MTA Positions for Alaska Broadband Growth with BEAD Funding, Fiber Expansion, and New Leadership
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 16:59 EDT
Matanuska Telecom Association is entering a new phase of broadband growth, backed by a $108 million BEAD award, continued fiber expansion across the Mat-Su, and new leadership under CEO Demian Voiles. The timing is significant for one of Alaska's fastest-growing regions. In 2025, MTA upgraded 4,000 locations , deployed 153 miles of fiber , improved capacity for more than 31,000 connections , and secured federal funding to bring fiber broadband to more than 10,000 homes and businesses across its service area. "Building out a fiber network to every single home in our network is the end game," said Demian Voiles, Chief Executive Officer of MTA. "The Mat-Su is growing quickly, and connectivity has to grow with it." For Voiles, the work is about making sure local infrastructure keeps pace with demand from households, businesses, schools, emergency services, and a changing regional economy. The BEAD award gives MTA a way to accelerate that buildout while strengthening the long-term broadband foundation for Alaska communities. Service performance is part of that story. In 2025, MTA resolved 93.66% of residential tickets and 88.5% of business tickets within a day. The cooperative also handled more than 57,000 inbound calls with average wait times of about 10 seconds . Those calls are supported by MTA's local, 24-hour support center based in Palmer , a service model rooted in the same communities the network serves. MTA's investment extends beyond the network itself. Through the MTA Foundation and community sponsorships, more than $300,000 went back into local communities in 2025, including nearly $95,000 in scholarships for 32 local students and more than $100,000 in grants to 10 organizations across six impact areas. The Youth Technology Tour added another workforce-focused piece, bringing more than 120 students inside MTA to explore careers in engineering, IT, marketing, construction, finance, and other technology-related fields. MTA also received recognition in 2025 for community outreach, cybersecurity, health and safety, customer experience, and support for Guard and Reserve members. "We are ready to stand up and take a bigger role in telecom in the state of Alaska," Voiles said. Next, MTA plans to keep moving fiber deeper into the Mat-Su, build the partnerships needed for large-scale deployment, and invest in the people and systems that will support Alaska's broadband future.
Louisiana Children's Museum invites families to become Planet Protectors
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 15:12 EDT
Louisiana Children's Museum (LCM), in partnership with Cox Communications, invites families to celebrate the power of play and environmental stewardship during Planet Protectors taking place Saturday, Aug. 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Museum in New Orleans City Park. Some of the best lessons in conservation begin when children see everyday materials in a whole new way. Presented by Cox Communications, the family-friendly event invites children and their caregivers to explore sustainability through play. Through interactive exhibits, creative challenges and a community electronics recycling drive, families will learn practical ways to reduce waste, conserve natural resources and care for the environment. "Children are naturally curious about the world around them, and Planet Protectors allows them to turn that curiosity into action," said Tifferney White, CEO of LCM. "By engaging families in playful, hands-on experiences, we're helping children understand that even small choices can make a meaningful impact on the health of our communities and our planet." Throughout the Museum, families can participate in interactive experiences designed to make environmental learning fun, including: Building and designing a sustainable cardboard city Creating artwork using recycled materials Exploring rainwater conservation through Water Harvesting Heroes Crushing and recycling aluminum cans at the Can Crushing Station Digging into gardening activities during Plant and Play Sorting recyclables through a sensory activity designed for children ages 0-3 Enjoying conservation-themed Eco-Story Time Celebrating the day at the Planet Play Wiggle Party As part of the event, LCM and Cox Communications will also host a free electronics recycling drive, open to the entire community. Museum admission is not required to participate in the recycling drive, making it easy for anyone to dispose of unwanted small electronics. Community members may drop off: Desktop and laptop computers Mobile phones Modems and routers TV and stereo remotes Small electronic toys and games Computer accessories, including keyboards and monitors CRT monitors and large household appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, microwaves and stoves, will not be accepted. "Achieving our companywide zero-waste-to-landfill goal is something we're very proud of, and partnering with the Louisiana Children's Museum creates an opportunity for families to discover, in a fun, hands-on way, how small choices, from recycling old electronics to rethinking everyday materials, can help conserve resources long after Planet Protectors Day ends," said Sunni LeBeouf, Cox Communications Greater New Orleans Market Vice President. Planet Protectors is included with Museum admission and tickets are on sale now. Families are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Summerfield Homes and Monkton Elm Garden Centre launch exclusive partnership for new homeowners
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 06:31 EDT
Prospective buyers reserving a new Summerfield home this summer can enjoy a £2,000 garden furniture voucher thanks to a new partnership between two long-established Taunton family businesses. This exclusive offer is available on reservations made before the end of September across all Summerfield developments in Ashill, Horton, Middlezoy, Taunton and Watchet in Somerset, helping homeowners create beautiful outdoor spaces from the moment they move in. From two-bedroom homes to spacious family properties and bungalows, every Summerfield home benefits from its own private garden and incorporates the latest energy-efficient technology. Philip Morgan, Sales and Marketing Divisional Director at Summerfield Homes, said: "Buying a new home is one of life's biggest milestones and we want our customers to enjoy every part of that experience. By teaming up with another trusted Somerset family business, we're helping homeowners create outdoor spaces where they can relax, entertain family and friends, and enjoy the summer from the moment they move in." "At Summerfield, we build communities as well as homes, and this partnership reflects our commitment to helping customers settle in and enjoy their new lifestyle from day one." Mike Lind at Monkton Elm Garden Centre said: "Outdoor spaces are an extension of a home and have become increasingly more important, providing somewhere to relax and spend quality time with family and friends. We're delighted to be working alongside Summerfield to help homeowners create gardens they'll enjoy for years to come." As well as creating thoughtfully designed homes, Summerfield places a strong emphasis on sustainable communities. Every development is designed with energy-efficient homes and generous outdoor spaces that encourage biodiversity, healthier lifestyles and a stronger connection with nature - values that sit at the heart of both businesses. The partnership also brings together two businesses with deep roots in Somerset. Established in 2007, Summerfield Homes has built more than 2,000 homes across 56 developments, planted more than 1.1 million trees and contributed over £6 million to local community projects, reflecting its long-term commitment to creating sustainable communities where people and nature can thrive together. Further information about Summerfield's current developments and the £2,000 garden furniture offer is available at www.summerfield.co.uk . Terms and conditions apply.
Cleanroom differential pressure... a small value with a big impact!
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 06:07 EDT
Pressure differentials inside cleanrooms are not very large, as Vaisala's Senior Project Engineer Sean Murphy explains, most are set somewhere between 5-15 Pascal. However, maintaining that differential is a critical part of the overall cleanroom contamination control strategy. These small pressure differences help air move in the right direction; help separate cleaner areas from areas with higher contamination risk and help organizations demonstrate that the environment has remained under control. In short, it is an important measurement for quality, compliance, and production continuity. The key question is not whether you monitor, but how you monitor Many cleanrooms already monitor pressure. But when the data needs to be reviewed, for example during a deviation investigation, audit preparation, or batch release, the question becomes more specific: can these records clearly show the differential pressure relationship between critical areas? Can they demonstrate that airflow direction was maintained? Can quality and validation teams rely on the data to make a confident decision? The monitoring method is critical A key challenge is ensuring that the monitoring method truly supports compliance. When the measurement approach is not well matched to the application-or when sensor range, measurement uncertainty, and alarm logic are not carefully engineered-readings can look normal yet still be too weak to support a defensible compliance conclusion. BMS and EMS each have their own role A common misunderstanding is to treat the building management system (BMS), and the environmental monitoring system (EMS) as if they were the same type of system. They may all display pressure data, but they are designed for different purposes. The purpose of a BMS is to control and stabilize the cleanroom environment. It keeps the air handling unit, airflow, dampers, and room pressure at their intended setpoints, focusing on making real-time adjustments needed to maintain consistent operating conditions. The purpose of an EMS is to monitor conditions and maintain accurate records. It focuses on confirming that critical parameters stay within defined limits, alarms function reliably, and data records are complete. It also ensures that audit trails are available and that the documentation can support audits, deviation investigations, and quality review. A simple way to describe the difference is this: the BMS helps the cleanroom stay stable, while the EMS helps the organization prove that the cleanroom stayed stable. The two systems should have clearly defined roles. In regulated cleanrooms, control is important, but being able to demonstrate control is equally important. Why direct DP measurement is easier to trust In some systems, differential pressure is calculated. This means the system measures the pressure of two rooms against a common reference point and then subtracts one value from the other to calculate the room-to-room differential pressure. This approach is common in control applications. However, in low-pressure cleanroom applications, calculated DP can introduce uncertainty. It depends on two independent measurements, and each measurement has its own measurement uncertainty. Cleanroom pressure can also change quickly when doors open, airlocks operate, or people move between spaces. If the two values are not captured at the same moment, the calculated result may not accurately represent the true differential pressure relationship between the two spaces. Direct DP measurement is more straightforward. One differential pressure transmitter is connected directly between two spaces, with the high and low ports connected to the two sides of the boundary. The measured value is the actual differential pressure between those spaces. For critical cleanroom boundaries, this method is easier to explain and easier to trust. It measures exactly what matters: whether the correct pressure relationship is being maintained between two areas. Good alarms should not create alarm fatigue A cleanroom is not a static environment. Doors open, airlocks operate, passthroughs are used, and people move in and out. These normal activities can create short pressure transients. Differential pressure may briefly drop when doors are opened, it can even spike DP in the opposite direction when the door moves. These transient readings are expected to be captured by the EMS; they do not indicate the cleanroom is out of control. If a system generates an alarm for every short transient, the result is not necessarily better control. More often, it creates alarm fatigue. Important alarms may become harder to see because they are buried under too many non-actionable notifications. A better alarm strategy reflects how the cleanroom operates. The system should focus on extended duration events, such as a door left open, an airlock that does not recover, sustained loss of pressure cascade, or a change in HVAC balance. Duration-based alarming is often more meaningful than alarming on every momentary pressure change, because it helps teams respond to real excursions rather than normal behavior. From a value on screen to a defensible record The maturity of cleanroom differential pressure monitoring is not defined by whether the system can display data. It is defined by whether that data can become a defensible monitoring record. For critical boundaries, direct room-to-room differential pressure measurement, an appropriate sensor range, known measurement uncertainty, suitable alarm delays, and an EMS with data integrity features all influence the quality of the final record. This is where Vaisala solutions fit naturally into the monitoring architecture. With the CAB100 industrial control panel and PDT101 or PDT102 differential pressure transmitters, low differential pressures in cleanrooms can be measured and collected in a centralized way. When the data is brought into the viewLinc Continuous Monitoring System, it can be used for trending, alarming, reporting, audit trails, and data integrity management. This type of architecture helps teams clearly separate environmental control from compliance monitoring records, while giving quality, validation, and facilities teams a shared source of reliable data. Small differential pressure, significant responsibility Cleanroom differential pressure may change by only a few pascals, but behind those small values are airflow direction, contamination control, alarm decisions, and compliance evidence. The smaller the value, the more important it is to measure, understand, and record it correctly. For organizations, the real goal is not to collect more data. The goal is to build more reliable data records. These records help teams identify risks earlier, explain deviations more clearly, face audits with greater confidence, and support production continuity. That is why cleanroom differential pressure monitoring deserves serious attention. ENDS Words: 1032 About the author Sean Murphy is a Senior Project Sales Engineer at Vaisala with extensive experience in environmental monitoring for pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical devices, and other regulated environments. He has worked across system design, applications, project delivery, and integration, helping customers implement monitoring solutions that support both operational performance and compliance. Sean's background in instrumentation and real-world system implementation gives him a practical perspective on monitoring in demanding cleanroom settings.
Midlands Strengthens Position as UK's Logistics Capital as Warehouse Investment Accelerates
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 04:36 EDT
The Midlands is continuing to cement its reputation as the UK's logistics capital, with major warehouse investments confirming the region's growing importance as a national distribution hub. Recent developments from major logistics operators - including new facilities from CEVA Logistics in Derby and DHL Supply Chain in the wider Midlands region - reflect continued confidence in the area's strategic position. CEVA's new 508,000 sq ft Derby operation is designed to support high-volume ecommerce fulfilment, while DHL has announced major investment into Derby facilities as part of its wider UK logistics expansion. Midland-based materials handling specialist Midland Pallet Trucks is seeing this growth on the warehouse floor, where demand for reliable pallet trucks, stacker trucks, lift tables and other handling equipment continues to increase. The Midlands has long benefited from its central location, providing access to major road networks and allowing businesses to serve customers across the UK efficiently. However, the latest wave of warehouse investment suggests the region's role is evolving beyond simple geographic convenience. Today's logistics sites are being designed around faster fulfilment, more frequent stock movement and greater operational flexibility. That places additional pressure on the equipment used every day to keep goods moving. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said the company is seeing the impact of regional growth through changing customer requirements. "The Midlands has always been a strong location for logistics, but what's changing is the scale and pace of operations," he said. "Warehouses are handling more product lines, more frequent movements and tighter turnaround times. That means the equipment supporting those operations needs to be dependable because even small delays on the warehouse floor can quickly become bigger problems." He added that the growth of larger facilities does not remove the need for practical materials handling solutions. "There is a lot of attention on automation and high-tech systems, but every warehouse still needs reliable equipment for everyday movement," he said. "Pallet trucks and stackers remain essential for moving goods between storage areas, loading zones and production spaces. As sites become busier, the demand is for equipment that can keep up with that pace." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com.
SGS Summarizes European Study on Digital Product Passport Content for Textile Apparel under ESPR
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 04:22 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 091.26, focusing on the publication of the 'Study on DPP Content for Textile Apparel Products under ESPR' by the European Commission's (EC) Joint Research Centre (JRC). The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) is intended to support a more standardized approach to sustainability-related product information through mandatory digital requirements. In response, the EC JRC study outlines proposed data content for textile apparel products under the ESPR, including how data will be structured and how the Digital Product Passport (DPP) will function as a regulatory gateway to the EU market. Published in May 2026 by the JRC, the study proposes structuring DPP data into four main categories, aligned with ESPR Annex III: Product identification and classification Producer information Product information Compliance and documentation Granularity and access rights under a role-based model are addressed in the study, which outlines how different stakeholders may access and manage DPP information within the proposed framework. Based on its review of the study, SGS recommends that economic operators map existing product data against the four main categories to strengthen the chain of custody for recycled materials, enhance chemical management systems and align durability testing with international standards. SGS also recommends close monitoring of stakeholder consultation activities and associated EC impact assessment processes. The Textile Delegated Act is expected to be adopted by the EC by late 2027 and will subsequently apply to apparel products placed on the EU market. Compliance with the DPP requirements is expected to become mandatory for apparel sold on the EU market following the applicable transition period. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 091.26 includes further information on the proposed product scope and DPP content. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 091.26 for more details. SGS softlines services SGS has a worldwide network of over 40 state-of-the-art laboratories, including 10 in China, specializing in the testing of apparel, footwear, and home textiles. Their committed team is drawn from multi-disciplinary backgrounds, allowing them to conduct a comprehensive range of physical, chemical, and functional testing services for components, materials and finished products. SGS helps companies ensure quality, performance, and compliance with international, industrial, and regulatory standards worldwide. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's softlines services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full EU ESPR JRC Study Proposes DPP Content Requirements for Textile Apparel SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. Min Zhu Senior Director, Technical Services and Operations, Softlines, US and Canada Tel: +1 (97) 346-11230 Website: www.sgs.com/softlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Manning Family Children's names Mrs. Betty Lauricella as the 2026 Louisiana Legacy award recipient
Mon, Jul 20, 2026 16:16 EDT
Manning Family Children's proudly announces Mrs. Betty Lauricella as the hospital's 2026 Louisiana Legacy Award recipient in recognition for the significant impact she has made on child wellbeing across the state and region. The award will be presented during the 2nd annual Louisiana Legacy celebration planned for Thursday, Oct. 1 at the Orpheum Theater. "When we reflect on those who have been steadfast advocates for kids, there is hardly another person who matches the commitment, passion, generosity and leadership of Betty Lauicella," said Lucio A. Fragoso, President and CEO of Manning Family Children's. "Betty first joined the Children's Board in 1983, and was the first woman to serve as chair in 1992. A trailblazer in her own right, Betty has helped pave the way for many pivotal milestones throughout our history - overcoming financial challenges in the early days to ensure our sustainability, rebuilding in the years that followed Hurricane Katrina, the purchase of our State Street campus which enabled the vision for our most recent campus expansion, and key investments that have helped scale the hospital's impact over many decades." The Louisiana Legacy celebration was established with the Manning family in 2025 to honor the defining moments and leaders who have helped shape our state and region, while raising funds to support the vital mission of Manning Family Children's. Community support through the 2026 Louisiana Legacy event will help fund a new, 60-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Manning Family Children's - a critical expansion that will help Manning Family Children's continue to deliver the highest level of neonatal care in the state, at a time when more babies than ever before rely on its highly specialized, lifesaving care. "I have had the honor of working alongside Betty as a mentor and friend for nearly 30 years, both in my previous roles at Manning Family Children's, and through the formation and growth of LCMC Health," said Greg Feirn, CEO of LCMC Health. "Betty has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our children. Her legacy is one of giving back and driving positive change. We look forward to honoring Betty's immeasurable impact on October 1." The Louisiana Legacy celebration will take place Thursday, Oct. 1 at the Orpheum Theater featuring gourmet food and cocktails, a fireside chat with members of the Manning family and special guests, along with live entertainment for approximately 500 patrons and supporters. The vibrant occasion will be co-chaired by Courtney and Ted Le Clercq and Tina and Barry Kern, with Olivia and Archie Manning and Ellen and Cooper Manning serving as honorary co-chairs. "We look forward to building upon the impact that began with our inaugural Louisiana Legacy event in 2025, as we began our new chapter as Manning Family Children's," said Cooper Manning. "We invite the community to join us for a celebratory and fun evening that will help fuel the mission of Manning Family Children's." For more information about sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets visit www.manningchildrens.org/legacy .
JTCVS Publishes AMT Medical's SAFE-CAB II: Sutureless, Laser-Assisted Coronary Bypass Proves Safe at One Year
Mon, Jul 20, 2026 09:09 EDT
The first suture-less, beating-heart bypass connection, shown to be safe with promising early effectiveness in a peer-reviewed clinical trial. Video: How does AMT'S ELANA ® system work? AMT Medical reports one-year results from the SAFE-CAB II prospective clinical trial in The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 1 ( link ). Its results provide important first-in-human clinical experience with a technology designed to support a new generation of bypass surgery that could enable more standardized procedures and broader adoption of minimally invasive and robotic approaches. At a glance - A first-of-its-kind clinical trial: the ELANA ® system replaces hand-sewing of the bypass connection with a sutureless, laser-assisted technique that keeps the coronary artery open throughout surgery. - Strong safety profile: Only 2.9% of patients experienced a device-related major adverse cardiac event (MACE) within one year, meeting the pre-specified non-inferiority threshold (p = 0.0033). - Strong effectiveness: 92.5% of bypass connections remained fully open at six months across the full study, rising to 97.5% with the latest-generation laser catheter, in line with the performance gains anticipated from this device iteration. - Reproducible by design: a defined six-step procedure, described in detail in a companion technical publication in the Journal of Visualized Surgery (JOVS, 2026). Published in The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery (JTCVS), the flagship journal of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery. AMT Medical B.V., a clinical-stage Dutch medical technology company, today announced that the one-year results of the SAFE-CAB II clinical trial have been published in The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery . The study is the first prospective clinical evaluation of the ELANA ® Anastomotic System, a new technology designed to make coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) more reproducible and accessible to a far broader group of patients.
SGS Summarizes Updates to Australian Aquatic Toys Safety Standard
Mon, Jul 20, 2026 03:54 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 092.26, summarizing Australia's update to its aquatic toys safety standard, which aligns warning statements with AS/NZS ISO 8124.1/ISO 8124-1. Published on June 25, 2026, by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the new Consumer Goods (Aquatic Toys) Safety Standard has a transitional period of 24 months from the day after registration. The previous 2020 version of the standard will be repealed on June 25, 2028. Key updates included in the standard are the introduction of a 'dynamic referencing' approach and alignment of the warning statement requirements with AS/NZS ISO 8124.1/ISO 8124-1. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 092.26 includes further information on the main updates in the new legislative instrument. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 092.26 for more details. SGS toy and juvenile product services SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children's equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's toy and juvenile product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Australia publishes Consumer Goods (Aquatic Toys) Safety Standard 2026 SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Julian Kwok Senior Technical Manager, Hardlines Tel: +852 6018 5904 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
SGS Highlights Australia's Revision of the IChEMS Register
Mon, Jul 20, 2026 03:42 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 093.26, highlighting Australia's revision of the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS) Register. The Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) issued the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (Register) Amendment (2026 Measures No.1) Instrument 2026 (the Amendment) in June 2026. Under the Amendment, several chemicals and groups of chemicals are added to the nation's IChEMS Register Instrument 2022, under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS). Key provisions in the Amendment include an IChEMS Schedule 2 Register designation for glycerides, as well as listings for five chemicals under Schedule 3, five under Schedule 4 and eight under Schedule 5. A revision of the list of time-limited essential uses for UV-328 in Schedule 6 and the addition of two chemicals to Schedule 7 are also included. Another change is an update to risk management measures in Schedule 7 for hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), a persistent organic pollutant that was widely used as a flame retardant. The Amendment became effective on June 19, 2026, the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislation. It affects stakeholders across multiple industries and supply chains, such as manufacturers, users, importers and exporters of the applicable industrial substances, as well as those dealing with products that contain or are contaminated by them. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 093.26 includes further information on relevant substances and their abbreviations, as well as requirements and applications. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 093.26 for more details. SGS chemical testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Australia Updates IChEMS Register SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Climate-only Lens on Alternative Proteins Risks Worsening Micronutrient Deficiencies
Mon, Jul 20, 2026 03:12 EDT
Over the past few years, alternative proteins have moved from sustainability narratives to real-world food products on plates. While the argument of alternative proteins helping reduce climate change sounds revolutionary, there are shortfalls. In a recent article published in the journal One Earth , researchers from the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) argue that the case for alternative proteins is often made on narrow evidence-oversimplifying it to just mitigating climate change could have an unintended effect of worsening micronutrient deficiencies in the regions where nutrition is already most precarious. The article draws on a paired evidence base published this year: a scoping review of 247 studies comparing alternatives to animal-source foods (Alt-ASFs) with conventional animal products on nutrition and health, and a companion review of 125 product-level environmental studies with direct animal-source comparators. Read together, they show that the advantages of alternative proteins are real but conditional. According to the analysis by the authors, whole and traditional plant foods such as legumes, tofu, and tempeh are in a win-win zone: low environmental burden, strong nutritional value, and existing culinary familiarity. Whereas formulated meat often claims a climate and land-use advantage over beef, however, energy consumed in processing, sourcing ingredients and packaging can narrow the gap. For fungi, insect, algae, and cell-based products, outcomes swing widely with feedstocks, production design, scale, and the carbon intensity of the electricity used. Nutritionally, the findings are just as varied. Plant- and fungi-based options generally deliver more fiber and less saturated fat and can improve cardiometabolic markers. But they often supply less bioavailable protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, with soy a notable exception on protein quality. Most plant-based milks, apart from fortified soy, fall short of cow's milk on protein, calcium, iodine, vitamin B12, and riboflavin. Researchers Ty Beal, Stella Nordhagen and Mduduzi Mbuya argue that whether alternative proteins are seen as good or bad, sustainable or unsustainable, depends on a holistic assessment across sustainability domains-nutrition, environment, livelihoods, affordability, and acceptability-not just climate change. What should change - The article makes the following recommendations: Make nutritional functional units standard practice. Life cycle assessment should report impacts not just per kilogram, per calorie, or per gram of protein, but per unit of holistic nutritional value, with transparent sensitivity analyses for fortification, bioavailability, processing level, energy mix, and comparator choice. Hold direct replacements to clearer labeling, composition, and fortification standards. Where a product is positioned to displace a nutrient-dense animal-source food, front-of-pack communication should make non-equivalence visible rather than leaning on category names that imply it, while also highlighting what the product adds, such as fiber. Minimum fortification standards are especially urgent for plant-based milks. Reward the win-win zone in procurement and dietary guidance. Minimally processed legumes, nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, and other culturally familiar plant foods often deserve priority. Guidance should distinguish reducing excessive animal-source food intake from replacing scarce intake in populations at risk of undernutrition. Tie novel products' environmental promise to production design and better evidence. Fermentation, insect farming, and cultivated-cell systems lose their advantage on carbon-intensive electricity or inefficient feedstocks, so claims should be tied to low-carbon energy, circular feedstocks, and transparent safety assessment. Research and investment must also move beyond high-income novelty markets toward low- and middle-income contexts. The true value of alternative proteins needs to be assessed holistically, based on what animal source food it replaces, in what context, and for whom. Sustainability without nutritional adequacy is not sustainability. The full commentary is free to read only till October 15, 2026 - worth reading in full before the 90-day free access window closes - https://www.cell.com/one-earth/fulltext/S2590-3322(26)00152-1
SGS helps food businesses prepare for new EU Listeria requirements with latest white paper
Fri, Jul 17, 2026 04:52 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has announced the release of a new white paper, 'Listeria monocytogenes and the New EU Regulatory Framework'. Developed for food business operators (FBOs) and food safety professionals, the white paper explains the scientific and regulatory background behind Regulation (EU) 2024/2895 and outlines the requirements that apply to ready-to-eat (RTE) foods from July 1, 2026. Listeria monocytogenes remains one of the most significant foodborne pathogens due to its high fatality rate, ability to grow at refrigeration temperatures and persistence in food processing environments. In response to increasing listeriosis notification rates across the European Union, Regulation (EU) 2024/2895 strengthens microbiological criteria for certain RTE foods and places greater emphasis on scientifically validated shelf-life studies. The white paper reviews the key regulatory changes and provides practical guidance to help FBOs understand their obligations and prepare for implementation of the amended requirements. The white paper explores: Why Listeria monocytogenes remains a regulatory priority and the public health factors driving increased regulatory attention Key changes introduced by Regulation (EU) 2024/2895, including stricter microbiological criteria and expanded responsibility across the food supply chain Which ready-to-eat food categories are impacted by the regulation Practical compliance strategies, including product assessment, shelf-life validation, HACCP review, environmental monitoring and cold-chain control The role of routine testing, challenge testing and shelf-life validation studies in demonstrating compliance The white paper also examines the importance of scientifically robust shelf-life studies and challenge testing in supporting regulatory compliance, particularly for food business operators seeking to demonstrate that Listeria monocytogenes will remain within regulatory microbiological limits throughout a product's shelf life. Stakeholders can now download 'Listeria monocytogenes and the New EU Regulatory Framework ' to learn how Regulation (EU) 2024/2895 will affect ready-to-eat foods and what steps they can take to prepare for compliance. For further information, please contact: Jennifer Buckley Senior Global Marketing Manager SGS, Health & Nutrition Tel: +1 9738669043
Tucson Nonprofit Brings Adaptive Sports 'Blueprint' to National ADA Symposium 7/19
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 19:14 EDT
Team Access Heads to the National ADA Symposium in Phoenix, Joined by Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports and El Tour de Tucson Paul Davis, Amber Russell, Mia Hansen, and TJ Juskiewicz to speak at the nation's premier accessibility conference, July 19-22 TUCSON, AZ - July 16, 2026 - Ahead of this weekend's 2026 National ADA Symposium in Phoenix, Team Access is sending its leaders to the podium at the nation's premier conference on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and accessibility, joined by partners from Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports (SAAS) and El Tour de Tucson. Paul Davis , President of Team Access, and Amber Russell , Vice President and Vice Chair of Team Access, will present alongside Mia Hansen , Executive Director of SAAS, and TJ Juskiewicz , Executive Director of El Tour de Tucson. The Symposium runs July 19-22 at the Desert Ridge Resort in Phoenix and, in its 25th-plus year, is recognized as the nation's leading conference on the ADA and accessibility, drawing federal officials, practitioners, and advocates from across the country. The team will be presenting on "Adaptive Sports & Community Inclusion: A Blueprint for Integration" and will discuss how sport unites communities across age, race, and ability, yet adaptive athletes are too often excluded from mainstream events. The session will highlight how Team Access partners with nonprofits, businesses, donors, and community leaders to build a blueprint for inclusion. Using their collaboration with El Tour de Tucson-an event that drew 11,000 riders last year-they'll share strategies for integrating adaptive athletes into existing sports through intentional engagement. And, at the end of the presentation, participants will leave with tools to empower them from the blueprint: a barrier-identification checklist, a solution-based partnership model, and a framework for lasting cultural shifts toward inclusive community sports. "After attending the ADA Symposium last year, I realized there was one conversation about accessibility that I wasn't hearing: how communities can work together to make events more inclusive. Through our partnerships with Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports and El Tour de Tucson, we've developed a practical blueprint for inclusion that has transformed the experience for adaptive athletes here in Tucson. I wanted to share that blueprint at the ADA Symposium in the hope that it inspires organizations across the country to build similar partnerships and create more accessible, welcoming community events." - Amber Russell, VP and Vice Chair of Team Access The Phoenix appearance builds toward El Tour de Tucson on November 22, 2026, where Team Access will again partner with SAAS and El Tour de Tucson to make the ride accessible to adaptive athletes and participants. The impact is evident in Mia Hansen's comment: "Our partnership with Team Access has transformed El Tour Tucson into more than a cycling event - it has become a powerful celebration of inclusion. Together, we've opened the starting line to athletes with disabilities, creating an environment where they are welcome as competitors, embraced by teammates, and celebrated for what they can achieve. That sense of belonging changes lives, and we're proud to be building a community where everyone has a place to ride." - Mia Hansen, Executive Director of SAAS About the National ADA Symposium For over 25 years, the National ADA Symposium has been recognized as the leading national conference on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and accessibility. The premier event brings together federal officials, nationally respected experts, and experienced practitioners to share cutting-edge information, practical guidance, and best practices. The National ADA Symposium is an initiative of the ADA National Network, hosted by the Great Plains ADA Center.
WAR AND TOWER OF POWER BRING FUNK AND SOUL SHOWCASE TO AVA AMPHITHEATER AT CASINO DEL SOL
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 13:00 EDT
Two of American music's most influential horn-driven bands share the stage in Tucson on Saturday, September 19, 2026 Casino Del Sol is pleased to announce that WAR and Tower of Power, two of the most enduring and influential bands in American funk, soul and R&B, will co-headline a single night at AVA Amphitheater on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The performance continues Casino Del Sol's commitment to bringing nationally recognized, multigenerational talent to Southern Arizona audiences year-round. Formed in Long Beach, California in 1969, WAR built a catalog of genre-defining hits that fused funk, rock, Latin and soul influences into a singular sound that continues to fill dance floors more than five decades later. Tower of Power, the Oakland-born horn section and band that has performed since 1968, is celebrated for a signature brass sound and rhythm section that helped shape the vocabulary of American funk and R&B. Together, the two acts represent a rare pairing of West Coast musical royalty on a single Tucson stage. The WAR and Tower of Power performance is the latest addition to AVA Amphitheater's 2026 concert calendar, joining a lineup that reflects the venue's reputation as Southern Arizona's premier outdoor destination for national touring artists. AVA Amphitheater, a 5,000-seat open-air venue at Casino Del Sol, has hosted headline acts year-round and has been recognized as a Casino Arena/Amphitheater of the Year honoree by the Casino Entertainment Awards. Ticket information can be found at CasinoDelSol.com or by calling 1-855-SOL-STAY.
Tucson Federal Credit Union's Back-to-School Drive Is Underway
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 12:22 EDT
Tucson Federal Credit Union (TFCU) is once again helping Tucson kids start the school year fresh and in style and the clock is ticking to give. TFCU's 2026 Back-to-School Supplies and Haircut Drive launched June 16 and runs through July 15, giving the community just a few more days to contribute. In partnership with Headliners Barber Shop, TFCU is offering free back-to-school haircuts for youth in need at a special event on Wednesday, July 29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Tucson Mall (4500 N Oracle Rd). This year, the drive has expanded to every TFCU branch across Tucson, with donation boxes collecting new school supplies and monetary contributions through July 15. Both members and non-members are welcome to give: donors can drop off a cash donation in person at any branch, and members may also ask a branch representative to transfer funds directly from their account into a special holding account established for the drive. All donations must be made in person at a branch location. Vouchers for the free haircuts will be distributed in collaboration with a local youth-serving nonprofit organization (to be announced), ensuring these back-to-school boosts reach the families who need them most. "TFCU's commitment to education and opportunity began with our founding in the basement of Tucson High School in 1937, and it continues today through efforts like this Back-to-School Drive," said Matthew Gaspari, TFCU President and CEO. "A fresh haircut and new school supplies can help a child walk into the first day of school with confidence. We are grateful to our members, community partners, and branch teams for helping make this possible, and we encourage anyone who can give to do so before the July 15 deadline." The event is part of TFCU's broader Back-to-School Week initiative, with more family-friendly events planned across Tucson in the days surrounding July 29 (details to be released soon). How to Help: ● Drop off new school supplies at any TFCU branch through July 15 ● Members and non-members alike can donate cash in person at any branch ● Members can also ask a branch representative to transfer funds from their account into the drive's special holding account (in person only) ● Follow @TucsonFCU on social media for updates and ways to support
SGS Highlights Performance and Compliance Requirements for Adventure and Demanding Sports Apparel
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 10:45 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published a new Consumer Compact article exploring how brands can ensure performance, safety and compliance in adventure and demanding sports apparel. As regulatory and sustainability expectations continue to increase, manufacturers must deliver apparel that provides consistent performance, comfort, durability and safety under real-world conditions. Products designed for activities such as trail running, mountaineering, skiing, cycling, diving and motorsports must withstand demanding environments while meeting relevant safety and chemical requirements. The article examines key performance considerations, including thermal regulation, moisture management, weather protection, mechanical durability, freedom of movement and chemical safety. It also explores how integrated testing and performance validation can help brands evaluate product performance under realistic use conditions, support product claims and strengthen market readiness. In addition, the article features a case study on UV-protective apparel used during the World's Toughest Row - Atlantic race, demonstrating how targeted testing can help verify performance, durability and safety in extreme environments. The article also highlights SGS's testing, verification and compliance solutions, helping brands and manufacturers bring high-performance apparel to market with greater confidence and efficiency. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to learn more about performance validation, compliance requirements and how SGS can support the development of adventure and demanding sports apparel. For further information, please contact: Karen He Senior Technical Services Manager Global Softlines Tel: +852 2334 4481
SGS Answers Key Questions on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 10:30 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published a new Consumer Compact article addressing frequently asked questions about the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). As PPWR introduces significant new requirements for packaging design, testing, labeling, recyclability and documentation, businesses placing packaged products on the EU market must prepare for a range of compliance obligations and upcoming deadlines. The article provides practical guidance on key topics, including compliance responsibilities, packaging scope, PFAS and chemical testing requirements, documentation obligations, labeling and traceability requirements, recyclability targets and packaging design considerations. It also outlines important compliance timelines and the steps businesses should take now to prepare for compliance. In addition, the article highlights SGS's packaging testing, inspection and certification solutions, helping manufacturers and suppliers navigate regulatory requirements and support compliance across primary, secondary and transport packaging. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to better understand PPWR requirements and discover how SGS can support their packaging compliance journey. IMPACT NOW IMPACT NOW for sustainability consolidates all SGS's sustainability offerings under four strategic pillars: climate, nature, ESG assurance and circularity. Through these pillars, SGS offers trusted compliance solutions that directly help businesses address the key environmental and social challenges impacting the planet. Find out more at www.sgs.com/impactnow For further information, please contact: Birkoff Chen Product Manager, Sustainability and Packaging Global Hardlines Tel: +86 (757) 2280 5851
Firney Wins AI Innovator of the Year at the 2026 Greater London Business Awards
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 09:24 EDT
Firney, the London-based engineering for marketing company, has been named AI Innovator of the Year at the 2026 Greater London Business Awards . The award recognises Firney's winning approach to building digital experiences: combining engineering precision with marketing insight to create websites and conversational tools that adapt to each visitor in real time. Rather than treating AI as an add-on, Firney builds it into the foundations of a brand's digital presence - helping clients personalise customer journeys, anticipate intent and deliver more relevant recommendations at every touchpoint. A recent project with Direct Ferries shows what that looks like in practice. Facing a sharp rise in customer enquiries, at one point surpassing 7,000 queries in a single month, Direct Ferries needed a better way to help customers navigate often complicated questions about routes, vehicles, pets and passenger types across thousands of ferry crossings. Firney's response was a conversational booking assistant, built and deployed within 15 weeks, that now handles hundreds of common travel queries in plain English and gives Direct Ferries ongoing insight into where customers hesitate during booking. "Our goal was to make booking a ferry as simple as having a conversation," said Richard Kozma, Head of Data Science at Direct Ferries. "Customers want clear answers quickly, and this approach helps remove that uncertainty." It's the kind of outcome Firney has built its reputation on: taking something genuinely complex for the customer and making it feel effortless. Marc Firth, CEO and Co-founder of Firney, said the recognition reflects years of work bridging the gap between creative ambition and technical delivery. "We started Firney because we kept seeing brilliant campaigns let down by the technology underneath them," said Firth. "This award means a lot because it recognises something we've believed from day one: AI only earns its place if it makes people's lives easier. "Whether that's a retailer, a financial brand or a travel company like Direct Ferries, the question we ask is always the same: does this make the experience simpler for the person on the other end? That's what customers want, it's what we're building, and it's what we'll keep pushing for." Firney continues to work with B2C brands across sectors including travel, retail and financial services, building websites and conversational tools designed to reduce friction and personalise the customer journey at scale. For more information, please visit https://www.firney.com .
2026 AMA Summer Academic Conference Comes to Denver
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 08:42 EDT
2026 AMA Summer Academic Conference Comes to Denver AMA's 2026 Summer Academic Conference will Focus on Amplifying Scholarship, Teaching, and Organizational Leadership Join us July 24-26, 2026 in Denver, Colorado Chicago, IL- The American Marketing Association (AMA) will host the 2026 Summer Academic Conference on July 24-26 in Denver, Colorado. The 2026 conference theme-Amplifying Scholarship, Teaching, and Organizational Leadership. The 2026 Summer Academic Conference recognizes that professional growth happens across multiple dimensions, and every stage of the academic journey matters. The 2026 conference brings together marketing doctoral students, clinical faculty, experienced professors, and marketing professionals to navigate the evolving academic landscape. Attendees will collaborate through curated workshops, panels, and research presentations designed to fuel careers and build networks at every stage of their academic and professional journeys. 2026 Topics Analyzing how AI is changing marketing theory, classroom dynamics, and consumer behavior. Examining how marketing systems and corporate social responsibility intersect with global challenges like climate change, sustainability, and equity. Equipping early-career scholars and doctoral students with strategies for navigating the tenure process, job market readiness, and institutional leadership. Dates and Location July 20, 2026 - Virtual; July 24 - 26, 2026 - In-person Hilton Denver City Center - 1701 California St., Denver, CO 80202 To secure your conference pass and book accommodations, visit the AMA event page . Session Highlights The AMA will host several enriching sessions: Meet the AMA Legends: A dynamic session offering attendees access to some of the field's most distinguished scholars. Teaching AI with AI: Hands on session focusing on prompt engineering, classroom guardrails, and turning artificial intelligence into practical assignments. Scholarly Impact - From Idea to Contribution: A developmental workshop tailored for early-career scholars. Agenda and full list of speakers is available here . ###
New Packaging Waste Rules Set to Create Extra Work for UK Warehouses
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 04:56 EDT
Warehouses and distribution centres across the UK are being warned to prepare for a significant rise in sorting and handling work, as a wave of new packaging waste regulations begins to reshape how goods are stored, processed and dispatched. Over the coming years, businesses will need to adapt to several major reforms. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging is shifting financial responsibility for the full lifecycle of packaging onto the producers who place it on the market, while the Simpler Recycling reforms will require businesses and households to separate recyclable materials in a more consistent way than before. In parts of the UK, Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) are also being introduced, adding a further layer of material segregation to existing processes. Alongside these specific measures, there is continued regulatory and commercial pressure on companies to reduce overall packaging waste and improve recyclability. Taken together, industry experts say these changes amount to a fundamental rethink of packaging design, storage and handling for manufacturers and distributors alike. Materials that could once be bundled together for disposal must now often be separated by type before they leave site, and packaging formats are increasingly being chosen with end-of-life recyclability in mind rather than purely for cost or convenience. According to Pallet Trucks UK, one of the most immediate effects is a rise in manual handling activity within warehouses. More separation of materials, more frequent repackaging, and increased movement of partially unpacked goods are all contributing to additional workload for warehouse teams. These changes are particularly noticeable in fulfilment centres and distribution hubs where products are being re-sorted, re-baled or repacked before final dispatch. In many cases, this means more frequent pallet movements, tighter storage rotations and a greater reliance on robust handling equipment - such as pallet trucks , stackers and lift tables - to keep operations moving efficiently. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said the practical impact of the reforms should not be underestimated. "These regulations are the right direction of travel for the environment, but they do have real consequences on the warehouse floor," he said. "Businesses are now having to build in extra sorting and handling steps that simply didn't exist before, and that means more manual movement of materials at every stage. "We're seeing operators reassess their equipment needs because the volume and frequency of internal transport has increased, even if overall stock levels haven't changed. It's not just about compliance on paper: it's about making sure the operational side can actually keep pace." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .