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DUBAI REEF Initiative Boosts Marine Life and Biodiversity in Local Waters
DUBAI REEF Initiative Boosts Marine Life and Biodiversity in Local Waters

Hi Dubai

timea day ago

  • Business
  • Hi Dubai

DUBAI REEF Initiative Boosts Marine Life and Biodiversity in Local Waters

DUBAI REEF, a large-scale, purpose-built reef project, is already demonstrating measurable ecological benefits in Dubai's coastal waters. Underwater footage from the project's proof-of-concept site reveals an increase in marine activity, with growing habitats and a surge in fish populations. Surveys recorded a notable rise across 15 native species, such as groupers, snappers, and barracuda. The initiative has achieved a 10% boost in marine biodiversity and an eightfold increase in fish biomass, highlighting its early success in restoring marine ecosystems. Launched in 2024, the initiative aims to deploy 20,000 reef modules across 600 km² by 2027, with 39% of the modules already fabricated and 3,660 deployed so far. DUBAI REEF is structured around three pillars: Marine Habitat Restoration, Marine Life Rehabilitation, and Marine Conservation Research. The initiative is part of the Dubai Can sustainability movement and was launched under the direction of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. It is powered by a public-private partnership that includes DET, DECCA, DP World, Dubai Chambers, Nakheel, PCFC, and Emirates. DUBAI REEF also supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Partnerships (SDG 17). News Source: Emirates News Agency

Chun Wo Innovation Student Awards 2024 Successfully Concluded Four Outstanding Projects Showcase the Future of Engineering Innovation
Chun Wo Innovation Student Awards 2024 Successfully Concluded Four Outstanding Projects Showcase the Future of Engineering Innovation

Associated Press

timea day ago

  • Business
  • Associated Press

Chun Wo Innovation Student Awards 2024 Successfully Concluded Four Outstanding Projects Showcase the Future of Engineering Innovation

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 29 July 2025 - Organised by Chun Wo Development Holdings Limited ('Chun Wo'), the Chun Wo Innovation Student Awards 2024 ('CWISA') concluded successfully with an award presentation ceremony celebrating a new generation of engineering talent and their innovative solutions. Themed 'Engineers: Overcoming World's Challenges', this year's competition attracted over 40 teams from 18 higher education institutions and universities across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. By using cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and Augmented/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) to develop engineering solutions for 'Climate Action', 'Sustainable Cities and Communities', and 'Innovative Architecture and Infrastructure'. The award ceremony was attended by government officials, industry leaders, and academic representatives. A total of HKD 200,000 in cash prize was presented across the Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Merit Awards. Chun Wo will assist winning teams to execute their innovative ideas by providing appropriate resources or investments. Sr Stephen LEE, Chairman of Chun Wo Construction Holdings Company Limited remarks, 'It is inspiring to witness the rise of future talents in engineering and innovation from Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. By leveraging innovation and technology to address challenges like infrastructure and climate change, the students have shown immense potential. We hope the award-winning students will continue to explore new possibilities and work together to create a better future for society.' Ir Michael FONG, JP, Director of the Civil Engineering and Development remarks, 'Having served as a judge for two consecutive years, I am deeply impressed by the level of innovation showcased in this year's entries — it not only demonstrates the students' growing ambition in their creations but also reflects the younger generation's spirit of breaking conventions and pioneering new possibilities.' The Gold Award of CWISA 2024 was presented to a team from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University for their project 'Renewable Material Coagulant', which uses industrial by-products to develop a low-carbon solidifying agent as a replacement for traditional cement in ground stabilisation. The project achieves more than 80% carbon emission reduction and offers a revolutionary alternative for green construction and land rehabilitation. The Silver Award went to a cross-institutional team from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Their project 'RiceFort' upcycles discarded rice husks into eco-friendly fibreboards for use in furniture and construction. The project demonstrates high performance, low cost, and recyclability, and also won the Best Social Impact Award for its green entrepreneurship potential and community value. The Bronze Award was awarded to a team from City University of Hong Kong for their project 'AI-Driven Self-cleaning Air-to-Hydrogen System', which combines air-to-water extraction, solar photocatalysis, and AI-powered self-cleaning to produce hydrogen with zero carbon emissions and no external water consumption. The solution is especially suitable for arid and remote areas, and also won the Best Sustainable Solution Award. In addition, a joint team from The University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University won the Best Business Potential Award for their project 'Generation Alpha Building Emergency System', which features an AIoT-powered fire detection system with high accuracy and low false alarm rates, offering an advanced fire safety solution for older buildings and high-density urban environments. Chun Wo aims to continuously inspire the creativity and sense of social responsibility among young engineers through the CWISA platform. The company will continue working with academia, industry, and government partners to promote the implementation of innovative technologies and nurture more engineering talent with global vision and a commitment to sustainability, contributing to a smarter and greener future. Download High-Resolution Photos HERE Photo Captions: Hashtag: #ChunWoDevelopment The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Chun Wo Innovation Student Awards The Chun Wo Innovation Student Awards ('CWISA') is a biennial competition established in 2018 by Chun Wo Development Holdings Limited. It aims to inspire young innovators to develop creative engineering solutions that strengthen urban connectivity and promote sustainable city development. Since its inception, CWISA has attracted over 650 students from more than 20 tertiary institutions and universities across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. The fourth CWISA is themed 'Engineers Overcoming the World's Challenges,' motivates students to propose innovative engineering solutions in response to climate action, sustainable cities and communities, and innovative architecture and infrastructure. By leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR), students are encouraged to help shape a better future for society and the environment. The Awards recognise outstanding ideas with Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Merit Awards. The Gold Award winner will receive a cash prize of HK$100,000, with a total cash prize of approximately HK$200,000 for all winners. For more information, please visit: About Chun Wo Development Holdings Limited Chun Wo Development Holdings Limited ('Chun Wo') was founded in 1968 and is a key subsidiary of Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited (stock code: The Company is principally engaged in the core construction and property development businesses with the professional capability to undertake large integrated construction projects. Recent examples of large infrastructure projects which the Company has undertaken works include the Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin Tunnel Tseung Kwan O Interchange, the Central-Wan Chai Bypass, the Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Infrastructure, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Passenger Clearance Building, the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (Hong Kong Section), the MTR Shatin to Central Link and the Redevelopment of Kwong Wah Hospital (Phase 2) etc. About Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited (Stock Code: Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited ('Asia Allied Infrastructure', 'the Group') is listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under stock code 00711. The Group operates businesses such as construction engineering and management, property development and assets leasing, security and facility management, tunnel management, non-franchised bus services, as well as medical technology and healthcare. Its subsidiary 'Chun Wo' is a renowned construction contractor and property developer in Hong Kong. Chun Wo's solid construction experience and professional capabilities have enabled the Group to seize suitable development opportunities, allowing the Group to enhance its overall profitability and investment value.

Endangered Species Awareness Campaign Welcomes Pygmy-Owl
Endangered Species Awareness Campaign Welcomes Pygmy-Owl

Associated Press

time22-07-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Associated Press

Endangered Species Awareness Campaign Welcomes Pygmy-Owl

NEW YORK, July 21, 2025 /3BL/ -The cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl is the latest animal in the LG Endangered Species Series campaign, which highlights vulnerable species selected by the community. This threatened bird is now being featured on LG's 3D anamorphic billboard in Times Square. Launched in 2024 by LG Electronics USA in partnership with the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), the LG Endangered Species Series aims to educate K-12 students and raise awareness on biodiversity, wildlife conservation and climate action, while reinforcing LG's broader commitment to environmental responsibility and its global brand promise, 'Life's Good.' This series brings to life LG's partnership with NBC's The Americas, a 10-part nature documentary series showcasing the wildlife and wild places of North and South America, including the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl and other vulnerable and endangered species. The series is streaming on Peacock. Listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl stands just six inches tall (about the size of a soda can) and is native to southern Arizona, Texas and parts of Mexico. This small, fierce owl faces growing threats from habitat loss, fragmentation, invasive species and climate change. Previous endangered species featured in the campaign include the snow leopard, bald eagle, Galapagos sea lion, red wolf, monarch butterfly and West Indian manatee. The cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl was selected by the public through online and in-person voting conducted earlier this year, reflecting strong community interest in raising awareness for lesser-known species. Additional animals will be revealed throughout 2025. 'At LG, we believe 'Life's Good' means creating a better, more sustainable future for all,' said Jeannie Lee, director of Corporate Marketing at LG Electronics USA. 'Through our Endangered Species Series and our partnership with The National Wildlife Federation and NBC's The Americas, we're using the power of immersive storytelling to help inspire people to care for and protect the natural world we all share.' She said, as part of its continued partnership with the NWF, LG Electronics has launched an educational initiative to engage K-12 students in conservation efforts. The program offers interactive content that highlights the importance of at-risk and endangered species in ecosystems, while empowering students with practical steps to protect biodiversity and habitats. These free resources are available online for educators, students and families. The NWF has published a blog spotlighting the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl – featuring unique behavioral insights and the species' ecological role. Students and nature enthusiasts can also test their knowledge through an interactive quiz designed to foster a deeper understanding of the pygmy-owls and other owls. LG's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the classroom through its support of NWF's EcoSchools U.S. and EcoLeaders programs, which equip students, educators and communities with tools for real-world environmental impact. To help drive these efforts, LG has pledged $170,000 to NWF to inspire the next generation of conservation leaders and advance the protection of wildlife and wild places. The Americas is now streaming on Peacock. Explore The Americas watch kits from NWF, which features educational activities, amazing animal facts, and actions families can take to help protect wildlife like the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl and more. Visit to learn more about LG's commitment to conservationism and environmental stewardship. ### Contact: LG Electronics North America John I. Taylor +1 202 719 3490 [email protected] Visit 3BL Media to see more multimedia and stories from LG Electronics USA

UAE inaugurates first-of-its-kind SDG exhibition at UN HQ
UAE inaugurates first-of-its-kind SDG exhibition at UN HQ

Zawya

time20-07-2025

  • Politics
  • Zawya

UAE inaugurates first-of-its-kind SDG exhibition at UN HQ

New York-USA – The UAE has held its first national exhibition at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York City, as part of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025. Titled "Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future", the exhibition reflects the UAE's commitment to expanding international action to achieve SDGs, as well as its involvement in shaping the future of global development. The inauguration was attended by Her Excellency Amina Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General; His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the UN; His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, and head of the UAE delegation participating in the HLPF; alongside representatives from international organizations and government delegations from around the world. Platform for Showcasing Inclusive Development The exhibition was organised jointly by entities including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Dubai Chambers, and Noor Dubai Foundation, a member of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). The entities showcased their experiences and globally replicable initiatives in sustainable development, including in innovation, climate action, community empowerment. Beyond 2030: Four Pillars for Development The exhibition is the first of its kind organised by the UAE at the UN HLPF. It offers an interactive experience that highlights the UAE's journey in supporting sustainable development goals since the Rio Summit in 2000. The exhibition represents an extension of the dialogue initiated by the UAE in the Government Experience Exchange Programme with more than 170 leaders and decision-makers during the World Government Summit 2023. The exhibition presents the framework of sustainable development goals as an ambitious vision for the UAE beyond 2030, based on four main pillars: integrating sustainability into national policies and legislation; monitoring impact through accurate indicators and data; developing a flexible development model through 'Future Zones'; and enhancing international partnerships through knowledge sharing, particularly through the Government Experience Exchange Programme. HE Abdullah Lootah: the Exhibition Reflects UAE's Commitment to a More Sustainable Future His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah said: 'The UAE is committed to sharing best practices and successful experiences with partners around the world. The 'Shaping Tomorrow" exhibition embodies the UAE's vision for a global development pathway based on partnership, knowledge sharing, and innovation. This reflects the UAE's approach to creating solutions that can be scaled globally and reflects its commitment to supporting global dialogue on the post-2030 era. This includes initiatives like the Government Experience Exchange Programme.' National Initiatives Supporting Global Goals The exhibition highlighted major national development efforts that have had global impact. The Ministry of Interior showcased its "Green Justice" initiative in Latin America, aimed at combating transnational environmental crimes, as part of its efforts supporting SDG 17. Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) presented its contributions to financing projects in 100+ countries, supporting infrastructure, education, and renewable energy. The Supreme Committee for Motherhood and Childhood showcased its initiatives aimed at empowering women and children, including the "National Child Empowerment Guide" and the "Emirati Children's Parliament," which enhance children's participation in decision-making in support of SDG 5. Noor Dubai Foundation presented its model for combating visual impairments in support of SDG 3. This includes the iBSAR project in Asia and Africa, which provides preventive and therapeutic care. EAD showcased its efforts in protecting marine ecosystems through initiatives such as the "Marine Turtle Protection Program" and smart monitoring technologies for coral reefs, aligning with SDG 14. UAE Model for Integrated Development These initiatives exemplify the integration between the UAE's national vision and its global commitments, by linking local policies with international development goal.

Reading's carbon emissions have fallen by 57%, data shows
Reading's carbon emissions have fallen by 57%, data shows

BBC News

time19-07-2025

  • Business
  • BBC News

Reading's carbon emissions have fallen by 57%, data shows

Carbon emissions in Reading have fallen by more than half over an 18-year period, new government figures Berkshire town has seen the 12th biggest reduction in emissions out of the UK's 384 local authorities between 2005 and 2023, according to the Borough Council said it was currently working on "major projects" to reduce its own carbon footprint and "create a net zero borough".John Ennis, the authority's climate lead, said the government figures showed "Reading's commitment to taking positive climate action". "It is only through organisations, businesses, communities and residents working together that Reading has achieved a 57% drop in emissions and maintained its position as 12th in the country for carbon reduction," he Ennis said the council was "leading by example", including the work to upgrade the Hexagon major construction project, which started this week, includes plans to install ground and air source heat pumps across the building, replacing gas council said it has cut its own emissions by almost 75% since 2009, adding that it only accounts for roughly 2% of the town's overall Reading Climate Change Partnership, of which the council is a key member, is also currently asking people for their thoughts on how the town can achieve net zero."We all need to keep up the momentum in the face of rising temperatures, wetter winters and extreme weather conditions occurring more frequently," Mr Ennis said. You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.

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