New Delhi, Dec. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the latest study from Astute Analytica Research, the Saudi Arabia light commercial vehicle modifiers market was valued at US$ 1,457.04 million in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 2,945.24 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 7.39% during the forecast period 2024–2032. The Saudi Arabian LCV modifiers market presents a promising landscape propelled by economic growth, technological advancements, and expanding industrial sectors. The government's Vision 2030 plan, with investments exceeding $2 trillion, has spurred unprecedented demand for customized transportation solutions. In 2023, the market value of LCV modifications reached $1.5 billion, with projections indicating a growth rate of 8% annually over the next five years. The infrastructure sector alone contributed to 25,000 LCV modifications, highlighting substantial revenue opportunities. Emerging technologies are redefining the modification industry. The integration of telematics and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions into LCVs has seen over 5,000 vehicles equipped with advanced fleet management systems in 2023. These technologies enhance operational efficiency, reduce maintenance costs by an average of $5,000 per vehicle annually, and improve safety. Electric and hybrid LCV modifications are gaining traction, with $300 million invested in EV technologies and over 2,000 vehicles modified for sustainable operations. Download Free Sample Copy @ https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/saudi-arabia-light-commercial-vehicle-modifiers-market Revenue pockets are expanding in light commercial vehicle modifiers market. The cold chain logistics market, valued at $10 billion, has driven the modification of 7,000 refrigerated LCVs to support pharmaceuticals and perishables. E-commerce growth, with online sales surpassing $10 billion in 2023, has increased demand for customized delivery vehicles, accounting for 15,000 modifications. Opportunities also exist in the burgeoning gig economy, where 3,000 LCVs have been modified for ride-sharing and mobile services. The potential for growth is immense as modifiers align with market needs. Companies are investing in research and development; for instance, Al-Futtaim Motors allocated $50 million to innovation in modification techniques. Emerging technologies like autonomous driving features are being explored, with $200 million earmarked for pilot projects. The focus on sustainability and efficiency positions the market favorably, ensuring competitiveness on a global scale. Key Findings in Saudi Arabia Light Commercial Vehicle Modifiers Market Light Commercial Trucks are the Backbone of Saudi Arabia’s Expanding Industrial and Trade Landscape In Saudi Arabia’s light commercial vehicle modifiers market, light commercial trucks have become the backbone of industrial and trade operations in 2023. Their dominance is driven by increasing requirements for durable, multi-functional vehicles in key sectors such as mining, retail, and energy. Over 70,000 light trucks were sold in 2023, with brands like Mitsubishi Fuso and Ford Ranger witnessing record demand. These trucks are extensively modified to meet industry-specific needs, including the addition of flatbeds, cranes, and insulated cargo compartments for specialized operations. The mining sector, which saw a $200 million boost in 2023 due to new exploration projects, has utilized 9,000 modified trucks for equipment transport and site operations. Similarly, Saudi Arabia’s retail sector, which added 500 new supermarkets and hypermarkets in 2023, has invested in 12,000 modified trucks for efficient inventory distribution. The Kingdom’s expanding energy sector has deployed 8,000 trucks with tank modifications for petroleum and chemical transport. The adaptability of light trucks in the light commercial vehicle modifiers market has also played a role in supporting agricultural exports, which reached 7 million tons in 2023. Over 6,000 trucks were customized with refrigeration units to ensure the freshness of produce during transport. Additionally, the construction industry, which added 2,000 new commercial projects in 2023, has relied on 10,000 modified trucks for material delivery. Modifications like reinforced axles, all-terrain tires, and fuel-efficient engines are frequently applied to enhance performance. Wherein, technological upgrades are also a key focus. Over 7,500 trucks were equipped with load-monitoring sensors to prevent overloading, while 5,000 were fitted with driver-assist technologies for improved safety. The rising demand for customized light trucks reflects their critical role in facilitating Saudi Arabia’s economic growth, making them indispensable for industrial and trade operations. Safety Enhancement Redefining Light Commercial Vehicles in Saudi Arabia’s Competitive Market Safety innovations have redefined the li light commercial vehicle modifiers market in Saudi Arabia. With road safety becoming a national priority under Vision 2030, businesses are integrating cutting-edge safety technologies into their fleets. Over 30,000 LCVs were equipped with advanced safety features in 2023, making this the fastest-growing segment in the market. These modifications include adaptive headlights, emergency braking systems, and 360-degree camera setups for enhanced visibility. The logistics sector has seen significant adoption, with 12,000 vehicles upgraded with collision prevention systems to ensure accident-free operations. The healthcare industry, which added 500 mobile health units in 2023, has prioritized safety by incorporating anti-rollover technology in 3,000 vehicles. Additionally, fireproof materials and emergency evacuation systems have been installed in 4,000 vehicles used in the oil and gas industry to safeguard against hazardous conditions. Driver-focused technologies are also gaining traction in the light commercial vehicle modifiers market, with 9,000 vehicles equipped with fatigue monitoring systems to prevent accidents caused by drowsy driving. Saudi Arabia’s education sector has modified 2,500 school transport vehicles with child safety locks and automatic emergency brakes. Furthermore, 1,500 LCVs used in public transportation were installed with passenger-alert systems to ensure safe boarding and departures. In the e-commerce sector, where timely delivery is essential, over 6,000 vehicles were upgraded with lane-keeping assistance and real-time tracking systems to minimize accidents and delays. Safety modifiers have also been applied to 5,000 refrigerated trucks transporting perishable goods, ensuring secure and stable transit. In 2023, the Kingdom introduced new safety compliance standards, pushing over 20,000 vehicles to undergo mandatory upgrades. Inquire more about this report before purchase: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/inquire-before-purchase/saudi-arabia-light-commercial-vehicle-modifiers-market Logistics and Delivery: Driving Growth in Saudi Arabia’s Light Commercial Vehicle Modifications The logistics and delivery sector continues to drive the demand for light commercial vehicle modifiers market in Saudi Arabia. In 2023, Saudi Arabia’s logistics market hit $23 billion in value, fueled by rapid e-commerce growth and regional trade expansion. Over 40,000 LCVs were modified for logistics and delivery purposes, reflecting the sector’s dominance in the market. One of the most common modifications is the installation of automated loading and unloading systems, applied to over 9,000 vehicles to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround times. Additionally, 7,000 vehicles were equipped with cargo compartment extensions to accommodate larger shipments. Climate-controlled modifications were added to 6,500 vehicles for temperature-sensitive goods like pharmaceuticals, which saw a 20% increase in demand in 2023. Saudi Post, the Kingdom’s largest postal service, introduced 4,000 modified LCVs with advanced tracking systems to enhance delivery accuracy. Private courier companies, which processed over 100 million packages in 2023, added 8,000 vehicles with route optimization software. Furthermore, free trade agreements signed in 2023 have driven 3,500 LCV modifications for cross-border transportation, including customs clearance technology. Sustainability has also become a focus in logistics in the light commercial vehicle modifiers market. Over 2,500 electric LCVs were modified with extended battery ranges and fast-charging capabilities to support green delivery initiatives. The agriculture sector, which exported 5 million tons of produce in 2023, utilized 3,000 LCVs modified with multi-temperature zones for mixed cargo. Additionally, 1,500 vehicles were customized with anti-theft systems to protect high-value shipments. The rise of same-day delivery services has led to 5,000 vehicles being modified with high-speed engines and lightweight materials for faster transit. With 1,000 new warehouses constructed in 2023, fleet operators are investing heavily in vehicle modifications to streamline operations and meet growing demand. This sector’s dominance highlights the critical role logistics and delivery play in Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation. Top Players in Saudi Arabia Light Commercial Vehicle Modifiers Market Stellantis Isuzu Carrier Modef Luxury For Development Cars Est. Modacar Middle East Customs Other Prominent Players Market Segmentation Overview: By Type Overall Modification Local Modification By Vehicle Type Light Commercial Bus & Van Light Commercial Trucks Micro Van & Truck Chassis Cabs By Application Performance Improvement Appearance Change Safety Enhancement Comfort Improvement Others (Such as Refrigeration Unit Modification, Utility Enhancement, etc.) By End User Government Agencies Retail Sector (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets) Construction Sector Logistics and Delivery Services Healthcare Sector Education Sector (Schools/Universities) Hospitality and Tourism Others Ask For Customization @ https://www.astuteanalytica.com/ask-for-customization/saudi-arabia-light-commercial-vehicle-modifiers-market About Astute Analytica Astute Analytica is a global analytics and advisory company which has built a solid reputation in a short period, thanks to the tangible outcomes we have delivered to our clients. We pride ourselves in generating unparalleled, in depth and uncannily accurate estimates and projections for our very demanding clients spread across different verticals. We have a long list of satisfied and repeat clients from a wide spectrum including technology, healthcare, chemicals, semiconductors, FMCG, and many more. These happy customers come to us from all across the Globe. They are able to make well calibrated decisions and leverage highly lucrative opportunities while surmounting the fierce challenges all because we analyze for them the complex business environment, segment wise existing and emerging possibilities, technology formations, growth estimates, and even the strategic choices available. In short, a complete package. All this is possible because we have a highly qualified, competent, and experienced team of professionals comprising of business analysts, economists, consultants, and technology experts. In our list of priorities, you-our patron-come at the top. You can be sure of best cost-effective, value-added package from us, should you decide to engage with us. Contact Us: Astute Analytica Phone: +1-888 429 6757 (US Toll Free); +91-0120- 4483891 (Rest of the World) For Sales Enquiries: sales@astuteanalytica.com Website: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/ LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTubeKawhi Leonard makes big announcement on social mediaEsports Kenya, AOC Gaming ink partnership ahead of first-ever Olympics Games
2024’s Major Social Media Updates And Why 2025 Could Change EverythingGovt announces major reshuffle with key appointments across departments: Here’s who they are
The Jacksonville Jaguars entered Week 14 in the driver’s seat for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but that changed following Sunday’s 10-6 win over the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. Jacksonville improved to 3-10 and slid from No. 1 to No. 5 in the reverse NFL standings after Sunday’s early window. The Jags now have the same record as the Titans, Panthers, Patriots, Jets and Browns in what has become a serious logjam at the bottom of the NFL standings. Only a pair of two-win teams remain atop the reverse NFL standings: the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Giants . Reverse NFL Standings (thru Week 14 early window) — Source: www.tankathon.com/nfl Jacksonville’s remaining schedule is truly a toilet bowl. The Jags get the Jets in Week 15 (home), the Raiders in Week 16 (road) and the Titans again in Week 17 (home). If they lose all three of those games —which is a real possibility with the uninspiring Mac Jones under center — they’ll be right back in the hunt for No. 1 overall. The story of Sunday’s game was Jacksonville’s defense, which allowed no touchdowns and just 272 total yards on the road. The team continues to show fight under embattled head coach Doug Pederson, which is likely why Pederson is getting the chance to keep his dignity and finish out the season on the sideline. Fans tend to latch onto the draft when their team’s season goes into the toilet, but Jaguars fans also know well from experience: Drafting No. 1 overall guarantees absolutely nothing as your team enters a rebuild. MORE: Rams $5.9 million former Super Bowl champ predicted to leave L.A. for JaguarsTrudeau probably sealed political fate with 2019 gaslighting attempt
Global Intragastric Balloon Market to See Rapid Expansion Over the Next Decade 2024-2032 12-25-2024 03:14 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: Cognate Insights Intragastric Balloon Market Latest Market Overview The global intragastric balloon market is projected to experience robust growth, reaching a market size of USD 1.2 billion by 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2024 to 2032. Intragastric balloons are non-surgical weight loss devices designed to aid obese patients in managing their weight. The increasing prevalence of obesity and related health issues, such as diabetes and hypertension, is driving demand for minimally invasive, non-surgical weight loss solutions. The growth of the intragastric balloon market is further supported by rising awareness of obesity-related health risks, advancements in medical technologies, and an increase in healthcare accessibility in emerging regions. The Global Intragastric Balloon Market has experienced steady growth in recent years and is expected to continue expanding at a strong pace from 2024 to 2032. This analysis offers a comprehensive overview, providing valuable insights into key trends and developments within the Global Intragastric Balloon industry. These findings equip business leaders with the necessary knowledge to devise more effective strategies and enhance profitability. Furthermore, the report serves as a useful resource for new and emerging businesses, helping them make informed decisions as they navigate the market and seek growth opportunities. Major Players of Global Intragastric Balloon Market are: Allurion Technologies (Natick, USA): Revenue - USD 95 million (2023). Apollo Endosurgery (Austin, USA): Revenue - USD 120 million (2023). Obalon Therapeutics (Carlsbad, USA): Revenue - USD 75 million (2023). Helioscopie Medical Implants (Vienne, France): Revenue - USD 60 million (2023). Spatz FGIA Inc. (Jerusalem, Israel): Revenue - USD 50 million (2023). Get Latest PDF Sample Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/request-sample/global-intragastric-balloon-market-research Our Report covers global as well as regional markets and provides an in-depth analysis of the overall growth prospects of the market. Global market trend analysis including historical data, estimates to 2024, and compound annual growth rate (CAGR) forecast to 2032 is given based on qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market segments involving economic and non-economic factors. Furthermore, it reveals the comprehensive competitive landscape of the global market, the current and future market prospects of the industry, and the growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and constraints in emerging and emerging markets. Global Global Intragastric Balloon Market Landscape and Future Pathways: North America: United States Canada Europe: Germany France U.K. Italy Russia Asia-Pacific: China Japan South Korea India Australia China Taiwan Indonesia Thailand Malaysia Latin America: Mexico Brazil Argentina Korea Colombia Middle East & Africa: Turkey Saudi Arabia UAE Korea Speak to Our Analyst for A Discussion on The Above Findings, And Ask for A Discount on The Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/check-discount/global-intragastric-balloon-market-research Key drivers and challenges influencing the Global Intragastric Balloon market: Regional Analysis: The report involves examining the Global Intragastric Balloon market at a regional or national level. Report analyses regional factors such as government incentives, infrastructure development, economic conditions, and consumer behaviour to identify variations and opportunities within different markets. Market Projections: Report covers the gathered data and analysis to make future projections and forecasts for the Global Intragastric Balloon market. This may include estimating market growth rates, predicting market demand, and identifying emerging trends. Company Analysis: Report covers individual Global Intragastric Balloon manufacturers, suppliers, and other relevant industry players. This analysis includes studying their financial performance, market positioning, product portfolios, partnerships, and strategies. Consumer Analysis: Report covers data on consumer behaviour, preferences, and attitudes towards Global Intragastric Balloon This may involve surveys, interviews, and analysis of consumer reviews and feedback from different by Application. Technology Analysis: Report covers specific technologies relevant to Global Intragastric Balloon. It assesses the current state, advancements, and potential future developments in Global Intragastric Balloon areas. Reason to Buy this Report: -Analysis of the impact of technological advancements on the market and the emerging trends shaping the industry in the coming years. -Examination of the regulatory and policy changes affecting the market and the implications of these changes for market participants. -Overview of the competitive landscape in the Global Intragastric Balloon market, including profiles of the key players, their market share, and strategies for growth. -Identification of the major challenges facing the market, such as supply chain disruptions, environmental concerns, and changing consumer preferences, and analysis of how these challenges will affect market growth. -Evaluation of the potential of new products and applications in the market, and analysis of the investment opportunities for market participants. For In-Depth Competitive Analysis - Purchase this Report now at @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/purchase-report/global-intragastric-balloon-market-research Contact Us: Cognate Insights Web: www.cognateinsights.com Email: info@cognateinsights.com Phone: +91 8424946476 About Us: We are leaders in market analytics, business research, and consulting services for Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, financial & government institutions. Since we understand the criticality of data and insights, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available. To be at our client's disposal whenever they need help on market research and consulting services. We also aim to be their business partners when it comes to making critical business decisions around new market entry, M&A, competitive Intelligence and strategy. This release was published on openPR.A recent study that recommended toxic chemicals in black plastic products be immediately thrown away included a math error that significantly overstated the risks of contamination, but its authors are standing by their conclusions and warn against using such products. Published in the peer-reviewed journal Chemosphere , experts from the nonprofit Toxic-Free Future said they detected flame retardants and other toxic chemicals in 85% of 203 items made of black plastic including kitchen utensils , take-out containers, children's toys and hair accessories. In a blog post, Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill University's Office for Science and Society in Canada, explained that the Toxin-Free Future scientists miscalculated the lower end of what the EPA considered a health risk through a multiplication error. Instead of humans being potentially exposed to a dose of toxic chemicals in black plastic utensils near the minimum level that the EPA deems a health risk, it's actually about one-tenth of that. (Dreamstime/TNS) The study initially said the potential exposure to chemicals found in one of the kitchen utensils approached the minimum levels the Environmental Protection Agency deemed a health risk. But in an update to the study, the authors say they made an error in their calculations and the real levels were "an order of magnitude lower" than the EPA's thresholds. The error was discovered by Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill University's Office for Science and Society in Canada. In a blog post, Schwarcz explained that the Toxin-Free Future scientists miscalculated the lower end of what the EPA considered a health risk through a multiplication error. Instead of humans being potentially exposed to a dose of toxic chemicals in black plastic utensils near the minimum level that the EPA deems a health risk, it's actually about one-tenth of that. Though Schwarcz said the risks outlined in the study aren't enough for him to discard his black plastic kitchen items if he had them, he agreed with the authors that flame retardants shouldn't be in these products in the first place. "The math error does not impact the study's findings, conclusions or recommendations," said Megan Liu, a co-author of the study who is the science and policy manager for Toxic-Free Future . She added that any traces of flame retardants or toxic chemicals in cooking utensils should be concerning for the public. Flame retardants are getting into commonly used items because black-colored products are being made from recycled electronic waste, such as discarded television sets and computers, that frequently contain the additives. When they're heated, the flame retardants and other toxic chemicals can migrate out. If you're wondering whether your old black plastic spoon or other utensils are a part of this group, Liu shared some more guidance. It's nearly impossible to know whether a black plastic product is contaminated. That's because these products that include recycled e-waste don't disclose a detailed list of all ingredients and contaminants in the product. Liu said it's also unclear how many types of flame retardants are in these black plastic products. Some of the products that researchers tested in this recent study "had up to nine different harmful chemicals and harmful flame retardants in them," she said. Anytime you're looking for the type of recycled plastic a product is made of you're going to look for a number within the chasing arrows (that form a triangle) logo. Recycling symbols are numbered 1 to 7 and we commonly associate the numbers with what we can toss in our blue recycling bins. The 1 through 7 numbers stand for, respectively, polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene or Styrofoam, and miscellaneous plastics (including polycarbonate, polylactide, acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene, styrene, fiberglass and nylon). The study found higher levels of toxic flame retardants in polystyrene plastic, which is labeled with the number 6, said Liu. There isn't a definitive timeline of when recycled electronic-waste started to be incorporated into black plastic products specifically, but e-waste started to get recycled in the early 2000s, Liu said. The way computers, cellphones, stereos, printers and copiers were being disposed of previously was to simply add them to a landfill without reusing salvageable parts. But as the National Conference of State Legislatures notes, electronics production required a significant amount of resources that could be recovered through recycling. Recovering resources such as metals, plastics and glass through recycling used a fraction of the energy needed to mine new materials. However, the study pointed out that flame retardants and other chemical contaminates have been detected in and near e-waste recycling facilities, in indoor air and dust at formal e-waste recycling facilities in Canada, China, Spain and the U.S. It also noted contamination in soil samples surrounding e-waste recycling sites in China and Vietnam. The safest nontoxic material options for kitchen utensil are wood and stainless steel. The 20th century brought airplanes, radio, television, the internet, and plastic. Lots of plastic. That plastic is now showing up on shorelines, forming islands in oceans, and generating mountains of translucent trash on land. Around 700 species of animals in the sea have been found to interact with plastic daily. Companies across every industry face pressure to reduce the amount of plastic they produce. Seventy-two percent of the world's largest have made voluntary commitments to reduce their plastic waste, according to a Duke University analysis. One industry, in particular, has greatly benefited from advancements in single-use plastic technology: the medical industry. Only in recent years have businesses and academics in the field begun to talk about minimizing their impact on our environment like beverage manufacturers and other consumer goods-producing businesses. Medical Technology Schools analyzed academic studies published in the National Library of Medicine , the American Medical Association , and news reports to shed light on the medical community's use of plastics through history, their environmental problems, and proposed solutions to reduce their impact. And the impact can be significant. A single hospital patient generates nearly 34 pounds of waste a day —as much as a quarter of it is plastic. The COVID-19 pandemic only worsened the problem. The pandemic pushed hospital capacity to the brink and led to a massive increase in personal protective equipment and medical supply usage. Medical-grade masks and other protective equipment like face shields, made mostly of nonrenewable plastics, were in high demand. In 2020, the World Health Organization estimated that the international need for PPE manufacturing would boost 40% to address the public health crisis. Hospitals needed an estimated 89 million masks, 76 million gloves, and 1.6 million goggles every month of the pandemic. To date, nearly 677 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered, each requiring their own plastic syringe, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Global consulting firm Frost & Sullivan estimated that the U.S. would produce a year's worth of medical waste in just two months due to the pandemic. The World Economic Forum warned that the COVID-19 crisis threatened to " stall and even reverse progress " to reduce large plastic waste. It's a challenge researchers acknowledge today as they search for solutions. Plastics introduced an era of ultraconvenience to the world. It makes our clothes. It's made bike helmets and airbags possible. And it's a cheap material to produce, meaning it's cheap for consumers too. Almost as importantly, it's durable and incredibly easy to make into complex shapes—a trait that helped plastics invented in the mid-20th century quickly replace more expensive metal and wooden goods. That adoption extended to the medical field, where the single-use nature of plastics represented a move toward more hygienic tools for physicians and hospitals. But it wasn't plastic's sanitary qualities that the industry first latched onto. Like so many other technical advancements, convenience and cost were the initial driving factors. That they were more conducive to creating a sterile environment for patients was a benefit that health care began to tout closer to the end of the 20th century. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, replaced glass bottles previously used to hold IV solution and replaced rubber tubing used throughout hospital settings. Plastic has also become the go-to material for making syringes and catheters. Plastic products are generally made from chemicals derived from the oil and natural gas refining process. Chemists use those byproducts to create synthetic materials with malleable and durable chemical structures. The low cost of these materials has helped medical device-makers support better health outcomes for communities across the U.S. since the 1900s. No longer was health care priced at rates only the elite could afford—it was accessible to a much larger swath of the public. In the last decade, the U.S., in particular, has emerged as a massive market for medical plastics. The country generally accounts for nearly half of the global market for medical devices. Plastic's durability is not only a benefit but a detriment to the environment, as the material can take many years to deteriorate when it enters landfills or trashes oceans. Estimates vary widely, but scientists ballpark that depending on the kind of plastic and the environment in which it decomposes, it could take dozens to thousands of years to break down entirely. COVID-19, which remains a burden for health care systems, isn't the only force raising the stakes for a health care industry pressured to reduce reliance on plastics or find ways to reuse them. Global annual production of plastic has doubled in the last two decades , according to the Environmental Protection Agency. As the U.S. looks toward the future, its aging population is another factor that could exacerbate the rate at which medical plastics end up in landfills. People require more medical care as they age, and aging baby boomers are expected to place increased demand on the medical device industry. At the same time, governments are under pressure to lower health care costs, which have become unaffordable even for those insured . As recently as 2021, researchers lamented a lack of data on efforts to recycle medical plastics. Around 350 hospitals participate in Practice Greenhealth's Environmental Excellence Awards . Practice Greenhealth is an organization working to help hospitals increase their sustainability. It's one of the few sources of hospital sustainability data, and its roster of participating hospitals represents a small fraction of the more than 6,000 hospitals operating in the U.S. To meet the need to reduce plastic waste generation, some hospitals are moving away from using plastic in certain applications. Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center replaced health care workers' disposable plastic isolation gowns with reusable cloth gowns at its hospitals in the last decade, saving money and preventing literal tons of medical waste. It also implemented a process for sterilizing and incinerating the boxes that hold used needles, allowing them to be reassembled and reused in a health care setting. Recycling plastic medical waste is complicated by the potential for contamination and the need to separate contaminated and noncontaminated waste; once separated, they can be broken down with heat or treated with chemicals and reprocessed. However, using chemical methods to break down and dispose of plastics has drawbacks. Over 200 nongovernmental organizations signed a letter in 2023 urging the Biden administration to end federal support for methods like these, arguing they generate toxic pollutants. The Vinyl Council of Australia is working with hospitals to recover used materials made of PVC . The materials are broken down into tiny pieces, washed and heated at high temperatures, and remade into things used outside medical settings. In the U.S. and Europe, there's the Healthcare Plastics Recycling Council, a coalition of companies working in the health care device space that includes DuPont, Johnson & Johnson, and Medtronic. In 2021, the HPRC, advised by professionals at Kaiser Permanente and other health systems, rolled out a medical waste recycling pilot project with hopes of scaling it across more hospitals. Story editing by Ashleigh Graf. Copy editing by Paris Close. Photo selection by Clarese Moller. This story originally appeared on Medical Technology Schools and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. Sign up here to get the latest health & fitness updates in your inbox every week!None
Graffiti-covered mansion beats out Toorak’s finest to be Victoria’s most-viewed listing of 2024
Real estate magnates, construction industry tycoons and artificial intelligence coaches have said that AI is a game changer, which requires a sustainable policy with rules and regulations while addressing poor governance in financial institutions. They stated this during the PropTech Convention 2024 on the second day of the three-day 18th Build Asia International Conference and Exhibition at the Expo Centre Karachi. Commenting on Pakistanis investing in Dubai's real estate sector but not in their home country, leading property tycoon and Olympic Group Chief Operating Officer Abdul Kareem Adhia said there is a risk of scams in real estate business but scammers hardly comprise 5-10%. He stressed that government departments like the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), Karachi Development Authority (KDA) and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) must ask builders and developers to work as per rules and regulations, and if they do not control them and go into hibernation after taking kickbacks, the public institutions will lose their credibility and reputation. The builders who are working honestly are hurt. The black sheep in the government must be removed immediately in the larger interest of growth in this sector. He said government officials, who are working in key institutions like the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and others, are eager to fill their pockets while harassing businessmen. Businessmen are struggling to save their hard-earned money from corrupt officials and if they decide to go abroad, the industry will collapse, triggering unemployment and other economic and social ills. Instead of demolishing Nasla Tower, a residential plaza in Karachi, the officials of government departments who gave no-objection certificates (NOCs) to the builder must have been punished. There are 40% slum areas in Karachi, but not a single shanty town is knocked down. The demolition of Nasla Tower has hurt builders, end-consumers and shattered investor confidence. After this nightmare, there is a big question mark over the 70% foreign investment which mostly goes to the realty sector. Units of various projects are not being sold these days because of rising inflation. At present, there is a shortfall of 1.5 million houses. He pointed out that Pakistan needs foreign investment and if capital comes from expatriate Pakistanis and the builders relocating abroad, it will give a boost to this sector. Speaking about empowering the next generation, College of Computer Science and Information Systems (CCSIS) Dean and AI Consultant Brig (Retd) Professor Dr Muhammad Abbas said AI is a game changer for real estate and construction sectors, offering unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, innovation and sustainability. The academia plays a crucial role in preparing future leaders with AI skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this evolving landscape. By integrating AI into curricula, providing hands-on experience, fostering industry collaboration and supporting research, academic institutions can empower the next generation to shape the future. Talking about real estate investment and finance, he said risk assessment tools enable informed decision-making, for example, PropTech platforms help analyse market trends. When it comes to the role of academia, interdisciplinary expertise combines AI with industry knowledge. The academia must lead in innovation and ethical AI use. Integrating AI into curricula encompasses tailored programmes, combining AI with architecture and urban planning. Fostering collaborative learning involves forming partnerships with industry leaders to provide real world experience through student internships, while also utilising AI tools to simulate construction scenarios. Encouraging innovation and research calls for the establishment of AI research hubs focused on urban and sustainable design. Emphasising ethics in AI involves addressing concerns such as data privacy, algorithmic bias and job displacement. For instance, conducting ethical analysis of facial recognition technology used in buildings is essential to ensure responsible AI development and application. Speaking about AI tools for construction and property management, Dr Abbas said Allytics offers an AI-powered platform that uses CCTV and existing video footage to analyse site conditions and monitor site safety and productivity. Everguard.ai focuses on using AI and variables to enhance workers safety. Its platform integrates computer vision and real-time data analytics to monitor workers' movement and activity, ensuring they adhere to safety protocols and detecting potential hazards before they lead to accidents. Landtrack.pk founder Atif Arafin said the PropTech convention aimed to bring all stakeholders of the real estate sector under one roof and talk about innovative technologies, deliberating how this industry is working in the outside world, how to ensure transparency, how to go for sustainable construction materials and the like. COMMENTS Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive. For more information, please see our
MSI Unveils New Gaming Monitor With 80Gbps DisplayPort 2.1 - ChannelNews
Angel Oak Capital Advisors Announces Listing Transfer to Nasdaq for Exchange-Traded FundsA pop-up spinning wheel offers the chance to win a coupon. Rotating captions warn that a less than $2 camouflage print balaclava and a $1.23 skeleton hand back scratcher are “Almost sold out.” A flame symbol indicates a $9.69 plush cat print hoodie is selling fast. A timed-down selection of discounted items adds to the sense of urgency. Welcome to the new online world of impulse buying, a place of guilty pleasures where the selection is vast, every day is Cyber Monday, and an instant dopamine hit is always just a click away. By all accounts, we’re living in an accelerating age for consumerism, one that Temu, which is owned by the Chinese e-commerce company PDD Holdings, and Shein, its fierce rival , supercharged with social media savvy and an interminable assortment of cheap goods, most shipped directly from merchants in China based on real-time demand. The business models of the two platforms, coupled with avalanches of digital or influencer advertising, have enabled them to give Western retailers a run for their money this holiday shopping season. Software company Salesforce said it expects roughly one in five online purchases in the U.S., the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada to be made through four online marketplaces based or founded in Asia: Shein, Temu, TikTok Shop — the e-commerce arm of video-sharing platform TikTok — and AliExpress. Analysts with Salesforce said they are expected to pull in roughly $160 billion in global sales outside of China. Most of the sales will go to Temu and Shein, a privately held company which is thought to lead the worldwide fast fashion market in revenue. Lisa Xiaoli Neville, a nonprofit manager who lives in Los Angeles, is sold on Shein. The bedroom of her home is stocked with jeans, shoes, press-on nails and other items from the ultra-fast fashion retailer, all of which she amassed after getting on the platform to buy a $2 pair of earrings she saw in a Facebook ad. Neville, 46, estimates she spends at least $75 a month on products from Shein. A $2 eggshell opener, a portable apple peeler and an apple corer, both costing less than $5, are among the quirky, single-use kitchen tools taking up drawer space. She acknowledges she doesn’t need them because she “doesn’t even cook like that.” Plus, she’s allergic to apples. “I won’t eat apples. It will kill me,” Neville said, laughing. “But I still want the coring thing.” Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts Shein, now based in Singapore, uses some of the same web design features as Temu’s, such as pop-up coupons and ads, to persuade shoppers to keep clicking, but it appears a bit more restrained in its approach. Shein primarily targets young women through partnerships with social media influencers. Searching the company's name on video platforms turns up creators promoting Shein's Black Friday sales event and displaying the dozens of of trendy clothes and accessories they got for comparatively little money. But the Shein-focused content also includes videos of TikTokers saying they're embarrassed to admit they shopped there and critics lashing out at fans for not taking into account the environmental harms or potential labor abuses associated with products that are churned out and shipped worldwide at a speedy pace. Neville has already picked out holiday gifts for family and friends from the site. Most of the products in her online cart cost under $10, including graphic T-shirts she intends to buy for her son and jeans and loafers for her daughter. All told, she plans to spend about $200 on gifts, significantly less than $500 she used to shell out at other stores in prior years. “The visuals just make you want to spend more money,” she said, referring to the clothes on Shein's site. “They're very cheap and everything is just so cute.” Unlike Shein, Temu's appeal cuts across age groups and gender. The platform is the world’s second most-visited online shopping site, software company Similarweb reported in September. Customers go there looking for practical items like doormats and silly products like a whiskey flask shaped like a vintage cellphone from the 1990s. Temu advertised Black Friday bargains for some items at upwards of 70% off the recommended retail price. Making a purchase can quickly result in receiving dozens of emails offering free giveaways. The caveat: customers have to buy more products. Despite their rise, Temu and Shein have proven particularly ripe for pushback. Last year, a coalition of unnamed brands and organizations launched a campaign to oppose Shein in Washington. U.S. lawmakers also have raised the possibility that Temu is allowing goods made with forced labor to enter the country. More recently, the Biden administration put forward rules that would crack down on a trade rule known as the de minimis exception, which has allowed a lot of cheap products to come into the U.S. duty-free. President-elect Donald Trump is expected to slap high tariffs on goods from China, a move that would likely raise prices across the retail world. Both Shein and Temu have set up warehouses in the U.S. to speed up delivery times and help them better compete with Amazon, which is trying to erode their price advantage through a new storefront that also ships products directly from China.
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