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44 Pallet C e nt ral • May -Ju ne 2 0 25 Kathleen's commitment to the industry extends beyond her company. As the new Chair of the Pallet Foundation, she is focused on supporting projects that enhance the industry's sustainability and credibility. She is particularly excited about the Foundation's Nature's Packaging initiative, the USDA BioPreferred® certification, and the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) surveys. "ese initiatives provide crucial data that demonstrate the environmental benefits of wood packaging. I love sharing this information with our customers and employees. It validates what we've always known: wood isn't just good; it's the most sustainable choice!" she says. Her leadership comes at a time of significant momentum for the Foundation. During the NWPCA Annual Leadership Conference in Napa, California, on March 27, 2025, the Pallet Foundation raised an impressive $238,000 —funds that will support critical research and industry advancement. Kathleen's enthusiasm and vision will ensure these contributions translate into meaningful impact for the entire wood transport packaging sector. Looking ahead, the Pallet Foundation is driving key initiatives to further validate the industry's sustainability leadership. e upcoming Life Cycle Assessment and Environmental Product Declaration surveys will reinforce the fact that the wooden pallet industry maintains the highest recycling rate of any packaging material. Additionally, a $1 million grant awarded through the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Regional Agricultural Product Promotion (R APP) program to the Softwood Export Council (SEC) and its member, the NWPCA, marks a significant step in promoting the sustainable use of US softwood products in wood transport packaging and related industries in Latin America regions (outside of Mexico). ese projects will generate critical data that strengthen the industry's credibility and drive continued innovation. Kathleen encourages industry members to stay engaged, support these efforts, and champion the powerful sustainability story of wooden pallets. Kathleen's story is one of dedication, growth, and leadership. Her commitment to the Pallet SPOTLIGHT CONT. "Over the years, she has taken a deep interest in technology and legisla ve developments, ensuring that the pallet industry remains at the forefront of innova on and policy discussions. " 44 Pallet C e nt ral • May -Ju ne 2 0 25

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