An Unlikely Collaboration – Fragrance Du Bois teams up with Arabic singer to create ‘Life’s Treasure’ A Song for Oud

SINGAPORE, April 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — In what must surely be a world’s first, Fragrance Du Bois (a French perfume house and retailer specialising in the use of sustainable Oud), and Nadeem Nour (one of the Middle East’s best known and most respected singer/songwriters), came together to produce a musical enterprise close to both their hearts.

Nadeem Nour is a well-renowned Jordanian singer. The reason for his artistic name "Nadeem Nour" is that it is said that from the first moment you hear him, you can feel the light in his voice

Nadeem Nour is a well-renowned Jordanian singer. The reason for his artistic name “Nadeem Nour” is that it is said that from the first moment you hear him, you can feel the light in his voice

“About a year ago I was introduced by a friend to a gentleman from Iran who had just returned from visiting Thailand and Malaysia. While he was there, he discovered the agarwood (Oud) plantations owned and managed by Asia Plantation Capital,” said Nadeem Nour in Dubai recently. “I became fascinated when I learned that not only was much of the Oud that we take for granted coming from illegal sources — not only in the past, but also today — but that it was in danger of extinction in the wild as a result.”

“Having grown up in Jordan, with Oud being very much a part of my daily life, and that of my family, I felt guilty when I realised that like many others, I could have spent my entire life taking Oud for granted, without ever wondering where it actually came from. The thought that I may actually be part of driving an illegal industry was horrifying.”

Nadeem continued, “I became deeply concerned, and as I feel passionately for the world in which we live, I decided to do my own research and find out the facts. I quickly realised — after talking to friends, and doing some research on the internet and looking at several news reports — that we had reached a situation where Oud, in the wild, was soon to be no more. I also realised that I was not alone in my ignorance. Hardly any of my friends were aware of Oud in terms of where it came from, and the threats it faces. Like me, they pretty much took it for granted.”

Nadeem went on to detail how important Oud was in Arabic culture and heritage, further lamenting the fact that the source was often unreliable. International fashion houses and perfume brands are now putting Oud into their products in increasing amounts, creating pressure on future supplies of the mystical substance.

Agarwood, and Oud (the oil derived therefrom), is now on the CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna), list of endangered species, and as such, all trade has to be legal, certified, and sustainable. Demand is huge, far outstripping supply, and only sustainable plantations are the way forward.

“Asia Plantation Capital and their sister company Fragrance Du Bois,” continued Nadeem, “are two companies leading the way in making this industry transparent and sustainable for the benefit of all users of Oud – not only in the Gulf region, but also across the world. I decided that this story had to be told, and for me the only way to tell the story was through traditional Arabic words and music.”

Nadeem Nour has been a rising star on the Middle Eastern music scene for several years since appearing in the Jordanian Pop Idol show, and has built up a loyal following for his beautiful singing voice, heartfelt lyrics, and the music he performs across the Gulf. Dubbed ‘Nadeem Nour’ by Tarek Al Arians, the artist has evolved to the point at which listeners can feel the ‘light in his voice’, from the first moment you hear him sing.

Fragrance Du Bois, Asia Plantation Capital and Nadeem Nour earnestly hope that the light in his voice helps to tell a story that we all need to hear, and that ‘Life’s Treasure’ imparts a vital message when it comes to protecting a species that could all too easily have been lost forever.

A video of the song can be watched here http://youtu.be/PsV0Ku4vWDU

About Fragrance Du Bois

Fragrance Du Bois is a niche luxury perfume house working closely with sustainable plantations in Asia, bringing exciting new 100% organic Oud oil based fragrances to exclusive markets worldwide. Sustainably sourcing the finest raw materials across the globe, working with French perfumers to create a full range of products, and also providing bespoke fragrance services, Fragrance Du Bois is personal luxury with a conscience. With exclusive fragrance lounges around the world, in Dubai, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, Fragrance Du Bois creates only the finest experience in bespoke perfumery.

Fragrance Du Bois is known as Parfums Du Bois in France and in non-French speaking markets, as Fragrance Du Bois.

About Asia Plantation Capital

Quick facts:

  • US$ 600 million – combined value of assets owned and under management
  • US$ 53.5 million – turnover in the last financial year
  • US$ 100 million – turnover forecast for current financial year
  • 2,000,000 – Aquilaria trees today, on Agarwood plantations.

Asia Plantation Capital (APC) is the owner and operator of a diverse range of commercial plantation and farming businesses across the Asia-Pacific region and around the world, and is part of the Asia Plantation Capital Group of associated companies. Its focus is on multicultural and diverse plantation projects geared to the domestic and commercial demands of the countries in which it operates. Working closely with, and supporting local communities, is an underlying core principle of the APC business, providing social and cultural support, as well as investment, to move these communities away from deforestation and illegal logging activities, previously seen as a main source of income in some regions of Asia. Established officially in 2008 (although operating privately since 2002) the group now has plantation and agricultural projects on four continents, with operational projects at various stages in Thailand, Malaysia, China, Laos, India, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Vietnam, North America and Europe.

Promoting the use of sustainable and certified wood is the best way of preventing deforestation, protecting biodiversity, and combatting poverty in the tropical rainforest regions. For the yachting sector (a major user of teak) which strives for excellence and which is already involved in environmental efforts, this is also a way of ensuring that no wood from illegal logging is used.

CONTACT: Stéphanie du Ché, PR & Media Manager Europe, stephanie.duche@asiaplantationcapital.com, +33 616 361 108; Adrian Heng, Group Marketing Director, adrian.heng@asiaplantationcapital.com, +65 6299 1778

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New Study on Clean Diesel Technology Affirms Near-Zero Emissions, No Significant Health Impact

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — The Diesel Technology Forum issued the following statement today regarding the multi-year Advanced Collaborative Emissions Study (ACES) conducted by the Health Effects Institute (HEI).

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HEI conducted the independent study of new technology diesel engines to determine whether the engines achieved the expected emissions reductions, thereby improving air quality for public health, as well as whether the new technologies resulted in any unintended increases in emission components.  The study concluded that exposure to new technology diesel exhaust does not cause any increase in the risk of lung cancer or other significant adverse health effects in study animals. 

“The significance of this study and its conclusions cannot be overstated,” said Allen Schaeffer, the Executive Director of the Diesel Technology Forum.  “The results of this new study verify the environmental benefits of the new clean diesel technology, which have near-zero emissions for nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC) and particulate matter (PM).  And while this study focused on heavy duty truck emissions, the new clean diesel technology has the potential for impacting all sectors, including passenger cars, agriculture, construction, maritime and transportation.

“As other countries embrace cleaner diesel fuels, they will also be able to reap the benefits of cleaner air with new clean diesel technology engines manufactured in the United States.  Today, one in four advanced clean diesel engines produced here is exported internationally.

“The comprehensive nature of this study by such an authoritative body as the Health Effects Institute is extremely significant.  It’s also important to highlight that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Federal Highway Administration are sponsors of this study in conjunction with the manufacturers of emissions control equipment.”

The ACES effort has been guided by an independent Oversight Committee comprised primarily of academic scientists.

HEI press release:
http://www.healtheffects.org/Pubs/Press%20Release%20ACES%202015.pdf

HEI summary and study:
http://pubs.healtheffects.org/view.php?id=430

“The findings of the ACES study are extremely important because diesel engines are the technology of choice that drives 15 sectors of the global economy―from agriculture to goods movement, from construction to warehousing.

“In the U.S., clean diesel technology has reduced particulate matter and NOx emissions by 98 percent compared to 1988 vehicles. Diesel technology has undergone a complete transformation beginning with a move to ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in 2006 that reduced the fuel’s sulfur content by 97 percent. This cleaner fuel then enabled refinements in engine technology and the use of emission controls and reduction strategies that are now deployed throughout a wide range of industry, engines and technology.”

Diesel Technology Forum: http://www.dieselforum.org/

Health Effects Institute: http://www.healtheffects.org/

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of diesel engines, fuel and technology.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
Allen Schaeffer
https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=111282

Contact:
Steve Hansen
shansen@dieselforum.org
301-668-7230 (o)
202-355-3664 (c)

(View this press release online here.)

Emerging Contaminants in Drinking Water Cause Consumer Health Concerns

— NSF International survey findings reinforce the need for NSF International water quality standard

ANN ARBOR, Michigan, Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — A vast majority (82 percent) of consumers report they are concerned about trace levels of emerging contaminants in drinking water, such as pesticides and herbicides (87 percent), prescription drugs (34 percent) and detergents (24 percent), according to a new survey from NSF International, a global public health and safety organization.

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Emerging contaminants include some prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, flame retardants, detergents and new types of herbicides and pesticides, which have been detected at trace levels in drinking water. Although the health risks associated with trace levels of emerging contaminants are not yet well understood, their presence in drinking water at even low levels has many consumers concerned.

Download: Consumer Fact Sheet | Infographic | Audio News Release | Certified Product Listings

The survey also indicated that despite these concerns, most consumers still improperly dispose of some of these emerging contaminants by throwing unused prescription and OTC drugs in the garbage (34 percent) or flushing them down the toilet (19 percent). Only 28 percent said they correctly bring them to a pharmacist or clinic for disposal.

“NSF International’s survey results clearly show that consumers are very aware of and concerned about emerging contaminants in drinking water. While the industry isn’t currently aware of negative health effects associated with trace levels of these contaminants, many consumers understandably want to have the highest quality drinking water possible for themselves and their family. NSF International has developed a standard that tests the ability of home water treatment devices to reduce some of these emerging contaminants in drinking water,” said Rick Andrew, NSF International Drinking Water Treatment Expert.

The standard, NSF/ANSI 401: Drinking Water Treatment Units – Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants, evaluates the ability of water treatment devices to reduce up to 15 emerging contaminants in drinking water, including some prescription/OTC drugs, some new types of herbicides and pesticides and chemicals used as flame retardants and detergents.

More than 56 products have already been certified to the standard by major manufacturers including 3M Purification Inc., Access Business Group LLC, Amway China Co., Aquasana Inc., Electrolux Home Products, Everpure LLC, General Electric Company, Kaz USA Inc., Kemflo / Filbur and Whirlpool Corporation. Visit NSF’s certified product listings to find home water treatment devices that address selected emerging contaminants.

“NSF International’s mission is to protect and improve public health which is why we developed the NSF/ANSI 401 standard as a solution for consumers worried about emerging contaminants in their drinking water,” said Andrew. “There is still so much we don’t know about the effects of long-term exposure to these contaminants. While science and industry work to better understand emerging contaminants, consumers can rely on the certified treatment products available.”

Survey Methodology: NSF International’s Water Quality Insight Survey was conducted by telephone among two national probability samples, which, when combined, consists of 1,014 adults, 509 men and 505 women 18 years of age and older, living in the continental United States. Interviewing for this CARAVAN® Survey was completed on August 21-24, 2014. 400 interviews were from the landline sample and 614 interviews from the cell phone sample.

About NSF International: Founded in 1944, NSF International is committed to protecting human health and safety worldwide. Operating in more than 155 countries, NSF is a Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Food Safety, Water Quality and Indoor Environment. NSF is a global independent organization that writes standards, and tests and certifies products for the water, food, health sciences and consumer goods industries to minimize adverse health effects and protect the environment (nsf.org).

NSF led the development of the American National Standards for all materials and products that treat or come in contact with drinking water. In 1990, the U.S. EPA replaced its own drinking water product advisory program with these NSF standards. Today, all major plumbing codes require certification to NSF standards for pipes and plumbing components in commercial and residential buildings. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited organization, NSF continues its 43-year leadership in developing water standards with the development of NSF/ANSI 401: Drinking Water Treatment Units – Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants.

CONTACT: Kelly Ingerly, +1-734-827-6850, media@nsf.org 

Ecobuild Southeast Asia 2014 — Building Sustainably For Society

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 22, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Ecobuild Southeast Asia 2014 in collaboration with International Construction Week is passionate about great architecture and all things sustainable. A show that is committed to providing positive solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s built environment through the latest innovative technologies and products in sustainable smart design that can deliver high quality, effective and inspiring built space.

Presence of global industry players expected at Ecobuild SEA / ICW 2014 (Photo: Ecobuild SEA 2013)
Presence of global industry players expected at Ecobuild SEA / ICW 2014 (Photo: Ecobuild SEA 2013)

 

Seek for innovations and solutions at Ecobuild SEA / ICW 2014 (Photo: Ecobuild SEA 2013)
Seek for innovations and solutions at Ecobuild SEA / ICW 2014 (Photo: Ecobuild SEA 2013)

 

Gain insights and knowledge exchange at Ecobuild SEA / ICW 2014 (Photo: Ecobuild SEA 2013)
Gain insights and knowledge exchange at Ecobuild SEA / ICW 2014 (Photo: Ecobuild SEA 2013)

 

LOGO

Hosted by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), the 2nd edition of Southeast Asia’s Leading Event for Sustainable Design, Construction and Built Environment will be held together with the International Construction Week (ICW) – The Premier Annual Event for the Construction Industry in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. To commence at the Putra World Trade Centre from 17 — 19 September 2014. An expected attendance of over 10,000 industry players, so why wait..beat the hassle and REGISTER AS VISITOR NOW at www.ecobuildsea.com

The 2014 show takes a big step forward with dedicated co-located events to launch and display new innovative products and solutions. Amongst others is the world’s largest producer of stone wool insulation, ROCKWOOL Group operates in over 40 countries across Europe, North America and Asia in providing the highest quality stone wool solutions that offers a combination of four benefits in fire resistance, noise reduction, thermal comfort and sustainability. It is backed by over 75 years of industry experience with environmentally sound production facilities and skilled professionals who understand buildings and how to make them comfortable and safe for generations to come.

“As a provider of fire safe insulation solutions, we are participating in Ecobuild SEA to demonstrate how ROCKWOOL stone wool can provide comfort and protection to people and buildings while highlighting our technical expertise and know-how in total building performance.”

We are also proud to welcome Saint-Gobain AAC, the world leader in habitat and construction markets and the owner of HENNER who happens to be the oldest and leading autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) manufacturer in Malaysia and Singapore. During the show, Saint-Gobain AAC will offer innovative sustainable walling solutions to meet the growing global demands for energy efficiency and environmental protection.

“We believe Ecobuild Southeast Asia is the right platform to promote sustainable products in the region. We will use this event as our platform to heighten brand awareness, advertising campaign, collect market feedback on our products and service and most important is to establish and maintain relationship with existing and potential customers. We are looking forward to present our latest products and services to our industry partners in the event. We hope the above reasons of participating in Ecobuild Southeast Asia can be achieved successfully” said Mr Bryan Soh, Marketing Manager, Saint-Gobain AAC Sdn. Bhd.

Imagine having to design and construct at your disposal without worries of higher maintenance and materials cost. How do you that? Well do come listen, engage and be inspired by more than multiple conferences and seminars that will expose emerging ground-breaking innovative technologies and sound solutions in sustainable design through renowned industry experts during the three show days. Do not miss your opportunity to attend either one or a couple of the sessions. View the Full Schedule, Plan Your Time & REGISTER For Your Attendance.

  • Ecobuild SEA seminars: Engage with experts including Energy Commission, Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Malaysian Industry – Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and others in interactive seminar sessions.

REGISTER HERE: http://www.ecobuildsea.com/seminar.aspx 

  • Technology Symposium: Where the latest environmental products and technology will be presented to trade buyers

REGISTER HERE: http://www.ecobuildsea.com/technology-symposium

  • ICW conference: A high end paid conference chaired by Ministry of Works, Public Works Department (JKR), American Concrete Institute (KL Chapter), Concrete Society of Malaysia (CSM) , UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), Malaysian Asset & Project Management Association (MAPMA) and more.

REGISTER HERE: http://www.ecobuildsea.com/icw-2014-conference

So, if you happen to have an innovation or solution so good that it must be shared, then acquire your booth today at the most prominent space on the show floor. Speak to the team NOW!

For Southeast Asia

Mr. Norman

+603-2176-8686

norman.zainal@ubm.com

Mr. Adzli

+603-2176-8687

adzli.ariff@ubm.com

For UK & International –

Ms. Marina

+44 (0) 2079218632

marina.stewart@ubm.com

Notes to Editors :

1. About UBM Asia (www.ubmasia.com)

Owned by UBM plc listed on the London Stock Exchange, UBM Asia is Asia’s leading exhibition organiser and the biggest commercial organiser in mainland China, India and Malaysia. Established with its headquarters in Hong Kong and subsidiary companies across Asia and in the US, UBM Asia has a strong global presence in 25 major cities with 30 offices and over 1,400 staff.

With a track record spanning over 30 years, UBM Asia operates in 21 market sectors with 160 dynamic face-to-face exhibitions, 75 high-level professional conferences, 28 targeted trade publications, 18 round-the-clock vertical portals and virtual event services for over 1,000,000 quality exhibitors, visitors, conference delegates, advertisers and subscribers from all over the world. We provide a one-stop diversified global service for high-value business matching, quality market news and online trading networks.

UBM Asia has extensive office networks in China, Southeast Asia and India, three of the world’s fastest growing B2B events markets. UBM China has 11 offices in the major cities in mainland China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Chengdu and Shenzhen, where we organise more than 70 exhibitions and conferences. In ASEAN, UBM Asia operates from its offices in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines with over 50 events in this region. UBM India teams in Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad organise 20 exhibitions and 60 conferences every year across the country.

2. About UBM plc (www.ubm.com)

UBM plc is a leading global business media company. We inform markets and bring the world’s buyers and sellers together at events via online and print providing them with the information they need to do business successfully. We focus on serving professional communities from doctors to game developers, journalists to jewellery traders, farmers to pharmacists. Our 6,500 staff members in more than 40 countries are organised into specialist teams that serve these communities, helping them do business and their markets to work effectively and efficiently.

This press information is issued by:

The Marketing Communication (MARCOM) Department
UNITED BUSINESS MEDIA (M) SDN BHD

A-8-1, Lvl 8,
Hampshire Place Office
157, Hamphire 1
Jalan Mayang Sari
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603-2176-8788
Fax: 603-2164-8786
E: Adrian.Pereira@ubm.com
W: www.ubmasia.com

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