Introduction Conservation today is not just about protecting nature – it is fundamentally about protecting people. At the heart of this mission are birds, which serve as essential indicators of climate change, alerting us to the environmental impacts of our actions. In examining this relationship between birds, people, and conservation, one organization stands out not only for its mission but also for its unique approach: BirdLife International (Asia) Limited (“BirdLife”). We have a chance to speak with Mr Vinayagan Dharmarajah, Regional Director, Asia, of BirdLife International to gain insight into the organization’s work and its contributions to protecting the nature. The Transition from Legal Counsel to Conservationist The journey into BirdLife has been a personal transformation. Coming from a legal…
Image by Hitesh Choudharya via Unsplash Many have touted the arrival of blockchain technology as the next frontier in business operations, a pioneering breakthrough that possesses the potential to transform conventional procedures across industries. Often associated primarily with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, the application of blockchain goes far beyond this investment phenomenon. To understand blockchain technology's potential impact, we must first examine the fundamentals of this groundbreaking approach. At its core, blockchain is a decentralized system where all transactions or digital events get consolidated into 'blocks' and distributed across a network of computers, referred to as 'nodes'. Each block contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, a timestamp, and transaction data. The unique attribute of this system is its ability for self-audit - a quality that…
Image by Freepik Every company strives to navigate its strategic course with the lightest possible asset footprint. Yet, finding the optimal balance can resemble solving a complex puzzle. Executives often grapple with a perplexing choice when considering the heft of their assets. On one hand, there is the allure of asset-heavy, vertically integrated models that promise unmatched control. But do they also tether too much capital and lack the nimbleness needed in today's ever-shifting business environment? On the flip side, asset-light business models offer newfound flexibility, but can they be effectively managed? Do they raise concerns with the looming risks of Intellectual Property (IP) leaks and potential depreciation in value? "The art of business lies in the ability to make…
Decarbonization and Sustainability Reporting: Shaping a Resilient Future for the Built Environment In today's world of heightened environmental awareness and the urgent need for sustainable practices, innovative solutions within the built environment have taken center stage. While energy-efficient technologies play a vital role, operational excellence has become the cornerstone of effective carbon reduction efforts in this sector. Six years ago, the acquisition of a company in the built environment industry brought about significant organizational changes. This decision created a void in the market, but it also created an opportunity for forward-thinking professionals. Recognizing the growing need for expertise in sustainability, a group of experienced professionals from the advisory services division came together to establish DeltaQ. Rooted in energy management within…
Image by AndriiKoval on Shutterstock There has been a significant shift in the approach businesses take to their operations. No longer is profit the sole driving factor in the corporate world; instead, an increasing emphasis is being placed on ethical business practices. From 'fair trade' to 'sustainable sourcing', there's a growing trend amongst businesses to make ethical decisions - not only because it's the "right thing to do", but because consumers are demanding it. Being Good is Good Business. - Anita Roddick (Founder of The Body Shop) But what exactly do we mean when we talk about ethical business practices, and how are they affecting consumer response? Ethical business practices: Typically includes practices that promote transparency, ensure worker rights, take…
