<![CDATA[Pressat Main Newswire]]> https://pressat.co.uk/category/environment-nature/ <![CDATA[Pressat Main Newswire]]> https://pressat.co.uk/media/site/logo.png https://pressat.co.uk/category/environment-nature/ en-gb Copyright: (C) Pressat Pressat <![CDATA[ Conrad Energy closes UK’s first standalone greenfield financing of two Pathfinder synchronous condenser projects for c. £200m. ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/conrad-energy-closes-uks-first-standalone-greenfield-financing-of-two-pathfinder-synchronous-condenser-projects-for-c-200m-495bfbd95bf16d1afb460176107efb48/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/conrad-energy-closes-uks-first-standalone-greenfield-financing-of-two-pathfinder-synchronous-condenser-projects-for-c-200m-495bfbd95bf16d1afb460176107efb48/ Thursday 28 March, 2024

Conrad Energy is pleased to announce that it has successfully closed the greenfield financing of its two Pathfinder synchronous condenser projects located in the East of England. The company is owned by I Squared Capital, a leading global energy infrastructure investor with $38bn+ Assets Under Management.


The company’s adviser, Nomura Greentech, launched the financing process in June and contacted over 50 lenders for this first-of-a-kind financing. The transaction received strong support and ultimately the £200 million package was supported by commitments from AIB, Siemens Financial Services acting through Siemens Bank, HSBC UK, Bank of China and CaixaBank. It comprises a fully amortising term loan of c. £170 million, and £30m of ancillary facilities maturing in March 2035. The financing package is underpinned by long-term cash flow visibility with no merchant exposure, supported by c. 10-year of 100% availability fee contracts with investment grade counterparty National Grid ESO.


Proceeds of the financing will be used to fund the remaining capex required to construct the synchronous condensers, as National Grid prepares to operate at zero-carbon by 2025 as part of the UK’s Net Zero target for 2050.


As a result of the increased penetration of renewable energy and the retirement of thermal generation, the transmission system inertia and Short Circuit Levels (“SCL”) are falling. Therefore, National Grid launched the Stability Pathfinder 3 procurements in November 2022 to secure SCL and provide stability to the network. The need for stability products varies across the country and so, National Grid have embarked on a series of regional procurement exercises to allow the market to provide solutions for this requirement.


The synchronous condensers, provided by Siemens Energy, will allow National Grid to manage inertia and Short Circuit Level, thereby protecting the commercial and industrial equipment connected to the transmission system. These services will be used to stabilise the UK transmission system, a further example of Conrad Energy’s commitment to the energy transition.


The company’s legal advisers were Osborne Clarke and Gowling WLG (property). Aon (insurance), Mott McDonald (technical) and RSM (model audit) also provided advice to the company and its lenders. The project lenders’ legal adviser was Ashurst. Nomura’s Risk Solutions Group provided FX and interest rate hedging and also acted as the market hedge coordinator on the rate hedging. Steven Hardman, Chief Executive Officer of Conrad Energy, said:“We’re extremely happy with this successful transaction and would like to thank all the parties involved in getting this innovative financing completed. Special thanks go to our partners, Siemens Energy and National Grid, who worked closely with us to deliver a financeable project. Whilst the transaction was underpinned by the availability contract, we see these assets operating well into the future – providing stability to help facilitate the energy transition over the long-term.”





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https://admire-pr.com/ 28 Mar 2024 20:18:16 GMT Business & Finance Environment & Nature Manufacturing, Engineering & Energy
<![CDATA[ AT THE EDGE OF BEYOND: ALCHEMY, BIOPUNK & OCCULT BLOOD AT THE MUSEUM OF WITCHCRAFT AND MAGIC ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/at-the-edge-of-beyond-alchemy-biopunk-occult-blood-at-the-museum-of-witchcraft-and-magic-3c3bee116eafdce43daeda1157d67f80/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/at-the-edge-of-beyond-alchemy-biopunk-occult-blood-at-the-museum-of-witchcraft-and-magic-3c3bee116eafdce43daeda1157d67f80/ Wednesday 27 March, 2024


The Museum
of Witchcraft and Magic has invited Bioart Coven
founder WhiteFeather Hunter to curate its 2024 exhibition.



A Canadian
technofeminist transdisciplinary artist and scholar
working in a multiplicity of media, which often operate
without conventional notions of art, science and magical
practice; Dr Hunter has recently completed a PhD in Biological
Art at Symbiotica, The  University of Western Australia.



Her doctoral
research into developing a novel menstrual serum for tissue
engineering experiments was spotlighted by Merck/ Sigma-Aldrich for
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2021 as part of
their #nextgreatimpossible campaign:
her work has received many awards and accolades.



Several
of her works, which debuted last year at Art Laboratory
Berlin, were produced as part of Hunter’s doctoral research in
tissue engineering and laboratory magic using human stem cells
derived from taboo body materials—all within the context
of contemporary feminist witchcraft.



She
returns to the Museum to install an exhibition showcasing
her recent works, along with selected objects from the museum
and other prestigious collections including Genesis
P.Orridge's / Sigil for Derek Jarman, and mysterious material
from the hermetic Richel-Eldermans Collection.



The
exhibition, Arcanum Sanguinis: Occult Blood will
span the downstairs gallery and upper floor display rooms and will
also include a video / textile piece she produced during
her previous residency in 2022. Worked as a complex
composite combining digital and organic
matter, Palimpsest presages her later work
via its interrogation of MWM archival material
transmitted to the audience as tactile ghost pages, representing her
scholarly approach to research.



For Arcanum
Sanguinis, Hunter’s curation of museum objects and
artefacts that accompany her work speak to the symbolism, beliefs and
practices that have underpinned the development of the discipline of biomedicine
over the centuries. Though ‘magic’ and ‘science’ are often
imagined to be opposing realms, Hunter has arranged a visual thematic
narrative to show some of the subtle overlaps that exist between
them, purposing the coalescence of material in unexpected ways.


Hunter’s machine embroidered and blood-stained lab coat
complements a hand-embroidered ritual robe that features a caduceus
symbol. The caduceus, a double-snake helical arrangement around a
staff originates from ancient fertility goddess worship but is now
best known for its association with medical institutions.



Considerable
attention has been given to the proven parallels between art and
magical practice, to the extent that they may in fact
seem quite commonplace. Little attention has been awarded
to the correspondences betwixt scientific practice and magic. In
the instances that they exist, they are considered to
be taboo ...by The Academy.



In Arcanum
Sanguinis: Occult Blood, Hunter shows that from folk magic
to alchemy to contemporary biotechnological advance, our cultural
perceptions of health and the body have always been moderated through
ritual and influenced by biopolitics.



Arcanum
Sanguinis: Occult Blood by WhiteFeather Hunter opens Monday,
April 1, 2024 and will run the full season until October 31, 2024.







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https://museumofwitchcraftandmagic.co.uk/ 27 Mar 2024 06:48:37 GMT Entertainment & Arts Environment & Nature Health Medical & Pharmaceutical Men's Interest Women & Beauty
<![CDATA[ IS DOG FAME THE WAY FORWARD? ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/is-dog-fame-the-way-forward-0b483b7a77a2d151266ec9bd5bbd2e72/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/is-dog-fame-the-way-forward-0b483b7a77a2d151266ec9bd5bbd2e72/ Wednesday 27 March, 2024

Meet Pablo, the trailblazing dog celebrity/influencer, and one of the most famous dogs in the UK



Pablo is a social media star (with well over 100,000 Instagram and Tiktok followers), he’s the star of a billboard campaign, and now star of his own book series. Pablo is a dog. And his owner’s quest to make him famous is quite by design, hoping it might kickstart a new cultural trend.


“The beauty of dog fame is there is no downside,” says Bobby Breese. “Dogs are attention seekers, much like some wannabee reality TV stars. But the difference is that attention and fame doesn’t change a dog’s personality, they are completely unaware of their changed status. Concepts of fame or notoriety don't enter their consciousness, they don’t see fame and celebrity as measures of success, and paparazzi intrusion wouldn’t cause them any undue stress or lead to a stint in rehab. All it means to them is more attention, treats and belly rubs from strangers, and human attention is exactly what dogs hanker after the most.”


Pablo is a Borador, which is a cross breed of half a border collie and half a labrador. Bobby is a huge fan of this unique mix, describing him as half-intelligent half-greedy, but is also keen to point out that his best qualities are those shared by all dogs. “Pablo is special to us in the same way all dogs are special to their owners. The unconditional loyalty and love, the entertainment and clownery they provide, and the empathy and ability to sync their behaviour with their owners over time”.


So how did Pablo’s fame come about?


“He’s always been a bit of a local celebrity around North-West London, when out on walks he gets stopped in the street or ushered into his local butchers for some treats,” said Bobby. “But it is in the local pubs that he has become best known and built his social media following. His party trick is asking the bar staff for his own particular tipple (a bowl of water with ice).”



Pablo was recently entered into a competition to become one of the stars of a new advertising campaign by his dog food brand Butternut Box. Lo and behold, they were charmed by his cheeky antics and Pablo can now be spotted on billboards across London.


Bobby has always been a keen writer, and Pablo coming into his life, and the adventures they get up to, has inspired his latest venture. Pablo is now the star of his own book series, The Adventures of Pablo, and until the start of May you can get your hands on Pablo’s books through a Kickstarter campaign.


Bobby thinks he’s hit on a winning formula. “The books themselves are unique in that there is a children’s and adult book for each story, so there is something for everyone. And everyone is literally a winner. The more famous Pablo gets, and the more social media followers he gets, the more the books will be worth over time. The more books that are sold, the more treats and adventures Pablo gets, and some of the money will be going to dog charities too,” says Bobby.



For more information on Pablo’s books that are available now until the start of May, visit: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/theadventuresofpablo/the-adventures-of-pablo-valuable-keepsake-books


To join Pablo’s social media fan club use his handle @pablotheborador, or check out his website https://www.theadventuresofpablo.com/




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https://www.theadventuresofpablo.com/ 27 Mar 2024 06:00:03 GMT Entertainment & Arts Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Leisure & Hobbies Lifestyle & Relationships Opinion Article
<![CDATA[ MAJOR NEW SCIENCE MUSEUM GALLERY EXPLORES RAPID ENERGY TRANSITION NEEDED TO LIMIT CLIMATE CHANGE ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/major-new-science-museum-gallery-explores-rapid-energy-transition-needed-to-limit-climate-change-4ce22ac50271b32bcc3a2e9ea450b4ba/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/major-new-science-museum-gallery-explores-rapid-energy-transition-needed-to-limit-climate-change-4ce22ac50271b32bcc3a2e9ea450b4ba/ Tuesday 26 March, 2024

Tuesday 26 March 2024


STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL 00.01AM, TUESDAY 26 MARCH
MAJOR NEW SCIENCE MUSEUM GALLERY EXPLORES URGENT ENERGY TRANSITION NEEDED TO LIMIT CLIMATE CHANGE
Today a major new gallery examining the rapid energy transition and decarbonisation needed globally to limit climate change opens at the Science Museum; Energy Revolution: The Adani Green Energy Gallery features historic and contemporary objects and engaging digital exhibits that highlight how we can journey towards a low carbon world; The free gallery showcases how the world can generate and use energy more sustainably, highlighting technologies and projects from the UK and abroad - from hydrogen power on Orkney to terracotta air-cooling façades in India and solar farms in Morocco; The gallery encourages visitors to reflect on past energy transitions and the pioneers who dreamed what might be possible, while imagining the energy use that will shape our low carbon future.

Energy Revolution: The Adani Green Energy Gallery Ticketed; FREE


Level 2


sciencemuseum.org.uk/energy-revolution


Today the Science Museum opens a major new gallery dedicated to one of the greatest challenges of our time, exploring how the world can generate and use energy more sustainably to urgently decarbonise global energy systems and limit dangerous climate change. Through striking displays of contemporary and historic objects, engaging digital exhibits and specially commissioned models, the gallery shows how the past, present and future of energy systems are shaped by human imagination and innovation and explores how we all have a role to play in deciding our energy future.   


The free gallery examines this century’s defining challenge through the lens of imagination across three sections. In Future Planet, visitors can examine how climate scientists use mathematics and complex computer-based models to understand our planet, and what these tell us about the range of climate futures that might lie ahead. In Future Energy, technologies - and the people behind them - that are reimagining how energy is supplied and used today are highlighted alongside historic artefacts which provide a longer view of the energy transition away from fossil fuels. Our Future looks forward to a new world that is being dreamt up, with children’s creative ideas of how the world will meet its future energy needs displayed with expert responses to them.


At the centre of the gallery, uniting science and art, is an art commission Only Breath, a kinetic sculpture that moves and blooms, stretching to around 5 metres in diameter when unfurled. Created by artists Alexandra Carr and Colin Rennie from Torus Torus Studios, the sculpture was made from repurposed mirrors, recyclable stainless steel and windblown wood and signifies the power of nature to inspire technological change.


Vital low-carbon technologies for the energy transition, from nuclear, hydrogen and solar to wind and tidal power, are explored in Future Energy. On display for the first time is a huge quadrant from the Zero Energy Thermonuclear Assembly (ZETA), a nuclear fusion experiment created in the late 1950s by British scientists who imagined a world filled with abundant energy thanks to nuclear fusion. Visitors can study part of a later fusion experiment, the Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST) which operated in Oxfordshire until 2013, and enjoy a view inside the record-breaking Joint European Torus (JET) fusion machine where scientists are experimenting to create a fusion-powered future. Visitors can also examine the complexities of nuclear power and consider if nuclear fission could meet growing energy needs. On display are models of made by Rolls-Royce of a small modular nuclear reactor, which may power more of our homes in the future, alongside part of a real (but non-radioactive) canister used for storing nuclear waste in the UK.


Every hour the Sun sends more energy to Earth than we use in a year. Yet to use this solar energy, it must be captured and distributed to where it’s needed. The objects on display showcase the sheer variety possible with solar power, from a model of a solar-powered classroom which supports schoolchildren and local communities in India and Uganda to the towering 5m tall parabolic solar trough mirrors used on huge solar farms to concentrate sunlight and generate electricity, and a model of the Xlinks ship built to lay a 4,000 km long cable to supply the UK with electricity from Moroccan solar and wind farms. An interactive game designed for the gallery invites visitors to solve challenges at solar installations across the world.


The Scottish islands of Orkney are playing an important role in the energy transition, with abundant wind and tidal energy being harnessed to develop an innovative hydrogen economy. Visitors can see a model of hydrogen and renewable energy projects on the islands, from floating offshore wind and tidal turbines to the world’s first large-scale green hydrogen plant, and watch a film featuring the people and places behind these pioneering projects. On display for the first time is a vast 7m long tidal turbine blade made by Orbital Marine Power. Used on a 63-metre-long, 500-tonne vessel in 2016, this prototype blade helped generate enough electricity to power a thousand homes thanks to the strong tidal flows around Orkney. Visitors can also ponder the potential of hydrogen to support our future energy needs while looking at the hydrogen electrolyser used in South Yorkshire to split water and generate hydrogen in the UK’s first hydrogen refuelling station.


Oliver Carpenter, Lead Curator of Energy Revolution: The Adani Green Energy Gallery at the Science Museum, said: ‘This gallery shares contemporary stories of individuals, organisations and communities all imagining the future of low-carbon energy, but it also spotlights some of the earliest ideas and technologies created by the imaginations of previous generations. By taking a long view of the energy revolution and showcasing impressive technologies of the past, alongside today’s low-carbon options, we hope to inspire visitors to imagine a low-carbon energy future.’


It was by imagining a world powered by electricity that American inventor Thomas Edison created the world’s first public electricity network in London in 1882 and established how electricity is supplied to this day. On display for the first time are rare surviving Edison tube mains cables which made this feat of engineering possible and transformed the way we live. Electrification has a long history and visitors can marvel at the first electric taxi, the elegant black and yellow Bersey cab hailed by Londoners in 1897, and one of the first rechargeable batteries made in 1860. In 1893 the dazzling vision of an electrically lit future became a reality as thousands of electric lamps like one on display lit up the Chicago World’s Fair. These remarkable innovations remind us that major change is possible and that many of the technologies needed to achieve this low-carbon energy transition already exist.


The gallery also explores the challenge of energy storage and ensuring consistent access to power when it’s needed. Visitors can balance supply and demand in an interactive game based on the National Grid and examine a variety of batteries used to store energy, from familiar AA alkaline and hearing aid batteries to chemical batteries that power electric vehicles and satellites. They can also play with a working model of a gravity battery, which uses falling heavy weights to generate electricity.


Low-carbon vehicles are appearing all around us, but transformed infrastructure, increased electrification and low-carbon fuels will be needed to decarbonise transport further. Visitors can see a bicycle from the largest urban bike sharing scheme in the world, the Hangzhou Public Bicycle scheme in China, alongside an early public electric car charging post installed in London in 2006. Also on display is a canister for synthetic aviation fuel from British company Zero and the Royal Air Force, which undertook the world’s first flight powered by 100% synthetic kerosene in 2021.


The Future Energy section looks at the building and construction industries which also need to decarbonise. On display are traditional adaptation techniques, such as the 3m high CoolAnt passive air-cooling façade from India that reduces dependence on powered air conditioning, and unusual building materials, including a ‘urine bio-brick’ developed by the University of Cape Town that sets hard at room temperature. Visitors can also see heat pumps, which use electricity to concentrate heat from the ground or air and deliver it into homes, and are likely to become increasingly common in UK houses as gas-powered boilers are replaced.


The museum is on course to welcome three million visits in the year ending on 31 March with more UK visitors than ever before, including 1 million children visiting with their schools or families among the record 2.25 million domestic visits.


Sir Ian Blatchford, Director and Chief Executive of the Science Museum Group, said: ‘In a week when we’re celebrating a record 2.25 million visits by UK residents to the museum, including a million children, this stunning gallery offers even more to ignite curiosity among the millions who will visit in the year ahead – provoking important conversations about the urgent need for the world to generate and use energy more sustainably. Our curators have created an inspirational experience, supported by hundreds of people from artists to those involved in acquiring, conserving and transporting vast objects safely into the gallery, and of course vital funding from our generous sponsor Adani Green Energy.’


Our understanding of climate change is founded on projections of how Earth’s systems will change in the future. These projections are made possible because of vital long-term global observational data from instruments that show how our planet is changing. In Future Planet, visitors can watch a film exploring the application of computer models to improve understanding of climate impacts in the global south, focussing on a collaborative project involving the Met Office in the UK and the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa and browse a mass display of instruments from the Science Museum Group Collection used to observe and measure the climate on land, in the air and at sea. These include an air-sampling flask used for observations of atmospheric carbon dioxide based on Charles David Keeling’s original design, rain and wind gauges and the Advanced Along-Track Scanning Radiometer, a satellite-based scientific instrument which takes precise observations of sea surface temperature from space.


The gallery’s Title Funder is Adani Green Energy, a major Indian renewables company. Mr. Sagar Adani, Executive Director said, 'The Science Museum has put together the world’s best curated gallery on energy transition. As one of the world’s largest renewable energy companies, we are dedicated to making progress towards net zero – and there is no greater resource in the fight against climate change than education. Through the sponsorship of the gallery, we aim to inspire young minds, scientists, and innovators to imagine a future powered by clean energy and build a carbon-free world. It is an initiative to stimulate their interest, curiosity and awareness, and encourage their active participation in creating clean technologies. The gallery brings together the global community to enable the shift towards energy efficiency, clean energy adoption and carbon emissions reduction. We hope the museum’s millions of visitors learn about the vital importance of renewable energy in tackling climate change.'


In Our Future, the gallery encourages visitors to imagine the future, and use their creativity as a powerful tool for generating knowledge, stimulating innovation, and shaping decisions about how we live. This section features a digital installation showing children’s ideas and scientific experts’ responses to them. It also displays a decarbonisation tracker so that visitors can see how the UK is performing on its low carbon journey.


Energy Revolution was designed by award-winning architect and design studio Unknown Works, who also designed the solar-powered classrooms featured in the gallery. A key element of the gallery’s sustainable design was the repurposing of more than 200 redundant metal shelves from the Science Museum’s former object store in west London to create an innovative modular design to display objects in the gallery. Aluminium was also used where possible as it can be easily recycled, with energy efficient LEDs used to light the gallery. The gallery’s digital screens and lighting is also turned off when the museum is closed to reduce energy consumption. The gallery’s carbon footprint has been monitored and together these actions will help reduce the carbon emissions from creating and opening the gallery.


ENDS



NOTES TO EDITORS


For further information and interview requests, please contact William Dave through pressoffice.SCM@sciencemuseum.ac.uk , or 020 7942 4886. You can download high-res images of the new gallery here.


About the Science Museum


The Science Museum is part of the Science Museum Group, the world’s leading group of science museums that share a world-class collection providing an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical achievements from across the globe. Over the last century the Science Museum, has grown in scale and scope, inspiring visitors with exhibitions covering topics as diverse as robots, codebreaking, cosmonauts and superbugs. The Science Museum was named a winner of the prestigious Art Fund Museum of the Year prize for 2020. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk. Follow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.


Engaging people with humanity’s greatest challenge – the fight against devastating climate change – is a major priority for the Science Museum Group alongside reducing the impact of our own activity as we work towards achieving net zero by 2033. The new gallery is part of the Group’s climate focused public programme, which includes our free Climate Talks series that has been watched by tens of thousands of people and featured more than 70 global leaders, experts, activists and campaigners. More information about sustainability and the Science Museum Group is available on our website.


 About Adani Green Energy Limited


Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) is India’s largest and one of the leading renewable energy companies in the world, enabling the clean energy transition. AGEL develops, owns, and operates utility scale grid-connected solar, wind and hybrid renewable power plants. With a locked-in growth trajectory up to 21.8 Gigawatt (GW), AGEL currently has an operating renewable portfolio of over 9.5 GW, the largest in India, spread across 12 states. AGEL is credited with developing several landmark renewable energy power plants, the latest being the world’s largest wind-solar hybrid power cluster of 2,140 Megawatt (MW) in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The company has set a target of achieving 45 GW by 2030 aligned to India’s decarbonization goals. AGEL is focused on leveraging technology to reduce the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) in pursuit of enabling largescale adoption of affordable clean energy. AGEL’s operating portfolio is certified ‘water positive for plants of more than 200 MW capacity’, ‘single-use plastic free’ and ‘zero waste-to-landfill’, a testament to the company’s commitment of powering sustainable growth. visit: www.adanigreenenergy.com.




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https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/ 26 Mar 2024 00:05:03 GMT Education & Human Resources Entertainment & Arts Environment & Nature Manufacturing, Engineering & Energy
<![CDATA[ Community plants over 1,000 native trees at local heritage site ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/community-plants-over-1000-native-trees-at-local-heritage-site-50238b7e393215cd8ca441c78109ac5d/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/community-plants-over-1000-native-trees-at-local-heritage-site-50238b7e393215cd8ca441c78109ac5d/ Monday 25 March, 2024

On Saturday 23rd March, 100 members of the local community came together to plant over 1,000 native trees at Butser Ancient Farm, a not-for-profit heritage site and open air museum in East Hampshire.


Participants were encouraged to immerse themselves in nature, with talks and walks on native trees and wild foraging, as well as hands-on nature-based activities to make clay and pebble art with leaves and paints. Participants were also given the opportunity to take part in a community tree blessing, tying ribbons to trees to celebrate and give thanks to nature.


Butser worked with local community groups to make the free event inclusive, and particularly encouraged attendees from deprived areas of the community. The day was presided over by Hampshire MP Damian Hinds and Petersfield town crier Faye Thompson, and was supported by Butser volunteers.


Katherine Brooks, volunteer coordinator at Butser, said:


‘A huge thank you to everyone who joined us! It was a fantastic day and a great example of the power of community spirit. Growing native plants and trees is important in creating biodiversity and helping local wildlife to thrive. We hope this will lead to wider discussions in the community and encourage more planting in the local area.’


All the trees planted were of native species, including crab apple, holly, dog rose, hawthorn, and wild cherry. They will be incorporated into Butser’s growing network of native hedgerows, which provide green pathways, safe nesting, and seasonal food for local wildlife.


Imogen Carter, community gardener at Butser, said:


‘Conservation and environmental sustainability as never been more urgent, and engaging people with nature is a key step in empowering communities to make a difference in their local area. It’s amazing to have had the opportunity to expand our range of heritage trees in our historic gardens, and we hope that in reflecting on the past, our community might find natural solutions to combat the climate and biodiversity crisis.’


Building on the success of the tree planting, Butser will also be offering free workshops this May on the ancient wisdom of plants, engaging young people and their families with nature and sharing how plants were used for food, healing, dyeing, and crafts throughout our ancient history. The one-day hands-on workshops will offer nature-based activities, including planting in Butser’s historic garden areas, exploring the ancient medicinal uses of healing plants, natural plant-based dyeing, and using plant fibres to produce cordage.


This will be an opportunity to explore how growing native plants and trees is important in creating biodiversity and helping local wildlife to thrive, as participants learn about the benefits of trees and plants. In becoming a nature explorer for a day the children can think about they can protect and nurture the environment.


Participants in both the tree planting and the workshops will also receive access to nature-based informational videos from Butser's video documentary platform Butser Plus.


The Community Tree Planting Day and The Ancient Wisdom of Plants workshop programme is part of a project that is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund #UKSPF, as part of East Hampshire District Council’s Grow Up! programme. 


Butser Ancient Farm is currently open to visitors on weekends and school holidays up to the end of October. It will then reopen in December for a season of magical festive events connecting visitors to the ancient traditions of midwinter.To find out more you can visit www.butserancientfarm.co.uk and www.butserplus.com




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https://www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/ 25 Mar 2024 12:11:44 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL RESCUE CELEBRATES WORLD BEAR DAY WITH RELEASE OF 'TYRED' RESCUE BEAR PHOTO ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/international-animal-rescue-celebrates-world-bear-day-with-release-of-tyred-rescue-bear-photo-c569052c50a6bb699cddedc04212244f/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/international-animal-rescue-celebrates-world-bear-day-with-release-of-tyred-rescue-bear-photo-c569052c50a6bb699cddedc04212244f/ Wednesday 20 March, 2024

International Animal Rescue (IAR), in partnership with their colleagues in Armenia at the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), IAR is pleased to mark World Bear Day on March 23rd
with a heartwarming snapshot into the lives of rescued bears in Armenia.


In this heartwarming photo, captured at the sanctuary in Urtsadzor, a brown bear, affectionately named the 'Tyred' bear, was spotted emerging from hibernation only to resume napping using a tyre as a pillow. This charming image gives a snapshot of the resilience and adaptability of bears rescued from distressing circumstances.


The Urtsadzor sanctuary, operated by IAR and FPWC, currently provides a haven for 29 rescued bears, each with its own story of survival and recovery. Many of these bears were previously kept in cramped cages at restaurants and other public venues, where they were exploited as tourist attractions. The conditions in which they were kept were often shocking, prompting the urgent intervention of IAR and FPWC to rescue and rehabilitate these beautiful, majestic animals.


Tragically, despite ongoing efforts, as many as 50 bears may still be awaiting rescue from similar conditions. However, through the dedication and commitment of IAR and FPWC, significant progress has been made in providing these bears with the care and freedom they deserve.


Once in the sanctuary, the bears gradually return to the wilder behaviours of their natural habitat. This includes hibernating during the winter months when food is scarce. Always full of surprises, one rescued female bear emerged from hibernation with two tiny cubs at her heels. Through careful monitoring and support, these cubs have since been successfully reintroduced into the wild, contributing to the conservation efforts of Armenian bear populations.


Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue, commented, "World Bear Day serves as a reminder of the challenges that remain and are still faced by bears worldwide, and sadly, particularly those exploited for entertainment purposes. The 'Tyred' bear's photo highlights the bear's capacity for joy, even after suffering and years of captivity. At IAR, we are committed to rescuing and rehabilitating bears, providing them with a safe haven. Allowing bears to live out their remaining years in comfort and free from exploitation, pain or suffering."


For more information on International Animal Rescue's efforts to protect bears and other wildlife and their ongoing conservation work, please visit https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org




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https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org 20 Mar 2024 12:41:39 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ 'PLANT ONE TREE' IN 'ONE-CLICK' TO CELEBRATE WORLD PLANTING DAY AS INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL RESCUE SHARES SUCCESSFUL MANGROVE PLANTING RESULTS ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/plant-one-tree-in-one-click-to-celebrate-world-planting-day-as-international-animal-rescue-shares-successful-mangrove-planting-results-62ed42df41d651e23f74024177c92b2d/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/plant-one-tree-in-one-click-to-celebrate-world-planting-day-as-international-animal-rescue-shares-successful-mangrove-planting-results-62ed42df41d651e23f74024177c92b2d/ Wednesday 20 March, 2024

International Animal Rescue (IAR), through its holistic conservation programme, IARconserves, is pleased to share the successful results of its recent mangrove planting activity. World Planting Day on 21 March is the perfect day to celebrate these results and highlight their mission to expand the IARconserves Tree planting initiatives further.


In Sungai Besar Village, Matan Hilir Selatan District, Ketapang Regency, Indonesia, through


its implementation partner YIARI, IARconserves
organised a community-based mangrove restoration project. A party of 18 dedicated individuals worked tirelessly over three days to plant 1,750 mangrove seeds, primarily dominated by Rhizophora species. These efforts covered a total area of 1,385 square meters, contributing significantly to the restoration of coastal ecosystems.


Talking about the success of the project, Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue, said: "Our mangrove planting activities not only aim to restore vital coastal habitats but also empower local communities and support biodiversity conservation. The mangrove forests provide a buffer that protects low-lying coastal farms from storm surges and sea level rise. Through our tree planting efforts, we ensure that IARconserves projects align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by protecting coastal communities, regenerating ecosystems and mitigating climate change."


Furthermore, International Animal Rescue is delighted to announce its partnership with Running on Plants to further support its tree-planting initiatives. Together, they aim to enhance reforestation efforts in Indonesia and beyond to protect coastal areas and their wildlife.


Gavin added, "We would love for everyone to plant just one tree with us to mark World Planting Day. It's effortless; just one click on the link, and we will do the rest. It's about the cost of a cup of coffee on World Planting Day and taking a positive step for future generations." https://bit.ly/IARPlantATree


As World Planting Day approaches, IAR invites individuals worldwide to Plant a tree today and join its award-winning and inspiring reforestation programme https://bit.ly/IARPlantATree


You can help spread awareness of plants' critical role in mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. By supporting initiatives like mangrove restoration and tree planting, everyone can contribute to building a safer and more sustainable planet for future generations.


You can plant a tree here https://bit.ly/IARPlantATree. For more information on International Animal Rescue's conservation efforts, please visit https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org.

Why are mangroves important?


Mangroves are a unique coastal forest which plays a vital role in maintaining the health and protection of coastal ecosystems. They also help to support local economies and safeguard biodiversity. By protecting and restoring mangrove habitats, we can ensure the sustainability of coastal communities and address global environmental challenges.


Mangroves are a critical part of the coastal ecosystem and provide a range of benefits:


Coastal protection from erosion and storms.Habitat for diverse plant and animal speciesCarbon sequestration to mitigate climate changeNutrient cycling for water purificationSupport for fisheries and livelihoods

About International Animal Rescue


International Animal Rescue (IAR) is an award-winning animal protection and conservation organisation. IAR's vision is a world where humans and animals coexist in sustainable ecosystems. The mission is to build awareness and implement effective systems so that habitats and animals are protected.


IAR not only saves animals from suffering but also rehabilitates and releases them back into the wild and works to protect their precious natural habitats. IAR's work includes cutting free and caring for captive bears in India and Armenia, rescuing and rehabilitating orangutans and other primates in Indonesia and treating injured and orphaned howler monkeys in Costa Rica. Wherever possible, wildlife is rehabilitated and returned to the wild. For animals that are not viable for release, sanctuary care is provided. The reintroduction of rare and endangered species back into the wild serves to support populations that could otherwise become unviable.


While rescue is often necessary to deal with the immediate issue, IAR's holistic conservation programme, IARconserves, is focused on the root cause. By building innovative initiatives alongside communities, it is possible to deliver a positive long-term impact on people and nature.


https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/




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https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org 20 Mar 2024 12:41:20 GMT Charities & non-profits Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature Lifestyle & Relationships
<![CDATA[ #ForestDay: 5 Ways We Are Innovating ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/forestday-5-ways-we-are-innovating-cc9f723d32aef15adc933a0bad39f4e1/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/forestday-5-ways-we-are-innovating-cc9f723d32aef15adc933a0bad39f4e1/ Tuesday 19 March, 2024

Thursday 21 March is the United Nation’s International Day of Forests 2024. This year the theme is ‘Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World’. At the Royal Forestry Society we have been encouraging innovation in many ways.


Here are just five of those ways:


1 Helping Woodland Owners and Managers


Our Grants for Resilient Woodlands support Royal Forestry Societyand Royal Scottish Forestry Society (RSFS ) members to create a network of climate change, pest and disease resilient woodland across the UK.


The grant can be used to take risks and innovate with new species, mixes or silvicultural techniques. They can also be used to introduce diversity (species and structural) into forests, woodlands and landscapes. These Grants are provided in partnership with Train Hugger and GreenTheUK. Members can apply year-round for the grants.


2 Sharing Innovation


Over many years we have developed a unique mix of Divisional Meetings, courses, workshops, lectures and tours designed to share and expand knowledge. These are backed up by our Quarterly Journal of Forestry magazine with its cutting edge research papers and articles, case studies and blogs.


3 Supporting Careers


Thanks to the support of the ALA Green Charitable Trust our unique Forestry Roots scheme provides paid traineeships for ages 18 – 30. The scheme matches our members with job opportunities with young people looking for their first post in forestry. Forestry Roots is now is now one of the UK’s largest training schemes.


Watch this space: We are also setting up an Early Careers Foresters Network – more details available soon!


4 Working with Young People


The Level 1 Award in Forestry in the Community was developed by the RFS for young people wanting to gain their first experience and qualifications in Forestry.


We are also taking part in a series of Careers Roadshows to give young people a new perspective on the range off opportunities forestry and woodland management has to offer.


5 Inspiring Children


We have also found new ways to inspire young children to think about our woodlands and how they need to be managed. Our Green Tree Badge, in partnership with Bags of Ethics, aims to inspire one million children. It builds on the success of our flagship Teaching Trees programme and our widely successful Junior Forester Award, the first programme of its kind linked to forestry and soon to go over 100,000 registrations.


Find out more about International Day of Forests and follow #ForestDay to see what others are doing.




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https://www.rfs.org.uk 19 Mar 2024 12:57:36 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature
<![CDATA[ 4Pack releases packaging data business tools for those that make and sell packaged goods in the UK – including an eBook, Capability Model and Assessment ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/4pack-releases-packaging-data-business-tools-for-those-that-make-and-sell-packaged-goods-in-the-uk-including-an-ebook-capability-model-and-assessment-231d948b23d64412ffe6975e9ace9237/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/4pack-releases-packaging-data-business-tools-for-those-that-make-and-sell-packaged-goods-in-the-uk-including-an-ebook-capability-model-and-assessment-231d948b23d64412ffe6975e9ace9237/ Friday 15 March, 2024

4Pack, a powerful suite of product, packaging, and artwork management solutions, has announced a set of free business tools to help firms that produce packaging or distribute packaged goods to raise their game on packaging data management.


It has published a capability model, eBook and self-driven assessment scorecard designed around the challenges faced by food & beverage, consumer packaged goods and other businesses operating in the UK. The insights are based on its deep experience of helping companies in these sectors create clarity and control over their own packaging processes.


The “Taking Control of Packaging Data: the Clock is Ticking” eBook is a walkthrough of the issues surrounding packaging data for these firms. The Packaging Data Capability assessment enables companies to assess their readiness to cope. While the Packaging Data Capability Model explores 10 aspects of the practical challenge, from recognition of the data to ensuring clear ownership.


Together they form a valuable set of tools to help companies impacted by coming changes to recognise and comprehend their status, so that they can act.


Companies that manufacture, distribute, or sell packaged goods within the UK face a tidal wave of new packaging waste and other sustainability-related regulations. In the UK alone, new or pending rules range from Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) and plastic packaging taxation to increasingly stringent Environmental, Sustainability and Governance (ESG) reporting measures for larger organisations. There are likely to be more changes that impact packaging or labelling in the future. Bodies such as the Competition and Markets Authority are already considering anti-greenwashing rules. The challenge extends far beyond the UK with regulatory change happening in Europe and around the globe.


Helen Poole, Managing Director at 4Flying Ltd, said “Many brands and businesses that create or handle packaged goods have a big problem because they do not have control of their packaging data. The need to do so is becoming urgent. Leveraging validated packaging data enables better business decisions, delivers accurate reporting for declarations, provides added value to your clients and significantly saves time and cost.”


The tools are timed for release as leaders of CPG and related businesses around the world are realising that strategies in pursuit of sustainability, efficiency, and regulatory compliance may be at risk. It is becoming business critical to ensure easy access to complete and accurate capture and visibility of packaging material and waste factors across the complete brand and product portfolio. This drives a requirement for stringent, dedicated, and centralised management of packaging data including related packaging specification, procurement and production information.


It enables everyone across the organisation to make informed decisions, implement best practices, and strive for continuous improvement. Critically, it also allows companies to provide supply chain distribution partners with the information they in turn need for their own compliance and operational decision-making.


Companies that do not take appropriate action around packaging data may struggle to meet sustainability aims, with implications not just around reporting and compliance, but also in reputational terms as consumers expect companies to be responsible.


Relevant Links:


Taking Control of Packaging Data: The Clock is ticking eBook Packaging Data Management Capability Assessment 

About 4Pack


4Pack is a powerful cloud-based software solution for product, artwork and packaging management which serves customers in the consumer products, food & beverage, wine & spirits, and retail industries. 4Pack is brought to market by 4Flying which consists of a team of product information, packaging data and artwork process subject matter experts that deliver solutions internationally across the physical packaging, labelling and digital channels. It was founded in Verona, Italy and brings more than 3 decades of deep experience, 4Flying Ltd is based in London to serve global clients. More information about the company can be found at https://www.4-pack.com




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www.4-pack.com 15 Mar 2024 15:46:14 GMT Business & Finance Computing & Telecoms Environment & Nature Manufacturing, Engineering & Energy
<![CDATA[ Rewilding Nation declaration call for Scotland as Charter launched ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/rewilding-nation-declaration-call-for-scotland-as-charter-launched-665678d21dbd602837b9da0865d70e0b/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/rewilding-nation-declaration-call-for-scotland-as-charter-launched-665678d21dbd602837b9da0865d70e0b/ Friday 15 March, 2024

More than 2% of Scotland’s land is now rewilding according to new figures from the Scottish Rewilding Alliance, as it launches a Rewilding Nation Charter calling for Scotland to declare itself the world’s first rewilding nation.


Despite growing praise for its rewilding progress, Scotland remains one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth. The new Charter says rewilding offers hope for restoring habitats and saving wildlife, with major benefits for people, but much more needs to be done.


The Alliance is urging people from all walks of life to sign the Rewilding Nation Charter which calls on the Scottish Government to commit to nature recovery across 30% of land and sea.


The campaign includes a new feature-length film called Why Not Scotland?, which explores how rewilding could happen on a bigger scale in the country. The documentary will be shown on a nationwide screening tour including Oban, Peebles, Dundee, and Inverness, following an Edinburgh premiere.


“Climate breakdown and nature loss mean we face an unprecedented threat to our way of life and our children’s future. But it’s not too late. Scotland can lead the way as a Rewilding Nation to benefit nature, climate and people,” said Steve Micklewright, Scottish Rewilding Alliance Convenor and Chief Executive of Trees for Life.


Scotland is ranked 212 out of 240 countries and territories for the state of its nature, and 11% of its species face extinction. Intensive agriculture and climate breakdown are having the biggest impacts on biodiversity, according to the authoritative State of Nature 2023 report, with other threats including non-native forestry, pollution, and introduced species.


This is undermining access to food, fresh water and clean air. It is hampering efforts to lock away carbon, and harming people’s health and wellbeing, says the Scottish Rewilding Alliance, a coalition of more than 20 organisations.


But growing numbers of communities, charities, farmers and landowners are taking action to turn Scotland’s nature crisis around – helping society cope with climate breakdown’s floods, wildlife die-offs, droughts and crop failures, while creating jobs and economic opportunities.


In the first-ever such figures released, the Scottish Rewilding Alliance calculates 2.1% of Scotland’s land is now rewilding, with more than 150 projects covering at least 160,000 hectares, from community woodlands to landscape-scale partnerships. This includes members of Rewilding Britain’s UK-wide Rewilding Network, and the Scotland-wide Northwoods Rewilding Network, led by SCOTLAND: The Big Picture.


Rewilding 30% of Scotland can be achieved by restoring wild habitats including peatlands, native woodlands, wetlands, rivers and seas, with no loss of productive farmland. Rewilding goes hand-in-hand with nature-led farming, fishing and forestry, the Alliance says.


Produced by SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, the Why Not Scotland? film explores the Scottish landscape through the eyes of Flo Blackbourn, a young Scot from Glasgow, who sets out on a personal journey to find inspiring examples of major nature recovery around Europe.


“My journey to see how rewilding can help nature and people thrive together was life-changing and such a source of hope. Like many young people, I’m worried about the uncertain future we all face with climate breakdown and nature loss – but life can bounce back if we give it a chance, and work with nature instead of against it,” said Flo (27).


“The nature and climate crises can feel overwhelming, but we can all make a difference by uniting behind a clear message. We’re calling on everyone who shares our hopes and sense of urgency to sign the Rewilding Nation Charter to help create a greener, fairer country,” said Alliance member Tom Bowser, farmer and owner of Argaty Red Kites in Perthshire.


For more information, visit www.rewild.scot.


/ Ends




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https://www.rewild.scot 15 Mar 2024 07:33:10 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature
<![CDATA[ Landfill tax reform would reduce waste crime and pollution, Localis study argues ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/landfill-tax-reform-would-reduce-waste-crime-and-pollution-localis-study-argues-6c95502d1cb776540d47627b390f7c9b/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/landfill-tax-reform-would-reduce-waste-crime-and-pollution-localis-study-argues-6c95502d1cb776540d47627b390f7c9b/ Thursday 14 March, 2024

Press release


Embargo date: from 00.01 a.m., Thursday 14th March 2024


Landfill tax reform would reduce waste crime and pollution, Localis study arguesGovernment should reform landfill tax to cut down on waste crime and crack down on organised gangs whose illegal activity costs the country more than £1bn a year and pollutes the environment, a report published today by Localis has argued.


In a new report entitled ‘Cleaning up our act - reforming landfill tax for place resilience and best local outcomes’ the independent think-tank argues that the massive gap between standard levels of landfill tax at £102.10 per tonne for ‘active’ and lower levels at £3.25 per tonne for ‘inactive’ material, has led to an escalation of waste crime, in the form of illegal dumping and fly-tipping.


While the costs of waste crime have burgeoned by 55 percent since 2015 in England to around £1bn a year, enforcement is disjointed, with organised criminals exploiting loopholes or absorbing paltry fines as running costs to the detriment of honest waste brokers.


It is estimated that the tax gap for landfill tax is 22.7 percent or £200m, a figure suggesting high levels of tax evasion and avoidance by criminal operators who either misclassify active waste, underreport waste volumes or resort to illegal dumping.


The report recommends government should introduce an intermediate tax band to bridge the gap between standard and lower rates, reducing the incentive for misclassification of waste and promoting fairer taxation.


To tackle the scourge of waste crime and the pollution it creates, the study argues the Environment Agency needs an expanded budget, and associated targets, for prosecuting waste criminals.


For local government, the report calls for councils to be granted enhanced powers to enforce waste regulations, including increased fines and penalties for fly-tipping, with revenues to support local clean-up efforts and landfill site development.


Localis chief executive, Jonathan Werran, said: “Waste crime is toxic in that it despoils our natural environment, imposes costs on already cash-strapped councils and robs the Treasury of tax revenue. Any serious attempt at place-based reform must look to addressing the iniquities and imbalances of how we tax it and then move to rigorous enforcement and prosecution of organised gangs.”


John Rauch, Chief Executive Officer, Augean, said: “Landfill tax has been a very important tool to divert waste away from landfill and to promote re-use, recycling and energy recovery.


“We welcome this independent report, which acknowledges that some hazardous materials will always have to go to landfill. The report is an important contribution to public debate about the future of the landfill tax in sustainable waste management.”


ENDS















Press enquiries:


Jonathan Werran, chief executive, Localis
(Telephone) 0870 448 1530 / (Mobile) 07967 100328 / (Email) jonathan.werran@localis.org.uk


Notes to Editors:


An advance copy of the report is available for download

https://www.localis.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Localis-Cleaning-Up-Our-Act-Report-03-Interactive.pdf


About Localis

Localis is an independent think-tank dedicated to issues related to politics, public service reform and localism. We carry out innovative research, hold events and facilitate an ever-growing network of members to stimulate and challenge the current orthodoxy of the governance of the UK. www.localis.org.uk


About Augean

Augean is a leading UK operator of sustainable, compliance-led, waste recycling, recovery, treatment and disposal services. The company specialises in hard-to-handle wastes.


www.augean.co.uk


Key findings and recommendations

Reform of the landfill tax should seek to incorporate the waste hierarchy to ensure only the right waste materials end up in landfill, by implementing variable tax rates or other policy mechanisms based on the environmental impact of waste types and necessity of landfill, to incentivise sustainable disposal choices for non-hazardous and biodegradable waste.


As a means to this end, government should introduce an intermediate tax band to bridge the gap between standard and lower rates, reducing the incentive for misclassification of waste and promoting fairer taxation.
There is also a need to allocate a portion of landfill tax revenues to fund research and development aimed at advancing technologies for waste recovery, reuse, and recycling, as well as for legacy chemical cleanup, as wells as a portion allocated to funding the prevention of waste crime.
The Environment Agency needs an expanded budget, and associated targets, for prosecuting waste criminals, with on-the-ground enforcement necessary to match recent increases in attention to the financial aspect of waste crime.
Government must enhance local authority powers to enforce waste regulations, including increased fines and penalties for fly-tipping, with revenues to support local clean-up efforts and landfill site development. Councils must also be given the responsibility – with associated funding – to assist private landowners who are the victims of fly-tipping in safe, responsible disposal.

Building on positive recent steps, government must continue to increase transparency and efficiency in tax collection
to combat high levels of tax evasion and avoidance, through stricter enforcement measures and improved monitoring technologies.




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http://www.localis.org.uk 14 Mar 2024 06:00:03 GMT Business & Finance Construction & Property Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Government Home & Garden Manufacturing, Engineering & Energy Public Sector & Legal
<![CDATA[ Pandemic Lessons: Four years on from the pandemic, International Animal Rescue's 'One Health' Programme Makes Significant Steps in Preventing Animal-to-Human Disease Transfer ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/pandemic-lessons-four-years-on-from-the-pandemic-international-animal-rescues-one-health-programme-makes-significant-steps-in-preventing-animal-to-human-disease-transfer-d31f2afd5e60219e3d622fcd4303e3aa/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/pandemic-lessons-four-years-on-from-the-pandemic-international-animal-rescues-one-health-programme-makes-significant-steps-in-preventing-animal-to-human-disease-transfer-d31f2afd5e60219e3d622fcd4303e3aa/ Wednesday 13 March, 2024

This week in 2020, The World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic. Navigating the intricate web of challenges posed by poaching, wildlife trade, and zoonotic threats, International Animal Rescue's (IAR's) One Health programme emerges as a beacon of hope. Its goal is to prevent future pandemics through education in biodiversity conservation and smart wildlife trade regulation.


In the face of illegal and unregulated trade and the risk of disease transmission between humans and animals, this transformative initiative stitches together a tapestry of collaboration, communication, education and capacity building. The programme addresses the pressing issues of public health, wildlife trade, wild meat consumption, and environmental degradation by involving multiple stakeholders, divisions, and communities. The positive impact? A world where humans, animals, and the environment coexist harmoniously, safeguarded by the principles of the One Health approach adopted by International Animal Rescue's holistic conservation strategy, IARconserves.


Dr Wendi Prameswari, Senior Programme Officer One Health and Welfare at YIARI, IAR's implementation partners in Indonesia, whose team are putting the IARconserves
holistic conservation strategy into practice, said: "We are working closely with communities and actively educating them about the health risks associated with the trade and consumption of wildlife. The IARconserves One Health initiative works by raising public awareness and promoting community-led efforts that aim to reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases."


The team have also engaged key stakeholders involved in the management of markets selling live birds and other wildlife in Java and has begun to carry out targeted interventions. The programme facilitates cross-sectoral collaborations between a range of different groups, including veterinarians, environmentalists, and public health experts, to maximise its impact. By reducing the illegal and unregulated trade, as well as the consumption of wildlife, it is hoped that we can prevent another zoonotic pandemic and the devastation another outbreak would cause.


By targeting markets selling live wildlife with poor animal welfare standards and that lack proper sanitation and biosecurity, which pose high risks of disease emergence and transmission, IARconserves strives to improve conditions and change behaviours. The programme includes government capacity building, seminars and talk shows to raise awareness about rabies and other zoonotic diseases, the co-formulation of locally appropriate One Health Strategies for wildlife markets, vaccinations of over 650 animals for rabies, sterilising over 60 dogs and cats, and distributing educational materials to local communities.


"Reducing the likelihood of another viral spillover sweeping the world requires a fundamental change in how we interact with nature. It requires minimising health challenges at the human-wildlife-environment interface; eliminating transmission points where the likelihood of viral spillover to humans is high, such as unhygienic commercial wild animal markets; better regulation of the legal wildlife trade; diligently suppressing the illegal and unsustainable wildlife trade; and conserving natural habitats. We are working to raise public awareness and change perceptions towards trading and eating wildlife. We are pleased with the success so far, which shows if we continue to educate, we can change behaviours and prevent a future zoonotic-related pandemic." Said Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue.


To find out more about IAR's One Health programme, please visit 

https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/




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https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org 13 Mar 2024 14:00:04 GMT Charities & non-profits Coronavirus (COVID-19) Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Health Medical & Pharmaceutical
<![CDATA[ Equestrian centre saddled with reptile market gives up the reins ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/equestrian-centre-saddled-with-reptile-market-gives-up-the-reins-1a4a164e0f86bcc26da114e70910a52d/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/equestrian-centre-saddled-with-reptile-market-gives-up-the-reins-1a4a164e0f86bcc26da114e70910a52d/ Thursday 7 March, 2024

Bury Farm Equestrian Centre (Mill Rd, Slapton in Buckinghamshire) was due to host a large-scale reptile market on 28 April 2024 but last week informed the Animal Protection Agency that the event would not be taking place on their premises. Despite this, event organiser, the International Herpetological Society (I.H.S.), is this week still advertising and selling table space for the event. Yesterday, Buckinghamshire Council confirmed that it had also been advised that the reptile market was no longer on the Equestrian Centre’s calendar.


Trading in pet animals over market stalls was outlawed in 1983 due to inherent animal welfare problems. The Animal Protection Agency, World Animal Protection and Freedom for Animals are working with local councils and venues to eradicate reptile and amphibian markets in the UK. Evidence gathered at numerous I.H.S. reptile markets invariably shows systematic illegal animal selling and widespread animal suffering. Thousands of animals are offered for sale including lizards, snakes, tortoises and frogs and are typically displayed in small, plastic takeaway containers with little consideration given to their basic welfare needs.


Animal groups suspect that the I.H.S. may now be looking for a new venue and are warning managers of large venues in the area not to accommodate this event. Reptile market organisers typically misdescribe their events as ‘shows’ or ‘breeders’ meetings’ when in fact they are commercially-driven markets. Buckinghamshire Council has been praised for ensuring that Bury Farm Equestrian Centre was in full possession of the facts and able to take the responsible decision not to host the event.


Says Elaine Toland, Director, Animal Protection Agency:


“The I.H.S. is very well known to mislead venue managers as to the true nature of their events but now appears to be also misleading its own members. It is bizarre that it is still calling on its Facebook page for traders to book stalls at the April event. We are immensely grateful to Buckinghamshire Council for acting so promptly, and very pleased that the Bury Farm Equestrian Centre has refused to host this shameful event.”


Says Dr Charlotte Regan, Wildlife Campaign Manager, World Animal Protection:


"We welcome the news that the planned reptile market at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre will no longer be taking place. Reptiles and amphibians are sentient animals with complex welfare needs, not commodities to be exploited by the pet trade. Other venues and local authorities across the UK should be extremely wary of hosting these markets; they are outdated events that should have no place in our society."


Says Laura Walton, Campaigns Manager, Freedom for Animals:


“The suffering caused to exotic animals by transporting and displaying them in tiny plastic tubs, for hours on end, often without proper temperature and humidity controls, food or water is an utter disgrace; and the reason why the trading of these animals at markets was banned. So we commend Buckinghamshire Council’s proactive response and welcome the news that Bury Farm Equestrian Centre has refused to host the I.H.S’s April event. These profit-driven markets must be stopped.”


The I.H.S. was also turned away from the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes last year having previously advertised an event there on 3rd September 2023. Evidence gathered from an I.H.S reptile market that took place at the Marshall Arena on 18 June 2023 showed widespread illegal trading.


For more information, please contact Elaine Toland on 01273 674253 or out of hours on 07986 535024. Images available on request.


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Additional Contact(s):
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elaine@apa.org.uk

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http://www.apa.org.uk 07 Mar 2024 09:08:53 GMT Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Leisure & Hobbies Public Sector & Legal
<![CDATA[ On World Book Day, International Animal Rescue Celebrates the Positive Impact of Literacy on Conservation in Indonesia ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/on-world-book-day-international-animal-rescue-celebrates-the-positive-impact-of-literacy-on-conservation-in-indonesia-90b16ebf9a86e26ae58b49daa96365f2/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/on-world-book-day-international-animal-rescue-celebrates-the-positive-impact-of-literacy-on-conservation-in-indonesia-90b16ebf9a86e26ae58b49daa96365f2/ Wednesday 6 March, 2024

As schools celebrate World Book Day on Thursday 7th March 2024, International Animal Rescue is making a positive change for its unique approach to improving conservation through literacy in Indonesia. 

Challenges such as child illiteracy persist, particularly among marginalised communities, and International Animal Rescue's efforts strive to ensure equitable access to education for all children, regardless of their background.


The literacy programme is part of International Animal Rescue's holistic conservation strategy, IARconserves. Spearheaded by Lia Aulia and her dedicated team, the IARconserves literacy programme has been instrumental in bridging the gap between education and environmental preservation in the forest-edge communities of Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park (BBBR NP) in Indonesia.


Lia Aulia, an AL-Haudl Ketapang Islamic College graduate and a passionate educator, shares her experiences working with the programme, highlighting the dire need for education in remote villages surrounded by dwindling forests.


Lia explains, "Our mission goes beyond traditional literacy efforts, aiming to address these communities' social and economic challenges. With approximately 80% of households living in poverty and limited access to education, healthcare, and transportation, many residents resorted to illegal logging as a means of survival. Recognising the urgent need for intervention, IARconserves initiated various initiatives, including scholarships, educational support, and training in alternative livelihoods."


The impact of these efforts has been profound, with a significant reduction in illegal nature impacting activities within the National Park and a newfound sense of empowerment among the local population.


Despite challenges such as the lack of school buildings and teachers, Lia and her team have been able to bring the joy of reading and environmental education to children who would otherwise have limited access to such resources.


Lia continues, "Every time I come with the team bringing reading and picture books, these children are thirsty for stories. They asked us to read the stories in the books, and they loved to draw. They are also excited whenever we teach about environmental knowledge by playing directly in the forest."


By promoting literacy and environmental awareness, these programmes not only empower individuals but also contribute to the preservation of vital ecosystems. Increasing reading habits in Indonesia has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of education and learning outcomes.


As we celebrate World Book Day, let us remember the transformative power of literacy and its crucial role in shaping a sustainable future for future generations. You can find out more about our programmes for children and young people here: https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/our-work/people




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https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org 06 Mar 2024 14:12:23 GMT Charities & non-profits Children & Teenagers Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Focused on positive impact: Ricola becomes a B Corporation ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/focused-on-positive-impact-ricola-becomes-a-b-corporation-142e78b6a26c45e444305902b343c821/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/focused-on-positive-impact-ricola-becomes-a-b-corporation-142e78b6a26c45e444305902b343c821/ Monday 4 March, 2024

Laufen, 04.03.2024 – Marking an important milestone on its sustainability journey, Ricola is now a certified B Corporation™. This step reflects Ricola's long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, in line with its values as a family-owned enterprise.


As B Corporation, Ricola has been verified as meeting non-profit organization B Lab’s high standards in the areas of social and environmental impact, legal commitment to responsible company practices and public transparency.


Responsibility and sustainability are in the nature of Ricola


Ricola's path to becoming a B Corporation is built on a foundation laid at the company’s inception, namely its respect for the Swiss Alpine ecosystems that produce the herbs for its products. Ricola has long understood sustainability as a core business principle. The company's practices, from herb cultivation according to organic standards to continuously striving towards environmentally sound product manufacturing, are designed to preserve and nurture these ecosystems and their biodiversity, ensuring a positive impact on the environment and society.


"We owe everything to nature. Becoming a B Corporation aligns with our identity as a family-owned company and our dedication to connecting people with nature," says Thomas P. Meier, CEO of Ricola. "It's about balancing our ambitions for growth with our responsibilities to the planet and its people."


"B Lab Switzerland Foundation is truly honored to welcome Ricola into the B Corp movement. As an iconic Swiss company with nearly a century of unwavering commitment to nature and communities, Ricola embodies the principles of using business as a force for good. Their dedication to resiliency and sustainability leadership is exemplary," says Jonathan Normand, Founder and CEO of B Lab Switzerland.


A framework for action: Ricola's sustainability strategy


Over the past two years, Ricola has refined a comprehensive approach to sustainability, identifying six core areas where it can have the most significant impact: agriculture principles, waste management, packaging innovation, climate change mitigation, water conservation, and ethical sourcing.


For each area, Ricola has set quantitative targets and implements annual "footsteps" – actionable steps to achieve these targets. These efforts are managed across the Ricola Group, with each part of the company playing a role on the collective journey towards sustainability.


As a B Corporation, Ricola is required to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, which includes continuous improvements towards recertification every three years, to ensure compliance and progress. Ricola has committed to evaluating its sustainability performance using globally recognized key figures. It plans to report on its progress biennially according to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines, which are applied by a multitude of companies worldwide. The initial report for 2022 is available for download on the company’s website.


- Picture is available at AP -


Ricola – Company Profile


Ricola is one of the world’s most modern and innovative manufacturers of herb drops. Ricola herb specialties are exported to 45 countries and are famous for their fine Swiss quality. Founded in 1930, with headquarters in Laufen near Basel and subsidiaries in Europe, Asia and the USA, Ricola now produces around 50 different herb drops and tea specialties. In Switzerland, this family-owned company is a pioneer in herb cultivation and places great value on using carefully selected locations and controlled, environmentally sound cultivation methods. Ricola has concluded fixed long-term purchase agreements with around 85 farmers in Swiss mountain regions. As a certified B Corporation, Ricola is committed to sustainable corporate management, economically, socially and ecologically and is a responsible employer. The traditional values of a family enterprise coupled with Swiss quality and a passion for innovation are crucial factors in the success of the Ricola global brand.





About B Lab™


B Lab is the nonprofit network transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. B Lab creates standards, policies, tools, and programs that shift the behavior, culture, and structure of capitalism. We mobilize the global B Corp community towards collective action to address society’s most critical challenges, and we collaborate with governments, academia, coalitions, and other institutions to drive economic systems change.



About Certified B Corporation™


Certified B Corporations, or B Corps, are companies verified by B Lab to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.





Media contact





Ricola Group Ltd.


Corporate Communications


Baselstrasse 31


4242 Laufen


Ph. +41 (0)61 765 41 21


media@ricola.com





Foundation B Lab Switzerland


Press & Media Team


Rue de Lyon 77


1203 Geneva


media@blab-switzerland.ch




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https://www.newsaktuell.de/ 04 Mar 2024 12:30:02 GMT Business & Finance Environment & Nature
<![CDATA[ CIBSE Building Performance Awards 2024: Celebrating excellence in the built environment ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/cibse-building-performance-awards-2024-celebrating-excellence-in-the-built-environment-ccf1b9e653073246e1d1a97636c62635/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/cibse-building-performance-awards-2024-celebrating-excellence-in-the-built-environment-ccf1b9e653073246e1d1a97636c62635/ Friday 1 March, 2024

The prestigious CIBSE Building Performance Awards 2024 took place on Thursday, February 29, at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and visionaries, honouring those who have made significant contributions to advancing the building industry, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and setting new standards for excellence.


Organised by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), the annual awards ceremony is dedicated to highlight outstanding accomplishments, acknowledging both the winners and those who secured a place on the shortlists. The Building Performance Awards undergo meticulous evaluation, emphasising data-driven performance assessment and serve as a platform to spotlight the industry's highest achievements annually.


This year's event once more showcased a diverse range of categories, highlighting the crucial aspects that contribute to creating sustainable, efficient and innovative built environments. Some of the key categories included Best Digital Innovation, Project of the Year, Product or Innovation of the Year and Building Performance Champion.


Philip Draper, Managing Director at Twenty One Engineering, was honoured with the prestigious title of Engineer of the Year. Among the numerous commendable instances of leadership and team development, Philip stood out for his unique blend of creativity and practical delivery of innovation. His genuine passion for the advancement and expansion of engineering was evident, establishing him as a true leader by example. According to the judges, Philip embodies the essence of engineering leadership, making him a deserving recipient of the Engineer of the Year award.


SGA Consulting’s York Guildhall project, recognised as the Building Performance Champion of the night, has earned this prestigious title for its outstanding achievement in rejuvenating a centuries-old structure despite facing significant regulatory, historic, and environmental challenges. The judges commended the project for its excellence in navigating and overcoming these constraints. In a time when the industry confronts the urgent need to renovate existing structures to meet net-zero targets, York Guildhall stands as a symbol of potential within these limitations.


The full list of winners is:


Best Digital Innovation


Winner: Decarbonomics™- AtkinsRéalis


Sponsor: - no sponsor



Building Performance Consultancy (over 300 employees)


Winner: Hoare Lea


Sponsor: ABB



Building Performance Consultancy (51 - 300 employees)


Winner: XCO2


Sponsor: Airflow Developments



Building Performance Consultancy (up to 50 employees)


Winner: Inkling


Sponsor: Mitsubishi Electric



CIBSE Embodied Carbon Award


Winner: Whitecroft Lighting


Sponsor: CMR



Collaboration


Winner: Decarbonisation via Data-Driven Collaboration - Smart Managed Solutions & Savills


Sponsor: Borough Engineering Services



Engineer of the Year


Winner: Philip Draper, Managing Director - Twenty One Engineering


Sponsor: Ideal Heating Commercial



Facilities Management


Winner: Broadgate - British Land


Sponsor: Gratte Brothers Group



Learning and Development


Winner: Unlocking Potential: CSA’s Commissioning Management Training & Development - Commissioning Specialists Association


Sponsor: Automated Logic, A Carrier Company



Product or Innovation of the Year - Air Quality


Winner: Vent-Axia Sentinel Apex - Vent-Axia


Sponsor: CIBSE Patrons



Product or Innovation of the Year - Thermal Comfort


Winner: New Modular Highline 235 Fan Coil Range - Diffusion


Sponsor: - No sponsor



Product or Innovation of the Year - Wellbeing


Winner: Clarence System - Remote Water Monitoring - Angel Guard


Sponsor: Tamlite Lighting



Project of the Year - Commercial and Offices


Winner: York guildhall - SGA Consulting


Sponsor: Crane Fluid Systems



Project of the Year - International


Winner: Kyoto City Hall Annex Building - Nikken Sekkei


Sponsor: Crane Fluid Systems



Project of the Year - Leisure


Winner: Ravelin Sports Centre - Max Fordham


Sponsor: Crane Fluid Systems



Project of the Year - Public Use


Winner: Hackbridge Primary School - Introba/Architype


Sponsor: Crane Fluid Systems



Project of the Year - Residential


Winner: Bryn Bragl - Hoare Lea


Sponsor: Crane Fluid Systems



Project of the Year - Retrofit


Winner: York guildhall - SGA Consulting


Sponsor: Crane Fluid Systems



Building Performance Champion


Winner: York guildhall - SGA Consulting


Sponsor: Tamlite Lighting



Pictures: The photographs supplied with this press release show: Building Performance Champion (York Guildhall – SGA Consulting), Engineer of the Year (Philip Draper, Managing Director - Twenty One Engineering), a group photo with all the winners.



About CIBSE


CIBSE is a pioneer in responding to the threat of climate change. We support engineers in finding innovative ways to make buildings perform for individuals, the community and the planet. As a leading professional engineering institution, CIBSE has over 22,000 members across 95 countries. Our membership is diverse and comprises a broad range of specialisms. CIBSE consults the government on construction, engineering, and sustainability, providing the resources needed to meet net zero targets in the UK, Europe and worldwide.


We are committed to supporting engineers and the vital role they play in creating a safe, sustainable future.


Find out more about CIBSE via https://www.cibse.org  




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https://www.cibse.org/ 01 Mar 2024 11:52:07 GMT Charities & non-profits Construction & Property Environment & Nature Government Manufacturing, Engineering & Energy Public Sector & Legal Transport & Logistics
<![CDATA[ Social media stimulating trade in cheetahs as pets, says new data ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/social-media-stimulating-trade-in-cheetahs-as-pets-says-new-data-45745bab44a8e0026567c7a63dfc0f89/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/social-media-stimulating-trade-in-cheetahs-as-pets-says-new-data-45745bab44a8e0026567c7a63dfc0f89/ Friday 1 March, 2024

70% of the burgeoning online trade in Cheetahs is happening on social media. Research by TRAFFIC and shows a growing online trend in illegal trade, further pressuring an already at-risk iconic big cat. Report authors are calling for greater vigilance and action taken against those selling live species like Cheetah online.


Cheetahs Acinonyx jubatus are facing threats of climate change, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. With their adult speeds of up to 70mph/120kph, it’s the slower wild cubs that are being illegally caught to be sold online, mainly as exotic pets.


State of wild cheetahs

There are only an estimated 6,500 adults left in the wild.


The five cheetah subspecies are now only found in 9% of their historical wild range. The species is classified on the IUCN Red List of Threatened SpeciesTM as Vulnerable to extinction and as a CITES Appendix I listed species, the international commercial trade in Acinonyx jubatus is prohibited.


“Cheetahs already face multiple threats to their survival in the wild, including habitat loss, prey depletion, low genetic diversity, and human-wildlife conflict. It is particularly concerning that an emerging online trade may place further pressure on wild cheetah populations,” says Oliver Wright, TRAFFIC Project Support Officer.


Data shows the telltale markings of growing online illegal trade

A new TRAFFIC online survey building on previous research unearths internet users illegally trading in live cheetahs and those who flaunt their ownership of them as pets.


A total of 222 unique URLs were found over just six months, revealing alarming trends in the online trade of live cheetahs.


Nearly half of these URLs clearly indicated an intention to trade in live cheetahs, and 70% of all URLs were found on social media platforms. 26% of links were found on e-commerce platforms and dedicated websites, with others discovered in online forums or news articles.


Traders appear to be putting more effort into staying anonymous by creating multiple user profiles, using stronger privacy settings, and carefully avoiding any potentially incriminating ‘transactional’ language.


This new research has revealed that several users previously identified as online cheetah traders have changed the security and privacy settings of their online profiles to restrict public access and evade detection. Some avoid using sales language, just posting pictures of the cheetahs for sale.


Concerns of pet trade converging with trade in other wild species

The report outlines the top five countries with URLs flaunting cheetahs as pets – the United Arab Emirates, Saudia Arabia, Kuwait, South Africa, and the United States of America.


Of great concern is the fact that 64% of the URLs surveyed also advertised other potentially illegal exotic pets, including other big cats, reptiles, birds, and primates.


This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat the broader issue of wild species trafficking.


Where in the world?

Unravelling both legal and illegal trade flows of live cheetahs is key to understanding where action needs to be taken. According to the CITES Trade Database:


South Africa, China and the United States of America were found to be major importers of live cheetahs from captive-bred populations, primarily destined for zoos.


South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe were found to be major range state exporters of live cheetahs, again with descriptions of captive-bred individuals for zoos, but some were also found to be sourced from wild populations.


Comparisons between TRAFFIC research and CITES Trade data revealed discrepancies for Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen that point towards illegal imports or unregulated captive breeding – both significant threats to the species’ longevity.


The release of this Briefing follows the First Global Cheetah Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2024, which highlighted growing threats to wild cheetah populations.


TRAFFIC staff presented this research at the 2024 Global Cheetah Summit in Addis Ababa. The Summit brought together cheetah conservation experts from around the world, and the sharing of this research stimulated important discussions on how to tackle illegal online trade and safeguard wild cheetah populations.


“The Global Cheetah Summit was a great opportunity to showcase this important research and discuss solutions to the online cheetah trafficking issue with experts from the global cheetah conservation community,” concludes Oliver Wright.




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01 Mar 2024 06:00:03 GMT Charities & non-profits Consumer Technology Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Government Media & Marketing
<![CDATA[ 74% of Lidl's whole chickens burned by their own excrement, shocking report claims ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/74-of-lidls-whole-chickens-burned-by-their-own-excrement-shocking-report-claims-90e2f243194a78cf3cc1c988a9ed174c/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/74-of-lidls-whole-chickens-burned-by-their-own-excrement-shocking-report-claims-90e2f243194a78cf3cc1c988a9ed174c/ Thursday 29 February, 2024
Birds are kept in filthy conditions and are bred to grow unnaturally fastAs a result 3 in 4 of the whole chickens sold in Lidl are plagued by ‘revolting’ ulcers from the birds laying in their own waste - almost 4x higher than levels reported by rival Aldi94% of the discounter’s breast meat is afflicted by a muscle disease that makes the typically lean food 224% higher in fat contentDiseased meat poses health risks and questions over food quality

Today - a shocking new animal welfare survey investigates the prevalence of a skin disease caused by chickens being forced to lay in their own faeces and urine.


Analysing 1,964 chicken products from 40 Lidl stores in 21 UK cities from September to November 2023, the charity Open Cages has detected ‘hock burn’ on 74% of the whole birds examined. These painful chemical burns can be seen with the naked eye as a brown ulcer on the back of the leg.


Photos from the survey can be accessed here.Andrew Knight, Veterinary Professor of Animal Welfare explains: “Fast-growing chicken breeds and overcrowded conditions are used by some supermarkets in an attempt to maximise profits, but chickens can suffer as a result. This is indicated by meat characteristics such as hock burns and white striping disease, which consumers can see with their own eyes, as shown in this report… The hocks (ankles) of chickens suffer chemical burns when chickens are forced to rest on urine and faeces-soaked flooring, for weeks on end.”Why do chickens get hock burns?Lidl typically sources chickens from heavily crowded factory farms in which the birds' waste drops to the floor and is not cleaned until after slaughter. Chickens can be chemically burned by the ammonia in the excrement, causing a skin ulcer which can still be seen on the meat when purchased in the supermarket in the form of a dark brown lesion.


Health risksThe charity also detected ‘white striping disease’ in 94% of Lidl’s chicken breast meat packages. This muscle disorder is characterised by white lines across the breast meat. It is a disease that chickens develop in intensive conditions as a result of being bred to reach slaughter weight in just 6 weeks.Breast meat affected by white striping disease can be up to 224% higher in fat content and lower in protein levels. There is no information available to consumers on the risks of eating meat afflicted by hock burns.


Professor Knight continues: “This report reveals how highly prevalent these conditions are, within UK meat chickens sold in Lidl. The results are chronic suffering for many millions of chickens, and poorer meat quality. The solution is to use slower-growing chicken breeds with more space, as advocated by the Better Chicken Commitment.”The Better Chicken Commitment


Open Cages, alongside leading animal welfare charities, is calling on Lidl to sign up to the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC.) The BCC is a set of RSPCA-backed improved welfare standards signed by hundreds of food businesses across the world.


Chickens raised to the standards of the BCC suffer significantly fewer health issues like hock burns and muscle diseases because they are more active, can grow at a more natural pace and live in more spacious and hygienic conditions.


Open Cages founder Connor Jackson comments: “Despite Lidl’s big claims on transparency and the quality of its food, this report reveals that its chicken meat is in fact riddled with revolting diseases caused by filthy farming conditions and poor welfare. It’s not only animals who are paying the price, but we as consumers too. I hope our report arms consumers with knowledge and helps them make more informed choices about where they shop. Hundreds of companies - from high end retailers to discounters - have signed the Better Chicken Commitment and in doing so have responded to the many problems associated with intensive chicken farming. But Lidl has refused to act, despite half a million people signing the petition. As the largest retailer in Europe, Lidl has a uniquely influential voice and should be leading the way on this. Because with great power comes great responsibility.”


600+ companies such as Marks and Spencer, Waitrose, KFC, Lidl France and Lidl Denmark have signed up to the BCC or parts of it. Every French supermarket has signed up, and every Dutch supermarket will stop selling fast growing chickens by the end of the year.


Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Co-op have committed to adopt improved space requirements for chickens, helping to reduce levels of hock burn.


Lidl has not signed up or taken any meaningful steps to improve the lives of chickens in the UK. Half a million people have signed petitions calling on Lidl to adopt the BCC Europe-wide.


End


Photos from the report can be accessed here.


The full report can be accessed here.


Photos from UK intensive chicken farms can be accessed here.


Please credit Open Cages for all.


About Andrew Knight:Andrew Knight is a veterinary Professor of Animal Welfare, affiliated with the School of Environment and Science at Griffith University, Queensland, where he is an Adjunct Professor. Prof. Knight is also affiliated with the University of Winchester, where he established and directed its Centre for Animal Welfare from 2015 – 2023.


Media contact:


Connor Jackson, CEO & Co-founder


Open Cages


connor.jackson@opencages.org


+447504580011





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Additional Contact(s):
contact@opencages.org

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http://opencages.org/ 29 Feb 2024 12:00:03 GMT Business & Finance Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Food & Drink
<![CDATA[ French School Group enjoy trip to the National Park ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/french-school-group-enjoy-trip-to-the-national-park-48e42e0e5d478ea1ce38a36850726224/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/french-school-group-enjoy-trip-to-the-national-park-48e42e0e5d478ea1ce38a36850726224/ Thursday 29 February, 2024

A group of 50 French students recently participated in a day trip involving a cruise on Loch Lomond to Inversnaid and thereafter a guided walking tour along part of the West Highland Way.


Cruise Loch Lomond accommodated the group for the return trip to Inversnaid and were delighted that the group enjoyed their Loch Lomond experience. Cruise Loch Lomond provide loch cruises for approximately 30 overseas school groups per annum to Inversnaid reserve and the West Highland Way, as well as local school groups to Inchcailloch.


John Urquhart, Chair of the charity Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs and expert local guide from Loch Lomond Guides, accompanied the group on the boat trip and led them along a section of the West Highland way north of Inversnaid. John provided information on several different themes, including helping the group to learn about the role of the National Park and also with regard to nurturing and appreciating the environment.


A very enjoyable day was had by all




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https://www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 29 Feb 2024 11:00:02 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Why Not Share the Joy of Reminiscence with Older Adults? ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/why-not-share-the-joy-of-reminiscence-with-older-adults-44ce18b22d0c135545b8a71515581a40/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/why-not-share-the-joy-of-reminiscence-with-older-adults-44ce18b22d0c135545b8a71515581a40/ Thursday 29 February, 2024


Living Memories Online, an innovative UK web portal offering archive films and reminiscence resources, developed by Devon based non-profit Living Memories C.I.C., is helping volunteers to use the joy of reminiscing to help reduce the isolation of older family members, neighbours, care home residents and local communities.


Academic studies show that reminiscence provides cognitive, social, and emotional benefits to older adults, including those living with dementia. It can also help them to build new friendships and reduce loneliness through sharing memories.


Reminiscence activities that incorporate multi-media such as archive films and photographs can be particularly stimulating, along with music, dancing, toys and memorabilia.


The Living Memories Online portal also provides the opportunity for subscribers to create their own collections of favourite films and share them with family members and friends who have also subscribed to the portal, whether they live in the UK or overseas.


Volunteers and activity co-ordinators can help in care and residential homes and help with Tea and Memories reminiscence groups in-person or virtually where older people can view, discuss, and share memories sparked by the archive footage. Volunteers also provide invaluable social contact and mental stimulation to participants.


As one volunteer shared, "It's amazing to watch an older adult who seems withdrawn who lights up when a familiar scene or object from their past comes up on screen. Pretty soon they can't stop talking and engaging with the group."


As a taster on the portal you can watch the following 5 minute video of a care home Tea and Memories Group in action, led by an 85 year old who loves the films and the technology: https://livingmemories.imagencloud.com/record/2550


Brian Norris, Executive Director and Founder of Living Memories C.I.C. explains “ With the support of Imagen for our technology and major national archive collections we created Living Memories Online during the Covid lockdowns and have spent almost two years uploading almost 3000 archive programs and related information, then trialling the portal with care homes and individuals around the UK.


“Just put Living Memories Online into any search engine for a trip back to the 20th century! We provide some Free To View films on the Home Page and are currently offering a free trial period for anyone who signs up for a subscription to our reminiscence service to see if it meets their needs.”


“Many care homes and people without access to wifi already use our award-winning Living Memories DVDs and printed Reminiscence Guides, which can be bought on the Store on the Living Memories website https://www.livingmemoriesonline.com”


Academic studies show that volunteering in general can lead to improved wellbeing, lower rates of depression,give a sense of purpose, and build stronger social ties. As one long-time reminiscence volunteer put it, "Spending time hearing the incredible life stories of older people and watching their joy in reminiscing is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done. I wish I had chatted more with my parents about their younger lives"


You can learn more about the Living Memories Online portal by visiting livingmemories.imagencloud.com and emailing info@livingmemories.io.




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https://twitter.com/@memotrytriggers Pressat brian.norris@livingmemories.io
https://livingmemories.imagencloud.com

Additional Contact(s):
Alternative phone: 01297 552358
Alternative email: brian.norris@outlook.com
@memorytriggers
Linkedin/in/briannorris1

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https://livingmemories.imagencloud.com 29 Feb 2024 09:41:10 GMT Charities & non-profits Consumer Technology Coronavirus (COVID-19) Environment & Nature Government Health Leisure & Hobbies Medical & Pharmaceutical Men's Interest Women & Beauty
<![CDATA[ Participation Call: Training & Expedition to Polar Regions for Microplastic and Climate Impact Research ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/participation-call-training-expedition-to-polar-regions-for-microplastic-and-climate-impact-research-91045d993ee2e10b35955d7636f739a2/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/participation-call-training-expedition-to-polar-regions-for-microplastic-and-climate-impact-research-91045d993ee2e10b35955d7636f739a2/ Tuesday 27 February, 2024

After a successful pilot year in 2023 as featured on the BBC, the Clean Planet Peninsula project is set to embark on an ambitious and visionary 3-year journey. Building on last year's success, the Clean Planet Foundation invites 25 individuals to join an immersive training course this August 2024 in the UK.


 In 2025 and 2026, selected participants from this training group will travel with the project to the Arctic and Antarctic to undertake scientific research and further training. This opportunity is open to anyone* who can demonstrate a distinct interest/focus relating to microplastic or climate science and can show how undertaking research in the polar regions will help benefit the global understanding of these critical environmental issues, contributing to worldwide conservation efforts.


The Clean Planet Foundation are privileged to be collaborating once again with the distinguished UK polar explorer Antony Jinman, the 12th Briton who skied solo in both the North and South Poles and the UK Polar Network (UKPN), the charity that represents early career polar scientists within the UK, alongside other partners from academic institutions (and beyond) who will be announced soon.


The project organisers envision this program as a stepping stone, guiding future projects and ensuring a continued legacy of innovation in polar research and environmental conservation. 


The end goal of this project is to provide early-career scientists with practical fieldwork expeditions, enabling research studies to be undertaken in the polar regions- particularly linked to plastic pollution and the impact of climate change.


Multi-Year Program Summary:


Year 1: UK Field course (4th
-9th August 2024)- Princetown within Dartmoor National Park, Devon


25 Participants above 18 who want to acquire important fieldwork skills for research projects in remote areas including polar regions. The course will cover critical field skills, including survival, food preparation, essential hygiene practices with a focus on menstruation, navigation, and more.

Year 2: Arctic Expedition (October 2025):


A shortlist of selected participants from Year 1 will have the opportunity to join an Arctic expedition in 2025, continuing their training in blending field skills and conducting scientific research in both marine and on land.

Year 3: Phase A - Norway/Finland (April 2026)


A further shortlist of selected participants from Year 2 will go on a High Skills training trip to acquire remote weather survival skills in addition to skills for acquiring scientific data under cold weather conditions.

Year 3: Phase B- Antarctica Voyage Expedition (Dec -2026):


The final shortlist of selected participants from the original 25 will become part of the crew for a voyage expedition to Antarctica, acquiring additional skills and conducting meaningful research on microplastics and climate research.


*WHO can apply?


The Clean Planet Peninsula project is looking for research students and early-career scientists from diverse backgrounds who have a project or are about to embark on research that requires fieldwork experience in remote areas including polar regions with research topics related to microplastics and their impact on the environment and climate.


Applicants should be above 18 years old, residents of the United Kingdom, and have a willingness to participate in all phases of the project from 2024 to 2027 to ensure research continuity. The project welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse learning environment. The project intends to keep at least 20% of places available for those who identify as coming from a low-income background. While participation in this program involves travelling to challenging regions, the organisers understand that individuals may have varying physical abilities. The primary concern is the safety and well-being of all participants. The organisers encourage all interested individuals to apply, regardless of their physical abilities. Applicants are asked to consider the physical demands of the course and expeditions, as they can be physically rigorous. However, the commitment to inclusivity means that the organisers are prepared to make reasonable accommodations to ensure that participants with disabilities can fully engage in the program.


If you have any concerns or specific needs related to physical fitness or mobility, please don't hesitate to reach out to.



HOW can you apply?


Interested participants can apply by following the link to the Clean Planet Peninsula project. The application process will be open from February 20th
until May 24th. The link is: https://www.cleanplanet.com/peninsula



Who is sponsoring the project?


The Clean Planet Foundation (CPF) is the lead sponsor of the Clean Planet Peninsula project. CPF is a not-for-profit organization committed to educating and taking action for the sustainable use of plastics and the reduction of carbon emissions. CPF believe in inclusivity and diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. https://www.cleanplanet.com/foundation/


Who is responsible for the logistics?


CPF and course instructors are responsible for delivering the project and organising all necessary logistics for the trips. The project has received detailed feedback from the pilot year in 2023 and is confident in the ability to execute the project efficiently, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.



What does it cost and what am I expected to bring?


The project is run under sponsorship of the Clean Planet Foundation and all core project costs are covered by CPF. You will be required to cover the cost of transport within the UK (e.g. to get to Dartmoor in 2024), however, food, specialist equipment, and any future international travel will be covered by the project. You will be required to bring suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities in the UK, however, any polar-related activities will be covered. Those identifying as from a low-income background do have the opportunity to have their UK travel and outdoor clothing covered if they are unable to afford the project without this support.



Where can I learn more?


To learn more about the successful pilot year of the Clean Planet Peninsula project, please visit the link below: https://www.cleanplanet.com/peninsula




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https://twitter.com/CleanPlanetE Pressat hello@cleanplanet.com
https://www.cleanplanet.com/

Additional Contact(s):
Sophie Phelps

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https://www.cleanplanet.com/ 27 Feb 2024 10:02:20 GMT Charities & non-profits Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature
<![CDATA[ Cakes for Apes: Bake Off's Jo Brand and Henry Bird join International Animal Rescue's Campaign To Shine A Spotlight on World Wildlife Day 2024 ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/cakes-for-apes-bake-offs-jo-brand-and-henry-bird-join-international-animal-rescues-campaign-to-shine-a-spotlight-on-world-wildlife-day-2024-7e69d5afdc35be40428363de2e2f2d01/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/cakes-for-apes-bake-offs-jo-brand-and-henry-bird-join-international-animal-rescues-campaign-to-shine-a-spotlight-on-world-wildlife-day-2024-7e69d5afdc35be40428363de2e2f2d01/ Thursday 22 February, 2024

Backed by many well-known faces, IAR's Cakes for Apes campaign aims to raise awareness. Talking about the campaign, comedian and host of the Great British Bake Offs Extra Slice, Jo Brand, said: "Whether you're a business, a teacher or a parent – we need your help to show the next generation how they can take care of our planet and also the deep connection between wildlife, nature and climate. Cakes for Apes is a great opportunity to share International Animal Rescue's message with young people whilst raising some funds to support the animals. We would love you all to take part."


We invite schools to participate in our 'Cakes for Apes' appeal to raise awareness. Get baking, go wild and raise money to save orangutans like Budi, whose journey from captivity to canopies exemplifies the transformative impact of IAR's work. Initially confined to a tiny chicken cage, Budi flourished under the round-the-clock care provided by IAR. Now thriving in forest school, Budi is growing more independent each day, showcasing the tangible impact of rehabilitation and release efforts.


Anyone can sign up for a fundraising pack here: https://www.cakes4apes.org/


If schools wish, they can also take advantage of IAR's educational resources, tailored for assemblies and beyond. These materials aim to empower communities with knowledge, encouraging active participation in conserving wildlife and their habitats. Schools can download the resources for free here: https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/lessons


Former bake-off contestant Henry Bird, whose journey began as a baking enthusiast, has transitioned his passion for creating delectable treats to a broader mission of advocating for animal welfare and environmental conservation. Known for his appearance as the youngest competitor on series 19 of the Great British Bake Off, Henry has embarked on a journey to use his influence to support causes close to his heart. Henry said, "I've always loved animals, the environment, baking and want to make a positive impact. Cakes for Apes gives me a fun way to contribute and raise awareness about the critical need to protect rainforests and the animals that depend on them. It also helps to raise funds to support the animals and educate future generations."


The dedicated team at IAR Indonesia spearheads initiatives to rescue and rehabilitate orangutans, safeguarding orangutan habitats through an extensive landscape conservation project. This initiative involves protecting forests, promoting sustainable farming, reforesting areas, and creating tree corridors to enable orangutans to move freely and safely between protected areas.


Education and outreach programs are pivotal in inspiring change within local communities and worldwide. By fostering awareness and understanding, IAR aims to create a shared responsibility for the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants.


WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES:


· RESCUE: Saving animals from suffering


· REHAB: Providing round-the-clock care and rehabilitation


· RELEASE: Facilitating the return of animals to their natural environment


· EDUCATION: Empowering communities with knowledge


· REFORESTATION: Protecting and restoring natural habitats


· PROTECTION: Safeguarding wildlife in their native ecosystems




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https://twitter.com/iar_updates Pressat media@internationalanimalrescue.org
https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org
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https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org 22 Feb 2024 10:59:46 GMT Charities & non-profits Children & Teenagers Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature Food & Drink
<![CDATA[ Friends “branch out” with the Woodland Trust in the National Park ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/friends-branch-out-with-the-woodland-trust-in-the-national-park-4eb191f0983410d2eeb7749a03e75fa7/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/friends-branch-out-with-the-woodland-trust-in-the-national-park-4eb191f0983410d2eeb7749a03e75fa7/ Wednesday 21 February, 2024

Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Chairman, John Urquhart, donned his waterproofs recently to spend the day participating with other volunteers in the Woodland Trust’s tree planting exercise at Glen Finglas estate, part of the Great Trossachs Forest National Nature Reserve. On the day, the second phase of the planting was completed, putting in 200 hazel and 70 oak trees. In an area of 0.33ha, a total of 150 oak trees and 500 hazel trees will be planted on a west facing slope on generally well drained mineral soil, with the area having been stock fenced prior to planting. All planting stock is grown from seed sourced on the estate and aftercare will involve manual bracken/weed control in late May and July/August as required.


The Friends hope to establish links with conservation bodies in the National Park and are looking forward to working with the Woodland Trust again in the future. Indeed, there are plans afoot to hold a volunteer “Make a Difference Day” to assist with more tree-planting on the estate towards the end of this year.



Friends “branch out” with the Woodland Trust in the National Park




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Pressat jennifer.plunkett@lochlomond-trossachs.org
https://www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk
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https://www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 21 Feb 2024 17:28:13 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Unlock secrets of ‘astounding pangolins’ in beautiful children’s animation, with plea to keep them safe ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/unlock-secrets-of-astounding-pangolins-in-beautiful-childrens-animation-with-plea-to-keep-them-safe-0f5ad5528d1f0ab998834e8193b407af/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/unlock-secrets-of-astounding-pangolins-in-beautiful-childrens-animation-with-plea-to-keep-them-safe-0f5ad5528d1f0ab998834e8193b407af/ Friday 16 February, 2024

With a call for daring heroes and an invitation to adventure, TRAFFIC introduces a heartwarming animated story on pangolins and the trafficking threat that imperils them in celebration of World Pangolin Day (Sat 17 Feb).


The Astounding Secret Pangolin animation is based on the picture book of the same name by UK-based illustrator Jeanette Ward, and author and book designer Mary Hays. It tells of the pangolin’s scales being both an armour and a vulnerability; the reason it is sought by poachers and traffickers.


Pangolins are believed to be the most trafficked mammal in the world. Several species have been hunted to near extinction because of demand for the scales which are wrongly believed to have medicinal properties. TRAFFIC works globally to prevent illegal trade in wild species.Animation, lesson plans, activitiesThe book was brought to life by Malaysia-based animator Faril Izzadi Mohd Noor for TRAFFIC’s Southeast Asia programme office, where he previously served as a graphic designer and continues to volunteer after leaving for the private sector.



The almost four-minute animation is tailored for young students and is designed to be used in tandem with English language and art exercises to showcase the many unique features that make pangolins special.


These lessons and a factsheet for teachers have been designed to help them broach the issue of poaching and illegal trade with a young audience, especially those that live in countries with wild pangolins or where the pangolin may be consumed. Mary first had the idea of the picture book when she heard about the plight of pangolins and approached Jeanette to illustrate it. Inspired by TRAFFIC's work on pangolins, the duo donated the use of the book’s words and images to the organisation.



They worked with TRAFFIC’s Southeast Asia communications team to develop the animation and learning materials that encapsulate the wonder of the species and its fight for survival.


"In 2016 I was looking for an idea for a children’s story when I came across a Cambridge Museum of Zoology fact sheet on Pangolins. Astonished that I’d never heard of this extraordinary mammal, I wondered how to tell, in some respects, this devastating story specifically to children. It needed to be both factual and endearing, and I knew Jeanette would be the perfect illustrator for the task! Her attention to detail and sensitive, empathetic approach has perfectly conveyed both the unique charm of these creatures and their precarious situation. It is fantastic to see it brought even further to life with Faril’s gentle animation," said Hays.


"I loved developing the pangolin characters for Mary’s beautifully written and engaging story. It's wonderful working with TRAFFIC and to play our part in helping young people understand just how important and astounding pangolins really are,” said Ward.


Kanitha Krishnasamy, Director for TRAFFIC in Southeast Asia thanked Hays, Ward and Faril for their masterful work creating the stunning visuals and captivating storytelling, and for choosing to partner with TRAFFIC.


“We hope it ignites curiosity and interest in conservation, in young minds and educators alike,” she said.


Eleanor Hays narrates the video. She takes viewers through descriptions of the pangolin’s one-of-a-kind features and behaviour, the threat of poachers in the forest, and the call for “someone bold and someone caring” to make the forest safe again.


The illustration of a mother pangolin and its pup is inspired by the Sunda Pangolin Manis javanica. It is one of the world’s eight recognized species of pangolin and calls Southeast Asia its home.


The region is not only a major source and consumer of Asian pangolin species but also a destination and transit point for trafficked African pangolin species.


Since 2019, all pangolin species have been prohibited from commercial international trade. Despite this, criminal networks continue to source and traffic pangolins in alarming numbers.


During the decade from 2014 to 2023, more than 2,300 pangolin trafficking seizures were recorded across Asia. A total volume of 419 tonnes of pangolin parts was confiscated, comprising almost 48,500 whole individuals and 319 tonnes of pangolin scales.




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https://twitter.com/TRAFFIC_WLTrade Pressat abbie.pearce@traffic.org
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16 Feb 2024 08:00:02 GMT Charities & non-profits Children & Teenagers Environment & Nature
<![CDATA[ Spread the word – Excellence in Forestry Awards 2024 are open ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/spread-the-word-excellence-in-forestry-awards-2024-are-open-5d75fc99d740c8219f9b0ceee11968c8/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/spread-the-word-excellence-in-forestry-awards-2024-are-open-5d75fc99d740c8219f9b0ceee11968c8/ Thursday 8 February, 2024

This year the Royal Forestry Society Excellence in Forestry Awards are looking to cast the spotlight on exceptional woods and forestry skills and educational projects across Central and Eastern England.


Royal Forestry Society (RFS) Chief Executive Christopher Williams says: “We know there are incredible woodlands and projects across the region and are excited to hear about them.


“In this era of climate change, it has never been more important to manage our woodlands and forests well. We need to have a skilled and knowledgeable workforce to make sure our landscapes can adapt and that our children and young people understand the important part our woodlands have to play in all our futures.


“This competition will help identify those that are leading the way, and help share their knowledge and experiences more widely across the UK. It recognises woodlands and projects large and small.”


There are five categories.



The Duke of Cornwall’s Award for Resilient Multi-Purpose Forestry
The Bede Howell Award for Excellence in Silviculture
Small and Farm Woodland of the Year Award
Education and Learning Award
Community Woodland of the Year Award

Find details of them all here


Entries are welcome from Royal Forestry Society Members in the counties covered by our Nottingham/Lincolnshire, Midlands, East Anglia and North West Midlands Divisions and from Non Members across the region.


All entries must be received by 30 April.


Awards are sponsored by: Savills, Trees Please, Tilhill, Forestry Journal, Woodland Trust, PEFC and FSC.




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https://twitter.com/royal_forestry Pressat Communications@rfs.org.uk
https://www.rfs.org.uk

Additional Contact(s):
07973 523168

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https://www.rfs.org.uk 08 Feb 2024 11:38:19 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Farming & Animals
<![CDATA[ Texcyle Enterprises adopts sustainability with Bio elastane in the socks industry. ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/texcyle-enterprises-adopts-sustainability-with-bio-elastane-in-the-socks-industry-83a684a23e7760ec9fe6132a255e04d6/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/texcyle-enterprises-adopts-sustainability-with-bio-elastane-in-the-socks-industry-83a684a23e7760ec9fe6132a255e04d6/ Thursday 8 February, 2024

Texcyle, an Indian socks supplier launches ground-breaking bio-elastane socks, pioneering sustainability in the global socks market


Texcyle, a pioneering Indian sock supplier, officially launches into the global market, proudly introducing the first-ever use of Bio-Elastane in the production of socks. Founded in 2023 by Raunak Hasnani, an ambitious entrepreneur with a passion for revolutionising the sock industry, Texcyle is committed to producing 100% organic socks and partnering with brands dedicated to sustainable and ethical practices.


Texcyle's mission goes beyond just providing socks; it aims to eliminate greenwashing claims in the fashion industry by offering a transparent and eco-friendly manufacturing process. The company's unique selling point lies in its dedication to a low carbon footprint, top-notch quality, and customization services.


The socks produced by Texcyle are crafted from a combination of Organic Cotton, Recycled Polyester, and revolutionary Bio-Elastane, making them pioneers of low carbon footprint socks. The company ensures a sustainable manufacturing process from start to end by sourcing ethical and certified materials. Texcyle has also taken a bold step towards sustainability by eliminating all virgin plastic packaging for shipping and distribution, replacing it with eco-friendly alternatives such as recycled paper, cotton, and compostable plastic.


Texcyle operates on a B2B model, collaborating with eco-conscious retailers, sustainable fashion brands, and companies committed to promoting ethical practices. The company provides custom sock design services, allowing businesses to incorporate their identity while adhering to their sustainability goals.


"What sets Texcyle apart is our unwavering commitment to sustainability, quality, and customization," says Raunak Hasnani, CEO of Texcyle. "We're not just selling socks; we're selling a vision of a greener, more sustainable fashion world. We invite businesses who share our vision to join us in this journey."


Texcyle's dedication to ethical practices and environmental sustainability makes it standout in the socks industry. The company aims to inspire positive change by collaborating with like-minded businesses and individuals who prioritise clean sourcing.


By choosing Texcyle, brands are not only sourcing socks but also doing their share of responsibility. Join the Texcyle movement for a greener future.


For additional information about Texcyle and its sustainable organic socks, please visit: https://texcyle.co/


About Texcyle:


Texcyle is a women-led company based in Rajasthan, India, dedicated to revolutionising the industry.. The company produces 100% organic socks with a focus on sustainability, quality, and customization. Texcyle collaborates with eco-conscious brands and retailers to promote ethical practices in the fashion industry.


For media inquiries, please contact:


Raunak Hasnani, Founder


Phone: +917982201014


Email: outreach@texcyle.co





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Pressat outreach@texcyle.co
https://texcyle.co

Additional Contact(s):
Raunak Hasnani- Founder- 00919783535901

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https://texcyle.co 08 Feb 2024 07:22:01 GMT Business & Finance Environment & Nature Lifestyle & Relationships Manufacturing, Engineering & Energy Media & Marketing Men's Interest Retail & Fashion Women & Beauty
<![CDATA[ Your Park Celebrates Incredible Volunteers at Awards Ceremony ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/your-park-celebrates-incredible-volunteers-at-awards-ceremony-95a3671e356e41902041be649508f7a6/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/your-park-celebrates-incredible-volunteers-at-awards-ceremony-95a3671e356e41902041be649508f7a6/ Wednesday 7 February, 2024

Your Park Bristol & Bath has celebrated its second awards ceremony to honour the incredible park volunteers from across Bristol and Bath.


Your Park Bristol and Bath, a Charity founded in February 2019 as part of the national Rethinking Parks programme, transforms how communities can benefit from and support parks and green spaces. They do this by improving access, supporting nature's recovery, and organising mental health community initiatives. On Saturday 03rd February, Your Park celebrated some outstanding volunteers with a ceremony at the Bristol Beacon. Over 100 volunteers attended the awards ceremony, including smaller community groups which make a huge difference to their local parks.


The awards are split into two sections, each with a small number of categories. Your Park celebrated six individual park volunteers who made an outstanding contribution to their green space and local community. The categories were Bristol & Bath Volunteer of the Year - People aged 25 and over, Bristol and Bath Young Adult Volunteer of the Year - People aged 16-24 years, and Bristol and Bath Young Volunteer of the Year - People aged under 16 years.


Simon, a Youth Worker involved with the Hartcliffe Club for Young People, who were winners of Young Volunteers of the Year Award, said: 

“It was amazing to see this group of young women’s work and patience rewarded. As we had lunch together, they were instantly asking what the next project was and whether we could litter pick the harbour side?”


The second part of the awards, The Community Impact Awards, saw groups of volunteers being recognised for their efforts which fall into three categories: Community Connecters, celebrating projects that have brought people together from all sections of the community, Happy and Healthy, celebrating projects that have improved local people’s health and well-being, and Nature Lovers, celebrating projects that have transformed their park for nature. One park from Bristol and one park from Bath were announced as the winners for each category, alongside the volunteers who made the work possible.


Manor Woods Valley Group, located in Bristol, winners of the Nature Lovers category said: 

“A big thank you everyone for your hard work that has made this possible.”


Finally, shortlisted groups from the Community Impact Awards (Community Connecters, Happy and Health and Nature Lovers) took part in the Community Choice Award, an award where the project with the most votes from their community won £200 towards their work. Redcatch Community Garden, located in Knowle, Bristol, were the winners of the Community Impact Award and have received the park funds. Redcatch Community Garden received 301 votes out of nearly 1000.


Redcatch Community Garden, winners of The Community Impact Award and Community Connectors Award said: “We are absolutely delighted to win two awards. Huge thank you to the individuals and panel who voted for us, we are thankful and grateful for this recognition and motivated to continue all we do for our community.”


The winners of all the awards received vouchers for garden centers and certificates of thanks.


Judy Gowenlock, Awards Manager, said: 

"The awards are about celebrating all that volunteers do, across our cities, for their parks and green spaces. Many residents of all ages and backgrounds give up their free time to make our parks and green spaces more welcoming places to be, places which benefit our health and places which support nature. It has been inspiring and heartwarming to read the nominations for all the individuals and groups and I would like to say a big thank you to them for all that they do. We finally wanted to say a huge thanks to Hargreaves Lansdown for sponsoring the awards.”


Your Park Bristol & Bath works closely with the two local authorities, Bristol City Council and Bath and North East Somerset Council, who are responsible for the upkeep of the 2,000+ hectares of local parks and green spaces, but the charity operates completely independently.”


If you would like to volunteer and make a difference in your community get in touch with Your Park today: www.yourpark.org.uk/get-involved. The event was made possible by sponsorship from Hargreaves Lansdown.






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https://twitter.com/yourparkbb Pressat amber@yourpark.org.uk
https://www.yourpark.org.uk/

Additional Contact(s):
Available for interview: Charlee Bennett, Director
charlee@yourpark.org.uk tel: 07807 476346

Amber Fisher, Head of Fundraising
amber@yourpark.org.uk tel: 07518 768699

For further information please contact info@yourpark.org.uk

Twitter, Facebook and Instagram: @yourparkBB

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https://www.yourpark.org.uk/ 07 Feb 2024 13:49:24 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Health Leisure & Hobbies
<![CDATA[ 66% of surveyed drivers wouldn’t consider buying an EV. ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/66-of-surveyed-drivers-wouldnt-consider-buying-an-ev-90cd15ff99f00116adbf034c4a871bb1/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/66-of-surveyed-drivers-wouldnt-consider-buying-an-ev-90cd15ff99f00116adbf034c4a871bb1/ Tuesday 6 February, 2024

Around two-thirds of non-EV drivers say they will still not be switching to an electric car any time soon. A recent survey conducted by Refused Car Finance shows a number of customers said they would not consider buying an electric car as their next vehicle.


Consumers who did not already own an EV were asked whether they would consider an electric car in the future and a vast majority of these surveyed individuals said they would not. Electric cars are heavily promoted to be better for the environment, cheaper to run and improve fuel efficiency but the survey suggests these incentives are not enough for UK drivers to make the switch. The main concerns for this group of drivers were the cost of buying an EV, the mileage capacity of EVs and the availability of charging points in the UK.


When buying a brand-new EV, the cost to buy can be higher than other models as they use newer, more expensive technology and also are produced in smaller numbers. Consumers do however have the ability to spread the cost of an EV with finance (if they are eligible) or there are many second-hand EVs on the market to take advantage of too.


61% of drivers surveyed were concerned about the electric range of EVs and whether they would spend more time recharging their vehicle than driving it. When asked what they thought the average mileage capacity would be for an electric car in 2024, 40% said between 181 and 240 miles, which happens to be pretty accurate. In 2024, the average mileage of an EV is around 211 miles but can be make/model dependent.


Drivers were also worried about the lack of electric car charging points across the UK and not being able to reach a charger before their mileage ran out. Currently, there are over 53,000 charging points available in the UK, but many drivers are still not convinced it is enough. To help encourage more drivers to adopt an EV and reach their 2025 Net Zero target, the UK government aims to have 300,000 charging points in place by 2030.


Out of the customers surveyed who already owned an EV, 66.7% of those said they were happy with their electric car purchase and petrol and diesel options making no sense to them anymore. In their opinion, the biggest selling point of their EV are low running costs, zero emissions and a better driving experience.


The purpose of this survey conducted by the bad credit car finance broker, Refused Car Finance, was to get an idea of how drivers currently feel about buying and owning electric cars. The 2035 petrol and diesel car ban is still a while off, but it's inevitable drivers will have to invest in an electric car at some point in the future. But is it best to buy now and get ahead of the game? This research suggests some UK drivers are still not yet ready to adopt a zero-emission vehicle.




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https://twitter.com/RefCarFinance Pressat laura@uk-carfinance.co.uk
https://www.refusedcarfinance.com/
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https://www.refusedcarfinance.com/ 06 Feb 2024 14:41:15 GMT Business & Finance Environment & Nature Motoring
<![CDATA[ NSF Research Reveals 72% of Brits Demand Animal Wellness Compliance from Food Companies ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/nsf-research-reveals-72-of-brits-demand-animal-wellness-compliance-from-food-companies-76413ad273c18ab42ffb973e36945053/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/nsf-research-reveals-72-of-brits-demand-animal-wellness-compliance-from-food-companies-76413ad273c18ab42ffb973e36945053/ Tuesday 6 February, 2024

NSF research shows that a significant shift towards ethical consumerism is underway, with a majority of Brits calling for clear animal wellness transparency and compliance from food companies.


Oxford, UK (February 06, 2024) – NSF, the leading global public health organisation, announced today its compelling research findings on UK consumers’ attitudes towards animal wellness and its impact on their purchasing decisions.


The recent study conducted by NSF confirms that British consumers are highly conscious of animal wellness in food production, with a significant majority placing importance on companies demonstrating transparency and compliance in animal wellness throughout their global supply chains. While data from the UK government shows the demand for meat is at an all-time low, British consumer’s demand for ethical consumerism is growing.


“Animal wellness should not be a marginal concern for brands anymore; it’s a defining feature of ethical consumerism that is increasingly impacting purchasing decisions,” said Dr. Elaine Vanier, a veterinarian and the animal wellness program lead for NSF. “Animal wellness is about doing the right thing for the animal and refers to the quality of life experienced by animals in the food supply chain. Including physical and psychological health, living conditions, and how animals are handled and treated. It substantially impacts sustainability, product food safety, and the responsible use of antibiotics and medication. Our research reiterates the weight consumers place on this matter. We are increasingly called upon to support brands committed to putting these values into practice across their entire protein supply chain.”


Key findings from the study include:


68% of UK consumers say animal wellness is either very or extremely important to purchasing decisions.72% of UK consumer said it was very important or extremely important that companies demonstrate consistency and compliance with animal wellness throughout their supply chain.73% declared they are more likely to purchase a product that has been certified for animal wellness by a third party, especially those between the 30-44 age group, who were 87% more likely.Only 13% said they would be unwilling to pay a higher price for products certified for animal wellness.84% expect animal products sold by international brands to comply with animal wellness standards, which rises to over 90% for Brits aged 30-44.Only 3 in 10 said they were very or extremely informed of UK animal wellness standards.

The revelation that animal welfare labels are often misinterpreted underscores a critical need for consumer education. “Our findings highlight a disconnect between consumer perceptions and the real standards behind labels,” Dr. Vanier comments. “Clear, certified labelling is vital to bridge this gap, granting consumers the assurance they seek when making ethical food choices.”


For food manufacturing and agricultural companies, NSF’s research indicates that investing in animal wellness is not merely a moral obligation or marketing trend. It is a strategic imperative that resonates with countless consumers, signalling the arrival of a critical juncture for the industry to align with progressive ethical practices.


“It’s clear that a significant majority of British consumers understand that animal wellness comes at a price, with only 13% reluctant to pay more for animal wellness-certified products. This speaks volumes about the UK’s consumer conscience and their readiness to invest in ethical and sustainable choices,” said Dale Newitt, Director of Supply Chain Food Safety, NSF. “British consumers are sending a powerful message across borders: 84% expect international brands to not just meet but uphold animal wellness standards. This is a clarion call for global players to align with UK standards of animal care or risk losing relevance in this key market.”


NSF encourages retailers, producers, and food brands to embrace independent animal wellness certifications such as NSF GAWS as a robust framework for delivering on the promise of animal wellness. This commitment benefits all parties involved, offering long-term advantages such as reduced antibiotic use, improved feed efficiency, higher yields, and better product grading.


With the growing consumer demand for ethical food production, NSF stands prepared to guide and support the industry with expertise and solutions to advance global animal wellness.


For more information on animal wellness and NSF, visit www.nsf.org.




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https://www.nsf.org/gb/en 06 Feb 2024 07:05:02 GMT Business & Finance Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Food & Drink
<![CDATA[ Super Ninja Acquires Waspinator ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/super-ninja-acquires-waspinator-49b1138bd6d9bb9805a4678746e757b2/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/super-ninja-acquires-waspinator-49b1138bd6d9bb9805a4678746e757b2/ Friday 2 February, 2024

Ilkley/Gouda – February 2 2024 – Super Ninja, a leading provider of non-toxic pest control solutions, has acquired Waspinator Ltd, the UK-based company renowned for its innovative wasp prevention product, the Waspinator. The Waspinator deters wasps by mimicking a wasp nest.


Key highlights of the acquisition:


Waspinator will complement Super Ninja's existing portfolio of sustainable pest control products, expanding the company's offering and enhancing its ability to protect homes and businesses from wasps without toxins.Super Ninja's distribution network in Europe and Australia will give Waspinator access to a wider customer base.The combined company will benefit from shared expertise to deter pests without chemical agents that are overly used in the pest control category.

“We are thrilled to welcome Waspinator to the Super Ninja family,” said van Vollenhoven, CEO of Super Ninja. “Richard Piddocke, Waspinator’s founder, has built a remarkable company that has established a strong reputation for delivering an effective and environmentally friendly pest solution against wasps. We are excited to leverage Waspinator’s expertise and market position to further strengthen our position in the UK as a leading provider of sustainable pest control solutions.”


Piddocke, who will retire following the acquisition after leading Waspinator for over 15 years, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “I am confident that Super Ninja is the right partner for Waspinator,” he said. “Their strong commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with Waspinator’s values. I am excited to see what the joint venture can achieve in the years to come.”About Waspinator


The Original Waspinator was invented 15 years ago by Richard Piddocke, who was inspired by his own experience with wasps. The Waspinator works by exploiting wasps' territorial instincts. Wasps are highly territorial animals and will fiercely defend their nests from intruders. The Waspinator mimics the appearance of an enemy wasp nest, which causes the wasps to become agitated and avoid the area. This is because wasps perceive the Waspinator as a threat to their colony and will not risk their safety by approaching it. The product has been featured on TV shows like This Morning' TV and BBC Gardeners' World.


About Super Ninja


Super Ninja (trading name of Fruit Fly Ninja B.V., headquarter in Gouda, the Netherlands) is a leading provider of sustainable pest control solutions. The company is committed to using innovative, eco-friendly methods to control pests and protect homes and businesses. Super Ninja’s hero product is the Fruit Fly Ninja, a non-toxic fruit fly trap that mimics the smell of rotting fruit to capture fruit flies. The product is one of the best sold pest control products across the UK and Europe, fueled by bursting nuisance of fruit flies due to the warmer climate.


The combined UK entity will operate under the name Super Ninja Waspinator UK Ltd and will be led by Joost van Vollenhoven, CEO of Super Ninja.




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https://superninja.nl/en/ 02 Feb 2024 08:05:02 GMT Business & Finance Environment & Nature Home & Garden