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IBM and WWF-Germany to Build New AI Solution to Support Conservation of Keystone Species

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ARMONK, N.Y., Aug. 12, 2024 /CNW/ — Today, IBM (NYSE: IBM) and the World Wide Fund For Nature – Germany (WWF) announced they will work together to explore developing a new solution to support the monitoring of keystone species, starting with the critically endangered African forest elephant.

Combining IBM’s expertise in sustainability and technology with WWF’s extensive experience in wildlife conservation, the new solution will be designed to utilize AI-powered visual inspection to enhance elephant tracking, supporting the accurate identification of individual elephants from camera trap photos. The goal of this solution is to help support key conservation efforts of African forest elephants, which have been shown to increase carbon storage in their forest habitats .

In the future, this technology may also be used by organizations to assess the financial value of nature’s contributions to people (NCP) provided by African forest elephants, such as carbon sequestration ‘services’, recognizing the important role they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

The African forest elephant has experienced an over 80% decrease in their populations in recent years due to habitat loss and poaching in the Congo Basin. As businesses work to address climate change, supporting nature restoration can play a critical role in reducing carbon emissions in the atmosphere.

By harnessing the power of technology to track and value natural capital, organizations can unlock new opportunities to support climate change mitigation efforts, while also identifying new sustainable finance investments.

“At IBM, we strive to make a lasting, positive impact on the world in business, our environment, and the communities in which we work and live. Our collaboration with WWF marks a significant step forward in this effort. By combining our expertise in technology and sustainability with WWF’s conservation expertise, we aim to leverage the power of technology to create a more sustainable future.” – Oday Abbosh, Global Sustainability Services Leader, IBM Consulting

As part of this collaboration, IBM Consulting worked with WWF to explore opportunities for innovation, aligning WWF’s conservation initiatives with IBM’s sustainability and technology expertise. IBM’s own software, IBM Maximo Visual Inspection (MVI), will be used in this collaboration. Leveraging MVI’s AI-powered visual inspection and modeling capabilities, the solution aims to analyze images from camera traps and film to identify individual African forest elephants with greater accuracy. Currently, the use case focuses on head and tusk-related image recognition, similar to a fingerprint for humans.

“Our technology will play a crucial role in streamlining the process of identifying and accounting for the individual elephants. This is an exciting new use of IBM software, which in combination with our consulting services and WWF’s deep knowledge of the natural world can help create new ways to accelerate organizations’ sustainability efforts.” – Kendra Dekeyrel, VP of ESG and Asset Management at IBM

In addition, the two organizations aim to leverage IBM Environmental Intelligence to detect above-ground biomass and vegetation levels in specific areas where the elephants are present. This will enable more accurate predictions of the elephants’ future locations to better quantify the NCP services they provide. Ultimately,this will help the process of quantifying and tokenizing the value of carbon services provided by the African forest elephant, providing organizations with insights they can use to further drive sustainability efforts.

Harnessing the power of natural capital for sustainability

IBM and WWF are committed to exploring innovative products and services to help organizations harness natural capital to accelerate their sustainability progress. 

The concept of natural capital refers to the world’s stocks of natural assets, including geology, soil, air, water, and all wildlife. These natural assets provide a range of ecosystem services and NCP, which are the direct and indirect ways nature contributes to human well-being.

For instance, a single African forest elephant, roaming freely in its natural habitat, can increase the net carbon capture capacity of the forest by almost 250 acres. This is equivalent to removing from the atmosphere a year’s worth of emissions from 2,047 cars. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), this can translate into a dollar value of up to $1.75 million per elephant, considering the carbon sequestration and other ecosystem services it provides.

“Counting African forest elephants is both difficult and costly. The logistics are complex and the resulting population numbers are not precise. Being able to identify individual elephants from camera trap images with the help of AI has the potential to be a game-changer. With AI, we will be able to monitor individual animals in space and time, giving us more robust and detailed population estimates and allowing for performance-based conservation payments, such as wildlife credits. The spatial data will also show us where these elephants choose to move – thus enabling us to protect these wildlife corridors.” – Dr. Thomas Breuer, WWF Germany – African Forest Elephant Coordinator

ABOUT IBM IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. More than 4,000 government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s legendary commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

Media Contact:
Lily O’Brien
IBM
lilyobrien@ibm.com

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SOURCE IBM

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iGarden Debuts TurboX Series Robotic Pool Cleaner and Robotic Lawn Mower

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January 9, 2025

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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — iGarden, a pioneer in smart, comprehensive outdoor living solutions, is proud to announce the launch of two groundbreaking product series: the iGarden TurboX Series Robotic Pool Cleaner and the iGarden Lawn Mower.

iGarden TurboX Series Robotic Pool Cleaners – Effortless Pool Maintenance Redefined

Featuring a sleek hypercar inspired design packed with state-of-the-art iGarden AI-InverterTM technology that guarantees powerful, long-lasting performance, the iGarden TurboX Series is a year round device, ensuring your pool stays sparkling clean with minimal effort.

Pool Cleaning Powerhouse 

Being the Guinness Record Holding Endurance Champion for Longest Continuous Operation robotic pool cleaner, the TurboX series is a pool cleaning powerhouse with the TurboX Master edition featuring a record 15 Hour Marathon performance. Integrated with multiple patented iGarden AI-InverterTM  technologies, the TurboX Master boasts greater cleaning and battery efficiency, resulting in a lighter machine and long-lasting performance and run time, allows for up to a month of use without recharging, assuming twice-weekly cleanings*. The TurboX Master also comes with its Turbo mode for 200% extra turbocharged suction to clear those tougher stains.

Effortless Navigation Through Any Pool 

Armed with infrared sensors, IMU (inertial measurement unit + gyroscope), and obstacle-crossing design (tracks), the TurboX Master possesses strong compatibility, catering to cleaning needs of all shapes and sizes from pool steps, plateaus and round or oval shaped pools. Its intelligent algorithm allows the TurboX Master to autonomously return to its initial drop-off point when the battery is low, ensuring it does not remain adrift in the middle of the pool.

Intelligent Cleaning Paths 

The TurboX series follows an advanced 3D “S” pathing system, methodically cleaning every inch of your pool, leaving no spot untouched. Its modular propeller design gives it an edge when it comes to cleaning tough to remove algae and particles along the water line and bottom of the pool.

Elite Aesthetics and Durability

Featuring multi-layered anti-corrosion and UV-resistant coating, the TurboX Master ensures long-lasting durability against prolonged pool water and sunlight exposure. It also comes integrated with a magnetic filter basket which is designed for easy extraction from the top, making scheduled maintenance a breeze. The holographic touch interface is made for easy operation and resistant to deterioration or water damage.

iGarden Lawn Mower – the All-Terrain Robotic Lawn Mower

Powered by advanced AI technology Zero-turn AWD high traction driving system and the company’s inherited energy management system, the iGarden Lawn Mower brings users All-Scenario Friendly robotic lawn mower keeps your lawn perfectly manicured with minimal effort.

Flawless Cutting Performance Without the Hassle

With its built-in AWD, the Garden Lawn Mower can master slopes and hills and offering superior traction when traversing various terrains and precision manoeuvring for flawless cuts on uneven ground. The robust battery system allows the iGarden Lawn Mower to enjoy up to 10 hours of continuous, flawless mowing on a single charge, making it the best maintenance device to ensure your lawn is perfectly maintained at all times, day or night.

Made for Ease of Use and Convenient Wireless Control

Unlike other robotic lawn mowers, the iGarden Lawn Mower comes integrated with LiDAR technology and doesn’t require cumbersome perimeter wires or RTK reference stations. With the iGarden Lawn Mower, you can be ready to mow in minutes. Users can easily set up and monitor multiple lawn zones with ease, ensuring every area receives the perfect cut.

Smarter Mapping with AI Vision and Unwavering Precision

Cutting-edge AI technology allows the lawn mower to automate mapping, cross-edge cutting, and seamless obstacle recognition and avoidance. The 360° 430K-point cloud 3D LIDAR ensures stable, interference-free positioning and mapping for unparalleled accuracy and reliability. The iGarden Lawn Mower is specifically designed to avoid cutting flowers, so your garden and hedges remain beautifully untouched.

The iGarden TurboX and TurboX Master will be available in March and April 2025 respectively, and the iGarden lawn mower will be available on Kickstarter in April 2025. 

About iGarden

Founded in 1999, iGarden has been at the forefront of revolutionizing outdoor living with smart, comprehensive solutions that seamlessly blend premium energy efficiency with sophisticated design. iGarden is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and design to elevate your everyday lifestyle to new heights of elegance and comfort.

Our product range is meticulously crafted to enhance every aspect of the outdoor experience. From our cutting-edge inverter pool technology to advanced robotic pool cleaners, solar energy panels, robotic lawnmowers, and surfing-swim machines, iGarden offers a holistic suite of solutions that transform your outdoor space into sanctuaries of luxury and efficiency.

At iGarden, we understand that true innovation lies in the details. Our vision is to provide you with hassle-free, stylish, and sustainable outdoor living solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations. Elevate your lifestyle with solutions designed to integrate seamlessly and experience the epitome of performance without the hassle.

Experience the artful living with iGarden:

Website: www.fairlandgroup.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/iGarden/61570919963920/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKtrBDHjIeviWcSzMP_dpZg

Media Contact:

TEAM LEWIS
Leo Li
Email: leo.li@teamlewis.com

 

 

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SOURCE iGarden

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Vatrer Power Debuts Latest LiFePO4 Sustainable Energy Technology Solutions at CES 2025

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36 minutes ago

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January 9, 2025

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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Vatrer Power, the leading Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) product and technology solution provider, is currently showcasing its latest sustainable energy solutions and products for consumer electronics, home energy storage, and electric vehicles at Booth #35906 during CES 2025, held from January 7 to 10 in Las Vegas.

“The CES exhibition is not only a platform to highlight our latest products but also an opportunity for us to communicate with global innovators, industry leaders, consumer users, and more. The brand mission of Vatrer Power is ‘to make green energy at your fingertips,’ and we hope to welcome you to visit us at the exhibition or follow us online,” said Henry Ma, CEO of Vatrer Power.

The Vatrer 48V 105AH Lithium Golf Cart Battery, to be highlighted at CES 2025, adopts EVE’s Grade A Prismatic LiFePO4 cells and offers 5.37kWh of energy. It delivers 10.24kW of power with low self-discharge and stable performance that’s 50 percent more powerful than similar-sized lithium batteries, and provides strong acceleration to handle tough terrains with ease. Engineered for 48V golf carts, this battery offers powerful energy and compatibility with major golf cart controllers, includes a 58.4V 20A LiFePO4 charger for fast charging, and features a 2.8-inch touchscreen for real-time monitoring.

The Vatrer 48V (51.2V) 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Solar Battery is a compact and high-efficiency home energy storage solution that seamlessly integrates with renewable energy. Its user-friendly design features a touchable smart interface for monitoring and controlling the battery anytime, anywhere, providing great convenience. With no acid in the lithium-ion battery, it can be mounted in any position, making Li-ion batteries perfect for marine, RV, campers, travel trailers, and off-grid applications.

In addition, the Vatrer 12V 460AH RV Lithium Battery is specifically designed for RVs and a perfect replacement for lead-acid batteries. It boasts a capacity of 5,888Wh and an impressive maximum load power of 3,200W. It fits the most unobstructed lead-acid battery trays with a compact size that takes up only half the space of four 12V 100Ah batteries. When used in conjunction with MPPT and an inverter, it seamlessly integrates into solar power systems, providing uninterrupted power supply for the RV.

At CES 2025, Vatrer Power’s exhibition will also feature simulations to demonstrate the products’ performance under extreme conditions. Visitors will have the opportunity to try the products firsthand and experience their functionality and efficiency.

Looking ahead, Vatrer Power will continue to innovate powerful, long-lasting and affordable LiFePO4 batteries for broader applications and accentuate on its commitment to green energy accessibility, supporting sustainable practices to build a green future for all.

For more information about Vatrer Power’s products and exhibition at CES 2025, please visit https://www.vatrerpower.com/blogs/event/consumer-electronics-show-2025.

About Vatrer Power

Vatrer Power was founded on a commitment to bridge the gap between cost and accessibility and mission of democratizing access to advanced lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) technology to make sustainable energy solutions affordable for all. Vatrer Power opened its flagship store in 2020—not just as a business venture but as a pledge to the planet and customers. Today, with a dedicated team of 200, it leads in providing eco-friendly batteries that power everything from consumer electronics to electric vehicles, ensuring energy that is not only reliable but also responsible. Driven by a promise of quality, innovation, and trust from the community, Vatrer Power thrives to create a greener future, not just powering the devices, but powering a better, sustainable life for everyone.

www.vatrerpower.com

https://www.instagram.com/vatrerpower/

https://www.youtube.com/@Vatrer

https://www.tiktok.com/@vatrerpowerofficial

CONTACT: Zixin Li, global@vatrerpower.com

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SOURCE Vatrer Power Inc.

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Technology

Yeahka Partners with Mastercard to Launch Acquiring System

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36 minutes ago

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January 9, 2025

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HONG KONG, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, Hong Kong-listed Yeahka (09923.HK) has launched an acquiring system in partnership with global payments technology leader Mastercard and its joint venture in China, Mastercard NetsUnion. This marks another upgrade in Yeahka’s international card organization partnership channels.

Earlier in March of this year, Yeahka officially became a member institution of Mastercard. The newly launched acquiring system now supports foreign card acceptance, further enhancing Yeahka’s transaction capabilities in its payment business. This development provides merchants with more diverse and comprehensive payment services, while also making it more convenient for international consumers to make payments in China.

Moreover, Yeahka and Mastercard will collaborate to explore diversified value-added services, including but not limited to digital innovation and marketing solutions. They will also actively expand international market payment partnerships together.

This advancement lays a solid foundation for Yeahka’s application to become a member of more international card organizations. Previously, Yeahka had also partnered with another international card organization, American Express, and in September 2021, they jointly launched the American Express RMB card acquiring business.

Yeahka has stated that it will continue to drive collaboration with card organizations, banks, and other institutions, offering high-quality services and continuous innovation to provide customers with efficient, convenient, and secure one-stop payment solutions. Beyond payments, the company is also committed to providing multi-layered smart service products, including merchant operation SaaS services and data-driven marketing solutions to merchants across various industries.

Notably, in recent years, Yeahka has been focusing on cross-border payments, expanding into new markets and seeking new growth opportunities. It has already acquired licenses such as the Hong Kong MSO, Singapore MPI, and U.S. MSB, and has established a preliminary, comprehensive cross-border payment service network. In 2023, the company officially launched its cross-border payment business brand, YeahPay. According to the latest financial report, Yeahka’s cross-border payment business has seen rapid growth, with third-quarter GPV increasing by nearly 50% year-on-year in 2024.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/yeahka-partners-with-mastercard-to-launch-acquiring-system-302346627.html

SOURCE Yeahka Limited

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