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Sphera’s Supply Chain Risk Report Shows Economic Uncertainties, Extreme Weather and ESG-related Risks Among Supply Chain Disrupters in 2023 — And Pandemic-Related Impacts Nearly Vanishing

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Sphera’s inaugural report demonstrates the data-based insights that help empower companies to protect their businesses from ever-evolving risks and build resilient, agile and sustainable supply chains

CHICAGO, March 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — While supply chain impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic moved into the rearview mirror in 2023, data in Sphera’s inaugural Supply Chain Risk Report shows that supply chains were vulnerable to a broad range of other risks — inflation and rising interest rates, natural hazard events and ESG-related risks such as human rights violations and labor practices among them.

With its new report, Sphera, a leading global provider of ESG performance and risk management software, data and consulting services, aims to provide insights into the risks that impacted supply chains in 2023 — as well as their causes and consequences. The report is based on data from Sphera’s Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) software, which provides actionable insights into a multitude of potential disrupters so companies can proactively manage and mitigate supply chain risk.

“Sphera’s Supply Chain Risk Report shows that a broad range of risks, increasing ESG regulations and compliance failures can stress businesses,” said Paul Marushka, Sphera’s CEO and president. “Risk exposure is dynamic, and constantly evolving supply chain risks cause ever-increasing market volatility. By optimizing the supply chain composition and diversifying suppliers, companies can better manage the uncertainty that comes with supply chain disruptions. To do this, organizations need a solution that provides actionable insights for proactive risk monitoring that enables them to get ahead of disruptive events. Staying ahead of supply chain risk helps businesses reduce potential costs associated with such risk, gain competitive advantage and build transparent, agile supply chains.”

Financial-related challenges stress the supply chain
Data in the report shows that more than one-third (36%) of the financial risk notifications warned of worsening revenue and growth outlook. High inflation rates in the EU and U.S. eroded suppliers’ purchasing power, with insolvency under self-administration going up 23% and bankruptcies increasing 42%. Additionally, site relocations or closures increased by 26%. Financial distress does not happen overnight, and awareness of finance-related risks is strategically important to helping companies withstand economic fluctuations and uncertainties and build resilience.

Extreme weather events are on the rise
The report shows that natural hazard events hit supply chains hard in 2023 with warnings for tornadoes climbing by 45%, hailstorm warnings increasing by 26% and tropical cyclone warnings going up by 6%. Two-thirds of the global economy is affected directly or indirectly by weather conditions with industries such as agriculture, energy and transportation particularly affected. A solution that provides 24/7 monitoring and advanced notifications of weather risks can help companies prepare their supply chains and get ahead of an impending disruption — and help minimize the financial impact on the business. 

ESG-related risks remain prominent
Data also shows that ESG-related risks in supply chains continued to rise in 2023, with indicator messages for the entire category of ESG-related risks rising 6% in volume. Human rights notifications increased 12%, labor practice issues rose 13% and ESG-related issues related to violations of environmental practices went up 1%. Increased globalization, regulatory changes and consumer and investor demands can all contribute to the greater prominence of ESG risk in supply chains. A holistic approach to supply chain risk management that integrates ESG considerations into the strategy can help companies mitigate the consequences of ESG-related risk.

Report Methodology
Sphera’s award-winning Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) software was the data source for this report. The AI-powered Risk Intelligence component of Sphera SCRM scans on a monthly basis more than 15 billion reputable news articles, commercial and government data sources and 1 million customer and supplier sites around the world. These feeds provide Sphera with the most highly representative supply chain risk insights on the market and allow Sphera’s technology to identify potential risks or worsening trends and notify customers of such threats. For the report, Sphera compared the number and types of indicator messages sent from January through November 2023 with the datapoints from the same period in 2022.

About Sphera
Sphera is the leading provider of environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and risk management software, data and consulting services focusing on Environment, Health, Safety & Sustainability (EHS&S), Operational Risk Management (ORM), Product Stewardship and Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM). For more than 30 years, we have served over 8,400 customers and a million-plus users in 95 countries to help companies keep their people safe, their products sustainable and their operations productive. Learn more about Sphera at www.sphera.com. Follow Sphera on LinkedIn.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Amanda Meador
Pro-Sphera@prosek.com 

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European Wellness Biomedical Group Announces New Klotho Research Initiative Led by Prof. Mike Chan

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HEIDELBERG, Germany, Dec. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — European Wellness Biomedical Group (EWBG) has launched a new research initiative focused on Klotho, a protein with transformative potential in longevity medicine. Led by Professor Dr. Mike Chan, this project will explore Klotho’s role in combating age-related diseases and its ability to regenerate critical organs, including the brain, kidneys, and heart.

Klotho, identified in 1997, is emerging as a key protein in longevity and regenerative medicine. It plays a pivotal role in regulating oxidative stress, mineral metabolism, and inflammation. The research will investigate how boosting Klotho levels could help address chronic conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, kidney failure, and heart disease, ultimately improving healthspan and extending lifespan.

“Klotho represents the next frontier in longevity medicine,” said Professor Mike Chan, Chief Scientist at EWBG. “Our research aims to understand how Klotho affects aging and how we can use it to treat chronic diseases that have long been associated with aging.”

Research Focus Areas

The new initiative will focus on three primary research areas:

Neurological health: Investigating Klotho’s neuroprotective effects and its potential to slow cognitive decline in diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.Kidney function: Examining Klotho’s role in regulating mineral metabolism and its regenerative potential in treating chronic kidney disease (CKD).Cardiovascular health: Studying Klotho’s influence on vascular function and its ability to prevent vascular calcification, a key contributor to heart disease.

This research builds on existing collaborations at EWBG, where leading scientists focus on advancing Klotho-based therapies for regenerative health.

Klotho: A Potential Breakthrough in Longevity Medicine

Klotho is gaining attention for its ability to regenerate tissues and reverse damage caused by age-related diseases. Unlike NAD+, which primarily enhances cellular metabolism and energy production, Klotho offers a broader range of therapeutic applications, including tissue regeneration, cognitive function improvement, and cardiovascular health.

As we age, Klotho levels naturally decline, leading to conditions such as cognitive decline, heart disease, and kidney failure. Research suggests that restoring Klotho levels can reverse the effects of oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular senescence, offering new treatment possibilities for a range of age-related diseases.

Professor Mike Chan: Leading the Charge in Klotho Research

Professor Mike Chan, a leading expert in stem cell therapy and longevity medicine, is spearheading this groundbreaking initiative at EWBG. His extensive experience in bio-regenerative medicine positions him as a key figure in exploring Klotho’s potential to revolutionize the treatment of age-related diseases. Through FCTI, a subsidiary of EWBG, Professor Chan and his team are developing therapies that combine stem cell technology and Klotho proteins to stimulate tissue regeneration in the brain, kidneys, and heart.

“By harnessing Klotho’s regenerative properties, we hope to address chronic conditions that were previously untreatable,” said Professor Chan. “Our ultimate goal is to improve quality of life and provide lasting solutions for those affected by aging-related diseases.”

The Future of Klotho in Longevity Medicine

The future of Klotho-based therapies looks promising, with Professor Mike Chan and EWBG at the forefront of this innovative field. As more research is conducted, Klotho is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing longevity medicine, offering a new approach to treating aging and chronic diseases. The potential applications of Klotho are vast, from neurodegenerative disease treatment to kidney regeneration and cardiovascular health.

With strong research partnerships, significant funding, and ongoing clinical trials, Klotho is poised to become a cornerstone of longevity medicine, transforming how we approach aging and disease. Professor Mike Chan’s leadership ensures that this promising protein will soon offer new hope to those seeking longer, healthier lives.

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/european-wellness-biomedical-group-announces-new-klotho-research-initiative-led-by-prof-mike-chan-302338980.html

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Apas Port Launches $20M Vehicle Loan Initiative with HARVEST FLOW on Plume Network to Empower Financial Inclusion in Emerging Countries, Starting in Cambodia

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NEW YORK, Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Apas Port Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based Web3 company dedicated to deploying “kando”—a Japanese term for deep emotional engagement—into the digital realm, has announced the launch of HARVEST FLOW, a social impact-driven cryptocurrency lending platform. Committed to “social action”ーdelivering stable returns alongside meaningful social impact, HARVEST FLOW’s inaugural project is a $20 million initiative offering loans to TukTuk and four-wheel vehicle drivers in Cambodia who don’t have access to the financial system. This venture is set to operate on Plume Network, the leading Layer 1 blockchain specialized in Real-World Asset Finance (RWAfi), offering the necessary infrastructure to transform HARVEST FLOW’s vision of financial inclusion into scalable action.

Bridging Real-World Challenges Through Blockchain Innovation

HARVEST FLOW’s mission is to empower underserved communities and small businesses by granting access to affordable financing solutions. By leveraging blockchain technology, the platform addresses critical societal issues such as poverty alleviation and economic development, creating pathways for stable financial growth while delivering measurable social impact.

The initial focus of this initiative is to provide affordable financing options for TukTuk and four-wheel vehicle drivers in Cambodia—vital tools for local livelihoods. The project not only supports job creation but also enhances financial inclusion in emerging economies.

Why Plume Network?

As the first fully integrated L1 modular blockchain tailored for RWAfi, Plume Network provides the foundation for scalable, secure, and transparent financial ecosystems. With over 180 projects onboarded in its private devnet, Plume enables seamless tokenization and distribution of RWAs through its composable, EVM-compatible infrastructure.

How Plume Powers HARVEST FLOW:

End-to-End Tokenization: Streamlines the conversion of vehicle loans into blockchain-based assets.Investor Transparency: Advanced tools to track and visualize the social and financial impact of investments.Global Scalability: Infrastructure designed to handle the growing demands of HARVEST FLOW’s multi-region projects.DeFi Integration: Unlocks liquidity through decentralized finance primitives within the Plume ecosystem.

IoT-Backed Innovation for Loan Security

HARVEST FLOW’s projects are uniquely supported by embedded IoT technology within TukTuk engines, ensuring an exceptionally low loan default rate while building investor confidence.

Justin Chen, Head of Asset Strategy at Plume Network, noted: “This project highlights the power of combining blockchain and IoT devices to create innovative financial products that drive real-world impact. We’re excited to see HARVEST FLOW’s success on Plume and the positive change it will bring to the urban motility market in Southeast Asia.”

Looking Ahead

Starting with the vehicle mobility sector through 2025, HARVEST FLOW plans to expand into other sectors addressing social challenges and needs beyond 2026. This approach aims to ensure sustainable growth while delivering meaningful societal benefits, powered by Plume’s blockchain technology.

Masaki Minamide, director of HARVEST FLOW, stated: “Plume’s infrastructure empowers us to amplify our impact and support communities in need while offering our investors transparent and reliable returns. With this launch, we continue our mission to combine blockchain technology with meaningful social action.”

For more information, visit Plume Network or contact press@plumenetwork.xyz.

About Plume Network
Plume is the first fully integrated L1 modular blockchain focused on RWAfi, offering a composable, EVM-compatible environment for onboarding and managing diverse RWAs. With 180+ projects on its private devnet, Plume provides an end-to-end tokenization engine and a network of financial infrastructure partners, simplifying asset onboarding and enabling seamless DeFi integration for RWAs.

About HARVEST FLOW
Founded in April 2023, Apas Port Co., Ltd. is a Web3 production company with a mission to deploy “kando” (deep emotional impact) globally. The company leverages blockchain technology to connect carefully curated content with a co-creative community, acting as a “passport” to a new world of Web3 experiences.

X: https://x.com/HarvestFlow_io
Website: https://www.harvestflow.io/

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SOURCE Plume Network

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South Clackamas Business Resource Center Launches Digital Community Platform

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The Business Resource Center (BRC) of South Clackamas County unveils a new digital platform featuring an innovative business mapping system developed by COBID-certified IronGlove Studio. The website integrates advanced mapping technology with resource management tools to serve local businesses across nine communities, offering free consultations and scholarship opportunities for eligible residents.

OREGON CITY, Ore. and SOUTH CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore., Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ —  The Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County (BRC) is proud to announce the launch of its new website, https://brcscc.org, developed by Oregon City-based IronGlove Studio, LLC. The launch marks a significant expansion of its online presence and services, representing a major step forward in the BRC’s mission to support and empower local businesses and community members in the South Clackamas area.

This initiative offers an unbiased and equitable opportunity for every small business in the South Clackamas region to connect, discover, and grow through access to training, resources, and support.

Who is the Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County

The Business Resource Center (BRC) of South Clackamas County is a vital hub for small business support, resources, and training opportunities, dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in the region. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and operating until December 31, 2024, or until funding is exhausted, the BRC provides free consultations, training programs, and scholarships to empower small business owners in Gladstone, Oregon City, Beavercreek, Canby, Molalla, Mulino, Colton, Eagle Creek, and Estacada. Through initiatives like its comprehensive website and Local Business Map, the BRC connects entrepreneurs with the community, creating opportunities for growth and promoting sustainable, community-based economic development.

Key Offerings

Free Business Resource Consultations: Local entrepreneurs can access expert advice and guidance at no cost, ensuring they are not alone in their small business journey.

Exclusive Scholarship Opportunities: The BRC offers scholarships for Clackamas Community College’s Career & Technical Education programs, covering up to $3,500 per semester for eligible students in select zip codes.

Local Business Map: As part of its marketing initiative, the BRC features an innovative Local Business Map developed by IronGlove Studio. This custom solution integrates advanced mapping technology with COBID certification filters, enabling small businesses to connect with one another while providing valuable demographic insights for community stakeholders.

Website Performance

Since its soft launch in August 2024, the BRC website has quickly become a vital resource for the South Clackamas business community. The platform has attracted nearly 3,000 visitors, with users spending an average of 4 minutes engaging with the site’s resources and information. The site’s success is particularly evident in its scholarship program, which has already received 82 applications, including 6 from Spanish-speaking community members, demonstrating the BRC’s commitment to serving our diverse business community.

Strategic partnerships with Here is Oregon and Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory allowed us to create targeted social media campaigns that have helped drive over 2,000 visitors to the site, resulting in more than 7,000 total pageviews. Visitors are actively engaging with the platform’s resources, averaging 2.7 actions per visit, including accessing business resources, downloading materials, and utilizing the local business map.

The platform, developed by IronGlove Studio, LLC of Oregon City, a COBID-certified firm, showcases innovative integration of WordPress with proprietary Angular mapping technology. “The BRC website demonstrates how enterprise-level solutions can be scaled down to serve community needs,” says Derek Neuts, Owner of IronGlove Studio. “By incorporating advanced features like COBID certification filters and demographic reporting capabilities, we’ve created a platform that not only connects consumers to businesses but also provides valuable insights for community development.”

Community Support

The BRC extends its gratitude to its advocates, partners and supporters, including the previous Oregon State Senator Bill Kennemer, previous Oregon State Representative (now Senator) — Mark Meek, the Chambers of Commerce for Canby, Estacada, Molalla and Oregon City, the Cities of Colton and Gladstone and the Hamlets of Beavercreek and Mulino.

“The launch of our comprehensive website marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting the South Clackamas County business community,” said Shatrine Krake, Director of Communications at the Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County. “This initiative offers an unbiased and equitable opportunity for every small business in the South Clackamas region to connect, discover, and grow through access to training, resources, and support.”

For more information or to schedule a free business consultation, visit https://brcscc.org.

Media Contact

Shatrine Krake, Director of Communications, Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County, 1 503-656-1619, shatrine@brcscc.org, https://brcscc.org/

Technical Development Contact: Derek Neuts, IronGlove Studio LLC, 1 503-501-4645, contact@ironglove.studio, https://www.ironglove.studio

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/south-clackamas-business-resource-center-launches-digital-community-platform-302338692.html

SOURCE Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County

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