visioning phase allowing the distinctive nature of each client and their needs to drive our understanding of the project and ultimately its design strategy. We base the strength of our solutions on teamwork, constant client engagement and being able to balance creativity and outside the box thinking, with detailed oriented capabilities and effective delivery methods.

EXPERIENCE DESIGN

STRATEGY

PROJECT PRICE CHART

Existing Outdoor Signage

New Design

New Design

Existing Branding

New Design

New Design

GLOBAL SOLUTIONS

As the world becomes a smaller place to do business made possible through advances in technology & communications, more companies are looking to expand globally. Organizations competing in this marketplace face unique challenges to globally expand their branded materials in an electronic and print format. To support these marketing and communication efforts, Directed Online can facilitate

the production and distribution of these projects with guaranteed quality delivered with local expertise. Our partners are located in 30 countries, and have more than 130 facilities globally which make this all possible everyday.

LOCALIZED SOLUTIONS

GLOBAL SOLUTIONS OUR PROJECTS

TRANSITION OF WORLDS A KEY DIRECTED ACCOUNT IS PLANNING FOR A MOVE. A COMBINATION OF THEIR ARCHITECTS, MARKETING, DESIGNERS & PROCUREMENT BLENDED TOGETEHER TO WORK WITH OUR TEAM PROIVIDING REVIT & CAD FILES TO OUR INTERNAL DESIGNER. WE WERE ABLE TO CREATE A MARKETING POP UP FOR THE CLIENTS NEW WORLD.

Project Type: Magnetic Wall Coverings, Proof, Print & Installation

THE CHALLENGE:

A last-minute change of all the wall branding as the CEO from Japan was planning to visit NYC in 5 days.

THE SOLUTION: Directed utilizing its production facility received 36 files, generated proofs withing 8 hours of obtaining the files, got approval, printed on Wednesday PM- Friday and installed 3 floors that Friday evening. ,

THE CONCLUSION: Shiseido achieved their requirements to have new branding in time for the CEO visit on Monday in October 2023 THE RECCOMENDATION We just wanted to let you know the team which proofed, printed and installed were amazing! The Directed Team was challenged to produce the project & install in less than 72 Hours, which our team did not think was possible

Location: 340 Madison Avenue New York City

Project Type: Magnetic Wall Coverings, Proof, Print & Installation

Location: 340 Madison Avenue New York City

THE CHALLENGE A global company with numerous locations approved its new brand standards on May 1, 2024. With domestic locations in NYC, NJ, PA, and FL, as well as international locations in the UK, India, Poland, and Hong Kong, they aimed to execute a simultaneous rebrand and launch across all sites on June 11, 2024. The challenge was to maintain complete confidentiality of the new branding throughout the process.

THE SOLUTION BNY partnered with Directed, a company they had never worked with before, based on trust in the Senior Director’s knowledge of the supplier from 20 years prior and Ed Jr’s successful initial “Cold Call” and introduction.

This combination established a trustworthy working relationship SIX WEEKS inception-COMPLETION • Develop architectural drawings for all locations within three Business Days • Created custom colors for the new logo, produced on ¼” & ½” Aluminum • Designed custom polycarbonate standoff boards with 3M privacy film to cover damage from 15year-old pin-mounted signage and applied dimensional letting on top.

• Maintained complete secrecy of the brand elements during development, production, and installation • Installed the new branding at all global locations with precise timing, ensuring on-time completion.

• Coordinated the unveiling, ensuring simultaneous presentations at all global locations.

Locations: London, Manchester, Pune, Poland, New York City, Jersey City, Pittsburgh, Florida

Locations: London, Manchester, Pune, Poland, New York City, Jersey City, Pittsburgh, Florida

NEW YORK CITY 17TH FLOOR SMART FILM

NEW YORK CITY 17TH FLOOR SMART FILM

A Brand-New Conference Center on the 17th floor of 240 Greenwich Street in NYC embraces the latest in technology from Directed.

• • • •

Privacy Film Switchable on Demand Latest in Clear Technology 99.6% Transparent Lutron Interface for Controlling the Modes of Privacy Manufacturing and Local Installation all USA-Based

Project Type: Distraction Banding & Architectural Signage THE CHALLENGE:

Evercore came to Directed with an RFP for a new signage program which had a time sensitive requirement. The installation needed to be coordinated with construction, furniture, painters, and other trades.

THE SOLUTION:

Directed having extensive experience with an extensive network were able to manufacture and install in coordination with all the subs.

THE CONCLUSION:

Directed’s partnership with Evercore installed an amazing combination of wallcoverings, vinyl graphics, ADA signs, distraction banding, dimensional lettering & architectural signage.

The project was completed on time and in reciprocation for coming through, Directed was awarded other opportunities.

Location; 599 Lexington Avenue New York City

Project Type: Marketing, Architectural Signage, Wall Coverings & Distraction Banding THE CHALLENGE : DMG is an Investment Bank, headquartered in China where they are known for being a super meticulous brand with amazing properties. Their wish was to transform their new headquarters in an amazing work of art in an unrealistic amount of time.

THE SOLUTION: Directed teamed up with the client’s design group that implements all of their print & architectural signage. This property needed to be a showcase in sync with their global portfolio.

They blended many different high-end wallcoverings with gold leaf glass murals to achieve a look that was very defining while matching to their annual reports just printed.

THE CONCLUSION: DMG achieved their goal of having all print, collaterals, annual reports, investment portfolio pieces and their space all with identical designs.

The CEO, COO and top executives were exasperated that they insisted Directed become their sole provider for wall coverings at all their new construction sites. The Auden Project featured is one of those properties which house students around the country.

Location: New York City 120 Wall Street

Project Type: Architectural Signage & Wall Coverings

THE CHALLENGE:

After completing a project for the parent company DMG, (Showcased in Case Studies) Auden had a request for architectural signage, wall coverings and for printed marketing materials. All of the brand elements needed to match as the elegance of the brand requires.

THE SOLUTION:

Directed having proved that creating branded materials which match across multiple medias was possible won a new project. This was to manage a full new construction project simultaneously with subs and meet a target date.

THE CONCLUSION:

Auden was able to meet their target date for completion in July of 2021 prior to the grand opening of the new residences for students. The Units completely sold out as they were beautifully appointed with an affordable rent, beautifully decorated.

Directed was awarded 2 additional projects for 2022 in 2 other US Cities for Auden.

Locations: Utica, Ithaca, Buffalo, Atlanta & Austin

Project Type: Architectural Signage & Wall Coverings

Locations: Utica, Ithaca, Buffalo, Atlanta & Austin

Project Type: Flooring, Distraction Banding, Stone, Paint & Wall Coverings THE CHALLENGE:

Jasani was recommended to Directed

by Meridian Architects a re-known design firm for over 60 years. They had a unique client who required special handling with their new space.

THE SOLUTION:

Directed having extensive experience with custom mill, stoner and flooring was able to facilitate the project ontime, within the budget installed perfectly THE CONCLUSION:

Directed’s partnership with Meridian and Jasani proved to be a great referral. Because of this both the client and the architect have recommended them to others who require a consummate professional for a project which has an under 50K Budget

Location; 131 Madison Avenue New York City

Project Type: Architectural Signage, Wall Coverings, Vinyl Graphics, Painting THE CHALLENGE:

Antares Capital came to Directed with a project to rebrand all of their office spaces in New York City, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and Toronto within the span of only three weeks.

THE SOLUTION:

Directed having 60 years of experience with a very extensive network nationwide, were able to simultaneously manufacture and install all locations at the same time within the three-week period requested by the client.

THE CONCLUSION:

Directed’s partnership with Interior Architects pulled of and amazing combination of wallcoverings, complicated vinyl graphics, dimensional lettering, framed artworks and much more in record time! Antares Capital was extremely pleased with the outcome and has already been in communication with Directed about an expansion on the existing branding.

Locations: New York City, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Toronto

Project Type: Wall Coverings, Design & Installation THE CHALLENGE: To help MUFG complete a rush project for their new space in North Carolina in 7 working days.

THE SOLUTION: Directed utilizing its team of production designers, inhouse wide format print/graphics manufacturing capabilities, combined with our A+ Nationwide installation team was given this challenge.

THE CONCLUSION: MUFG achieved their requirements to have a new look, maintain their budget, while making the space innovative, cutting edge while opening on time.

THE RECCOMENDATION We just wanted to let you know first thing in the morning that Jared did such a phenomenal job!

Seriously, I didn’t know how he was going to get all of the graphics matched up correctly with the phrases and letters and align and level them with really no wiggle room—he had to do quite a bit of resizing cutting centering measurement adjustments etc. It really was quite an undertaking! Our structures that he adhered them to are quite an unusual shape not to mention the fact that they are different measurements on opposing ends.

Again, we’ve only been at this location about 3 ½ months and Jared is special, “really special” and I have to say he’s the first vendor that I’ve seen with so much attention to detail, patience, and an unbelievably high standard for excellence about his work!

Location: Charlotte North Carolina

Project Type: Wall Coverings, Design & Installation

Location: Charlotte North Carolina

CUSTOM MANUFACTURING MILLWORK & FINISHING

EVENT MARKETING SOLUTIONS

OFFICE SIGNAGE

ESG COMPLIANCE

RECYCLING 1 TON of PAPER:

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns continue to ratchet up as stakeholders increasingly expect a company’s business strategy to align with its sustainability commitments, priorities, and requirements. Stakeholders understand the impact and dependence of companies on the environment and society, and it’s evident that sustainability reporting and disclosure are more than “check-the-box” compliance exercises. ESG is about risk and opportunity.

It could underpin your business strategy and have the potential to unlock strategic possibilities. For many companies, ESG is about business fundamentals. Our latest survey data shows that 89% of executives are proactively making strides now to hold themselves accountable and drive trust with their stakeholders, better positioning themselves to thrive and differentiate over the long term.

• Saves 17 mature trees • Conserves 7,000 gallons of water • Preserves 3 cubic yards of landfill space • Reduces the need for 2 barrels of oil • Saves 4,100 kWh of electricity (enough to power a home for 5 months) • 500,000 trees are cut down weekly to produce Sunday Newspapers.

• Recycling just 1/10 of American newspapers annually, could save 25 million trees.

• Recycling a single run of the Sunday New York Times saves 75,000 trees.

• Recycling all US newspapers could save 250 million trees.

• The average American uses 7 trees worth of paper each year.

• An estimated 1 billion trees’ work of paper is thrown away annually in the US. • Americans use 85 million tons of paper per year.

• 17 saved trees can absorb 250 pounds of carbon dioxide; burning them would create 1,500 pounds of CO2.

• In 2007, over 56% of paper consumed in the UD was recycled, equaling 360 pounds per person.

• 400 paper mills use recovered materials for their production process.

We released an ESG readiness report in March 2022, at which time 21% of executives indicated that their companies had established a cross-functional working group—made up of executives across finance, accounting, risk, legal, sustainability and other business leaders—to drive strategic attention to ESG for the business. A similar profile of respondents surveyed recently noted that progress in establishing a cross-functional working group has nearly tripled to 57%.

ESG readiness and external assurance remain valuable tools in preparation and can make a significant impact on a company’s governance and reporting processes and controls. Our recent findings show that nearly all (96%) executives plan to seek external assurance for the next reporting cycle, with 61% already seeking external assurance and 35% seeking external assurance for the first time. These findings indicate that more mature ESG programs typically have key components of an effective governance structure like ESG councils and assurance processes in place.

FORESTRY FACTS

Arewerunning out of treesin the U.S.?

No; in fact, there are more trees in the U.S.today than there were 70 years ago. The paper and forest products industry plants more than three times the number of trees that are harvested every day.

Howmanytreesareplanted eachyearin the U.S.?

Over 2.5 billion trees are planted annually in the U.S. The forest community alone plants over 1.5 billion of these trees; averaging about 4 million new trees planted daily,

Are we cutting down more trees in the U.S. than we're planting?

Doescutting downtrees for papermakingleadto deforestation?

No, cutting down trees for papermaking does not lead to deforestation. Deforestation involves permanently clearing trees for purposes such as agriculture, development, or other uses where trees are not allowed to regrow. Paper companies and the forest products industry actively reforest areas they harvest. They replant trees, encourage new growth, and create forested areas where none existed before. However, deforestation is a significant issue in many parts of the world, particularly in the tropics, driven mainly by population pressure. In these cases, forests are often cleared for fuel or to make way for agriculture.

No. Forest growth has exceeded harvests since the 1940s.

What percentage of the world's wood is used each year to make paper?

Only about 17% of the 3.3 billion cubic meters of wood consumed worldwide annually is used for papermaking. Much of this wood comes from wood chips and residues left behind from sawmill operations. Over half of the world’s harvested wood is used for fuel, primarilyfor cooking and heating.

Will recycling paperhelp savetropical rainforests?

Recycling paper can help indirectly preserve tropical rainforests. The trees in tropical rainforests are rarely harvested for paper; instead, deforestation is mainly driven by population pressure in underdeveloped nations. More than 90% of tropical deforestation occurs due to the demand for agricultural land and firewood.

How muchof aharvestedtree isactually used? Isanypart wasted?

The forest products industry utilizes almost every part of a tree, ensuring minimal waste. Larger trees with diameters over 8 inches are used for lumber and building products, while smaller parts like trimmings and wood chips are recovered for paper production. Natural chemicals from wood chips are extracted for products like turpentine, plastics, and food flavorings. Tree bark is recycled into garden mulch or used for energy in paper mill furnaces. Leaves, needles, and small branches left in the forest replenish the soil with organic matter, helping to retain water and prevent runoff.

Paper vs. E-Waste Computers and Electronics • The electricity used to power a computer for five months could produce enough paper for the average person for an entire year.

• Paper is biodegradable, and nearly 60% of all paper in the U.S. is recycled.

• In contrast, only 18% of electronic devices are currently recycled, and e-waste constitutes the largest waste export in the U.S. Is "e-waste"considered hazardous?

Certain electronic components contain materials that can be hazardous, depending on their condition and density. For example, nonfunctioning CRTs (cathode ray tubes) from televisions and monitors are considered hazardous under California law.

What shouldI dowith myelectronicdiscards?

Follow the mantra of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”: • Reduce e-waste by making smart procurement choices and maintaining your electronics • Reuse functioning electronic equipment by donating or selling it.

• Recycle components that cannot berepaired.

CLIENTS

PARTNERS

Edward Sanders ed@directedonline.com

Mario Pasquariello mario@directedonline.com

Alan Stromfeld alan@directedonline.com

Jessica Andersen jessica@directedonline.com

Lou Tazoli Lou.tazoli@fclgraphics.com

Christine Mazawey christine@directedonline.com

Al Moline al@directedonline.com

Jill Kaye jill@directedonline.com

O U R T E A M

Wendy Kaplan wendy@directedonline.com

Dan Foster dan@dataprintusa.com

Toni Reuille treiulle@dataprintusa.com

Nicki Ferrante

Edward M Sanders

Matthew Connelly

Michael Varoukas

Mark Woroch

nicki@directedonline.com

ems@directedonline.com

matt@directedonline.com

mvaroukas@crsmove.com

mark@directedonline.com

Trisia Tomanelli trisia@t-squareddesign.com

Jeremy Burn salesiq@directedonline.com

info@directedonline,com

917.589.8900

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