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Innovations in Office Design for a Sustainable Future

Gone are the days of cubicles and rigid workstations. The future workforce demands flexibility and adaptability in their work environment…writes Sammeer Pakvasa

As the world undergoes rapid urbanisation and technology reshapes the way we work, the concept of the traditional office is evolving. Forward-thinking organisations are now embracing the idea of sustainable spaces for their workforce, recognising that the design and planning of office interiors can significantly impact productivity, employee well-being, and the environment. In this article, we explore the innovations in office interior planning and design that are paving the way for a greener and more efficient workplace of tomorrow.

Implementing Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is a revolutionary approach that aims to reconnect employees with nature by incorporating natural elements into office interiors. Green wallpapers, fabric-based wallpapers, indoor plants, natural lighting, and creative arts increase productivity and reduce stress among employees. By integrating biophilic design principles, offices can create a healthier and more pleasant working environment while also promoting sustainability through reduced energy consumption.

Flexible and Agile Workspaces

Gone are the days of cubicles and rigid workstations. The future workforce demands flexibility and adaptability in their work environment. Agile office interior planning enables companies to create dynamic spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet the changing needs of their employees. By implementing flexible furniture, movable partitions, and modular layouts, organisations can optimise space utilisation, reduce waste, and adapt quickly to evolving work trends.

Energy Efficiency and Smart Technology

Sustainable office interior design is incomplete without a focus on energy efficiency. Smart technology, such as motion-sensing lights, automated climate control, and energy-efficient appliances, play a significant role in reducing energy consumption and minimising the carbon footprint of office space. Integrating these technologies not only helps the environment but also results in cost savings for the organisation in the long run.

Eco-Friendly Materials and Upcycling

Embracing eco-friendly materials and upcycling practices has become an essential part of sustainable office interior planning. Utilising recycled and upcycled materials for furniture and decor reduces the need for new resources, lowers waste generation, and supports a circular economy. Additionally, the use of sustainable materials can create a unique and aesthetically pleasing workspace that reflects the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Wellness-Centric Spaces

Health and well-being have taken centre stage in the post-pandemic office. Employers are recognising the importance of providing employees with spaces that promote physical and mental wellness. Ergonomic furniture, quiet zones for relaxation and meditation, and designated fitness areas are becoming staples in modern office design. Additionally, offices are incorporating features like circadian lighting to regulate employees’ natural sleep-wake cycles, thereby improving sleep quality and overall well-being.

Remote Work Integration

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, and this trend continues to shape the future of office interior planning. Sustainable office spaces must now account for the integration of remote work policies, which require the provision of ergonomic home office setups and collaborative tools for seamless communication. By optimising both physical and virtual work environments, companies can foster a sustainable work culture that supports remote and hybrid work models.

Inclusive Design

Inclusive design principles ensure that office spaces are accessible and accommodating to employees of all abilities. By considering the needs of diverse individuals, office interior planning can eliminate barriers and create an inclusive workspace that values diversity and empowers all employees to perform at their best. Inclusivity also extends to fostering a collaborative work environment, encouraging open communication and idea-sharing among team members, thereby fostering innovation and collective problem-solving.

Sustainable spaces for tomorrow’s workforce encompass a holistic approach that considers the well-being of employees, the environment, and the organisation’s bottom line. By incorporating these innovations into office design, companies can attract and retain talent, boost employee satisfaction, and contribute to a more resilient and eco-conscious future. Embracing the change and investing in sustainable office spaces will undoubtedly lead to a more prosperous and fulfilling work experience for employees in the years to come.

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Indian American honored as ”Healthcare Innovation Champion”

Bera, being a first-generation American, has taken up the cause of bolstering investment in global health innovation and actively opposed budget cuts to crucial funds that aid in combating future pandemics. These efforts led to him being honored with the distinguished 2021 Congressional Champion Award…reports Asian Lite News

Ami Bera, an Indian-American Congressman, was honored with the Champion of Healthcare Innovation Award for his unwavering commitment to promoting accessible and excellent healthcare services in the United States.

Bera, the longest-serving Indian-American Representative inCongress, was felicitated during Healthcare Leadership Council Innovation Expo 23 in Washington D.C. last week.

“Honored to receive the Champion of Healthcare Innovation Award… As a doctor, I’m committed to working to ensure that every American has access to high-quality, affordable health care,” Bera wrote on Twitter.

Bera was first elected to represent Sacramento County in November 2012, and since then has served the community for more than two decades as a doctor, first as Sacramento County’s Chief Medical Officer, and then as a Clinical Professor of Medicine at UC Davis, where he taught the next generation of doctors to care for their patients.

As a first generation American, Bera has championed efforts to strengthen investment in global health innovation and fought proposed cuts to vital funds that help fight future pandemics, which won him the 2021 Congressional Champion Award.

He introduced the Healthcare Innovation Act, which gives states the tools to experiment with new ways to get more Americans enrolled in health insurance thus lowering costs for all as more are enrolled.

Bera has also been an unwavering champion for women’s healthcare, and received the Planned Parenthood’s Champions for Women’s Health Award in 2015 for his leadership in advancing access to reproductive healthcare.

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Lifestyle Lite Blogs Tech Lite

Exploring intersection of style and innovation

Along with wearables, new fabrics, and materials have opened up fresh opportunities for fashion design. Intelligent fabrics that are capable of much more than just covering our bodies have been made possible by advancements in fabric technology…. reports Dhruv Taneja

Technology and the fashion industry have always looked to be on completely different wavelengths. While technology is linked to innovation, efficiency, and utility, fashion stands for the art of self-expression, creativity, and personal flair. But recently, these seemingly unrelated professions have come together, creating an intriguing and revolutionary junction of style and invention. The fusion of fashion and technology has revolutionized how we dress and created a world of intriguing new possibilities.

The advent of wearable technology is one of the most obvious examples of the blending of fashion and technology. Wearable technology has developed from simple gadgets to stylish items that are integrated into our daily lives. These gadgets, which range from smart glasses that offer augmented reality experiences to smartwatches that monitor our fitness and health parameters, are concurrently altering how we connect with technology and fashion.

Along with wearables, new fabrics, and materials have opened up fresh opportunities for fashion design. Intelligent fabrics that are capable of much more than just covering our bodies have been made possible by advancements in fabric technology. Today, it is possible to create fabrics that can control body temperature, keep track of vital indicators, and even emit light or alter colour. The fascinating possibilities from the marriage of fashion and technology include dresses that change color to fit your mood or jackets that regulate their warmth based on the outside temperature.

The shopping experience has changed dramatically as a result of technology’s incorporation into fashion. Online marketplaces and smartphone applications have developed into essential tools for fashion fans, offering a practical method to find, try on, and buy apparel and accessories. Customers may virtually try on clothing, see how they might appear in various designs, and customize their purchasing experiences thanks to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. The precision of size and fit is improved by these technologies, which also help businesses lessen the environmental effect of unnecessary returns and trash.

The development of technology has also benefited sustainability, a topic that is becoming more and more significant in the fashion sector. To lessen the negative environmental effects of the fashion industry, novel methods, and materials have been created. Technology is promoting a more circular and sustainable fashion business, from the 3D printing of clothing to the usage of recycled and bio-based materials. Blockchain technology is also being investigated to improve traceability and transparency in the supply chain, assuring moral business practices and employees receive fair treatment.

Technology and fashion, formerly thought to be entirely unconnected, have now come together to form an alluring and ground-breaking synergy. The confluence of fashion and innovation has revolutionized how we dress and opened up a world of exciting possibilities.

The ways that technology and fashion interact have changed fashion’s presentation and consumption, in addition to its design and manufacturing. With the help of live streaming and virtual reality experiences, fashion shows—once private occasions reserved for industry insiders—have become increasingly open to all people. Social media platforms have developed into effective tools for fashion firms to promote their designs, interact with customers, and get real-time feedback.

Future possibilities are even more intriguing as the interplay between fashion and technology continues to develop. Algorithms for artificial intelligence and machine learning may be used to study customer preferences and trends, resulting in more specialized suggestions and experiences. Real-time health monitoring might be made possible by incorporating sensors and networking in clothing, offering useful information for healthcare prevention. Additionally, the fusion of fashion and technology may inspire fresh partnerships between designers, engineers, and scientists, leading to ground-breaking breakthroughs that go beyond our present capacity for conception.

Today, rather than being two distinct fields, fashion, and technology are mutually reinforcing factors. The combination of fashion and innovation can completely alter how we shop, wear, and see fashion. In this area, innovation, usability, and sustainability come together to open new possibilities. The future seems very bright for those at the vanguard of this dynamic and revolutionary alliance as fashion and technology continue to cross; the only restriction is our imagination.

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-Top News Europe India News

India, Germany sketch roadmap to boost tech ties

The initial focus areas of Indo-German cooperation are innovation, technology and economy.

India and Germany have the vision to enhance cooperation in innovation, technology, and research which aims at benefitting humanity. This cooperation was agreed upon by Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Olaf Scholz, according to the joint statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Today, PM Modi and Chancellor Scholz agreed to deepen and widen this cooperation and to work towards a roadmap for innovation and technology with a view to using scientific and technological knowledge for the economic development of both countries as well as to address global challenges. India and Germany share a long history and both countries share the responsibility for global peace, stability, sustainability and prosperity.

India and Germany reaffirmed their close ties through the India-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), and acknowledge the positive and proactive roles of the governments, institutions, academia and industry on both sides, which has led to the emergence of Germany as one of India’s prime partners for technological collaborations. They highlight the following flagships of cooperation, on which joint efforts will continue to focus.

According to the statement, India and Germany recognize the role and importance of science, technology and innovation in socioeconomic development, and emphasize the progress being made in ongoing projects.

They recognize the increasingly critical role of technologies in responding to key challenges of our times, which include inter alia climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, extreme weather events, pollution, energy security and achieving long-term sustainable development and growth. They are convinced that common goals can be better achieved through close cooperation, building on the individual strengths and capacities of both partners.

Looking at today’s working and economic world, India and Germany agree to further develop their comprehensive economic relations in a spirit of equality and reciprocity. They are committed to further development and improvement of an enabling environment for innovation

The initial focus areas of Indo-German cooperation are innovation, technology and economy. India and Germany pursue the common intention of advancing the energy transition in both countries with the aim of achieving a socially just, ecologically and economically sustainable, secure and affordable energy supply, reducing their dependence on imports of fossil fuels and decarbonizing their economies.

India and Germany appreciate the progress achieved under the Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on ‘Indo-German Green Hydrogen Task Force,’ signed during the sixth Indo-German Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) between the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), India and the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), Germany on May 2, 2022, to strengthen mutual cooperation in production, utilization, storage and distribution of green hydrogen.

Collaboration between India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Germany’s Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (FhG) on Green HydrogenIndia and Germany welcome the signing of the Letter of Intent by DST and FhG, according to which both institutions intend to cooperate on, inter alia, Hydrogen Energy Clusters being set up by DST, integrating FhG’s technologies with Indian technologies, and long-term technology development in the areas of renewable energy.

India and Germany acknowledge that digital technologies and solutions could address key development needs and highlight the potential of these digital solutions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in other parts of the developing world. India looks forward to sharing digital solutions and expertise with Germany.

As per the statement, India and Germany recognize AI’s potential to enhance the work and lives of people, through its wide array of applications. The framework for cooperation in the field of AI is laid out in the Joint Declaration of Intent between the Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (now the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action) on 30 May 2017. (ANI)

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UNECA chief urges Africa to tap into tech, innovation

UN Economic Commission for Africa’s (UNECA) Executive Secretary, Vera Songwe, has called on African countries to tap into the potential presented through science, technology, and innovation as Africa’s blueprint for accelerated development…reports Asian Lite News

The UNECA chief called for the establishment of an African Technology Development and Transfer Network to spur innovation and accelerate development on the continent, according to a UNECA statement released on Wednesday.

An African Technology Development and Transfer Network could identify emerging technologies, anticipate needs and encourage the sharing of knowledge across the continent, Xinhua news agency reported citing Songwe.

“We need to build sound scientific, technological and innovation foundations to enable science, technology and innovation to deliver. As we have witnessed recently, many of our countries needed support to build capacities to test for Covid,” she said.

“As global supply chains collapsed, Africa’s over-reliance on imported medical supplies left the continent vulnerable in many aspects, and Africa was forced to innovate,” Songwe added.

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The UNECA co-hosted the 4th Africa Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Forum ahead of the eighth Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD8), slated from March 3 to 5 in Kigali, Rwanda under the theme “Building Forward Better: A Green, Inclusive and Resilient Africa Poised to Achieve the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063”.

The Africa STI Forum, which is a collaborative multi-stakeholder forum on science, technology and innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established pursuant to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as part of the Technology Facilitation Mechanism.

The mechanism was established under the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and was launched by the 2030 Agenda to support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

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-Top News UK News

UK data reform aims to boost innovation, economic growth

This can help deliver more agile, effective and efficient public services and further strengthen the UK’s position as a science and technology superpower, it said…reports Asian Lite News.

Under planned reforms announced by the Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is set for an overhaul to drive greater innovation and growth in the UK’s data sector and better protect the public from major data threats.

One year on from the publication of the National Data Strategy, the government on Thursday launched a wide-ranging consultation on proposed changes to the UK’s data landscape.

As part of this, a new governance model is planned for the ICO, including an independent board and chief executive to mirror the governance structures of other regulators such as the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Ofcom.

This follows the selection of John Edwards as the government’s preferred candidate as the new Information Commissioner, who is currently serving as the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner.

The government said it wants to remove unnecessary barriers to responsible data use. This can help deliver more agile, effective and efficient public services and further strengthen the UK’s position as a science and technology superpower, it said.

A recent example is researchers from Moorfields Eye Hospital and the University College London Institute of Ophthalmology making a breakthrough in patient care using AI technology. The researchers successfully trained machine learning technology on thousands of historic de-personalised eye scans to identify signs of eye disease and recommend how patients should be referred for care.

This new way of using data has the potential to revolutionise the way professionals carry out eye tests. The government’s data reforms will provide clarity around the rules for the use of personal data for research purposes, laying the groundwork for more scientific and medical breakthroughs.

“Data is one of the most important resources in the world and we want our laws to be based on common sense, not box-ticking,” Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said. “Now that we have left the EU, we have the freedom to create a new world-leading data regime that unleashes the power of data across the economy and society.”

“These reforms will keep people’s data safe and secure, while ushering in a new golden age of growth and innovation right across the UK, as we build back better from the pandemic,” he added.

The protection of people’s personal data will be at the heart of the planned data reform. Far from being a barrier to innovation or trade, regulatory certainty and high data protection standards allow businesses and consumers to thrive.

The consultation sets out plans to impose tougher penalties and fines for nuisance calls and text messages. These sanctions would be overseen by the ICO and build on government action in recent years that has included holding individual directors liable for nuisance calls made by their respective companies.

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