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Why Hiring For Executives In The Automation Space Is A Challenge

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With COVID-19 and the introduction of the pandemic, a lot of things changed all around the world, and these changes not only splashed regular citizens, but also businesses and industries. The unemployment rate, for example, went through a very complicated situation, with many businesses closing, and many people losing their jobs.

Although things have definitely improved recently, there are still remains of the way the pandemic affected the world, and even today, some sanitary measures are still palpable. On the other hand, the professional world has entered a very complex state in which hiring the right employees and finding the right jobs has become a lot more complicated.

The Automation Industry

This, of course, affected a lot of industries, and among the industries that were affected, the automation industry is one of them. Automation can be simply described as any process that reduces the need of human input on different types of procedures. A good example of an automation procedure is manufacturing warehouses, since they enter the category of fixed automation.

Automating a procedure usually reduces costs and greatly enhances performance and production levels, which is why a lot of industries in the world rely on this specific type of technology.

The thing about this specific field is that, because of its level of complexity, it can be really difficult to find the adequate talent to handle a company’s specific needs. And because of the current competitive scene altered by the pandemic and today’s market, it is even harder to find the right people. Which is why problems, such as an automation executive search, can greatly affect companies, from small to large.

First of all, because of the pandemic and the way people started to fulfill their responsibilities because of the quarantine, nowadays employees expect very different things than the ones they would initially expect a couple of years back. Understanding this is important for any company to remain relevant, so we will tackle some basic principles.

Understanding What People are Looking for

It is believed that the most efficient way to handle the challenge of hiring professionals for your company, is understanding their needs and aspirations, and these two things have changed because of the quarantine. For example, allowing employees to work from home is now more important than ever!

Thus, acting based on your needs and the type of talent you want to hire is essential, all of it while taking into consideration some general rule thumbs. In this article, we will share some essentials to always keep in mind as an employer.

If you want some basic examples, you can always check out https://hbr.org/2021/05/what-your-future-employees-want-most for some guidance.

The First Thing: Money!

People work for money. This is a reality that no one can hide, and something that all employers have to understand. As soon as you stop being a competitive employer that does not provide a fair income for their employees, the sooner your company will be left behind, and this might affect your company’s professional reputation to a certain extent, affecting future hiring processes.

Preparing your processes to bargain with your potential employees, while making sure you have tackled all the necessary research to provide a reasonable income for their efforts, is possibly one of the most important things to do when hiring new employees.

Transparency and Trust

Every employee wants to be able to trust their employers, and there’s no better way to gain someone’s trust than being transparent. Not only that, it provides certain advantages over other competitors.

And, as shown in this article, it can provide a large amount of benefits, mostly related to your staff’s happiness and overall productivity!

A Good Working Environment and Flexibility

In Japan, there’s a very obscure problem, and it can be easily described as “Black Companies”, companies which often work under a very toxic working environment in which people work overtime without being properly remunerated, only because of the “culture” behind the country.

This is the complete opposite of what you should be looking for as a business owner. Of course, there are limits to how many benefits and advantages your business can provide, but it is important to keep your employees happy and healthy.

This can only be achieved through a healthy working environment and enough flexibility, so the staff doesn’t feel like they are being imprisoned as they work, but more like they are fulfilling their responsibilities adequately without sacrificing their own happiness in the process.

 

Does a married couple need to be living separately to get divorced?

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Usually when couples go to the stage when they decide to end their marital relationship, one or both partners set out to discover a new place to live. If funds enable that, then that is an appropriate method, as well as it might additionally profit both event’s psychological well-being. At the same time, it might not hold true that the couple would complete this physical splitting up. There are any number of reasons why pairs would choose this setup, all of which stand. In numerous states common-law marriage during the divorce process is a choice, as there is not a lawful requirement to literally separate throughout your separation as well as divorce.

Considering that it is a misconception that you are called for to literally divide to various addresses during the divorce process, it deserves checking out the reasons why you would not intend to separate during this time. One factor that you might be concerned about is that your finances could not remain in the most effective form for one or both of you to move to a brand-new place. If your mixed earnings sufficed to meet the bare minimum for your rent or home mortgage settlements, as well as your extra expenses, you may require to hold back on vacating for the time being. The scenario may be that searching for as well as relocating right into a new residence may set you back more money than would certainly be feasible, and so staying together can provide both parties a practical quantity of time to locate a brand-new place to live that works with their private revenue.

For couples that have children, they might locate that an instant separation can create harm to the children’s emotional well-being. Children can have difficulties processing their moms and dads divorce, so staying together for a while, while having extensive discussions that will certainly set the children’s minds secure, can be the very best means ahead up until the divorce process is complete. Normally, this would certainly require a large amount of collaboration for the moms and dads, however if they are more or less getting along even with their scenarios then it can be possible to put aside their stress for the advantage of the children.

The “no-fault” divorce procedure is typically the most effective way for pairs to stay together during the divorce procedure. The good news is, Alabama is a no-fault state, which implies you do not need to cite a specific factor when you begin an uncontested divorce in Barbour County or anywhere you are staying in the State of Alabama. The factors you would certainly give for a no-fault divorce are points like conflict or malfunction of the marriage. Incompatibility simply means that the partners no longer manage, while the irretrievable breakdown of the marital relationship suggests that it is broken to the level that it is beyond repair. In spite of these reasons, and also the awkwardness that may attend them, pairs can stay together throughout the easy divorce in Morgan County procedure. If pairs have concerns regarding their financial resources which avoids them from vacating, fortunately a no-fault divorce is just one of the least expensive alternatives offered for a divorce.

 

Here’s How Much You’ll Save With Solar Panels

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According to the SEIA, the average cost of installing solar has decreased by around $20,000 since 2010.

Solar power is a sustainable and pollution-free means of power generation with the potential to save homeowners thousands on their energy bills.

Are you ready to enter the age of solar power and start saving on your electricity costs? If so, your first question is likely, ‘How much do you save with solar panels?’

Keep reading to find out more.

The Relationship Between Solar Costs and Savings

Buying electricity from a power company is expensive, but it doesn’t involve the high upfront costs of a solar system. An off-grid solar setup means you’ll never pay an electricity bill again.

Yet, you’ll need to pay out between $13,000 and $17,000 in materials and installation costs first, depending on where you live.

You can save on your solar installation by taking advantage of the federal tax incentive for solar power. This benefit allows you to deduct 26% of the total costs involved in setting up solar panels for home use from your annual taxes.

Many states offer additional solar panel savings that can considerably reduce your initial costs, too.

How Much Does Solar Save You Monthly?

You’ll likely need to apply for a solar loan to pay these expenses, which means you can add interest charges to the final cost of going solar.

Ultimately, you’ll end up with a monthly amount you must pay toward your solar loan instead of paying your electricity bill.

The difference between these two amounts should tell you how much you stand to save, right? Wrong!

Once you’ve paid off your loan, you’ll still have the use of your solar panels until they reach the end of their twenty-year lifespan. When you’re paying a power company for electricity, there’s no end in sight.

How Much Do You Save With Solar Panels on the Grid

If you can’t afford to pay for a solar installation, there are other ways to enjoy savings from solar panels. You can opt for a power purchase agreement.

These arrangements, mean the power company gets your home ready for solar electricity generation without any upfront costs to you. They’ll pay all the costs associated with placing solar panels on the roof of your home and also take back all the electricity they generate.

They do this by connecting your solar panels to their grid via your home. In return, they sell this electricity back to you at a much cheaper price than usual.

Another system, called net metering, means you pay the costs of setting up solar panels and only use grid power when needed.

During peak production hours, your solar panels feed electricity back into the grid and the power company gives you a credit on your electricity bill in return.

The Most Important Savings From Solar

While you’re mulling over questions like, ‘how much do you save with solar power’, spare a thought for the real savings associated with renewable energy.

Clean energy like solar and wind help decrease the number of carbon emissions created by conventional electricity generation. So, when you install solar power, you’re helping to save humanity from the devastating effects of increasing global warming.

Are you interested to find out more about the things you sometimes wonder about? Browse our House blog for all the latest information on a wide range of topics.

 

10 Gifts That Every Firefighter Will Love

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If you have a firefighter (or a legion of them) in your life, you can consider yourself blessed.

Brave firemen risk their own lives to save others, no matter what kind of situation they find themselves in. Unfortunately, when it comes to picking the right gifts for firefighters, most of us draw a blank.

Basically, how do you buy a present for someone who puts their own life at risk every day in order to rescue others? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Keep on reading for the full roundup of the ten best gifts for firefighters ideas.

1. Gifts for Firefighters 101: A Game to Share

It’s common for firemen to form strong relationships with their colleagues at the firehouse. It’s only right that you give them something they can give or share with their coworkers in the fire service.

Firefighters may carry a customized poker set to work for a quick game of Blackjack with their colleagues or take it to another firefighter’s home for their weekly poker night with this easy-to-portable set. They will be able to play a game with their employees anytime they wish thanks to your thoughtful gift.

2. Whiskey Glasses with Engravings

Trying to find a unique present for a firefighter? Personalized whiskey glasses are a stylish addition to your firefighter’s barware collection.

Glasses with your firefighter’s name engraved within a classic fire and rescue logo are available. After a hard day on the job, firefighters who like to relax with a little whiskey with their colleagues would appreciate these glasses.

Even non-drinkers in the fire service will appreciate these stylish glasses, which can be used for a variety of beverages and look great on their bar carts. A bottle of scotch and these lovely glasses make an excellent present for the fireman in your life.

3. Stylish Sign for Their Station

Every day, firefighters put their own lives at jeopardy in order to save the lives of others. People and animals in need of assistance are saved by their trusty axes in a variety of hazardous scenarios.

The Thin Blue Line and its fireman equivalent, the Thin Red Line, are both well-known designs. The axe instead of the line makes this sign a new variation on the original. It’s a great present for firemen who are retiring, transferring, or being promoted, plus it’s patriotic and fantastic.

If you want to produce a one-of-a-kind homage to the fireman in your life, you may personalize the two lines of text that appear below the axe too. Or, you can always go for something portable, like a medal of honor challenge coin.

4. Themed Gifts for Firefighters

There’s no rule that says gifts for firemen must have the Maltese Cross. For example, a cigar and whiskey gift combo is one of the nicest presents you can offer a fireman.

A gift package is the ideal way to let a fireman unwind after a hard day of battling flames with a fresh cigar and a refreshing drink of whiskey. Every time they see the personalized phrase you had engraved on the box and the glass, they’ll remember you and how caring you were to provide them with such a thoughtful present.

5. Firefighter Watch by Smith & Wesson

This watch is one of the best presents for firemen on the market, and it’s a classic gift for guys. Sporty, robust, and nifty, this Smith and Wesson fireman watch is a must-have.

This watch has a red face with a fireman insignia and glow-in-the-dark hands and markings. Military-grade nylon assures that this watch will remain on his wrist no matter what happens. This would be a wonderful present for newly minted firemen.

6. Firefighting-Based Decor: Fire Escape Shelf

The fire escape shelf is the pinnacle of firefighter presents. In any apartment, regardless of its size or decor, it would look fantastic.

There is no end to the treasures that can be stored in this shelf unit. Anything goes in a home office, including plants, photographs, and even treasures like candles.

7. Upcycled Fire Hose Cab Coolers

This set of fire hose can coolers would make a great gift for any fireman who enjoys a good time on the job. Each item is one-of-a-kind since it is made from recycled fire hoses.

A customizing option is available to make the gift more meaningful. In order to make it genuinely memorable, you may include their initials or the initials of their department.

8. Coffee Mugs for Firefighters

Every fireman needs a wacky mug to brighten his mood after a hard day of rescuing the world. Just in case, here’s the mug to ensure it occurs.

Let them know how much you appreciate their selflessness with a personalized note from you. Hopefully, this will be enough to carry them through the rest of the day.

9. Hoodies or Sweats for Firefighters

A fireman will be amazed by the tiny red line of clothing. It’s cozy and warm, ideal for cuddling up with a nice book on a rainy weekend.

The fireman’s axe and red line flag iconography, as well as the striking color scheme, make this design stand out. It’s a great stocking stuffer for firemen because of its combination of useful qualities.

10. Gift Set of Fireman Keychains

Gifts for a special fireman in your life should be one of these. Firefighter’s cross-shaped keychain and cross-shaped necklace are included in this set.

A heartfelt touch may be added via the use of the personalization feature. Firefighters of both genders may benefit from it, making it a worthwhile investment.

Gifts for a Firefighter: Simplified

With this list on hand, you won’t need to spend too much brainpower trying to figure out the perfect gifts for firefighters. You can also send this list to all of your non-firefighting friends.

And, if you’re looking for more inspiration, head straight to our design and lifestyle section for all the additional tips and tricks to become the best gift-giver in your circle of friends.

 

Pros from Mint Global Marketing Share How to Go Viral On Social Media This Year

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Social Media Tips from Mint Global Marketing

Over the last few years, the rapid growth of social media platforms has resulted in significant changes in the way businesses communicate with their respective audiences. They now employ social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to create and share ideas, sell new products, and promote their brands.

These apps have also made it significantly easier for users to gain a following by going viral. However, the sad truth is that millions of well-crafted posts still languish in obscurity due to a large number of posts in circulation.

Making a content go viral content is a modern-day mystery to most people. And while there is often an inexplicable element of luck and timing when it comes to viral content, it still comes down to strategy, thought, and attention to detail.

Thus, we got in touch with experts from Mint Global Marketing, a leading international marketing agency, to give insights into how to go viral on social media in 2022.

Why does one need to go viral on social media this year?

Social media is an integral part of today’s society and gradually replacing conventional face-to-face communications. Thus, no individual or business can afford to be left in the dark; you need to harness its benefits to your advantage.

However, to become relevant on the already saturated social media, going viral appears to be a viable way. If you’re thinking of overhauling your marketing strategy, you’ll have to focus on social media.

In your opinion, what is the key to an active social media life?

The key to an active social media life is to make quality posts consistently. At Mint Global Marketing, we advise our clients to regularly provide their social media audience with quality content since they don’t know which post will bring them to the limelight.

You mentioned consistency as key. How often do you think people should post on social media to get the desired result?

There are certain factors to be put into consideration. For one, posting frequency varies across the different social media platforms. While a single Facebook post is enough for a day, you may need up to five posts on Twitter daily to get visibility.

You should also consider the time of the day which drives maximum engagement to your posts.

What strategies will you recommend to the many people who want to go viral on social media this year?

Follow these top strategies to boost your views, likes, and shares to those still wondering how to go viral on social media.

  • Have an account on all social media platforms. This spreads your option.
  • Create and upload quality content regularly.
  • Study your target audience and tailor your posts accordingly
  • Use creative hooks such as storytelling, humor, or any heartwarming element
  • Partner with influencers to get your content reposted on multiple accounts
  • Use visual content since they are more relatable and can garner more engagement

How can one stay relevant on social media after the initial breakthrough?

It is not only important that you surge into the digital space, but you should be ready to maintain the tempo. As I have mentioned earlier, you need to continuously put-up quality posts if you want to sustain your newfound fame.

 

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT OPERATING AERIAL LIFTS

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The construction industry uses various tools, gear, and equipment to complete complex building projects in multiple regions. An aerial lift is one such indispensable tool that can help workers reach and finish work on greater heights. In simple terms, it is a powered mobile platform that people use to work on elevated heights.

However, beginners should know about the essential safety protocols, correct operation techniques, and adequate fall protection for aerial lifts to use the equipment safely. It can prevent injuries, falls, and other untoward incidents at the worksite, ensuring the security of the operators and other workers.

The following information can be incredibly beneficial for those hoping to learn more about this exciting piece of machinery and operate it in the future.

Types of Lifts

The multi-billion-dollar aerial work platform market is growing by the day, with an increasing number of businesses opting for strong lifts to complete complex work on great heights. But the fact most people remain unaware of is that there is more than just one variety of this lift.

So, depending on the work requirement, people generally choose from the following list of lift variants for their construction projects.

Boom Lifts – These are perhaps the most commonly used vehicles, enabling operators to raise and move the platforms in various directions as per the requirements.

Scissor Lifts – These platforms are normally used to work on low or medium heights, leveraging on a criss-cross arrangement that extends as the platform is raised.

Cherry Pickers – A variant of the boom lift, this vehicle is commonly used by farmers to pick ripe fruits off of tall trees. The device is pretty flexible, enabling users to pluck the eatables without causing any damage to the trees in any way.

Motor-based Vehicles – These are self-driven lifts that need extra stabilizers to work, but the self-propelled lift drives itself around the worksite. Finally, there is a no-motor lift that relies on an external force to work efficiently.

Fall Protection is a Must

Adequate fall protection for aerial lifts that comply with OSHA standards is an absolute necessity as it ensures worker safety during operation. Beginners should know that there is a vast range of protective gear and equipment one must set up before driving the vehicle.

For starters, consider the following types of fall protection and prevention measures necessary when operating daunting aerial lifts.

  • Guardrails – Robust guardrails are especially essential when working on raised platforms as they prevent people from accidentally falling off. Although OSHA does not mandate these rails on scissor lifts, it is still prudent to install them as an added safety layer, especially when amateurs learn to work with the equipment.
  • Restraint and Arrest Systems – Systems like a lanyard or a strong belt prevent workers from falling off the edges of the platform by restraining them after reaching a point. In contrast, arrest safety gear prevents personnel from hitting the surface below after a sudden fall. In short, it arrests your fall effectively. Arrest fall protection is mandatory when working on platforms raised above three meters or stationed over a pit and similar hazardous crevice.
  • Safety Harness and Other Wearables – Wearing a body harness tethered to the bucket is essential when working on an aerial lift. The harness can restrain or arrest a fall efficiently, depending on the mechanism. Other wearables like an RFID tag, smart boots, or sensor clips can be worn by the person to indicate a sudden fall or the chance of one, to the supervisors on site.
  • Control Zone – Control zones are requisite on sites where fall protection systems may not work. Typically, a warning line is set up around two meters from the work site, warning everyone around the unguarded edges and surroundings.

Training and Certification are Essential

One must never make the terrible mistake of allowing untrained workers to operate any lift, as it could spell disaster for the driver and everyone else around. The worker may drive the machinery on uneven surfaces or with the platform raised high above the ground, causing the personnel on the lift to slip or fall off and severely injure themselves inadvertently. Else, they may take the equipment too close to live power lines and risk electrocution.

Therefore, it is critical to enroll your workers in a reliable and trustworthy training program that complies with OSHA guidelines. Ideally, you should find reputable training resources that enable personnel to take the course remotely over the internet, saving them time, effort, and money. Also, comprehensive training modules can help trainees pick up techniques and safety protocols quickly, making them adept at using these complex vehicles in a short time.

So, look for a high-quality aerial lift training course that provides legitimate certification once the workers complete the program, making them licensed and fully able to operate the equipment efficiently.

4 Efficient Ways to Get Around Pittsburgh

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Pittsburgh is a city that has a lot to offer. It has an amazing food scene, cultural diversity, and plenty of opportunities to get around. However, getting around is not always easy.

However, there are some challenges that make getting around the city difficult. For example, there are few good public transportation options and traffic can be very heavy during rush hour.

If you are looking for Pittsburgh apartments for rent, there are many ways to get around the city quickly and easily.

This article will cover 4 efficient ways to get around Pittsburgh without having to use your car or public transit.

Walking

Pittsburgh is one of the most walkable cities in the United States. It has a high number of pedestrian-friendly streets with many amenities like restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and stores that are within walking distance.

Pittsburgh’s walkability is one of the factors that make it such a great place to live. With over 100 miles of well-maintained sidewalks, you can get around the city on foot in no time at all.

It is the perfect place to get around on foot and save money, time and the environment.

Biking

Pittsburgh is a compact city that has many different neighborhoods and attractions. Biking is a great way to explore the city and see how it changes from one neighborhood to the next. It also helps you stay fit and healthy!

The benefits of biking in Pittsburgh are numerous. It’s cheaper and more sustainable than driving or taking public transportation. You can also see all of the sights of Pittsburgh without having to worry about traffic and parking issues.

If you’re considering biking around Pittsburgh to get around, you’ll need to know the different bike share options in the city.

Bike sharing is a great way to get around Pittsburgh – it’s environmentally friendly, helps reduce traffic and is good for your health. However, it does come with some challenges – finding a bike near you can be difficult and the bikes are often in limited supply if you don’t own one.

When looking for a bike share option, consider Healthy Ride Bike Share which offers unlimited 30-minute rides for only $12 per month. With this option, users never have to worry about finding bikes near them or having their bikes stolen.

Pittsburgh’s Inclines

Pittsburgh has a lot of hills and valleys, so it can be difficult to get around the city without driving. However, you can use Pittsburgh’s Inclines to get around the city without having to drive.

The Monongahela Incline is a fun way to travel up the side of Mt. Washington while taking in the scenery of Pittsburgh. The Duquesne Incline is also a fun way to travel down the other side.

If you are looking for an alternative way to get around Pittsburgh, these inclines are worth considering!

Uber, Lyft, & Z-Trip

Pittsburgh is a city that has consistently been ranked as one of the most livable cities in the United States. However, it is also a city that is not easily navigable by car. Pittsburgh has an extensive public transportation network, but it can be difficult to find and use.

Uber, Lyft, and Z-Trip are three companies that have made driving around Pittsburgh easier than ever before with their ride-sharing services. These ride-sharing services allow you to request a private driver to pick you up from your location for a fee. Both of these companies have made getting around Pittsburgh much less stressful for those who don’t want to drive themselves or find parking.

If you’re in Pittsburgh for business or leisure, Uber, Lyft, and Z-Trip are great options when it comes to traveling around.

5 shocking facts on plastic pollution and the steps you can take to reduce it

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The fifties and sixties brought us Elvis, a moon landing, television, and a whole host of other awesome things. But it also brought heaps of plastic. In the early days, plastic seemed like a great thing. After all, it was marketed as convenient, hygienic, and low-cost, making it seemingly perfect for so many everyday items. But as we now know, plastic has become a scourge on the environment.

Landfills are bursting at the seams, and sea-dwelling creatures are suffering from plastic pollution. Here are five shocking facts that highlight the extent of the problem.

99% of plastic comes from fossil fuels

Plastic production is inexorably linked to fossil fuels, which are one of the main producers of greenhouse gasses. For instance, ExxonMobil is one of the world’s biggest culprits when it comes to plastic waste. Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies also drive the demand for plastic, including Coca-Cola, Nestle, and Unilever. They have helped to create a throw-away culture made possible by single-use plastics, which is one of the biggest environmental issues our planet currently faces.

Plastic ends up in the oceans and atmosphere

Research from Greenpeace found that one ton of plastic produces five tons of carbon dioxide. If we’re serious about getting to net zero, this is terrible news. This is because plastic emits greenhouse gases at every stage of its production – even when it’s recycled. When plastic sits in landfill sites, it emits methane gases, and it’s estimated that by 2050, 13% of the earth’s entire carbon budget could be counted for by plastics.

Only 9% of plastic has ever been recycled

Since 1950, only 9% of plastic has ever been recycled. In other words, companies are good at using recycling as a smokescreen, leading many of us to think that they’re not as bad as some sources make out. After all, if the public thinks that recycling is successful, they’re going to be less concerned about the environment. This is a dangerous mindset to adopt and is akin to deceptive marketing. The main reason for this is that it’s not economically viable to recycle plastic, which has incidentally fuelled the next point.

Plastic production is increasing

FMCG companies that have told us how good recycling is are now accelerating the production of virgin plastics. This is in spite of the fact that plastic is ending up in landfills, oceans, and the atmosphere at an alarming rate. Big oil companies are all too happy to meet the demand for plastics, as they see it as a way to boost their otherwise dwindling profits. This is a vicious cycle, and if nothing is done, plastic production could double by 2035.

Companies aren’t meeting their single-use targets

As well as increasing plastic production, FMCG companies are missing the mark when it comes to their single-use targets. They’re also trying to cover up this fact. As an example, Coca-Cola has promised to use 50% recycled material by 2030. But it made this promise in 2015, which was the same year it was meant to have used 25% of recycled plastics in its packaging. The highest grade received by any FMCG company was the B minus awarded to Unilever, while fifteen companies received an F. In other words, there’s still a long way to go if we’re to see the required changes.

What needs to be done to stop plastic pollution

Here are some achievable goals for companies to work towards:

  • Every company should aim for 25% recycled packaging by 2025 and 50% by 2030.
  • All single-use plastic should be phased out.
  • Packaging manufacturers should standardise reusable packaging.
  • Sustainable packaging solutions should be publicly shared.
  • Annual data should be reported and shared with the public.

And for consumers:

  • Advocate for a Global Plastics Treaty.
  • Support legislation that bans single-use plastic.
  • Avoid companies that campaign against single-use plastic elimination.
  • Put pressure on governments wherever possible.

Find out how you can use your collective power to put pressure on companies like Coca-Cola and hopefully start to make some inroads as far as plastic pollution is concerned.

 

Softwood & Hardwood: What’s the difference?

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If you’re in the process of ordering a batch of wood for your home fire, you might be wondering whether hardwood or softwood is best. Given the number of fuel products available for your fire, it’s important to consider the differences between hardwood and softwood, as we explain in detail below.

Does the type of wood you use in a fire matter?

Some people assume that because it’s going to be burned, the type of wood used in a fireplace doesn’t really matter. However, failing to understand the differences between the types of wood you opt for will not only limit the efficiency of your fire but can also prove costly. In most instances, the types of wood you can buy for a fire are classified as softwood or hardwood. The primary difference between them is the density of the wood, so we explain which type is best for your home fire below.

Introducing hardwood

It’s common for hardwoods like birch, ash, and oak to be used as firewood, while other hardwoods – mahogany and maple – are most often used to make furniture. Hardwoods come from deciduous trees and grow slowly, which means the wood is dense. As a result of this, hardwood produces more heat and burns for longer when compared to softwood. Homefire’s kiln-dried firewood is made from birch, which has been dried to a moisture level of 20% or lower, making it perfect for pizza ovens, open fires, and wood-burning stoves.

Introducing softwood

Softwood is taken from a group of trees known as gymnosperm. In the UK, the most prevalent softwood trees are conifers. What makes softwoods unique is that they’re less dense than hardwoods, and they grow much faster in the natural world. Softwood is still widely used for many products today, including the production of paper. Softwoods – fir, pine, cedar, and spruce – are sometimes used in fires, but they are predominantly for aesthetic purposes, as they don’t burn at particularly high heat.

So, which is better?

If you’re looking for the firewood that burns for the longest, then hardwood is undoubtedly a better option than softwood. As mentioned, this is due to its density, and it produces a better flame for your home fire. You can use hardwood in practically any fire at your home, be it in your fireplace, garden fire pit, or in a special wood-burning stove. Just make sure you invest in hardwood that has been dried to ensure you can enjoy its best features.

System Integrator Companies: What They Do and How to Choose One

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System integrator companies are a vital part of the business world. But what do they do, exactly? And how do you choose one to work with? In this article, we will answer those questions and more. Then, we’ll explain what system integrators do and walk you through the process of choosing one that’s right for your business. So whether you’re just starting out or looking for a new partner to help you take your business to the next level, read on.

What is a system integrator company, and what do they do?

System integrator companies provide a vital service: they help businesses maximize efficiency by integrating different software systems. In other words, they make sure all of your business’s software platforms work together seamlessly. This can include everything from your customer relationship management (CRM) system to your inventory management system.

How do you choose the right system integrator for your business?

Not all system integrator companies are created equal. When you’re looking for a partner to help you integrate your software systems, it’s important to choose one with experience in your industry and the types of software you’re using. You’ll also want to ensure they have a good reputation and a track record of successful projects.

What are the benefits of working with a system integrator company?

There are many benefits to working with a system integrator company. Perhaps the most obvious is that it can help you save time and money by streamlining your business processes. But it can also help you improve customer service, make better decisions, and gain insights into your business that you wouldn’t have otherwise.

Here are a few of the main key benefits:

Improved efficiency and productivity

System integrator companies can help you save time and money by streamlining your business processes. Integrating your different software platforms can help you automate tasks and eliminate manual data entry. This can free up your employees to focus on more important tasks, increasing your overall productivity.

Better customer service

Another benefit of system integrator companies is that they can help you improve your customer service. By integrating your customer relationship management (CRM) system with your order management system, you can provide your customers with a better overall experience. This can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty and more sales and repeat business.

Make better decisions

Another benefit of working with a system integrator company is making better decisions for your business. By integrating your data from different software platforms, you can get a more holistic view of your business. This can help you identify issues and opportunities you wouldn’t have otherwise seen.

Gain insights into your business

Finally, working with a system integrator company can help you gain insights into your business that you wouldn’t have otherwise. By integrating your data, you can see patterns and trends that can help you make better decisions for your business.

How can you ensure your project goes smoothly with a system integrator company?

You can do a few things to make sure your project goes smoothly with a system integrator company. First, choose a partner that you can trust and that has a good reputation. Second, make sure you communicate your needs and expectations clearly. And third, be sure to set realistic expectations for what the project will achieve.

By following these tips, you can be sure that your project will go smoothly and that you’ll be happy with the results.