Author: Rabindra

The Role of Façade Glazing in Acoustics: Enhancing Soundproofing in Urban Environments

By-Dc Chandra

Persistent noise pollution can present serious problems for both residential and commercial spaces in the busy settings of modern cities. The constant cacophony of traffic, emergency sirens, and the general bustle of city life can all hurt one’s comfort, productivity, and general well-being. There has never been a higher need for efficient soundproofing solutions as cities grow and become denser in population. Façade glazing is one such idea that has attracted a lot of interest.

Façade glazing is the term for the external covering of a building’s structure, usually made of glass that serves as a decorative element in addition to a protective barrier. Being aesthetically pleasing, contemporary façade systems are also made to fulfill several practical needs, including light transmission, thermal insulation, and, more and more, acoustic performance. In urban settings, façade glass plays an especially important role in soundproofing buildings since structures are frequently subjected to high levels of outside noise. Architects and builders can create a more comfortable and quiet interior by using glass systems and materials that are appropriate for the structure and reducing the amount of outside noise that enters the building.

Acoustic Principles of Façade Glazing

The two main components that influence the acoustic performance of glazing are sound absorption and sound insulation. The ability of the glazing to prevent or lessen sound from entering the building from the outside is referred to as sound insulation. Conversely, sound absorption refers to the glazing’s capacity to take in sound waves and stop them from bouncing inside the rooms.

1. Sound Insulation: A façade glazing system’s Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating indicates how well it insulates against sound. The better the glazing system’s ability to suppress sound, the higher its STC rating. Conventional single-pane windows often have poor STC ratings, which indicates that a substantial quantity of outside noise can enter the structure. Modern double- or triple-glazing systems, on the other hand, can reach significantly higher STC ratings, which effectively lower noise levels, especially if they use laminated glass.

2. Sound Absorption: Sound absorption manages interior noise, whereas sound insulation stops outside noise from entering the building. By absorbing sound energy, specific acoustic glazing materials can be employed in façade systems to lessen echo and reverberation within the room. This is especially crucial in big interior spaces like atriums and open-plan workplaces where managing noise levels is crucial for comfort and efficiency.

Types of Acoustic Glazing

Different types of acoustic glazing, each having varying degrees of noise attenuation, can be utilized to improve soundproofing in urban environments:

1. Laminated Glass: Usually composed of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), laminated glass is composed of two or more layers of glass joined together by an interlayer. This interlayer not only increases safety by keeping the glass from breaking, but it also greatly enhances the acoustic qualities of the glass. By attenuating sound vibrations, the PVB interlayer lessens the propagation of noise.

2. Double Glazing: This technique uses two glass panes spaced apart by an airtight spacer or an inert gas such as argon. Sound waves are less likely to pass through because of the buffering effect of the air space between the panes. One pane can be laminated for better acoustic performance, or the gap can be widened for even better sound absorption.

3. Triple Glazing: By including a third pane of glass, triple glazing expands on the idea of double glazing. This extra layer can offer even more sound insulation when paired with several air gaps, which makes it a wonderful option for buildings in very noisy urban settings.

The Impact on Urban Living

The quality of life for building occupants in urban areas can be significantly enhanced by the installation of high-performance façade glazing systems. Better acoustic glazing in homes can produce a calm and quiet atmosphere that is necessary for rest and sleep. Effective soundproofing can boost output, lower stress levels, and raise customer and staff happiness in commercial facilities like hotels and offices. Furthermore, acoustic glazing is essential for establishing the right atmosphere in healthcare and educational facilities, where a calm setting is critical for healing and focus.

As cities expand and noise pollution becomes a constant problem, façade glazing plays a bigger and bigger part in improving acoustic performance. Architects and builders may design buildings that not only satisfy energy efficiency and aesthetic criteria but also offer a haven from outside noise by grasping the fundamentals of sound absorption and insulation and choosing the right glazing systems. Thus, façade glazing is more than just a matter of taste in design—rather, it is an essential component of the continuous endeavor to raise the standard of urban living.

Speech by Mr. Anand Mahindra at the FirstCry listing ceremony

By- Mr. Anand Mahindra

I am sure that the question upmost in your mind when you see me at the podium is: What am I doing here? Why am I here?
I’m here because it’s actually a moment of great pride for the entire Mahindra group.

 The next question in your mind is: This much pride for a sizeable stake in a company?

 I am here because of the story behind that stake. The story is about an experiment, in management if you will, it’s a lab experiment you might say. The experiment was about trying to understand or to figure out: How do large business groups incubate and build new businesses? How do you create a sense of entrepreneurship inside a large group?

 To answer that question, in 2010, ironically when FirstCry was born. We created Mahindra Partners. That was our attempt at trying to create this experiment in entrepreneurship. The mandate for Mahindra Partners, was that they should be investing in incubating companies, particularly in the new age fields. They would of course have to do that while competing with a variety of startups, and frankly nobody is betting on the large companies, as you know. So, I asked one of my colleagues Zhooben Bhiwandiwala and another colleague Parag Shah to join. Zhooben as senior Managing Director of the company and then Parag as the Managing Director. They are both here today. Their mandate, as I said, was to isolate this kind of mentality of the startup. To our minds, the really differentiating mentality of startups is that they worship at the temple of value creation. Almost to the exclusion of everything else. They are not there necessarily to build empires, they are there to build and create value; and that his why they are so agile; so nimble; and so focused. That’s why nobody bets on large companies to create new businesses.

 Now if we found that they invested in businesses where the value creation was better done in the large company, under the umbrella, or aegis of our large companies, so be it. We’d build them as a new vertical. But if they found that, greater value would be created by ceding control or ceding leadership, so be it too. And so, they worked first on Mahindra Logistics, a company that was a division of Mahindra. They took it out, grew it dramatically, created extraordinary value. They then created Susten, a new age business in new age renewables, new energy, solar to be specific to begin with; and that’s been very successful. Both these are now solid pillars of the Mahindra group. As well as Mahindra Accelo which was the first business of the group that was the first business of the group that they transformed from a trading business to manufacturing powerhouse.

 Then they invested in Mom & me which was a business in clothing and other goods for newly born children, for infants and beyond. The identical space that Supam is fighting in. After a while they felt that consolidation is the path value to creation, so we acquired Baby Oye, we were still fighting Supam.

 One day Zhooben came to me and said, “You know Anand, I’ve studied this man and he is brilliant. He is an innovator, he is passionate, he focuses relentlessly on efficiency. He has a global vision”, which I am delighted to hear today is manifesting in UAE and Saudi. He then said, “this is the time for us to really create value by consolidating with them. I think we’ll be better off supporting him rather than fighting him.” That, ladies and gentlemen, is why we merged with FirstCry and at that time became the largest shareholder. After that you know, Supam went like a rocket ahead. He has created a delivery system that is the envy of many global online retailers. Which, I suppose, is what attracted Softbank of course to come in, and of course the rest is history.

 So, I want to end by saying here today that we are extraordinarily happy to be here. I want to congratulate you Supam, and your entire team that is here, and I want to express our gratitude for creating value for yourself and your team. I want to congratulate you and express my gratitude for creating immense value for Mahindra. And I want to thank you in particular for creating enormous value for this country.

ACCA and Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini Launch Financial Literacy Programme to Empower 600 Students & Community Members

Mumbai, August 13, 2024: ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), a globally recognised professional accountancy body, in collaboration with Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini, conducted FinLit Festivals, interactive events focused on promoting financial literacy among students. These events marked the launch of ACCA’s Financial Literacy programme at two schools in Chithode, Tamil Nadu, and Macherla, Andhra Pradesh, aimed at empowering students in grades 6-9 with essential financial skills at no cost.

Financial literacy plays a pivotal role in shaping young minds, providing them with practical knowledge on smart money management, understanding banking services, evaluating investment options and preparing them for future financial needs. By introducing these concepts early on, ACCA aims to empower students with practical finance knowledge and create a generation that is not only financially savvy but also capable of making prudent financial decisions.

The launch of the Financial Literacy Programme also included parents of the students and the broader community from Chithode and Macherla. ACCA members engaged with the community on the subjects of banking and finance, providing them with insights and practical knowledge. The programme also included skit performances by students, which focussed on key financial concepts such as the benefits of banking, the perils of using money lenders, and the risks associated with chit funds. The overall programme was designed with the intention of not just educating, but also entertaining the students, while leaving the audience with a memorable learning experience.

Speaking on the launch of the programme, Md. Sajid Khan, Director- India, ACCA, said, “We are excited to launch the ACCA Financial Literacy Programme in partnership with Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini. Financial literacy is not just a skill—it’s a lifeline that empowers individuals to make informed decisions, plan for the future, and achieve their dreams. By educating young minds early on, we are laying the foundation for a financially secure and prosperous future of the country. Our collaboration aims to inspire and equip these students with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the financial world confidently. Together, we are not just teaching finance; we are fostering a generation of financially savvy, responsible citizens.”

Prasanthi Nilayam-based Director of the Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini, Mrs. Karuna Munshi celebrates the intersectionality of the FinLit festival as a historic and collaborative milestone. “It’s refreshing how a professional body, a philanthropic digital education project and a private school with many first-generation learners can come together for the good of the larger community. It is a rare but powerful vision alignment aimed at giving back to our communities,” she says.

Kingfisher joins Indian Racing League as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2024 edition

Delhi, August 13, 2024: Kingfisher Power Soda from United Breweries Limited (UBL), part of the HEINEKEN®️ Company, is set to bring the good times as the presenting sponsor of the Indian Racing League (IRL) for the 2024 edition. IRL and Kingfisher announce this exciting partnership as they are poised to elevate the appeal and thrill for India’s premier race event and the motorsport fans across the country.

Promoted by Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd, the IRL aims to captivate India’s booming motorsports fanbase. Returning in 2024, the IRL is set for its most spectacular season yet, with eight franchise teams set to battle for glory over five rounds. Kingfisher, known forits vibrant and youthful spirit, joins the high-octane speed extravaganza, adding another layer of prestige to the festival.

Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman & Managing Director of RPPL, expressed his delight in welcoming Kingfisher on board; “We are thrilled to have Kingfisher, a brand that has been intrinsically associated with premier sports events in India. We are happy to welcome them as our sponsor for the 2024 edition. Kingfisher embodies the same spirit of excitement, youth, and belief to create experiences—values we at IRL not only share but also aim to celebrate with our rapidly growing fanbase of motorsport enthusiasts.”

Vikram Bahl, Chief Marketing Officer, United Breweries Limited said, “As one of the mosticonic brands in the country, Kingfisher has always been on the forefront in bringing experiences that elevate consumer engagement. With significant opportunities for motorsports and growing popularity of the sport in India, we are thrilled to partner with Indian Racing League 2024 as representing partner. Tamil Nadu has been a hub for motorsports and is a state with immense growth potential. By being a part of IRL, we look forward to strengthening our association with the state and connecting with motorsport fans and consumers, as we celebrate the competitive spirit of the sport.”

Fueled by a relentless pursuit of excellence, Kingfisher has cemented itself as a prominent name in Indian sports, aligning with premier sports leagues and teams, including India’s foremost cricket franchise-based league. Sharing Kingfisher’s dedication, the IRL is equally committed to delivering exceptional moments for its audiences. The iconic visual identity of Kingfisher, the logo, will also be showcased throughout the Indian Racing Festival with a 360 degrees visibility this year.

The 2024 edition of IRL will witness the pre-season testing from August 21 and 22 followed by the first race at the Madras International Circuit on August 25. The excitement then shifts to the first-ever Chennai Formula Road Racing Circuit, hosting the subcontinent’s first night circuit race from August 30 to September 1 and the grand finale will be played in November 2024.

With an expanded grid and an unprecedented race experience, India is all set for good times on the track.

Protectt.ai Debuts ApiProtectt: Cutting-Edge Mobile App Security for Banking APIs

National, 13th August, 2024: Protectt.ai, a leader in Mobile App Security in India and an innovative cyber security firm delivering RASP (Runtime mobile App Self Protection) Mobile App Security XDR platform, has announced the launch of ApiProtectt. It offers advanced protection features specifically designed to safeguard Banking and Financial mobile application APIs against evolving cyber threats and data leakage.

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, securing APIs is paramount to protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of Mobile Apps. APIs serve as the backbone of mobile applications, enabling seamless communication between the client and server.

API vulnerabilities can serve as entry points for fraud and data leakage, posing significant risks to both businesses and customer trust. ApiProtectt provides seamless Mobile App API protection preventing unauthorized access, securing data transmission, and mitigating risks associated with cyber-attacks. By prioritizing API security, businesses can protect themselves against fraudulent activities and data breaches, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining the integrity of their digital ecosystem.

Key Features of ApiProtectt Include:

• Real-Time Threat Detection: Advanced monitoring and analytics to identify and respond to security threats instantly.
• Comprehensive Protection: Defense against common threats such as data breaches, malware, and fraud.
• API Protection: Secure APIs with advanced threat detection, behavioral analysis, and continuous monitoring to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
• Bot Mitigation: Detect and block malicious bots with sophisticated algorithms, protecting against automated attacks and ensuring legitimate traffic.
• Enhanced Security Protocols: Secure communication channels, encryption, and access controls to protect sensitive information.

 User-Friendly Interface: Easy integration and management to streamline security operations for businesses of all sizes.

“Our mission has always been to set new standards in mobile app security”, said Manish Mimani, Founder & CEO of Protectt.ai. “With the launch of ApiProtectt, we are reinforcing our commitment to providing state-of-the-art security that protect our clients’ mobile applications from evolving Mobile Cyber Threats. We are excited to offer ApiProtectt to our clients and partners, equipping them with the tools they need to ensure their mobile apps are secure and resilient to protect against data breaches and frauds.”

Protectt.ai continuously takes steps ahead in innovation, ensuring that mobile app security remains robust and adaptive to emerging cyber threats. By providing cutting-edge solutions like ApiProtectt, Protectt.ai empowers banks, financial institutions, and other critical sectors to serve their customers better. This commitment to innovation not only enhances the security of mobile applications but also helps these organizations build trust and reliability with their clients by safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring seamless and secure digital transactions.

mPokket hosts blood donation camp, 127 employees step forward to boost local blood supply

National, 13 August 2024: Demonstrating its commitment to community welfare, mPokket – one of India’s leading digital lending platforms – organized a blood donation camp in collaboration with Maheshwari Foundations and Howrah Lions Hospital Blood Centre. This initiative saw 127 donors come forward to collectively contribute 124 units of life-saving blood, highlighting the tremendous impact of community solidarity in promoting health and well-being.

Each donor received a card for emergency use and a token of appreciation, as a reminder of their vital contribution. Notably, a single donation has the potential to make a difference in the lives of up to three people, emphasizing the extraordinary impact of each act of kindness. Looking ahead, mPokket plans to organize quarterly blood donation camps to maintain a steady supply of essential blood for local hospitals, aiming to save numerous lives via ongoing community support.

Ms Rajani Jalan, Director of CSR & People Relations at mPokket, commented, “We are incredibly proud of our employees’ enthusiastic response to this initiative. Their generosity will greatly benefit the community. This initiative reflects our core values of contributing to societal well-being. We extend our sincere thanks to Maheshwari Foundations and Howrah Lions Hospital Blood Centre for their invaluable support and partnership.”

The collaboration with Maheshwari Foundations, known for its efforts against illiteracy, hunger and deprivation, aligns with mPokket’s mission to uplift the underprivileged. Howrah Lions Hospital Blood Centre’s premier diagnostic services ensured the safe collection and distribution of blood, enhancing the event’s success and impact on community health. Through such initiatives, the Kolkata-based digital lender demonstrates its commitment to crucial causes and fosters a culture of empathy and community engagement.

The Obesity-Cancer Link: Essential Insights for You

Dr. Chandrashekhar Prasad Singh, Consultant – Medical Oncology, HCG Abdur Razzaque Ansari Cancer Hospital, Ranchi.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for overall well-being. Making conscious choices, such as selecting nutritious foods over junk food and incorporating regular exercise and stress management into your routine, can have lasting benefits. Prioritizing wellness through these lifestyle choices not only boosts your overall health but also helps in disease prevention.

 In a world where convenience often overrides health, obesity has become alarmingly prevalent. This rise isn’t just a cosmetic concern; it presents significant health risks, with one of the most concerning being its link to cancer. Understanding this connection is crucial for anyone aiming to live a healthier, more informed life.

 The Obesity Epidemic
Obesity, characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat (often measured by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher), is influenced by various factors, including genetics, behavior, metabolism, and hormones. However, poor diet and physical inactivity remain the primary contributors. As modern lifestyles increasingly favor processed foods and sedentary habits, obesity rates continue to surge worldwide.

 How Obesity Contributes to Cancer
Extensive research has confirmed that obesity is a significant risk factor leading to several types of cancer. This connection can be attributed to several mechanisms through which excess body fat promotes cancer development:

 • Hormonal Imbalances: Fat tissue produces excess estrogen, which has been linked to breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancers. Elevated levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) in obese individuals can also promote cancers of the colon, kidney, prostate, and endometrium.
• Chronic Inflammation: Obesity often triggers chronic low-grade inflammation, which can damage DNA and contribute to cancer development and progression.
• Weakened Immune Response: Excess body fat can impair the immune system’s ability to detect and fight cancer cells, making it easier for these cells to grow and spread.
• Altered Cellular Environment: Obesity creates a bodily environment that fosters cancer cell growth, including increased oxidative stress and altered cell metabolism.

 Cancers Associated with Obesity
Several types of cancer have been linked to obesity, including:

   • Breast Cancer: Especially postmenopausal breast cancer, where increased estrogen from fat tissue is a major risk factor.
• Colorectal Cancer: Higher insulin levels associated with obesity can promote the growth of colon cancer cells.
• Endometrial Cancer: Excess estrogen from fat tissue plays a significant role.
• Kidney Cancer: Hormonal changes and chronic inflammation linked to obesity increase the risk.
• Liver Cancer: Obesity can lead to fatty liver disease and cirrhosis, both of which heighten the risk of liver cancer.

 Proactive Steps to Reduce Risk
While the statistics may be concerning, there are proactive measures you can take to lower the risk of obesity-related cancers:
• Adopt a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins must be followed, whereas processed foods, red and processed meats, and sugary drinks must be limited.
• Engage in Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Regularly monitor your weight and BMI to stay within a healthy range.
• Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are risk factors for cancer and can exacerbate the risks associated with obesity.
• Participate in Regular Screenings: Regular cancer screenings are crucial, especially if you are at higher risk due to obesity.

 The connection between obesity and cancer highlights the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. By understanding this link and taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your cancer risk and improve your overall health. Remember, it’s never too late to make healthier choices. Each step towards a healthier lifestyle is a step away from the risks associated with obesity and towards a brighter, cancer-free future.

Airox Nigen Sets Groundwork for World’s Largest Electrolyser and Fuel Cell Production Hub in Haryana

13th August 2024, New Delhi, India – Airox Nigen, a 30-year-old pioneer in green hydrogen technology, proudly announces the establishment of the world’s largest electrolyser and fuel cell production hub in Haryana. This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone as India’s first such facility, marking Airox Nigen’s leadership and commitment to advancing clean energy solutions.

Since its inception in 1994, Airox Nigen has been at the forefront of green hydrogen innovation, producing and commissioning over 4500 adsorption-based gas generators and air dryers globally. Their extensive export footprint spans the USA, Canada, China, Egypt, UAE, Germany, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa, Kenya, Thailand, Taiwan, Sudan, and many more.

Airox Nigen stands out as the only company in India that embodies the ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant) ethos in the green hydrogen sector. Their high-value projects, with hydrogen machines, reflect their commitment to quality and affordability, driving their sustained growth and success.

“Airox Nigen has established a reputation for providing superior products that cater to the changing demands of the green hydrogen industry, having served the industry for more than thirty years,” stated Mr. Aniruddh Agrawal, Business Development Manager at Airox Nigen Equipments Pvt. Ltd. “Our in-house manufacturing capabilities and focus on quality and affordability enable us to maintain our competitive edge and continue leading the industry into a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

The new production hub in Ahmedabad is a testament to Airox Nigen’s undying dedication to innovation and excellence. This facility will not only boost India’s capabilities in the green hydrogen sector but also position the country as a global leader in clean energy technology.

“This project symbolizes a significant leap forward for Airox Nigen and the entire green hydrogen industry in India. It reinforces our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that drive a sustainable future.” added Mr. Agrawal.

Beco Secures dollar10M in Pre-Series B Round Led by Tanglin Venture Partners

Mumbai, 13 August 2024: Beco, India’s leading homegrown eco-friendly home, kitchen & personal care brand announced today that it has raised $10 million as part of its pre-Series B round fundraise. Two years after the Series A round, this fresh infusion of funds was led by Tanglin Venture Partners, with participation from Titan Capital Winners Fund. The company also saw participation from Manish Choksi, promoter of Asian paints, existing investor Rukam Capital and Synergy Capital.

Founded in 2019 by Aditya Ruia, Akshay Varma, and Anuj Ruia, the Mumbai-based startup was born out of a simple idea of helping consumers make better and safer choices for themselves at homecare and lead a natural eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle. Having made a significant impact in the homecare segment, Beco has achieved an exponential 3x growth in the last year, driven significantly by repeat purchases across all channels. The fund infusion would be put towards innovation and expanding production capacity; developing a strong offline sales infrastructure in key geographies, and lastly, towards brand building and enhancing brand awareness.

Commenting on the funding, Aditya Ruia, Co-founder, Beco said, “Beco’s inception ties back to the simple yet profound realisation that as global citizens of the earth, we need to be more accountable for our choices and their irreversible impact on the environment. What Beco realised from day 1 is that it is not for a lack of intent, but a lack of viable choices that sustainable alternatives often get overlooked. This belief is validated by our success in disrupting the market consistently with innovative offerings, reflected in the growth we have seen in the last year. Consumers want products that are good for them, safe, yet effective. This round of funding from our existing and new investors comes at a time where we are raring to enter our next phase of growth and enhance our capabilities to meet the demand. The investors’ faith in Beco boosts our confidence that we are headed in the right direction and we are excited to unleash the real potential that sustainability and harmful chemical-free products holds for the future.”

Since its inception, Beco has been gradually expanding its product offerings that have captured the market due to the fact that they seamlessly address the intent-action gap vis-a-vis sustainable products, prevalent in consumers today. They are cost-effective, functionally superior to alternatives, and are transparent about the ingredients used. Recently Beco relaunched its household cleaners portfolio with an entirely new mix, achieving significant wins on key parameters, with the cleaner’s portfolio now contributing significantly to the topline. In the offline outlets, Beco boasts of an impressive presence in 10,000 retail stores, with order values matching or exceeding those of legacy brands.

Sankalp Gupta, Partner, Tanglin Venture Partners said, “ Over the last few years, there has been a marked shift in consumer preferences towards healthier, toxin-free options. Beco’s focus on product innovation and backend supply chain has enabled them to offer superior products at prices comparable to the incumbents. We believe this ability, coupled with their strong distribution across offline and online channels, provides Beco a strong headstart in a very large market. We have no doubt that this company will continue to be at the forefront of innovation in this sector, and we are excited to be a part of this journey.”

Beco is one of the few startups with an omnichannel presence. In just five years, Beco has established a strong foothold in e-commerce and quick commerce platforms such as Amazon, Zepto, Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, and DMart Ready. It is available in general trade across 20 cities and has entered modern trade, with plans to expand to other major players by the end of this quarter. Beco also maintains an active direct-to-consumer business to drive trials and has attracted the interest of several large multinationals, including Amazon, ICICI, Mahindra, PVR Inox and TAJ, for collaborations on sustainability initiatives.