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Without a hijab? Iran’s surveillance cameras will track and punish you

Like China  – using AI and surveillance cameras to pinpoint people breaking lockdown –  Iran’s morality police are using technology to catch women without a head covering, the hijab. Going in public without a hijab is a moral sin in Iran.

The heavy-handed Islamic extremist government of Iran is insistent that women, whether they chose to practice the religion or not must have their heads covered by the hijab. Until now morality police stopped women on the street, with recent incursions resulting in violence (see videos below). Enforcement has stepped up and Iran is now using security cameras and facial recognition to ID violators. 

Iran was once a thriving, liberal country in the Middle East and Tehran was often compared to being the Paris of the Middle East. An intolerant regime over the last 30 years has created an exodus of Iranians with the means to escape, and those without the means to live under an iron fist –– and now surveillance cameras.

What is the hijab?

In modern usage, hijab refers to headcoverings worn by Muslim women. While Islamic head coverings can come in many forms, hijab often specifically refers to a cloth wrapped around the head, neck and chest, covering the hair but leaving the face visible.

While some Muslim women chose to wear the hijab (read dispelling the hijab myth here) there are many who don’t. And not complying with the rule might land you a fine, in jail or worse.

Radio Free Europe says that authorities in Iran are planning a video surveillance campaign that will install cameras in public places such as subways and sidewalks.

Wearing a hijab in mandatory in Iran for women, even if you don’t define yourself as a Muslim. Zoroastrians, Christians, Jews and agnostic people live in Iran but the country has a bad history of persecuting other religions, its oldest religion especially.

camera Iran

In a video published on social media, Mohammad Saleh Hashemi Golpayegani said this new measure is based on the July 5 order by President Ebrahim Raisi to enforce the so-called hijab and chastity law. It is the first time that an official in Iran has publicly admitted the presence of facial recognition technology in public surveillance cameras. 

Special security forces have been enforcing the law on the streets for decades.

At the top of Iran’s power structure is the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who succeeded Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the father of the Iranian Revolution, upon Khomeini’s death in 1989. Khomeini and Khamenei are the only two men to have held the office since the founding of the Islamic Republic in 1979.

Golpayegani is the secretary of Iran’s Headquarters for Enjoining Right and Forbidding Evil, which is responsible for determining and enforcing  “proper” Muslim and Islamic models in society.

Golpayegani has previously said to the media that women who publish their pictures without a hijab on the Internet, on let’s say Instagram, will be deprived of some social rights for a period of six months to one year.

If you are judged to be non-compliant here’s what might happen to you:  you won’t be able to enter government offices, you will be denied entry to banks, and you won’t be able to use public transportation.

VIDEO of women taping morality police

Women who don’t comply might also be “disappeared” and whisked away into vans. This is what has happened to the past to well-known bloggers we’ve interviewed like Hossein Derakhshan and to Faranak Farid who was beaten and tortured for trying to protect a disappearing salt lake, Lake Orumieh, in Iran. 

Guidance Patrols, or the morality police in Iran are known for becoming increasingly active and violent. The head covering worn by Muslim women became compulsory in public for Iranian women and girls over the age of 9 after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Some “extreme” practices in Islam are also misunderstood. Read here from our Muslim writer about khitan, or circumcision in males and females.And if you missed the link earlier in the article, here is an op-ed we published that dispels the myth of the hijab as weakening women. The author of the article presents herself without a hijab.

Bats didn’t transmit Covid: new study

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fruit bats hanging from a cave

One of the prevailing and perhaps most comforting theories about the emergence of Covid, is that it was a coronavirus transmitted to humans by bats. But new research from scientists in Israel refute the theory which points to the opposite: bats have a highly effective immune system that enables them to deal relatively easily with viruses considered lethal for other mammals.

The Tel Aviv University study rejects the origin of the COVID-19 outbreak is in bats. The study was led by Maya Weinberg and Prof. Yossi Yovel who reviewed dozens of leading articles and studies in this field, and summed up their findings in iScience Journal. Israel has a long history studying the biology and ecology of bats. 

The researchers explain that the infamous reputation of the bats is well known among both – the scientific community and the public at large, that they are often accused of being reservoirs of viruses including Covid-19, thus posing a threat to public health. In the present study, Weinberg sought to disprove this erroneous theory and show that bats play an important role in exterminating insects, replanting of deforested areas, and pollination of a number of crops.

mayan weisberg holding a bat
Maya Weinberg

Weinberg explains: “In general, bats are mistakenly conceived of as reservoirs of many contagious disease, only due to their being positive serologically positive; in other words, in possession of antibodies, which means that bats have survived the disease and developed an immune response.

“After that they overcame the virus altogether and disengaged from it; hence, they are no longer its carriers. Nevertheless, in many cases, a virus similar to a human pathogen is liable to be found in bats; however, it is not pathogenic to humans, and is not sufficient to use bats as a reservoir.”

In the study the researchers did a meta-analysis of the literature and checked the finding for over 100 viruses for which bats are considered potential reservoirs: Ebola, SARS, and COVID.

“We found that in a considerable number of cases (48%) this claim was based on the incidence of antibodies or PCR tests, rather than actual isolation of identical viruses. Moreover, many of the reported findings are not convincing,” the researchers say.

The mere isolation of a virus is not enough to see an animal as a reservoir, since a minimum number of index cases is required in which the virus is isolated in order to be considered a reservoir animal, as well as the existence of an established path of transmission, the researchers explain.

Anthropogenic conditions must exist in order for such an event to occur the scientists sum up.

After over 100 years of focus on viruses carried by bats, it appears that bats’ immune system is characterized by a restrained response during inflammatory processes. Bats have developed an excellent balance between resistance and tolerance: an increased defense response of the host, and immune tolerance through a number of different mechanisms. 

To conclude, Weinberg adds: “the comprehensive study we’ve conducted raises serious doubts regarding the possibility of bats being the origin of the Covid19 outbreak.

“The findings give rise to the opposite perspective, according to which we must study in-depth the immunological anti-viral capabilities of bats, and thus obtain new and effective means of coping in humanity’s struggle against contagious disease, ageing and cancer.”

So how did Covid emerge? Is the jury still out? China meanwhile is pushing out Covid research papers to show it didn’t start there.

What’s the Connection Between Agile Methodology and Automated Testing?

inside-mars-biodome
Before entrepreneurs figure out how to grow food on Mars, they used the agile method to test and pivot in order to make the right cleantech solution.

The agile methodology used in all areas of green tech and renewable energy projects involves incremental, continuous growth through frequent software releases to the market. In this case, you are trying to maximize the value delivery to the users and minimize the risk of building software that doesn’t meet user needs. Automated testing is an agile methodology that is very vital. Without it, the agile methodology might be less effective and take a lot of time.

Before adopting automated testing method, you need to understand what is automation testing, the best tools to use and the best practices to adopt. It’s the most effective approach to test for the new features that are added to the software before delivering it to the market. Test automation is highly preferred in agile methodology because it saves time and resources, unlike when carrying out most processes manually. There is also high efficiency in regression testing, which ensures that the newly added features do not impact the software’s existing functionality. With automated testing, you can create test cases that will run automatically whenever a new code is pushed to the repository for a particular application.

ecoppia like a roomba for solar panels
Ecoppia is a solar energy robot that uses software to make sure the panels are clean and sucking up the most energy from the sun

So, where can you apply automated testing in agile methodology?

API/Web service testing

Web services are the medium through which two applications can exchange information. This can be in requests and responses without interfering with the underlying technology used in designing the application. Simply, it’s all about sending requests and validating the response.

To perform web service testing, you write programs to call the web service methods and validate the values returned. It’s even possible to test the service for various combinations and permutations. If possible, have data be tested in an excel sheet for your program to read it. It will then call the testable services bypassing the test data as the parameter and validating the test results.

Repetitive tasks

Test cases that seem to be repetitive should be automated. Automation doesn’t mean that sophisticated automation test tools/technology should be involved in the process. You can implement automation for repetitive tasks using a simple VB macro or a Java program with JavaScript to solve a particular issue. 

It’s easier to make several errors when testing repetitive test cases. With time the process becomes mundane and tiresome. By automating these test cases, your testers will spend less time on the tasks. Most repetitive tasks do not require higher-order thinking and can quickly be completed with automation test tools.

Testing behind the GUI

It’s comparatively easier to test behind the GUI than to automate the actual GUI. One of the main advantages of testing behind the GUI is that the functionality remains the same regardless of the UI changes. Testing behind the GUI focuses mainly on the business logic and different rules; thus, the functionality of the different features is not affected.

For this test, the test cases are usually written in tabular format. This could be in a spreadsheet and code snippets that can accept data input from the tables and return the expected results. The returned results are generated immediately, providing an excellent platform for the non-technical stakeholders to run the test cases and compare them with the expected results.

Build and deployments

Automated testing is highly applied in build and deployments in agile methodology. There are usually predefined builds for the traditional environments that can take a week or two. Sometimes they can even take a whole month to get done. One of the biggest challenges facing these builds is that you must wait for the predefined dates to get all the bugs fixed. And this means there is usually a delay in the release of new features.

By the time you finish testing and detecting several bugs to be fixed, some team members will have moved on to different implementation pieces and are likely to have very little interest in resolving bugs in the older applications. Eventually, this delays the time for making the features to be implemented available in production.

Testing non-functional requirements

Testing non-functional requirements manually can be a complex process. Some non-functional requirements that should be tested include reliability, performance, installability, usability and security. Finding a tester with in-depth knowledge to define the non-functional requirements is usually a big challenge. As more organizations embrace agile methodology, there is a need for continuous focus for each sprint.

You will have to analyze the technical data, design experiments and ask successive detailed questions to quantify the expectations of the non-functional requirements. After that, then document the non-functional requirements. In agile, the non-functional requirements usually cut across the entire system, especially where special consideration is highly needed. Continuous testing for the non-functional requirements will ensure that you deliver a viable product with consistent features and functionality.

Benefits of agile testing automation

Agile testing automation leads to faster execution as automation test tools improve the development’s overall efficiency. The earlier you can find several glitches, the easier the process and the lower the cost of fixing several defects. Using automated testing in agile methodology allows the reusability of test scripts for repetitive test cases. 

Eco-Friendly Upgrades Every Homeowner Can Make

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Moshe Safdie’s Habitat 67 is considered a sustainable dream design

Homeowners are becoming more interested in fixing up their houses instead of getting another one, as it can be too expensive to get another one. If you are tired of your current house, following specific remodeling tips and fixing it up can make it feel like new. It can also add value, making it more attractive to potential buyers. 

Preparing for a Remodel

Whether you are looking to renovate the entire home or just want to make a few upgrades, it pays to do your research. Compare the price with the return on your investment. Just because one contractor offers cheaper prices does not mean their quality of work will be the same as someone else who might charge more. If your remodeling plans are looking more expensive than you have budgeted, you may want to consider taking out a personal loan to help cover the cost. The return on your investment can cover the initial expense.

Non-Toxic Carpeting

If you want to replace your carpet or install new, know that not all types are the same. Many types of carpeting, as well as the adhesives used, have certain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Plus, inhaling them can be dangerous over time.

Faig Ahmed

The good news is non-toxic, eco-friendly carpeting is becoming more popular, and there are many more options available now. Using carpet instead of hard floors can also be friendlier to the environment because they help conserve energy in the winter. They can help keep warmth in a room so you don’t need to turn the heat on even more. Look for options made from more natural materials, such as seagrass, wool, or jute. It’s a good idea to pick low-VOC adhesives and materials.

Consider Adding Skylights

Much of your energy usage comes from the use of artificial lighting. If some rooms do not have windows or the light from those windows is insufficient, you might end up using artificial lighting throughout the entire day, even if it is bright and sunny outside.

mars-science-city-skylight
Watery skylight in Mars Science City

This is where skylights can come into play. The sun can provide natural lighting, even if it is cloudy that day. Natural light can reduce the cost of energy. Plus, some skylights even open, so you can let fresh air in when it’s nice outside. Opening the windows on low humidity days can reduce humidity inside, preventing mold from building up in spaces that might otherwise be closed off.

More Landscaping to Add Curb Appeal

Adding more landscaping can make your house look more attractive on the outside, and it can also boost the resale value. Curb appeal is one of the biggest things potential buyers look at, as it can impact their first impression. However, traditional landscaping practices, such as the use of pesticides or frequent watering, have not been friendly to the environment. Luckily, today, you can find a range of eco-friendly solutions that allow you to have a beautiful space while taking care of the environment. 

Consider researching plants that grow native to your geographic area and adding those. They are already used to your particular climate, so they will need fewer treatments for diseases or pests in the area. You can even create a rain garden in your front yard. It’s shallow and shaped like a bowl so it can collect excess rain runoff from the driveway, gutter, and lawn. They can attract butterflies, and they also help prevent erosion in the area. You don’t have to stop at one, either. Putting in more than one means you won’t have to take care of as much grass, so there won’t be as much fertilization, mowing, watering, or maintenance.

What Is the Strongest CBD Flower You Can Buy?

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cannabis oil woman

CBD is magical anxiety relief to millions of people. It’s the best of hemp, without the high

The CBD Flower comes from hemp and accumulates up to a hundred compounds, a large group known as “cannabinoids.” These cannabinoids have an extensive list of positive effects that are increasing as research progresses.

The CBD flower is the one rich in CBD level, one of he hemp-occuring cannabinoids with a variety of positive effects. There is a long list of CBD-rich flowers currently available on the market. They are characterised depending on their effects, CBD traits, THC levels, tastes, and other features. In this article, we will focus on the strongest CBD-rich flowers, such as Delta 8 Asteroids, that you can order online on weed.com. But first, let us introduce you to CBD and its benefits. So, let’s get started. 

What Is CBD, And What Are Its Benefits?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive or, in simple words, it does not cause the usual high associated with delta-9 THC. Moreover, it is thoroughly researched and suggested for multiple medical applications.

One of the uses of CBD, increasingly studied, is its application in patients affected by neurological diseases such as epilepsy, learning disabilities, neuromuscular disorders, and even autism. Some CBD treatments can even help reduce symptoms of seizures and epileptic seizures. In addition, its use has been investigated as a remedy for diseases such as diabetes, sclerosis, anxiety, and depression.

Any anti-inflammatory cream with CBD and an anti-inflammatory CBD oil can be the perfect alternative to ibuprofen. If we are talking about athletes or people with chronic pain, anti-inflammatory creams and oils with CBD can undoubtedly be more than a miracle due to their immediate effects. 

Following are a few benefits of CBD that are backed by research and science:

  • analgesic effects against chronic pain;
  • anti-epileptic;
  • anti-anxiety;
  • effects against Alzheimer’s;
  • migraine relief;
  • anti-inflammation;
  • treat select epilepsy;
  • supporting heart health.

The Different Types of CBD Products Available

There are many ways to consume CBD. Whether to promote sleep, relieve discomfort, care for the skin, improve general health or be an ally in your moments of pleasure, the entire range of products with cannabinoids for well-being is available when you need it most. These products include the following:

  • Oils. They are probably one of the most concentrated and convenient CBD products. 
  • Flowers. Another popular CBD method of delivery is smoking joints or flowers. However, smoking raw marijuana flowers might have its drawbacks. 
  • Vape Oils. It has also become one of the most common ways to consume CBD extracts because of its unique taste and aroma.
  • Capsules. Users also opt for CBD capsules, which are often similar to other natural supplements sold as pills. 
  • Creams and Lotions. For cases such as arthritis, CBD creams and lotions are applied to the skin for quicker relief. 
  • Edibles. Cannabidiol edibles such as gummies and candies are also becoming quite popular because of their sweet flavors and easy access. 

How to Choose the Right CBD Product for You? 

Be very careful when purchasing a product with CBD, as it depends entirely on your needs. Besides, these products are typically falsely advertised with unrealistic benefits and ingredients. If you want to obtain a reliable product, keep these purchase criteria in mind:

  • your needs;
  • origin of ingredients;
  • CBD concentration;
  • the concentration of other cannabinoids;
  • type of strains;
  • packaging and conservation;
  • value for money;
  • legal status.

The Strongest CBD Flower Strains on the Market Today

Strong CBD marijuana is characterized by high levels of CBD and relatively low levels of THC. If you are looking for the 5 strongest CBD flowers, here is the list for you:

  1. Delta 8 Asteroids – 41% CBD.
    Delta 8 Asteroid is an exclusive product developed by soaking high-quality hemp flowers in delta-8 distillate and then rolling them in kief. As a result, we have a high potency CBD flower that is perfect for slow-burning smoke. It is often claimed about Delta 8 Asteroids that they have an incredibly uplifting effect, minus the side effects associated with delta-9 THC. 
  2. White Widow – 21.9% CBD.
    It does not produce any potent euphoric senses or any other side effects. If you don’t want to get high but take advantage of all the benefits of this product, it may be the best flower out there.
  3. Bubblegum – 18% CBD.
    It is another excellent option if you want to avoid the effects of THC. It is the most recognized for its properties to combat all kinds of anxieties. Furthermore, it also improves the ability to relax physically and enhances mood. Not only that, but it is highly recommended if you are looking for a clear and calm mind.
  4. Chocolate Skunk – 9% CBD.
    It is a unique CBD flower, having the most balanced levels of THC and CBD while still preserving the aromatic qualities of marijuana. It offers a relaxing and long-lasting effect suitable for medicinal use.
  5. Purple Haze 1 – 2% CBD.
    CBD is also clearly predominant in this flower, with its amount of THC being practically non-existent. It is a mild strain, which is not grown to get high. It has a pine scent, and its effects are claimed to combat mental blocks, fight anxiety or demotivation, and promote creativity and productivity.

 

The Importance of Pet Insurance for Atlanta Pet Owners

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dog poop DNA
Some cities in America, like Atlanta, are helping people take better responsibility raising their pets sustainably. Insurance is one of the keys.

Owning a pet can be hugely beneficial in many ways, as it means that you can look forward to companionship, love, entertainment, and friendship from your four-legged friend. However, it is also a big responsibility, and for pet owners in Atlanta, it is vital that you do everything you can to ensure the health, well-being, and happiness of your pet. Of course, making sure you take the time to find the best vets in Atlanta to provide healthcare is one of the ways in which you can achieve this goal.

Another thing that pet owners in the city should do is to ensure they have pet insurance in place, as this can make a big difference when it comes to getting your pet the care and treatment needed. While having a good vet you can turn to is vital, you also need to consider the potential costs of treatment and procedures. Many people these days are on tight budgets and having insurance cover in place can provide a safeguard in case your pet requires costly treatment or procedures. In this article, we will look at the importance of having pet insurance in place as an Atlanta pet owner.

Some of the Reasons You Need to Take Out Cover

There are lots of reasons why taking out pet insurance is so important for Atlanta pet owners. Some of the main ones are:

Financial Protection

One of the reasons why pet insurance is essential is for the same reason that other forms of insurance are essential – to protect your finances. If your pet needs to have costly treatment or procedures, it could end up costing you a huge amount of money. However, if you have pet insurance in place that covers those specific treatments and procedures, you will be able to claim most of the money back or they may pay the vet directly.

Getting Treatment and Care for Your Pet

Another obvious reason to take out pet insurance is so that you can get the treatment and care your pet needs no matter what your financial situation. As mentioned earlier, veterinary treatment can be very expensive, and if you do not have the money, your pet might be left suffering without the treatment that it needs. When you have insurance cover in place, you can ensure your pet gets the care it needs because you will have a financial solution in place to help cover some or all of the cost.

Peace of Mind

When you have pets that you love, you will find yourself worrying about their health, safety, and happiness a lot of the time. If you take our pet insurance, this will provide you with some level of reassurance and peace of mind. It means you won’t have to make heart-breaking decisions based on finances, and you are safe in the knowledge that you have them covered.

These are some of the key reasons why pet owners in Atlanta should take out pet insurance coverage. 

Utilizing Change Management to Help Your Business Thrive

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man holding sun sign
You’ve created a “free energy” company to bring limitless power to off-grid communities and villages. It’s a great cause but how do you manage the team? Every business, even green ones, need to be strong on coaching and management.

Introduction

A key component of digital coaching is ensuring that your business adapts to change and grows. A structured, effective change management program will help you achieve this goal. Change management ensures that changes are thoroughly and smoothly implemented, and that the lasting benefits of change are achieved.

Change management is a structured approach for ensuring that changes are thoroughly and smoothly implemented, and that the lasting benefits of change are achieved.

Change management is a structured approach for ensuring that changes are thoroughly and smoothly implemented, and that the lasting benefits of change are achieved. It is a process, program, system and framework that helps you manage change. Change can happen for many reasons:

  • From an external factor such as new legislation or technology
  • From the market (changing customer needs)
  • Due to internal factors such as restructuring or outsourcing

Businesses should create a culture of continuous improvement, which can be facilitated through the following change management process:

In order to create a culture of continuous improvement, businesses must have a process in place that will facilitate change and help them thrive.

A change management process is one that aims to improve business processes by improving employee engagement and motivation within an organization, as well as increasing employee productivity. Change management programs can be implemented at all levels of an organization, from the CEO down to individual employees.

The first step in creating a successful change management program is coming up with goals for what you want your team or company to achieve over time. You need to decide how long it will take for these goals to be met so you know how much effort should be put into each one individually (and if there’s anything else going on during this time). Next comes figuring out exactly what needs changing—this could involve things like updating software systems or hiring new people in order for everyone involved with carrying out certain tasks seamlessly transition smoothly into whatever changes are made.”

Set your company up for success by creating an effective program as follows:

  • Define the problem. You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know what it is, or if you’re not clear on what your company’s goals are. This is why it’s so important to first define the problem before starting on a solution.
  • Set your own goals, not other people’s targets. It can be easy to fall into the trap of setting goals based on what others have achieved in their fitness programs—but this isn’t helpful when it comes time to develop your own program! Instead of worrying about where others have been successful, focus on where they’re still struggling and come up with ways that will help them overcome those struggles.
  • Be ambitious but realistic at the same time: It’s fine if some of these fitness goals seem unattainable at first glance—as long as there’s enough room for improvement within each one that makes sense for both yourself and any co-workers involved in this project together (if applicable), then any challenge will be worth overcoming! For example: if someone has trouble motivating themselves when exercising indoors during winter months due to lack of sunlight exposure…maybe try taking walks outside during lunch breaks instead? Or maybe even running sprints between buildings because nothing else seems practical enough yet either way 🙂

Evaluate your change initiative regularly throughout the process to drive effective results.

As you embark on your change initiative, it’s important to evaluate your progress regularly. This will help you make adjustments as needed and ensure that you’re on track to achieve the desired outcomes.

  • Have the right people involved: The key players in any organization are its employees. It’s important that they understand and buy into what is being asked of them before any changes can be implemented. If they don’t buy into the change, there is a good chance that nothing will get done or done in a way that doesn’t support the overall goals of the initiative.
  • Have the right resources available: Don’t assume that what worked for another company will work for yours because every environment is unique—even within an industry segment or geography. Make sure you have access to all necessary resources (both internal and external) so you can evaluate how well each program is working over time rather than trying something new only to realize later down the road when it might cost too much money or take up too much time without getting results back quickly enough at which point chances are high both parties won’t agree on some level with how things went down.”

Change management is a critical aspect of digital coaching

Change management is a critical aspect of digital coaching. It involves using a structured process to communicate the changes to your clients, ensuring they’re on board and buy-in, before rolling out the new product or service.

The change management process typically starts with identifying what needs to be changed and why, followed by defining the scope for what’s being changed and when it will happen—and then determining who will be involved. Next comes communicating this new development to stakeholders (those who could be affected by the change), getting feedback from them about their feelings about it, and deciding how best to roll out those changes so that they are well received by everyone involved. The final step in any change process should be evaluating if any additional actions need taking based on issues that arose during implementation or whether there are other ways you can improve upon what you’ve done so far!

Conclusion

Change management isn’t just a buzzword that can be tacked on to any task or project. It’s an essential part of business success, and if your company doesn’t have a formal change management program in place, it may be time to reconsider your approach. Change management programs are designed to ensure that all parties involved are on board with the changes being made, so that implementation will be seamless and effective.

Rent A Car In Eindhoven And Start With Your Road Trip Across Europe!

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Mache Mustang yellow
An electric pony made by Mustang

Europe is one of the greatest places in the world, with spectacular roads to explore. To start your journey across Europe, rent a car Eindhoven for the best deals.

Here are a few European road trips to discover the most stunning road journeys.

Culture And Food 

Lyon > Marseille> Paris

Drive from Paris to Marseille for a road tour through Europe that features the finest in both culture and food. Before learning about the joys of good dining in Lyon, the epicentre of French food, begin by plunging into Paris’s fashion and art sectors. Next, stop at Avignon to enjoy the well-preserved Roman remains or take a diversion to experience the vineyards and lavender fields of Provence before reaching the colourful Mediterranean coastline in Marseille. 

Historic Europe 

Berlin > Paris > Amsterdam

Take a road trip that takes you to the greatest cities and most well-known attractions if this is your first time visiting Europe. As you visit ancient sites and modern cultural centres, you will experience the ideal fusion of the old and the new. Along with seeing famous museums like the Louvre and the Van Gogh Museum, your plan may also include visiting famous sites like the Berlin Wall and the Eiffel Tower. 

Paris love locks

Adventure Outdoors

German Alpine Road

The German Alpine Road offers a memorable experience with many exciting changes. The path is well signposted, and you may begin your journey at either end or any point along the way. Along with providing breathtaking mountain vistas, the drive offers opportunities to climb several German Alps regions, swim in crystal-clear lakes, and, in the winter, ski on some magnificent slopes.

Romantic Getaways

The Amalfi Coast And Rome

Start with visiting the famous sites in Rome, then continue to Naples to be inspired by its old town. The next destination is Sorrento, a stunning setting for making precious memories. Then, before beginning the trip’s crowning achievement, “The Amalfi Drive,” take a stroll and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Mount Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri. This breathtaking path links Sorrento and Amalfi and winds over towering cliff tops with views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Finally, before coming to an end in Tivoli, spend the night in either picturesque Positano or the charming hamlet of Salerno.

agroecology Italy

Spanish Fiesta: Madrid > Seville > Barcelona

Take a 2-week European road vacation in our rental car to experience Spain’s variety and culinary delights. First, start your tour in Barcelona, where you can relax on the beach, see Park Guell and Las Ramblas, and eat Catalan food. You can also admire Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia and the artworks on display at the Picasso Museum on your plan. The next stop is Madrid, where you can explore the newest tapas cafés. 

sun on roofs of apartments in barcelona

Conclusion

Whether you’re in the city for a weekend getaway, a few business meetings, or a longer stay, make the most of your time there. 

The Environmental Impact of Working From Home 

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garden office, seat waiting for you
A room of one’s own, a little office, pottery studio, or granny flat. Building a tiny home in your garden might be a better eco investment that renting a whole new space.

At first glance, working from home unquestionably seems environmentally friendly. Most Covid-19-related studies reveal a decrease in carbon emission and lower fossil fuel consumption. There’s a definite improvement in office supply usage. Overused printers and around-the-clock buzzing coffee machines are all off. 

But, more rigorous studies outline more complex problems. A Harvard business review report warns of emissions getting back to pre-pandemic levels. Electricity statistics vary from research to research. Some reveal clear savings after switching to WFH. Meanwhile, others demonstrate how WFH can increase energy consumption. 

Instead of criticizing the very model of working from home, most scholars agree on its positive potential. An effective transition to the WFH environment needs fact-based planning to help the planet. How should remote work be organized for it to be environmentally friendly? 

It should’ve been an email 

Those with corporate job experience very well know the saying “this meeting should have been an email.” The WFH model makes unnecessary meetings an environmental issue because of how much electricity they require. 

Research in Canada revealed that “average daily household electricity consumption increased by about 12% in 2020 relative to 2019.” The growing household energy consumption lessens the positive income of cutting back on office supplies. Some of it has to do with online meetings. 

Understandably, people called each other more during the pandemic. Taking care of one’s psychological well-being is a priority. And the feeling of isolation was a threat to many. However, that tremendously increased energy consumption in both households and data centers. Employees called each other more frequently than they would organize a meeting in a

workplace. And data centers were overloaded with video stream traffic. It was pushing the servers to their maximum capacity, significantly increasing energy costs. 

The challenge is to continue improving after switching to WFH. Remote workers should still turn off unnecessary lights. Some like to have a TV on while working. Air conditioning is unavoidably costly when needed. Companies and employees should work together to improve the WFH model continuously. In other words, even at home there’s a need to cut back on unnecessary consumption. 

Personal responsibility changes everything 

home office, eco green carbonless

Reducing carbon dioxide emissions is one of the most significant and most noticeable changes. Londoners can spend an hour and a half driving to work, and then the same amount of time driving home. The sudden traffic reduction immediately resulted in lower air pollution and the biggest drop in carbon dioxide emissions. 

Sadly, the numbers are going back up. One of the main reasons is that big corporations are still responsible for most CO2 emissions. On the other hand, researchers that looked into WFH and carbon emissions also found some troubling news. 

Many employees travel more. Shorter personal trips replaced long business trips. People want to get away and clear their heads when they spend all of their time at home. But these trips are bringing up CO2 emissions, which is no good from an environmental perspective. 

Taking care of technology 

Another issue is the manufacturing of technology. During lockdowns, there was a significant increase in tech and household item purchases. Laptops, monitors, routers, tables, and air-conditioning, among other things. 

A sudden burst in demand is very profitable for some market players. Overall, it doesn’t come without its challenges. Massive consumption in tech resulted in huge demand for microchips.

With global economies stalling, the manufacturing of this highly complex technology also slowed down, increasing prices. People started buying cheaper, lower-quality products with more energy consumption and higher emissions. 

It’s up to the employer to help in every way possible. Tech equipment, adapted work hours, and a comfortable workspace at home is essential. The same applies to cybersecurity software. Remote workers rushed to secure their home networks by hunting for VPN black Friday deals, scared of the rising threat of cyber attacks. But many companies quickly set up secure VPN connections for safe online communication. 

Furthermore, many companies added new software to their list. Digital planning tools, better communication software, password managers and VPNs were added for workers’ comfort. After all, secure communication is one of the backbones of the contemporary digital landscape. 

With a mutual effort, the transition to WFH was successful. And even though there are various challenges to overcome, the environmental benefits of WFH are clear.

Collaborative Robots Adoption in the Manufacturing Sector

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robots renewable energy
Imagine robots working together to build solar panels, free energy solutions freeing up more time for us to contemplate the universe and why we are here?

The use of robots in the manufacturing sector has existed for quite some time since Unimate, the first industrial robot, received its initial patent in 1961. Unfortunately, small and medium-sized firms rarely had access to these robots due to the high cost and need for large spaces when adopting robots in the workplace.

For instance, they required safety cages and experienced personnel to operate them, which resulted in additional expenses, not forgetting that they were quite expensive to purchase. However, modern robots are now considered crucial automation tools, allowing smaller businesses to compete with the bigger firms.

Collaborative robots, the new model of robots, are revolutionizing the robotics sector. According to the Robotics Industries Association, a collaborative robot (often just referred to as a cobot), is specifically made to work alongside human staff in a designated workspace.

What Manufacturers Can Gain from the Use of Collaborative Robots

Efficient Automation

Collaborative robots provide high-tech arms equipped with cameras, motion sensors, and varying reaches and payloads for every busy factory worker who wishes they had an extra arm. This collaborative robot technology can imitate various arm movements necessary to carry out repetitive jobs, such as examining minor auto parts or wheel hub assemblies, unlike the traditional robots.

Employees are liberated from tedious duties by collaborative robots, allowing them to concentrate on activities that require complex and specialized skills. For instance, three workers who were previously tasked with examining a single bin can now be assigned tasks like operating a forklift or checking the output quality, allowing them to utilize their creativity rather than their hands only.

Mobility

Cobots’ mobility, which enables them to fit into practically any workspace, is another advantage. Most collaborative robot devices weigh less than 80 pounds, making them flexible and easy to handle. One can repurpose them in different applications without disrupting the production layouts while using less power to operate than traditional robots. 

It makes them perfect for short changeovers and modest jobs since the industrial robot can complete repetitive operations with an extremely high level of consistency while maintaining the required quality level.

Visibility

Many collaborative robots have cameras incorporated to allow them to monitor their surroundings. The camera and collaborative robot’s coordinate system must have an interface to work effectively. The application of human detection and tracking by cameras and algorithms enhances safety and overall human-robot interaction.

Easy Programming

Programming collaborative robots to carry out plenty of manufacturing operations are now possible, resulting in a reduced chance for human error during production. Universal Robots has developed cutting-edge interfaces that use augmented and virtual reality, enabling people without prior experience in robot operations to program and operate the cobots.

A Faster Return on Investment (ROI)

Since programming and safety guarding are not required, collaborative robots are not expensive to maintain. When extensively put to use, they also have a short payback period of less than a year, making them an ideal robotic automation choice for small and medium-sized businesses.

Four Manufacturing Sectors Benefiting From the Use of Collaborative Robots with Universal Robots

Integration of Collaborative Robots in Welding

One of the most crucial jobs in most industrial production processes is welding which is also labor intensive. However, many skilled employees are retiring and not being replaced fast enough to meet the demand.

Danish robotics manufacturer Universal Robots is often considered a pioneer and thought leader in the industry, and they are working with reputable businesses around the world to provide and innovate great features to their cobot models.

Universal Robots have so far developed a SnapWeld collaborative robot welding package, which includes an interactive welding cobot. The robot is simple to integrate into manual welding booths, eliminating the need for additional robotic cells. The set consists of a Profax wire feeder and a water-cooled torch with a torch bracket, wires, and hoses that can weld up to 600 amps, perfectly fitted for specific jobs. 

Metal and Machining

Cobots are valuable in the metal and machining industries. A classic example of a company in this sector that uses cobots is the Danish Stantraek Company. The company increased its output and greatly boosted its revenue after acquiring two UR5 robots.

The company now has a competitive advantage over its rivals without hiring more people, lowering costs, with just twenty-eight employees and two collaborative robots. One of their UR5 robots can successfully package 300 items in a box per hour. As a result, their production level has significantly improved, ensuring a quick return on investment.

Automobile Manufacturing

The industry can also accomplish the intended results thanks to the deployment of cobots from Universal Robots. LEAX is an example of a business that uses these collaborative robots. The Swedish automobile manufacturer produces drill bits, industrial gearboxes, input and output shafts, driving shafts, main shafts, and other parts for heavy vehicles. 

They rely on collaborative robots to accomplish a quick and accurate execution in the production stages since they manufacture various products that demand different output volumes, some of which require up to 100,000 units. They successfully optimized their production after buying three UR10 robots for changing bits and loading or unloading. The robots are adaptable and can complete other duties even when the company opts to stop producing a given product.

Plastic and Polymers Production

The production of plastic and polymers necessitates a high degree of flexibility due to the variety of materials that call for different processing and temperature ranges. Since there are various plastics and polymers and many ways to manufacture them, the production process often changes.

However, due to their versatile nature, collaborative robots are currently used in various operation processes of plastic and polymers production, including de-gating, PCB loading or unloading, picking, and palletizing items. 

The robots enhance workers’ safety by protecting those working on the production lines from sharp items like plastic shavings. They also enable workers to develop their production skills in other tasks by performing repetitive tasks which do not require specialized skills.

Conclusion

Collaborative robots continue to be an essential way for companies to stand out from their competitors. The adoption of cobot use is making manufacturing companies more flexible and responsive to their respective market needs. It is also an advantage for the final consumer since they get high-quality products.

Best Practices in Presentation Design

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presenting eco benefits of popupshops
Your new idea might change the world in renewable energy and consumerism but you need to know how to present it to the world.

There is no question that well-designed business PowerPoint presentations can have a significant impact on the success of a company. When done correctly, a good presentation can help any business to communicate its message clearly and effectively to its target audience, resulting in a better understanding of the company and its products or services. Additionally, a well-designed presentation can help to create a positive impression of the business with potential clients or investors and inspire confidence in its ability to succeed.

If you have been tasked with creating a presentation for your company, there are a few best practices to consider to make your slides stand out. This article will share some best practices for presentation design. Keep reading to learn how you can make your presentations look their best.

Consider using a presentation design service.

One of the best ways to create a dynamic and powerful PowerPoint presentation is to let a professional design it. The purpose of a good presentation is to inform or persuade an audience. There are many factors to consider when designing a presentation, including the content, layout, fonts, colors, and graphics. A professional PowerPoint presentation design service understands the principles of graphic design and can help you craft slides that will stand out with your audience.

A professional service will be able to help you create a well-organized and visually appealing presentation. They will take into account your branding and target audience and will create a layout that is both professional and effective. Additionally, when you work with a professional service, you can be assured that all of the elements of your presentation will be cohesive. From the layout and design to the animation and multimedia, everything will be in line with your overall message. Finally, by working with a professional service, you can be sure that your presentation will be of the highest quality. Professional designers have the experience and skills necessary to create a presentation that is polished and effective.

Use enough white space.

White space, or the negative space around and between elements on a page, can be used to improve readability, legibility, and overall aesthetics. It can also help to focus attention on key elements. One way to use white space effectively is to break up large blocks of text with shorter paragraphs and headers. This makes the text easier to scan and eliminates the monotony that can occur when reading long chunks of uninterrupted text.

Another way to use white space is by placing related elements close together. For example, if you have a list of points you want to make, group them together instead of scattering them throughout the slide. And finally, leave plenty of empty space around images and other graphics, so they don’t compete for attention with text or other elements on the slide.

Use graphics effectively.

Good graphics can add life, interest, and clarity to a presentation, but if used incorrectly, they can also be distracting and annoying. The best practice to keep in mind when designing a PowerPoint is to use charts, graphics, and animations so that they add to your content. You’ll want to use graphics sparingly so as to not overwhelm your audience. Too many graphics can be overwhelming and distracting. It’s also important that you make sure the graphics are relevant to your content. If an image or chart doesn’t serve a purpose, don’t use it.

Additionally, you’ll want to match the graphic to the tone of your presentation. If you’re giving a serious presentation, avoid using silly or frivolous images. Conversely, if you’re giving a humorous presentation, light-hearted animations will work well. Finally, make sure the graphic is easy to understand. If a chart or graph is too complex or confusing, it will distract from your content rather than help to explain it. Keep things simple whenever possible.

Create a clean and cohesive presentation.

One of the more important things you can do when creating a presentation is to craft a clean and cohesive presentation. This involves organizing your slides into a logical order, using consistent formatting, and spacing your text and images evenly. It’s also important to use fonts that are easy to read and to avoid overcrowding your slides with too much information. Additionally, ensure that your slides are edited carefully for grammar, spelling, and other mistakes. You want your presentation to reflect your business and professionalism. The best way to do this is to design clean and cohesive slides that are easy to understand and help highlight your key points to your audience.

Best practices in presentation design are important to consider because they can help to make your presentations more effective and engaging for your audience. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your slides are well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to understand.

A complete guide to work trousers

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work trousers red

Vintage work trousers and jackets from France and Japan are making a comeback among the young and fashionable from Tel Aviv to Montreal to New York. Worn in, study, and bright blue. The vibe of good craftwork is coming into vogue as handmade and recycled items from crafts and professions such as metalworking in the forge to carpentry and handmade pottery make a revival. 

A comfortable outdoor work trouser made by companies like Engelbert Strauss  can also be found “new” if you aren’t keen on the holes and wear and tear from the vintage pants you might find. 

And consider that if you are using the trousers for professional use you will need to consider size so they will need to fit well and may need pockets in exactly the right places. They can be used for everyday use and no longer need to be baggy like in the days of yore. If you want to work close to your bench and prefer slim trousers, plenty of options are available too. 

What are work trousers?

Work trousers   are trousers that are made to take a beating. They are pants you wear when you are engaging in physical work which can range from heavy lifting and moving wood around in your woodworking shop, to the kind of pants that will work with you in photography when you are out in location, or maybe you are a general handy person who likes to keep your hands busy. 

Why are work trousers important?

Typically work trousers are made tougher than regular clothes with reinforcements and rivets for deep and quick bending, with pockets that will make sense when you move or need a handy place to put your scissors wrench or screws. 

Some workplaces will cover the cost of work trousers. And make sure they are available for men and women. In the UK it is the law (links to PDF).

Lacerations from sharp objects are the most common injury that can be prevented by wearing work pants and safety shoes . Some brands make them heavy duty materials to help reduce the chance of a sharp object such as metal or glass from reaching and piercing your skin.

They should be separate from your everyday clothes, especially if you work in the shop with materials such as heavy grease, insulation or pottery glazes and clay –– materials which may be toxic and which you don’t want inside your home environment. 

Work trousers should stay in the shop and be used when working. Leave them hanging in the shop or workroom at the end of the day and wash them when needed. Keeping work-life trousers separate also makes for a healthier balance between work and play. 

Modern work trousers and work shorts can do much more than classic denim jeans, says classic trouser maker Engelbert Strauss. Consider that most people have good tools and work shoes. However, many tend to neglect the subject of work trousers. You often see men and women wearing denim jeans or similar pants or shorts on the building site. The lightest of rain falls down, and the denim jeans soak it up. They hang heavy on the legs, stay damp for hours and the legs are cold while  at work. 

havie upcycled hipsters
Making work trousers

With dozens of makes and models of the modern work short and trouser look for a brand that suits your lifestyle. I’ve seen aprons and bibs for bartending, carpentry and pottery that fit the bill and likely, your size. Havie in Tel Aviv makes clothes this way, upcycled from old army tents. 

7 Travel Workout Ideas That You Can Practice Everywhere

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woman running behind graffiti

When it comes to achieving your fitness goal, focus and consistency are the keys. While travel workouts are great, you can, if you can fit them into your travel schedule, don’t stress about taking a few days off. Skipping your workout for a few days will not greatly affect your progress.

There are many benefits to doing workouts while traveling, such as giving you more energy and improving your mood than doing nothing in your hotel room. However, not all hotels have exercise equipment or gym amenities. Some hotels have started programs where you can borrow running shoes during your stay. While it’s a lighter way to travel, and a sustainable option for runners running through various terrain, most of us want to keep our own runners while travelling and on the go.

travel workout couple, jogging with music

If you are a constant traveller, it’s important to have in mind a quick bodyweight workout, much better workouts without equipment to help you make the workout possible no matter where you are.

So, whether you’re on the road for a business trip, fun, or just visiting family for a week or more, here are several travel workouts and strength training to try:

7 Travel Workout Ideas to Practice, No Equipment Needed

Here is a list of bodyweight workouts that does not require going to the gym or exercise equipment in the travel bag. 

They are all free and simple, where you can do it anywhere at any time that helps you stay fit and for fat loss.

hiking, eco-tourism, mountain trails, rural development, sustainable development

Plank

This versatile exercise can be done anywhere and fit with any type of workout. It targets the core muscles, making it perfect for anyone looking to strengthen their midsection. The added strength in your core helps reduce lower back pain and stabilize your natural posture.

Start with 8 to 12 reps on each side to do this properly. Then aim for up to 20 reps as you get stronger.

However, if you’re taking dietary supplements or intermittent fasting to support fat loss, general information surrounding these supplements and diets should be considered. For instance, you must incorporate it with exercise and a balanced diet for best results.

Push-ups

It is arguably one of the best travel workouts that target almost the full body. Push-ups have many core-strengthening benefits but have significant upper body appeal and muscle endurance.

Push-ups target the chest, shoulders, and triceps. Health Canal experts claim that this exercise increases muscle mass throughout the body and will help support faster metabolism, helping the body burn more calories.

On your travel day, doing 50 to 100 push-ups is enough to maintain a good upper body once it’s done properly.

Mountain climber

The benefits of mountain climbing lie in the exercise’s ability to work for almost every muscle group from head to toe while adding a bit of cardio. It’s like doing a running motion while stressing the shoulders, triceps, core, and legs.

This versatile exercise can be incorporated with any workout, a warm-up, or blowout technique at the end of weights training. You may start with a slow pace and do 1 or 2 sets of 8 to 10 repetitions.

Once you’re comfortable, you can increase the number of sets and reps.

Burpee

This full-body, functional, and powerful exercise is one of the best go-to no-equipment workouts. Take your body down the floor and explode with a high jump. This exercise is all about power, strength, and intensity.

At the start of every minute, do ten burpees. You can also try 30 seconds of burpees followed by 30 seconds of rest.

Single-leg deadlift

This exercise builds strength and endurance in the entire body but significantly impacts the leg and hip. While this exercise offers most muscle resistance on the lower body, it also strengthens the ancillary muscles that can help improve one’s balance.

Squats or squat jumps

These two different motions work on the same muscle group, but the latter is more of a challenge. The squat jump is a more intense and cardio-centric alternative than regular squats, which works the legs through slower and more controlled reps.

Regardless of which version you choose, you can do either of these exercises and build significant lower body strength. When doing squats, aim for three complete sets of 12 to 15 reps of at least one type of squats.

Jogging

In the end, the ultimate travel workout will probably be jogging. The instant cardio benefits and its ability to burn calories make it a favorite workout routine. All you have to bring is a pair of running shoes, your gym clothes and you’re good to go.

"jogging energy electricity"

You can jog on a treadmill or in a nearby destination park, especially if you wish to explore the area.

Tips to Stay Healthy While Traveling

If you’re looking for tips to avoid getting sick while traveling or just want to stay as healthy as possible, here are some tips you may follow.

Get enough sleep

You’ll likely get sick when you’re tired, so don’t skimp on sleep while traveling. Being on the road is more physically exhausting than being at home, so make sure you know when to rest your body.

Drink plenty of water

It’s easy to get dehydrated while traveling, so don’t forget to drink lots of fluids. Start your day with a big glass of water and bring your water bottle with you all the time since buying at stores could be an extra cost.

Limit sweets and alcohol

While traveling, exploring the area and eating in different restaurants is normal. However, there are some instances where you may overindulge, especially in extra drinks and desserts.

These foods can lead to unwanted weight gain and disrupted circadian rhythm or your sleep-wake cycle. Just play it safe; consume sugar and alcohol in moderation.

Eat healthy foods

To stay in shape while traveling is about making healthy choices. This includes eating the right dishes. Choose foods with plenty of fresh fruits and veggies whenever possible.

You can ensure you eat healthy food by making or packing your own meals. For example, making simple meals such as salads and sandwiches.

Beat jet lag

Jet lag can interfere with your ability to enjoy yourself while traveling, especially when you cross another time zone. To avoid it, you can drink chamomile tea to help you sleep on your flight and for the first few evenings upon reaching your destination.

You should also avoid caffeine beverages, as they can disrupt your sleep.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to lose focus and sense of routine while traveling. Hence, following this, no equipment travel workout routine can encourage harmony, focus, and energy into your days on the road. When you find time to work out, it can help you balance out the late nights and oily street food.

The exercise listed above won’t solve all your problems but can help you stay grounded and help you get in shape while traveling.

Caring is sharing: 6 benefits of ESG for investors

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CSR and impact investing, native american shamans

In today’s world, there’s an increased demand for corporate responsibility in environmental, social, and governance (ESG).

ESG is essential in measuring a company’s health, performance, and competitiveness and goes beyond a business’s profitability. Companies can use an ESG platform to gather data and share insights with their stakeholders.

ESG presents many benefits to investors. Here are six of them.

Lower risk

Most investors want to limit their risk exposure when investing in any asset or fund. So, if one of your primary concerns is associated risk, ESG investing might be right for you. Businesses with a high ESG score enjoy reduced volatility.

As someone looking to invest in ESG, you likely want to avoid irresponsible firms and those with questionable practices. Such companies have a higher likelihood of failure. Through ESG investing, you will reduce your chance of losing money on your investment.

Enhanced financial performance

Many people falsely believe that incorporating sustainability in investments yields low returns. In truth, ESG investing can match conventional investment funds’ returns. It can also surpass these returns.

ESG focuses on minimizing the environmental impact of a business while yielding high returns. Most companies that get involved in ESG investing have improved financial performance. Using ESG criteria to filter investment decisions leads to enhanced financial performance.

Contribute to positive global change

Most investors care about the direction that the world is taking. They trust sustainable companies to lead the world in the right direction. Companies that incorporate ESG in their processes are likely to implement sustainable practices.

Investors want to sink their money into businesses or funds that share their beliefs. If you believe in sustainability, an ESG investment strategy may be right for you. Through ESG investing, you can contribute to positive change in the world. At the same time, you will grow your portfolio.

Competitive advantage

Recently, consumers have focused more on a company’s efforts in sustainability. Both small and large companies are adding value by adopting an ESG program. Such a program grabs consumers’ attention who wish to buy from sustainable businesses.

Generally, embracing sustainability in entrepreneurship gives a company a competitive edge. An ESG program boosts a business’s perception in the eyes of the public. It also enhances customer loyalty. Both these things lead to more sales and revenue, which is suitable for investors.

Reduced costs

An ESG program helps companies measure their energy and water consumption. It also helps them measure raw material usage and the costs of shipping or treating waste.

By tracking these metrics, companies can enhance their efficiency. They can also reduce the associated costs. Lower costs lead to better returns. ESG programs also reduce a company’s exposure to fines.

Market outperformance

Stocks that have a high ESG score significantly outperform other reference portfolios. Companies with sustainable practices outperform other firms because they have a better reputation. They also have a larger market share and better prospects for revenue growth. Such companies also reinvest their revenues and generate more money for investors.

Final thoughts

Today, most investors engage in ESG investing. Through ESG investing, you can benefit the world and earn significant returns.

 





Rise and Benefits of Sustainable Adventure Travel

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traveling to Palong people, Thailand
Adventure travel might mean living with the Palong people in Thailand

The power of the internet today makes it easier and more convenient for many travelers to find information online. Many travelers prefer to use the internet to find new places and travel destinations that would add to their experiences. However, today there is a growing awareness about how we can save our planet by making certain deliberate choices that help us save the planet. Hence, many travelers today prefer to focus on sustainable tourism that allows them to travel the world without damaging the natural environment and the local economy. The concept of sustainable adventure travel relies on the framework of sustainable tourism and is being adopted by many adventure travel enthusiasts. 

Understanding Sustainable Adventure Travel

While many travelers prefer to relax and unwind during their holidays many prefer to head out into the wild and do some fun and adventure activities. Adventure tourism is generally based on providing activities in natural and rugged outdoor locations where participants are in constant connection with the wilderness and nature. However, as more people are becoming aware of sustainable tourism many travel companies and agencies are now offering sustainable adventure travel where they identify potential tourism attractions where participants can connect with nature and help local communities as well. This allows them to bring local communities into the tourism fold and help participants understand local culture and lifestyle. Various tour companies like KE Adventure promote the concept of responsible tourism and focus on sustainability commitments to help protect and conserve the planet.   

Rise of Sustainable Adventure Travel 

The world today is changing rapidly and so are the needs and preferences of travelers. Today, travelers are more informed and aware of the climate and geographical changes happening on the planet. Hence, sustainability has become one of the top priorities for many travelers that understand that tourism in many ways contributes to climate change and environmental degradation. As per the study by CarbonBrief.org the global tourism industry, today accounts for 8% of the total carbon emissions and that percentage is rapidly growing. 

Sustainable adventure tourism focuses on how travelers and travel firms can minimize the negative impacts on the environment while at the same time promoting positive economic and social benefits for local communities. 

Also, one of the reasons for the rapid rise of sustainable adventure travel is that a major part of adventure travel is about connecting with nature. Adventure tourism is about doing some physical activities, connecting with the nature and environment and having an immersive cultural experience.

Sweden is among the top countries that run hundreds of local eco-certified tour operators around the country. This allows travelers to find more local tour operators across the country to get the best travel adventure packages. 

Various adventure travelers prefer activities like trekking, hiking, climbing, cycling, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddling, waterboarding and paragliding which allows them to feel the adrenaline rush without hurting nature around. 

Furthermore, many adventure travel activities are carried out in natural environments or rural and remote areas and therefore incorporating sustainability into adventure travel is easier and faster compared to other forms of tourism. 

When it comes to adventure travel many travelers prefer to explore the culinary experiences of the local area for instance rural gastronomy and wine tasting and craft beer tasting. Travelers interested in sustainable adventure tourism also get to participate in wellness activities like local Ayurvedic massage and spa treatment, yoga and meditation and even forest bathing. All these activities provide adventure travelers with the adventure that they seek. 

On the other hand, it also develops the local communities and economy offering locals stable employment opportunities As per the survey done by Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), 65% of the total trip cost from an adventure package remains in the destinations visited. This is because local tour operators that hire local tour guides with knowledge of the local territory and history organize most of the sustainable adventure tourism trips. This improves the quality of life of local communities and people in the area.

Benefits of Sustainable Adventure Travel 

Tourism is one of the activities that not only affect the economy of the nation, but also the climate and social sectors of the country. Today, many travelers are opting for sustainable adventure travel as they want to minimize the negative effects of the tourism industry on the climate and the global environment at large. 

However, there are 6 more benefits to it that you should know.

Saves Money

Now, who doesn’t want to save money on their forthcoming adventure trip? Even if you have the budget to make the most of your trip you would want to optimize your budget, won’t you? With sustainable adventure travel, you can save your money because instead of a multinational chain of hotels and resorts local tour operators organize a lot of these tours and trips. These sustainable tours are budget-friendly and far more affordable than you would imagine. 

Eco-Friendly Transport

While many people that prefer adventure travel generally prefer activities like hiking and cycling this is already eco-friendly. However, efforts are being made to avoid the most polluting travel options like cruisers and aeroplanes and replace them with options that conserve nature. For instance, the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust (MWCT) is now using an electric safari car in Kenya to tackle the challenges of climate change and greenhouse gases. 

Encourages New Businesses

With sustainable adventure tourism, various local tour operators and firms get the opportunity to grow their business. From an adventure traveler’s point of view, this allows you to find various local tour operators and businesses that would provide you with sustainable adventure travel packages and plans that meet your preferences and needs. 

Revives Local and Rural Economy

When you opt for local tour operators the money you spend stays in the destinations you choose. With the help of sustainable adventure tourism, you can revive the local and rural economy and offer local people stable employment opportunities. With the strengthening of more local and rural economies, you can contribute to strengthening the economy of the nation you visit. 

Visiting Hill Tribe children in Thailand

Promotes Culture and Local Products

When you opt for local tour guides you also get a sneak peek into the local culture and traditions. This provides you with a window to experience the lives of the local people and their cuisine and the products they make. Various rural communities today promote their art and handicraft through sustainable tourism. This improves the quality of the life of the locals, both economically and socio-culturally. 

Raises Awareness and Educate

As urban dwellers, we often never get to know the real ground issues of the rural areas and how it affects our climate, environment, animals and planet at large. With sustainable adventure tourism you not just get to know the culture and history of the place you visit but also discover ecological and environmental challenges that the mainstream media misses out on highlighting. You get an opportunity to interact and communicate with the locals on issues that matter to them.