Airwheel’s intelligent Self Balancing Electric Unicycle Attended Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA)

Intelligent Commuting a Focus

LANGKAWAI, Malaysia, March 24, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — With the rapid development of science and technology, the intelligent commute is forming an inevitable trend of future transport. Airwheel has placed great emphasizes on the development of intelligent commuting products. Airwheel‘s self balancing electric unicycle is going to start a revolution of eco-friendly commuters in 2015.

Airwheel’s intelligent scooters in the exhibition

Airwheel’s intelligent scooters in the exhibition

The 25thLIMA was held in Malaysia between 17th March and 21st March. Airwheel exhibited all lines of intelligent scooters in the exhibition. Thanks to the innovative intelligent experience, dashing exterior look, eco-friendly and energy-saving features, Airwheel‘s self balancing electric unicycle became the spotlight of the exhibition. 

LIMA has been one of the largest exhibitions displaying technology for national defence in Asia-Pacific regions since it was first held in 1991. The theme of this exhibition involves the civil and military aerospace, aerospace electric devices and the plans for maintenance and modern customization of airplanes. As the trend of saving energy and reducing emission grows, Airwheel brings a brand new personal transporter to meet the demand of intelligent commuting, aiming at protecting the environment and leading a green lifestyle.

The Airwheel S3 is the first model of intelligent self-balancing scooter launched by Airwheel Technology (Official website: http://www.airwheel.net). The appearance of the Airwheel S3 self balancing electric unicycle looks simple, streamlined and sleek. The mixture of blue, silver and white gives it a futuristic impression and draws every visitor’s attention.

In the exhibition, the on-site staff members of Airwheel gave a vivid show and guided visitors on how to control Airwheel scooters. Airwheel provided a couple of free demos of intelligent self balancing electric unicycle S3, so that visitors could get a better experience of Airwheel scooters.

http://www.airwheel.net/images/airwheel_14.jpg

With the rapid development of science and technology, the intelligent commute is forming an inevitable trend of future transport. Airwheel has placed great emphasizes on the development of intelligent commuting products. Airwheel is going to start a revolution of eco-friendly commuters in 2015.

Airwheel self balancing electric unicycle Website: http://www.airwheel.net

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150323/0861502164

Pepsi(R) Challenges Darkness to Bring Light to Communities in Need with the Pepsi x Liter of Light “Ignite The Light” Tour

— First Global Challenge & Tour Stop Features Art Installation By World-Renowned Fashion Designer & Creative Director Nicola Formichetti in Hong Kong

PURCHASE, N.Y., March 16, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — #PEPSICHALLENGE — Pepsi® today challenges people worldwide to shine a light on those who live in darkness. As the first global initiative in its 2015 Pepsi® Challenge™ program, the iconic brand announces the Pepsi x Liter of Light “Ignite the Light” Tour — an international journey of creative, large-scale, mixed media art installations created by artists from around the world who will bring attention to communities that lack electricity and basic lighting solutions.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150315/181840  

In partnership with the Liter of Light organization and world-renowned fashion designer, creative director and fashion editor widely known for collaborations with Diesel and Lady Gaga, Nicola Formichetti, Pepsi reveals the first “Ignite the Light” installation in Hong Kong. Unveiled on March 15th and open to the public for a limited time at the PMQ Courtyard, Formichetti’s piece titled “Ao Dress” is a physical example of the symbiotic relationship between light and material.

“It’s important that the fashion and art industries work hand in hand and help each other, as each world now collides. I’m very much inspired by the art world mixing with my fashion angle, so it’s exciting to be able to have a hand in both through the Pepsi x Liter of Light ‘Ignite the Light’ Tour,” said Formichetti. “For my piece, ‘Ao Dress,’ I was inspired by Mother Nature — the embodiment of renewal, birth and the light of infinite possibility. What could be better than repurposing Pepsi bottles into something that helps people who go without the most basic of human needs, such as electricity and light. Pepsi is literally helping bring people out of the darkness and into the light, and that is something I can stand behind with conviction.”

“Ao Dress” is an out-of-this-world gown with body architecture crafted from light and Pepsi bottles. Inspired by “Ao” the Goddess of Light, the truly alchemistical fashion spectacle observes the beautiful nature of the liquid diffused glow of Liter of Light solar lights and creates a futuristic silhouette that stands as a celebration of the project. Formichetti’s team collaborated with fashion and technology company Studio XO and production company Prettybird to bring his vision to life.

“Through the ‘Ignite the Light’ Tour with Liter of Light, we’re infusing the fun and excitement of the Pepsi Challenge with a focused purpose — helping our consumers around the world achieve their desire to make an impact,” said Kristin Patrick, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, PepsiCo Global Beverage Brands. “Our work with Liter of Light is the connective tissue throughout the Pepsi Challenge program and we’re challenging ourselves, our artist partners and our consumers to draw attention to this vital need. To act and to make a real difference.”

Pepsi Challenge is a call to today’s generations to live life to the fullest and make every moment–big or small–epic. Throughout 2015, Pepsi Challenge unleashes a variety of global and local challenges designed to galvanize consumers to push themselves farther, dream a little bigger and “Live for Now.” Challenges will be issued on Pepsi social channels, PepsiChallenge.com and via global and local ambassadors.

Underpinning and uniting each and every #PepsiChallenge is a way for people around the world to make an impact. Through the partnership with Liter of Light, Pepsi will bring cost effective solar lighting solutions to communities in need while recycling plastic bottles. Every time consumers around the world use the #PepsiChallenge hash tag on public Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube profiles, Pepsi will donate $1 to Liter of Light to help bring environmentally-friendly, inexpensive and easy to make lights to those around the world who need it most.

To date, Liter of Light has provided ecologically-sustainable lighting solutions, including nighttime lighting solutions and public lighting such as street lights, to more than 18 countries including Brazil, India, Kenya, Colombia, Indonesia, Mexico, Egypt, Pakistan and the Philippines. Using empty recycled plastic bottles, water and chlorine, Liter of Light creates innovative “bottle lights” — a 55-watt solar bulb, with zero carbon emissions, that refracts sunlight and is powerful enough to light up a home.

“Light is not only a great need, but also a great inspiration, for so many,” said Illac Diaz, Liter of Light Founder. “The Pepsi Challenge program and its ‘Ignite the Light’ global challenge sheds light on our great mission in inspiring, beautiful and visually stunning ways — both physically with the artistic light installations around the world, as well as the great impact and movement made through our partnership with Pepsi.”

As a global ambassador for the Pepsi Challenge, Formichetti has challenged select artists around the world to take his lit torch and create the next “Ignite the Light” installation. Up to five “Ignite the Light” installations will be unveiled throughout the year around the world. Visit www.PepsiChallenge.com for more information.

About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $66 billion in net revenue in 2014, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker and Tropicana. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 22 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales. At the heart of PepsiCo is Performance with Purpose – our goal to deliver top-tier financial performance while creating sustainable growth in shareholder value. In practice, Performance with Purpose means providing a wide range of foods and beverages from treats to healthy eats; finding innovative ways to minimize our impact on the environment and reduce our operating costs; providing a safe and inclusive workplace for our employees globally; and respecting, supporting and investing in the local communities where we operate. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.

Haze — The Constant Struggle with Invisible Pollution

SHANGHAI, March 12, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — During the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, a self-financed documentary film made by Ms Chai Jing, former anchor of China Central Television about China’s haze unexpectedly drew the attention of the media. Within 24 hours, it boasted over 6 million hits and over 60 thousand “likes”.

What is Haze? Where does it come from? What can we do about it? To try to answer these questions, the film inevitably mentions the fact that in January 2013, 25 provinces which account for half of Chinese population were trapped in a severe haze. Though things improved in 2014, many big cities still have serious haze. In 2014, 175 days of Beijing, 197 days of Tianjin, 152 days of Shen Yang, 125 days of Chengdu, 112 days of Lanzhou and even 264 days of Shi Jia Zhuang were severely polluted by haze.

What is Haze? What harm does it do to human bodies? Haze contains sulphate, nitrate, ammonium salt, organic substances, minerals,etc. which collide, set off chemical reactions and harm the respiratory system, cardiovascular system and even cause early deaths.

In areas where haze is severe, many non-smokers suffer from lung cancer. Even newborn babies have gotten pneumonia of an unknown origin. In the past 30 years, lung cancer mortality has soared 465%. Mr. Chen Zhu Lan, former Minister of Health pointed out that every year that about 500,000 people die earlier because of haze.

Where does Haze come from? Burning of coal, oil, biomasses, industrial production, cultivation, etc. cause haze. And, 60% of all the burning has to do with production and daily habits.

What can we do about haze? We should clean the coal beforehand, control emissions, reduce pollution, use public transportation, save on energy, etc. According to Mr. Lu, Yao Ru, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, plants and water can treat it.

The International Rooftop Landscaping Association (IRLA) has committed itself to the study of how to help purify the atmosphere by introducing roof and wall greening in most Chinese cities.

IRLA will cooperate with the organizer of the 17th Hortiflorexpo IPM Shanghai, Asian Largest trade show in floricultural, horticultural and garden industry to present a special forum about it during April 22-24, 2015 at Shanghai New International Exhibition Center (INTEX Shanghai., Ltd.).

CONTACT:
Ms.Catherine Cui
+86-21-62958367
cuilin@intex-sh.com

“Under the Dome” Covers Chinese Internet; Former State Reporter Advocates 5-Km Green Commuting

LOS ANGELES, March 10, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — “China’s Haze: Under the Dome”, a documentary on Chinese Smog (Wu Mai), swept Chinese social media on February 27, receiving over 80 million views. In the film Chai Jing, former state news anchor and hostess, proposed “Green-commuting within 5 km.” She mentioned that,during rush hour in Beijing, 44% of the total number of automobiles was driven within a 5-km radius, producing 1 ton of PM2.5 per day.” She advised people to change from their daily routine. She advocated that the general public abandon driving, using manpower and renewable energy for commuting within 5 kilometers.

Air pollution comes with globalization. Since the Industrial Revolution, smog has been ever-present. In the U.S., according to the 2010 State of the Air report by the American Lung Association, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles and Washington D.C. are the cities most affected by particle pollution (PM2.5). Millions of people are suffering from chronic bronchitis, pediatric asthma and other lung illnesses. Particle pollution can increase the risk of heart disease, lung cancer and asthma attacks and can interfere with the growth and work of the lungs. It can even kill.

What can we do to clear the air in heavily polluted areas, like LA? Commuting in a more eco-friendly way can be a solution.

The methods for eco-friendly traveling can be:

  • Bicycle
    • Use a bicycle instead of a car. Cycling can effectively build stamina, eat up calories and increase strength and muscle tone. Most importantly, cycling can keep you away from time-consuming and irritating traffic jams.
  • E-Scooters
    • Electric scooters are quiet running and fun. They top out at 10 miles-per-hour, delighting kids and neighbors alike.
  • Trans and other public transportation
    • Definitely the fastest and least-polluted way to commute, public transportation can consume 20 times less energy than automobiles.
  • Personal Transporter
    • Much less the cost of a car, with no emissions and no pollution, PTs are green and rapid, able to move a person blocks after blocks. PTs make you outstanding among the people, so long as you can find a plug to charge it. INMOTION Tech. provides you its R series and V series, fastcharging and long-durable personal transporters, These PTs connect you with your destination anytime and anywhere.

Said Chai Jing in the film:The battle between human beings and pollution is made up of thousands of people. So no more ignorance. Step up. Do Something. Right here, right now. You.

About INMOTION Tech.

INMOTION is a top-tier SCV (sensor controlled vehicle) company focusing on providing affordable and durable personal commuter solutions. INMOTION is dedicated to expanding individuals’ life radius with cutting-edge tech. INMOTION has expanded its market to over 50 countries globally. To learn more about INMOTION, please click www.imscv.com/en/.

INMOTION is a trademark of INMOTION Technology, registered in the People’s Republic of China and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150309/180276

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/under-the-dome-covers-chinese-internet-former-state-reporter-advocates-5-km-green-commuting-300047334.html

Origin Agritech Limited Reports Unaudited Financial Results For Three Months Ended December 31, 2014 and Announces its First United States Patent Application

BEIJING, February 5, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Origin Agritech Limited (NASDAQ GS: SEED) (“Origin”, or the “Company”), a technology-focused supplier of crop seeds in China, today announced unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended December 31, 2014. Origin prepares its financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) of the United States.

BIOTECHNOLOGY PROGRESS

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, we submitted a patent application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office for our glyphosate-resistant technologies. In addition, we have also applied for a patent in Brazil for similar biotechnologies. The patent applications are listed below. We believe these patents will strengthen further our leading position in the genetically modified seed technologies in China and will allow us to expand our biotechnology position in the international seed market.

Patent/Patent
Application number

Patent/Patent application title

Date
applied

Country

14/391,948

SYNTHETIC GLYPHOSATE-RESISTANT
GENE AND USE THEREOF

Oct 10, 2014

US

1120140255296

GENE DE RESISTENCIA AO GLIFOSATO
SINTETICO E USO DO MESMO

Oct 13, 2014

Brazil

FINANCIAL RESULTS OVERVIEW

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, the Company generated revenues of RMB15.6 million (US$2.5 million), compared with revenues of RMB20.4 million in the three months ended December 31, 2013. The revenues of this quarter largely represented the sales from canola seeds and the decrease was mainly due to increasing competition in the canola seed business and our short supply of a main canola seed product.

Deferred revenues were RMB329.0 million (US$53.8 million) as of December 31, 2014, compared with RMB312.6 million as of December 31, 2013. Deferred revenues mainly reflect the value of Origin’s crop seeds after: a) sales arrangement is confirmed; b) delivery to the customer is made; and c) pre-payment from the customer is received, but before the final sales price is fixed and determined. The final sales price is primarily determined by sales incentives that Origin offers to its customers. It is expected that the majority of these deferred revenues will be recorded on the income statement in the third to fourth fiscal quarters.

Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2014 was RMB7.8 million (US$1.3 million), compared with RMB10.1 million in the same period of the prior year.

Total operating expenses for the first quarter ended December 31, 2014 were RMB30.3 million (US$4.9 million), compared with RMB34.4 million reported for the same period in fiscal year 2014. Selling and marketing expenses were RMB14.2 million (US$2.3 million) for the first quarter of fiscal 2015, compared to RMB16.3 million for the same period last year. General and administrative expenses were RMB8.9 million (US$1.4 million) for the first quarter ended December 31, 2014, down by 16.0% from RMB10.5 million one year ago. The decline was mainly due to the continued implementation of measures to control our expenses. Research and development expenses were RMB11.8 million (US$1.9 million) in the first quarter of fiscal 2015, compared with RMB10.2 million for the same quarter last year, which in part reflects our efforts to expand our intellectual property portfolio.

Operating loss for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 was RMB22.5 million (US$3.7million), compared with operating loss of RMB24.3 million for the same period in fiscal 2014.

Net loss attributable to Origin Agritech Limited for the first quarter of fiscal 2014 was RMB29.5 million (US$4.8 million), or net loss per basic and diluted share of RMB1.30 (US$0.21), compared with net loss of RMB31.0 million, or net loss per basic and diluted share of RMB1.36 in the same period one year ago.

BALANCE SHEET

As of December 31, 2014, cash and cash equivalents were RMB82.3 million (US$13.4 million) and shareholders’ equity was RMB227.8 million (US$37.2 million). The Company had short-term loans of RMB245 million (US$40.0 million) and total long-term borrowing of RMB52.0 million (US$8.5 million). Short-term loans were mainly used for the working capital, while long-term borrowings of bank loans were used for financing the construction of the Xinjiang Origin corn seed production facilities.

Advances from customers were RMB126.2 million (US$20.6 million) as of December 31, 2014. These advances represent cash receipts for orders in the upcoming selling season.

About Origin

Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Zhong-Guan-Cun (ZGC) Life Science Park in Beijing, Origin Agritech Limited (NASDAQ GS: SEED) is China’s leading agricultural biotechnology company, specializing in crop seed breeding and genetic improvement, seed production, processing, distribution, and related technical services. Leading the development of crop seed biotechnologies in China, Origin Agritech’s phytase corn was the first transgenic corn to receive the Bio-Safety Certificate from China’s Ministry of Agriculture. Over the years, Origin has established a robust biotechnology seed pipeline including products with glyphosate tolerance and pest resistance (Bt) traits. Origin operates production centers, processing centers and breeding stations nationwide with sales centers located in key crop-planting regions. Product lines are vertically integrated for corn, rice and canola seeds. For further information, please log on to the Company’s website at: www.originseed.com.cn.

Forward Looking Statement

This release contains forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included in this release are based on information available to us on the date hereof. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause our actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “targets,” “goals,” “projects,” “continue,” or variations of such words, similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Therefore, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Neither we nor any other person can assume responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of forward-looking statements. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ from expectations include, but are not limited to, those risk factors discussed in Origin’s filings with the SEC including its annual report on Form 20-F to be filed. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reasons.

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In thousands, except share data)

Three Months ended December 31,

2013

2014

RMB

RMB

USD

Revenues

20,368

15,590

2,542

Cost of revenues

(10,317)

(7,788)

(1,270)

Gross profit

10,051

7,802

1,272

Operating expenses:

Selling and marketing

(16,269)

(14,183)

(2,313)

General and administrative

(10,547)

(8,862)

(1,445)

Research and development

(10,185)

(11,775)

(1,920)

Other operating income, net

2,604

4,553

742

Total operating expenses

(34,397)

(30,267)

(4,936)

Loss from operations

(24,346)

(22,465)

(3,664)


Interest expense

(4,177)

(4,574)

(746)

Share of net loss of equity investment

(279)

Interest income

258

26

4

Loss before income taxes

(28,544)

(27,013)

(4,406)

Income tax expense

Current

(1,203)

(196)

Deferred

Income tax expense

(1,203)

(196)


Net loss

(28,544)

(28,216)

(4,602)

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interests

2,485

1,287

210

Net loss attributable to Origin Agritech Limited

(31,028)

(29,503)

(4,812)


Other comprehensive loss

Net loss

(28,544)

(28,216)

(4,602)

Foreign currency translation difference

572

401

65

Comprehensive loss

(27,972)

(27,815)

(4,537)

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests

2,485

1,287

210

Comprehensive loss attributable to Origin Agritech Limited

(30,457)

(29,102)

(4,747)

Net loss attributable to Origin Agritech Limited per share – basic

(1.36)

(1.30)

(0.21)

Net loss attributable to Origin Agritech Limited per share – diluted

(1.36)

(1.30)

(0.21)

Shares used in calculating basic and diluted net loss per share

22,743,853

22,738,541

22,738,541

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share data)

12/31/2013

9/30/2014

12/31/2014

12/31/2014

RMB

RMB

RMB

US$

ASSETS

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

146,075

46,268

82,250

13,442

Restricted cash

15,670

14,350

2,345

Accounts receivable

2,835

1,021

2,965

484

Due from related parties

3,200

2,698

5,200

850

Advances to suppliers

9,751

17,751

10,625

1,736

Advances to growers

9,243

20,759

1,903

311

Inventories

733,102

516,368

636,787

104,067

Income tax recoverable

1,163

48

48

8

Other current assets

5,873

4,368

4,323

707

Total current assets

911,242

624,951

758,451

123,950

Restricted cash

14,350

Land use rights, net

35,101

31,799

32,130

5,251

Plant and equipment, net

353,300

338,526

334,899

54,731

Equity investments

24,615

18,721

23,721

3,877

Goodwill

11,973

11,973

11,973

1,957

Acquired intangible assets, net

22,139

34,891

33,882

5,537

Other assets

9,609

4,009

3,502

572

Total assets

1,382,329

1,064,870

1,198,558

195,875

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

Current liabilities

Short-term borrowings

267,194

225,000

245,000

40,039

Current portion of long-term borrowings

16,500

33,805

32,488

5,309

Accounts payable

15,499

4,525

15,514

2,535

Due to growers

99,362

17,943

57,862

9,456

Due to related parties

6,216

11,711

11,469

1,874

Advances from customers

221,584

324,645

126,201

20,625

Deferred revenues

312,561

19,029

328,975

53,763

Income tax payable

39,060

1,203

197

Other payables and accrued expenses

48,370

67,953

58,926

9,630

Total current liabilities

1,026,346

704,611

877,638

143,428

Long-term borrowings

42,523

31,023

19,523

3,191

Other long-term liability

22,573

19,649

18,689

3,054

Total liabilities

1,091,442

755,283

915,850

149,673

Commitments and contingencies

Shareholders’ equity:

Preferred stock (no par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized, none
issued)

Common stock (no par value; 60,000,000 shares authorized,

24,016,163, 24,016,163 and 24,016,163 shares issued as of December 31, 2013, September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014;

22,738,541, 22,738,541 and 22,738,541 shares outstanding as of

December 31, 2013, September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014)

Additional paid-in capital

399,947

400,888

401,824

65,668

Accumulated deficit

(124,501)

(103,000)

(132,503)

(21,654)

Treasury stock at cost (1,277,622, 1,277,622 and 1,277,622 shares as of December 31, 2013, September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014)

(37,429)

(37,445)

(37,445)

(6,119)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(3,818)

(4,446)

(4,045)

(661)

Total Origin Agritech Limited shareholders’ equity

234,199

255,997

227,831

37,234

Non-controlling interests

56,688

53,590

54,877

8,968

Total equity

290,887

309,587

282,708

46,202

Total liabilities and equity

1,382,329

1,064,870

1,198,558

195,875

CONTACT:
Kay Liu
Investor Relations
ke.liu@originseed.com.cn
+86 10 5890-7536

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/origin-agritech-limited-reports-unaudited-financial-results-for-three-months-ended-december-31-2014-and-announces-its-first-united-states-patent-application-300031347.html

Kawasaki International ECO-Tech Fair 2015 Opened Successfully

KAWASAKI, Japan, Feb. 5, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — The two-day Kawasaki International ECO-Tech Fair 2015 was held in Todoroki Arena of Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan on February 05, 2015. The Fair was attended by 138 international enterprises and organizations as well as ECO-Tech experts to share effective environmental protection measures, valuable experience and production-related ecological technology.

Birdview of Kawasaki in 2012 (above) and in 1960s (below)

Birdview of Kawasaki in 2012 (above) and in 1960s (below)

Kawasaki, famous for its industry, is located in Kanagawa, Japan. It is near Tokyo and in the center of Japanese archipelagos with a population of 1.46 million, 500 of whom are from Thailand (The data was collected at the end of December, 2014). Apart from the title of well-known industrial city, Kawasaki is also a place of dreams and rich culture. Doraemon, deeply loved by children all over the world, is just a “special citizen” of the city. The museum of its writer, famous cartoonist Fujiko•F•Fujio, is also situated in the city, together with the eminent Taro Okamoto Museum of Art.

From 1960s to 1970s, Kawasaki, as a major city of Keihin In. Zone during the rapid development period, played a very important role in Japanese industrial development. It served as an engine for Japanese industrial development and meanwhile suffered from environmental degradation such as air/water pollution caused by overload development. In order to solve environmental pollution, Kawasaki citizens, enterprises and government closely worked together and finally turned Kawasaki into a suitable living place again through persistent efforts and practical experience.

Nowadays, Kawasaki is under rapid development supported by a large number of enterprises and R&D institutes with advanced ecological technology. KING SKYFRONT, opposite to Haneda Airport, has made a significant contribution to solve the health, medical care, welfare and environment problems and to promote the formation of R&D base for new industries. A variety of power generation facilities including the most advanced and efficient coal-fired power plant, natural gas power plant and solar-wind power plant have emerged along the coastal industrial zone to provide power for the capital and facilitate widespread introduction and practical application of hydrogen energy. In November 2014, Kawasaki entered into a cooperation agreement with Toshiba Corporation to verify the use of self-support energy supply system composed of renewable energy and hydrogen and the verification test is expected to be carried out in April, 2015. The system will use electrolyzed water to produce hydrogen for PV generation. The produced hydrogen will be stored in fuel tanks for power generation and warm water. The system is able to run independently to produce power and warm water even if the basic living infrastructure is damaged by natural cause. Additionally, the system can also be transported to the disaster area by trucks.

Green Kawasaki has gained more and more attention from the world. In 2008, President Hu Jintao came to Kawasaki to visit related enterprises. In 2014, Narongchai, Minister of Energy, Thailand, visited energy facilities in Kawasaki.

Clean energy and energy conservation/creation/storage technology has attracted worldwide concern regarding the power supply problem occurred after the big earthquake of eastern Japan. Kawasaki is taking constant effort to build a secure society and develop/popularize energy technology in order to enable the advanced ecological technology to support other Asian countries and regions suffering from environmental problems caused by overdevelopment of industries. As a result, a large-scale International ECO-Tech Fair was held in 2009 in Kawasaki in order to publish more comprehensive international environmental information and facilitate more business negotiations. This time, Kawasaki International ECO-Tech Fair 2015, with the theme of “Kawasaki now brings environmental technologies to the world”, is an international business negotiation platform for people in the environmental industry from 30 countries and regions (mainly from Asian). Different advanced projects and oversea successful examples will be shown in the Fair and various expert forums will be held.                   

Every year, various oversea project introduction meetings and expert forums are held in Kawasaki and attended by many experts from Asian countries and regions such as Thailand. A number of research results and ecological technology will be introduced to the world and a great contribution will be made through industrial exchange and technology transfer.

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150129/0861500756  

Emery Oleochemicals Marks Key Milestone with Site Pre-commissioning Activities of World’s First “Renewable and Recyclable Polyol” Plant

Initiation of US$50mil expansion set to advance innovations in sustainable polyurethanes and drive sustainability opportunities with “closed-loop” processing

CINCINNATI, Ohio, December 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Emery Oleochemicals, a world leader in natural-based chemicals announced that construction activities of its new technologically advanced bio-polyol plant located in Cincinnati, Ohio has reached mechanical completion. The plant will further strengthen Emery Oleochemicals’ ability to provide wide range of Eco-Friendly Polyoyls products and customer service.

With the initiation of pre-commissioning activities and site operational verification, startup of the first phase of the US$50mil investment marks a key milestone in the expansion project designed to boost capacity and technical capabilities in the manufacturing of performance bio-based polyols for the automotive, furniture and bedding and major appliances industries.

Announced in 2012, the project will reach initial production goals by the end of the year specifically in the area of renewable-based polyols, using Emery Oleochemicals’ proprietary ozonolysis technology.

“Once the commercial operation of the first phase begins, the bio-polyol plant will demonstrate unique capabilities of renewable-based polyols that can deliver on both performance and cost,” said Jay Taylor, Senior Vice President, Chief Manufacturing Officer and Regional Managing Director, North America.

The second phase adjoins in this same manufacturing complex and is in its final building stage with civil and structural installation at various process units nearing completion. This state-of-the-art site is dedicated to the production of recyclable polyols, bringing to life Emery Oleochemicals’ “closed-loop” processing value proposition and marks the successful integration of award-winning INFIGREEN® technology acquired in 2012.

“Supported by over 100 workers and external consultants, we have done an excellent job in constructing what will be the world’s first commercial plant offering both renewable and recyclable polyols for polyurethanes. Surpassing over 1.6 million man hours without a lost time accident, the facility already allows potential customers to explore opportunities in which our products can be economically integrated into their product development goals as we also embark on pre-marketing activities,” added Taylor.

When full facility commissioning completes in Q2 2015, the Cinccinati site will additionally produce solutions for Emery Oleochemicals’ Agro Green, Bio-Lubricants and Green Polymer Additives businesses, therefore providing natural-based solutions in market segments such as agriculture, lubricants, oilfield, packaging, toys and other high-growth industries.

“As we reach this first critical milestone, we are very pleased with the team’s effort in delivering on a international-standard project while meeting the highest specifications of safety, quality of construction, and maintaining costs and scheduling commitments,” said Dr.Kongkrapan Intarajang, Group Chief Executive Officer, during a recent site visit.

“This project is a testament to our global strategy of growing our innovation capabilities in providing natural-based specialty chemical solutions. Combined with our enhanced technical development centre here in Cincinnati, we are poised to drive the innovation and sustainability agenda in bio-polyols. By positioning ourselves in the radar of automotive industry players, we aim to be a preferred partner to deliver quality solutions the global marketplace have come to expect from Emery Oleochemicals,” Dr. Intarajang added.

The company’s Eco-Friendly Polyols business unit aims to demonstrate opportunities for the automotive industry to meet performance and sustainability goals through a specially designed Concept Car called “CASP” (Concepts for Advanced Sustainability in Polyurethanes) at the upcoming North American International Auto Show 2015. Featuring automotive components and materials made from both renewable and recycled polyurethane foam, CASP is a distinctive first for a chemicals manufacturing company. CASP will demonstrate Emery Oleochemicals’ proprietary technology in which recovered foam scrap materials were chemically processed and turned into recycled polyol are used in the production of polyurethane foams. This will be on display in Cobo Hall, Cobo Center Detroit, Michigan from January 12th to 25th 2015.

About Emery Oleochemicals Group

A leading producer of natural-based chemicals made predominantly from natural oils and fats such as plant-based oil and tallow. We offer an extensive product portfolio, including renewable solutions for the Agro Green, Bio-Lubricants, Eco-Friendly Polyols, Green Polymer Additives, Home & Personal Wellness and OleoBasics markets. With revenue of US$1billion (2013), the company is headquartered in Malaysia with manufacturing plants spanning three continents – Asia Pacific, North America, and Europe. Emery Oleochemicals’ global operations are backed by a diverse workforce and an extensive distribution network covering over 50 countries worldwide.

For more information, please log on to www.emeryoleo.com

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/emery-oleochemicals-marks-key-milestone-with-site-pre-commissioning-activities-of-worlds-first-renewable-and-recyclable-polyol-plant-300014430.html

Ramboll acquires US-based ENVIRON to enter global elite within the environmental and health consultancy market

COPENHAGEN, Denmark and ARLINGTON, Virginia, Dec. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Ramboll has acquired the US-based global consultancy, ENVIRON, adding more than 1,500 environmental and health science specialists in 21 countries. The acquisition places Ramboll in the global elite within environmental services and represents a major step for the leading Nordic consultancy in becoming truly global.

The acquisition positions Ramboll among the top 10 leading environmental consultancies globally with 2,700 experts working within environment, health and water worldwide and a total staff close to 12,500 employees in 35 countries.

“Strengthening our portfolio within environmental services and expanding into new attractive regions, specifically North America, has been a strategic priority for us since 2012. The acquisition of ENVIRON is an important milestone in fulfilling this ambition. We are creating a fantastic platform for future growth and Ramboll moves a big step closer to becoming a truly global consultancy,” says Ramboll Group CEO Jens-Peter Saul.

“Joining forces with Ramboll puts us in an even stronger position to continue working on the most challenging environmental and human health problems, including the implications of global urbanization, climate change and resource scarcity. The environmental and human health challenges facing society have never been greater. Working together, Ramboll and ENVIRON are ideally positioned to help the global community and our clients in meeting these challenges,” says ENVIRON CEO Stephen Washburn.

With ENVIRON on board, Ramboll’s presence will be particularly strong in the Nordics, North America, the UK, Continental Europe (including France, Germany and Italy), Middle East and India, supplemented by a significant representation in Asia, Australia, South America and Sub-Saharan Africa.

At the time of the acquisition, the combined revenue of Ramboll and ENVIRON exceeds DKK 10 billion (USD 1.7 billion), of which 34% will be generated outside the Nordics. Measured on revenue the United States will become the fourth biggest geography after Denmark, Norway and Sweden.

Stronger environment and health profile
ENVIRON is one of the world’s leading environmental and health sciences consultancies, primarily working with private sector clients, including prominent multinational corporations, law firms and financial organizations. The company combines a science-based approach with business consulting skills to offer spearhead services such as site solutions, air quality management, due diligence, health sciences, environmental impact assessments and water services.

“ENVIRON is the perfect fit and will give our environmental profile a significant boost. The company brings a complementary service portfolio of high-end competencies with key synergies in especially air quality, health, site solutions and due diligence. This gives us a both stronger and broader offering. Together we will have access to some of the largest cities and multinational clients that enable us to compete for bigger and more challenging multidisciplinary projects. This will help accelerate future portfolio growth and create exciting opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach,” says Jens-Peter Saul.

Solid US platform for growth
North America is the world’s most attractive market for consulting engineering services. In North America alone, ENVIRON employs close to 1,000 specialists in environmental and health sciences across more than 50 offices. Consequently, the acquisition provides a strong platform for growth of Ramboll’s multidisciplinary services in the US and beyond.

“With ENVIRON’s strong presence and brand in North America, it will be possible to add Ramboll’s multidisciplinary services over time. Starting with adjacent services like energy, oil and gas and then moving into other areas, we will build a mixed portfolio at the locations already setup by ENVIRON, and the synergy between the two companies will be utilized in projects right away,” says Jens-Peter Saul.

Significant growth
During the last decade Ramboll has experienced substantial growth. In the first three quarters of 2014, Ramboll has grown with around 800 employees as a result of both acquisitions and organic growth. The acquisition of ENVIRON adds another 1,500 new colleagues.

Similarly, joining forces with Ramboll creates further growth opportunities for ENVIRON.

“Over its 30 year history, ENVIRON has been able to grow steadily in the US and around the world without sacrificing profit margins. With this merger, we will be able to provide clients with enhanced capabilities and service, creating even greater opportunities for growth,” says Stephen Washburn.

About ENVIRON
ENVIRON was founded in Washington D.C. in 1982 as an environmental and health consultancy. For over 30 years, ENVIRON has maintained a clear focus on working as strategic advisors to its clients around the world on their most challenging human health and environmental problems.

Today, ENVIRON is a well-established leading global consultancy with a network of more than 1,500 employees working from more than 90 offices in 21 countries around the world. ENVIRON’s financial foundation remains solid and healthy with a history of strong revenue and earnings growth. In the past 10 years, revenue has more than tripled, resulting in an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12% since 2001. In 2014, ENVIRON expects a gross revenue slightly above USD 300 million.

About Ramboll
Ramboll is a leading engineering, design and consultancy company founded in Denmark in 1945. Including ENVIRON the company employs close to 12,500 experts in the Nordics, North America, the UK, Continental Europe (including France, Germany and Italy), Middle East and India, supplemented by a significant representation in Asia, Australia, South America and Sub-Saharan Africa.

With more than 300 offices in 35 countries, Ramboll combines local experience with a global knowledge base constantly striving to achieve inspiring and exacting solutions that make a genuine difference to our customers, the end-users and society as a whole. Ramboll works across the markets: Buildings, Transport, Environment, Water, Energy, Oil & Gas and Management Consulting.