Latest news with #REACH
Euronews
2 days ago
- General
- Euronews
Stopping pollution at source: Can we turn off the plastic tap?
Every year, the world produces record quantities of plastic. In 2021, according to the OECD, more than 400 million tonnes of plastic were produced worldwide, twice as much as in the early 2000s. If nothing changes, plastic consumption could triple by 2060. The problem is that recycling is not keeping pace with this acceleration. According to OECD data, around 9% of waste is recycled, 19% is incinerated, and nearly three-quarters is sent to landfill or disposed of in nature. Ubiquitous… and invisible waste Depending on its composition, plastics take between 20 and 500 years to decompose, but they do not necessarily disappear. Even when they fragment, they leave behind microplastics, particles smaller than 5mm. These remnants of everyday plastic objects are invading the oceans, soils, rivers… and living organisms, such as fish and human bodies. Studies have proven their existence in drinking water, breast milk, and even human blood. A growing number of scientific studies warn of the risks to human health. Europe wants to stem the waste tide Faced with this situation, the European Union has taken a series of measures in recent years: • Since 2021, the ban on single-use plastics targets some of the most common and easily replaceable items, such as bags, straws, and cutlery. • New packaging regulations aim to reduce over-packaging and improve the recyclability of packaging. • The intentional addition of microplastics is restricted in certain cosmetics, detergents, and industrial products through the European REACH regulation. • A draft regulation on maritime transport aims to minimize the loss of industrial pellets in order to avoid microplastic pollution. • The Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which aims to protect marine ecosystems from marine litter, is currently being revised. The EU also funds numerous research projects aimed at developing bio-sourced and biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastics. This is the case with the SEALIVE project, led by the ITENE research center in Valencia, and the R3pack project. Brussels also aims to optimise the economic performance of reuse systems to achieve 100% reusable or recyclable packaging on the market by 2030. Towards an international treaty on plastics Beyond its borders, the EU is actively campaigning for a legally binding global agreement on plastic pollution. The draft treaty has been under negotiation since 2025 and reports indicate that two visions emerged: • A "high ambition" coalition gathers over 100 members including the EU, Rwanda, Norway, and Peru, advocates for a legally binding covering the whole life-cycle of plastics (upstream and downstream measures). • Other countries, including major oil producers, want the agreement to focus on downstream measures such as waste management and recycling. Upstream measures, which are the subject of heated debate, include: • Sustainable production and consumption of plastics; • Addressing issues related to problematic plastic items (such as single-use plastics); • Reducing chemicals of greatest concern. The next round of negotiations will take place in Geneva, from August 5 to 14, 2025.
Hi Dubai
2 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Land Department (DLD) Partners with Second Century Ventures to Launch Real Estate Accelerator
REACH Middle East opens applications for its inaugural 2025 program First cohort members to receive up to $1.5 million in funding Dubai Land Department (DLD) is partnering with Second Century Ventures to launch the REACH Middle East accelerator program and has opened applications for the first cohort of companies. This landmark initiative, led by real estate technology pioneers Siddiq Farid and Karim Helal, invites startup companies from all industries to apply for the opportunity to redefine real estate innovation across the region. REACH Middle East is a curated, eight-month program designed to empower up to 10 high-potential startups with the tools, mentorship and networks needed to scale locally and globally within the real estate industry. Selected companies will benefit from: Direct Funding and Investment: REACH provides up to $250,000 seed capital per company, strategic investor introductions and pathways for follow-on funding REACH provides up to $250,000 seed capital per company, strategic investor introductions and pathways for follow-on funding Real World Access: Work with major real estate developers, government bodies and facility managers to pilot and commercialize solutions Work with major real estate developers, government bodies and facility managers to pilot and commercialize solutions Expert-Led Mentorship: Learn from industry veterans, successful founders and global thought leaders in PropTech Learn from industry veterans, successful founders and global thought leaders in PropTech Growth Opportunities: Unlock curated connections at major industry events, conferences and trade shows to drive market adoption Unlock curated connections at major industry events, conferences and trade shows to drive market adoption Global Expansion: Plug into REACH's exclusive global network of over 330 alumni companies Aligned with the UAE Digital Economy Strategy, Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033 – which aim to add more than $27 billion to the economy – REACH Middle East supports the digital transformation of real estate and urban development. It complements other UAE accelerators, such as Abu Dhabi's Hub71 and regional initiatives under the Saudi Real Estate Development Fund and NEOM Innovation Hub that align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. By fostering public-private partnerships, REACH Middle East aims to position the region as a global hub for innovation in the real estate ecosystem. REACH is backed by Second Century Ventures, the most active global fund in real estate technology. As the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors®, SCV leverages the association's members and an unparalleled network of executives within real estate and adjacent industries. We are proud to collaborate with REACH Middle East to unlock the potential of real estate tech startups across the region. With Dubai as the starting point, this accelerator will provide unparalleled support to entrepreneurs, fostering solutions that resonate throughout the Middle East and contribute to the global real estate ecosystem, said Dr. Mahmoud AlBurai, Head of Policies and Innovation at Dubai Land Department. The MENA region is at the forefront of real estate innovation, and REACH Middle East is committed to empowering startups to solve real-world challenges. Our program bridges cutting-edge technology with practical real estate applications, driving sustainable growth for startups and the industry alike, added Siddiq Farid, Managing Director of REACH Middle East. REACH offers a unique opportunity for startups to be part of a transformative ecosystem. We encourage ambitious startups to apply to join the next generation of PropTech trailblazers and help shape the future of real estate in the MENA region and beyond, said Dave Garland, Managing Partner at Second Century Ventures. REACH Middle East seeks revenue-generating startups (seed to Series A) intent on expanding into the real estate, construction, sustainability, or property management ecosystem using emerging technologies like AI, IoT, or blockchain with scalable business models with local and global potential. Applications are now open and can be submitted at . Source:
Entrepreneur
2 days ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Dubai Land Department and Second Century Ventures to Launch Real Estate Tech Accelerator
REACH Middle East is a curated, eight-month program designed to empower up to 10 high-potential startups with the tools, mentorship and networks needed to scale locally and globally within the real estate industry. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Dubai Land Department (DLD) has partnered with Second Century Ventures to launch the REACH Middle East accelerator program The initiative, led by real estate technology entrepreneurs Siddiq Farid and Karim Helal, invites startup companies from all industries to apply for the opportunity to redefine real estate innovation across the region. Applications are now open and can be submitted at REACH Middle East is a curated, eight-month program designed to empower up to 10 high-potential startups with the tools, mentorship and networks needed to scale locally and globally within the real estate industry. It seeks revenue-generating startups (seed to Series A) intent on expanding into the real estate, construction, sustainability, or property management ecosystem using emerging technologies like AI, IoT, or blockchain with scalable business models with local and global potential. REACH will provide up to US$250,000 seed capital per company, enable work with major real estate developers, government bodies and facility managers to pilot and commercialize solutions, and facilitate mentorship and growth opportunities. Aligned with the UAE Digital Economy Strategy, Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, which aim to add more than US$27 billion to the economy, REACH Middle East supports the digital transformation of real estate and urban development. It complements other UAE accelerators, such as Abu Dhabi's Hub71 and regional initiatives under the Saudi Real Estate Development Fund and NEOM Innovation Hub that align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. By fostering public-private partnerships, REACH Middle East aims to position the region as a global hub for innovation in the real estate ecosystem. "We are proud to collaborate with REACH Middle East to unlock the potential of real estate tech startups across the region. With Dubai as the starting point, this accelerator will provide unparalleled support to entrepreneurs, fostering solutions that resonate throughout the Middle East and contribute to the global real estate ecosystem," said Dr. Mahmoud AlBurai, Head of Policies and Innovation at Dubai Land Department. "The MENA region is at the forefront of real estate innovation, and REACH Middle East is committed to empowering startups to solve real-world challenges. Our program bridges cutting-edge technology with practical real estate applications, driving sustainable growth for startups and the industry alike," added Siddiq Farid, Managing Director of REACH Middle East. "REACH offers a unique opportunity for startups to be part of a transformative ecosystem. We encourage ambitious startups to apply to join the next generation of PropTech trailblazers and help shape the future of real estate in the MENA region and beyond," said Dave Garland, Managing Partner at Second Century Ventures.
Cision Canada
3 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
Jersey Mike's Subs Opening in Regina Tomorrow Springboard to Canadian Expansion West
REGINA, SK, July 29, 2025 /CNW/ - Redberry Restaurants ("Redberry") will open the first Canadian Jersey Mike's Subs outside of Ontario at 2323 Victoria Avenue E., in Regina, tomorrow, Wednesday, July 30, 2025, bringing its signature fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs to hungry Saskatchewanians as it expands into Western Canada. This opening marks Redberry's 13 th Jersey Mike's location. The company opened its first Canadian Jersey Mike's in Markham, Ontario in August 2024, and plans to open 300 locations over the next 10 years (see Canada's Jersey Mike's locations here). "We can't wait to introduce the great people of Regina to Jersey Mike's authentic sub sandwiches," said Ken Otto, CEO, Redberry. "This is just the beginning of our expansion into Western Canada and we couldn't think of a better place to start the journey." The company expects to open four additional locations in Western Canada in 2025 with a minimum of ten more coming in 2026. Locations in Saskatoon and Prince Albert, Saskatchewan are slated for this fall. To celebrate the Regina opening, Redberry will hold a grand opening and fundraiser from Wednesday, July 30 to Sunday, August 3, to support Regina Education and Action on Community Hunger (REACH). Customers who receive a special fundraising coupon distributed through a grassroots effort prior to the opening can make a minimum $3 contribution to REACH in exchange for a regular sub. Customers must have a coupon to be eligible. Customers without a coupon will have the opportunity to download the Jersey Mike's app and earn a free regular sub after their first in-app sub purchase and will also be able to support REACH via a donation box near the register. The first 100 visitors to the new Jersey Mike's location in Regina will also receive a free Jersey Mike's swag bag. Making a Difference Jersey Mike's believes that making a sub sandwich and making a difference can be one and the same. Since the beginning of 2024 Jersey Mike's in Canada has raised more than $135,000 for local organizations. During Jersey Mike's Month of Giving in March, Redberry raised almost $70,000 for Make-A-Wish Canada. Fresh Sliced/Fresh Grilled Jersey Mike's premium meats and cheeses are sliced on the spot and piled high on the in-store baked bread. Jersey Mike's fans crave their subs made Mike's Way® with the freshest vegetables – onions, lettuce and tomatoes – along with an exquisite zing of "the juice," red wine vinegar and an olive oil blend, topped off with our signature spices. Authentic cheesesteaks are also grilled fresh to order. The restaurant's hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. You can place orders in-store, on Jersey Mike's app, online at and on the national delivery apps. Catering orders are welcome. Redberry Restaurants Founded in 2005, Redberry is one of the largest QSR restaurant franchisees in Canada. Redberry owns and operates more than 200 restaurants across the country, operating under the BURGER KING®, Taco Bell and Jersey Mike's Subs brands.
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
Why Quality Rules Keep Plastic Products Top-Notch
Plastic stuff is everywhere—think food containers, medical tools, and car parts. Making sure they're top quality is super important for safety and trust. How do companies do it? This article breaks down the main rules for plastic products. It explains why they're a big deal, how they're used, and tips for businesses. It also answers common questions to make it all clear. Quality rules make sure plastic products are safe and work right. They keep customers happy and make brands look good. Bad quality can cause big problems, like broken stuff or health risks. For example, a bad food container could leak yucky stuff. Rules also help companies follow laws and sell all over the world. Here's why they're key: Rules check that plastics don't have harmful stuff. This is huge for food and medical products, where safety can't be skipped. Rules make sure every product is just as good as the last. This builds trust for a plastic product company. Good quality means happy customers and fewer returns. Lots of countries want products to meet certain rules. Following these lets companies sell everywhere. For example, ISO rules are okay in over 160 countries, helping businesses grow. Rules push for green practices, like recycling. This helps a plastic manufacturing company cut waste and look eco-friendly. There are big rules that guide the plastic world. They cover materials, making stuff, and testing. Here's the top ones: ISO 9001 is about keeping quality steady. It makes companies follow the same steps every time. For example, it checks raw materials before starting. Over 1 million companies use this rule. This rule is for plastics used with food. It makes sure containers are safe for food and don't leak chemicals. PET and HDPE plastics usually pass this rule. ASTM D6868 tests biodegradable plastics like polylactic acid (PLA). It checks if they break down safely in compost. This matters for eco-friendly packaging. In the U.S., the FDA sets rules for plastics in food and medical stuff. It bans bad chemicals like BPA in some products. Plastics like PET and PP gotta pass FDA tests. In Europe, REACH controls chemicals in plastics. It limits toxic stuff to keep people and nature safe. Companies gotta list what chemicals they use. A plastic manufacturing company follows clear steps to meet these rules. Here's how it works: Companies pick safe, strong materials. For example, PET is used for food bottles 'cause it's FDA-approved. Tests check if materials are tough and safe. Factories use careful ways to shape plastics. Machines are set up to avoid mistakes. For example, making car parts needs super exact measurements, like within 0.01 mm. Products get tested for strength and safety. Tests check for stress and chemicals. Outside labs, like SGS, say if products meet rules like ISO or FDA. Regular checks make sure everything follows rules. ISO 9001 needs yearly reviews. This keeps a plastic product company doing things right. Companies write down everything—where materials come from, test results, and how stuff's made. These records prove they follow rules when checked. Meeting these rules brings big wins for businesses and customers. Here's how: Builds Trust : Good standards make customers feel safe. They know products are solid. : Good standards make customers feel safe. They know products are solid. Fewer Problems : Quality checks mean fewer broken products. This saves cash on fixes. : Quality checks mean fewer broken products. This saves cash on fixes. Sells Worldwide : Rules like ISO let companies sell everywhere. They show you're legit. : Rules like ISO let companies sell everywhere. They show you're legit. Looks Green : Rules like ASTM D6868 show you care about the planet. This pulls in eco-friendly buyers. : Rules like ASTM D6868 show you care about the planet. This pulls in eco-friendly buyers. Avoids Trouble: Following FDA or REACH keeps companies out of legal messes. Rules are great but can be hard to follow. Here's the tricky stuff: Testing and approvals can cost a lot. Small companies might find lab fees or new gear tough. For example, ISO 9001 approval can cost $10,000 or more. Rules are different in each country. A product okay for the FDA might need changes for REACH in Europe. This takes time and smarts. Rules keep changing. For example, the EU banned single-use plastics in 2021. Companies gotta stay updated to avoid problems. Here's how a plastic product company or plastic manufacturing company can keep quality high: Pick Safe Stuff: Use FDA-approved plastics like PET or HDPE for food and medical products. Test Everything: Work with labs like SGS to check strength and safety. Train Workers: Teach staff about rules like ISO 9001 to keep quality up. Watch Rules: Stay on top of FDA, REACH, and other rules with industry news. Be Green: Try biodegradable plastics like PLA to meet eco-goals. Rules keep products safe, reliable, and good quality. They protect people and help sell globally. PET and HDPE are safe for food. They're FDA-approved and don't leak chemicals into food. They use recyclable or biodegradable plastics. They also join recycling programs and follow laws like REACH. Bad quality can cause recalls, fines, or health risks. For example, bad medical plastics could hurt people and ruin a company's name. Quality rules for plastics are getting tougher. By 2030, the EU wants all packaging to be recyclable or reusable. The market for green plastics is growing 15% a year. Companies are spending on better tests and eco-materials. For example, new tech like near-infrared sorting makes recycling easier. Tougher Rules : Laws like the EU's will push for greener plastics. : Laws like the EU's will push for greener plastics. Better Tests : New tools will check chemicals faster and cheaper. : New tools will check chemicals faster and cheaper. More Green Plastics : PLA and other eco-stuff will grow. : PLA and other eco-stuff will grow. Global Rules: ISO and ASTM will line up more to make trade easy. Quality rules keep plastic products safe, solid, and eco-friendly. Standards like ISO 9001, FDA, and REACH make sure they work great for food, medical, and other industries. Sure, costs and changing rules are tough, but following them builds trust and opens markets. A plastic product company or plastic manufacturing company can do great by picking safe materials, testing well, and staying updated. Start focusing on quality rules now to stay trusted and ahead. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
