Press Release
NGO Forum network and allies demand accountability from the Asian Development Bank amid Georgia’s civic space crisis
Tbilisi, Georgia May 4, 2024 (Issuewire.com) – In a bold stance against the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the NGO Forum network and its allies from across the globe unite to challenge the bank’s policies and projects, highlighting its detrimental impact on communities, environments, and civic spaces. As the ADB convenes its 57th Annual Meeting, CSOs emphasize the urgent need for accountability and reform within the institution.
The ongoing oppression of civic space in Georgia serves as a poignant backdrop to the broader critique of the ADB’s actions. Amidst oppressive laws targeting civil society in countries like Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, and the shrinking civil society space in Mongolia, Vietnam, India, and Bangladesh, the ADB’s role cannot be overlooked.
CSOs demand that the ADB uphold the highest standards of Environmental and Social Safeguarding (ESF), rooted in internationally agreed-upon human rights, labor, and environmental conventions. However, the Draft ESF released in October 2023 fails to meet these standards.
The lack of transparency and accountability in the ESF consultation process raises serious concerns. Despite two years of engagement, CSOs have not seen how their inputs were incorporated into the draft policy. The ESF’s failure to commit to doing ‘No Harm’ underscores the ADB’s negligence towards environmental and social safeguarding.
Furthermore, the ESF’s ambiguous language and omission of critical processes like Environmental Impact Assessments and Social Impact Assessments raise alarms about its effectiveness in addressing project-related harms. CSOs reject the ESF draft and demand its immediate overhaul with binding requirements.
The ADB’s support for coal and fossil gas projects contradicts its climate commitments. The Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM) fails to ensure the decommissioning of coal projects or prevent their repurposing into other harmful ventures. CSOs denounce the ADB’s inaction in phasing out fossil fuel support and call for the closure of loopholes allowing coal financing.
Moreover, the ADB’s disregard for human rights, labor rights, and gender considerations further undermines its credibility. CSOs demand the integration of a human rights-based approach into the ESF, aligning with global frameworks and principles.
As the ADB conducts its safeguards review process, CSOs call for robust, just, rights-based policies with mechanisms to hold borrowers and the private sector accountable. Transparency, inclusivity, and community participation must guide ADB’s decision-making processes.
In a direct message to the ADB President and Director Generals, the Forum network and its allies urge them to prioritize the public interest and accountability. The ADB must heed the calls of affected communities, environmental defenders, and human rights advocates. ADB’s actions have real consequences on the lives and livelihoods of people across Asia and the Pacific. It is time for the Bank to prioritize people over profit, safeguard the environment, and uphold human rights.
Quotes from NGO Forum on ADB network members and allies [Please don’t forget to put the name and the organization after the quote –
The shrinking civil society space is a recent trend in the region where Russia tries to reassert its power. The laws in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and now in Georgia undermine different freedoms and rights, including the right to freedom of association and expression, recognized and widely integrated into ADB policies and standards. It threatens ADB’s goals for 2030 for sustainable development, climate resilience, and prosperity. The laws have a chilling effect not only on media outlets and civil society organizations but also drastically worsen the investment climate, increase corruption, deteriorate governance indicators, significantly raise corruption risks, impact the sustainability of investments, and corrode business. Therefore, the response from ADB should be systemic to halt or reduce its impacts to ensure meaningful participation, freedom of assembly, and expression. For example, as the public sector in Georgia is a large recipient of ADB funds, the Bank should suspend all new funding to the public sector until the decision to pass the draft law is overturned, as it increases the risk of projects failing to meet performance standards by limiting opportunities for meaningful stakeholder participation.
– Manana Kochladze, CEE Bankwatch
At the 57th ADB Annual Meeting, we are still seeking environmental and social justice for the Tanahu Hydro Project Affected Indigenous Magar Communities, who have been pursuing justice since 2019 through the dispute resolution process with no avail. Civil society groups from Manipur are left vulnerable with no assurances that raising concerns about the Imphal road project will not lead to backlash and risk of harm. The ADB’s failed delivery of the SPS 2009 remains a reality in 2024, and we are witnessing a rush to change the architecture of the policy instead of addressing the bank’s implementation failures of the SPS. Our analysis of this ESF W paper reveals a policy that seeks to dilute binding regulations from the SPS 2009 standards through the Mitigation Hierarchy approach, allowing borrowers to bypass EIAs and SIAs prior to board approval for high and medium-risk projects. This places the environment and local communities at direct risk from all ADB project operations. The ADB’s new Gender-blind ESF, in our assessment, actually does an excellent job in safeguarding, especially ADB Bank Officials and its borrowers, just not the people or the planet.
– Rayyan Hassan, NGO Forum on ADB
In good faith we have invested two years in the ESF Consultations with the ADB’s Office of Safeguards (OSFG), but the opacity regarding the integration of CSO inputs and demands into the resulting draft policy paper is disappointing, also alarming. Despite our persistent engagement and sincere detailed input, the absence of a disclosed matrix leaves us in the dark, as to which of our comments have been considered and which have been disregarded and why! What little faith we may have liked to repose in the ADB has been lost with this lack of transparency regarding the exclusion of our inputs throughout the Phase 2 Consultation process.
Most importantly, for the communities we represent, the ESF’s vision fails to commit to the fundamental principle of doing ‘No Harm’ through ADB operations. This is a shocking disregard for the very purpose of environmental and social safeguarding right from the inception of the draft ESF W paper. It underscores the extent to which our concerns and recommendations have been blatantly ignored.
– Vidya Dinker, Growthwatch, India
ADB’s continued financing of fossil gas and large hydropower projects contradicts the global shift towards renewable energy. LNG-based power plants, despite being ten times more expensive than renewables in many Asian countries, still receive ADB funding. We demand a decisive stance: ADB must exit gas and revise its Energy Policy to prioritize a green transition devoid of fossil fuels and environmentally destructive projects. Liquid hydrogen, CCS, and Waste-to-Energy technologies, also receiving ADB financing, have proven costly and ineffective in reducing carbon emissions. It’s time for ADB to redirect public funds towards genuine solutions for a sustainable future.
- Hasan Mehedi, CLEAN (Coastal Livelihood and Environmental Action Network)
This draft safeguards policy does little to rectify the black hole that is ADB’s financial intermediary lending. Communities harmed by ADB investments have a right to seek remedy, but there can be no accountability if we can’t see where the money is really coming from. The Bank’s safeguards for intermediary lending need drastic improvement, to ensure full transparency about its involvement in all projects it funds – including clear disclosure of ADB financing at project sites and in community consultations.
-Kate Geary, Co-Director, Recourse
Almost half of ADB’s projects — 46% — have triggered involuntary displacement between 2015 and 2020. This means up to 1 million people were likely driven away from their homes, communities, and livelihoods. All without adequate compensation or solid environmental and social impact assessment. For a development bank to spend public money on poverty alleviation, this is unacceptable. ADB must do better than that, and fast.
– Dr. Nora Sausmikat, Urgewald, Germany
What has been set in 2009 as a forward looking safeguard policy for people and planet is turning into an unbreakable shield of protection for industry polluters .Instead of keeping at pace with the recent amendments of these MEAs on the standards and targets to curb the most harmful pollutants to guide the Bank and its borrowers, the draft ESF has omitted previous references to the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Waste and their Disposal. Moreover, it also has ignored the Minamata Convention that governs mercury which is a known byproduct of incinerator processes and ongoing talks for a Global Plastics Treaty. Instead of aligning with international law, the Bank relies on non-existent country mechanisms and capacities to govern pollution and offers pathways for continued pollution for industries through offsetting mechanisms The Bank’s adherence to just transition remains empty as well as the draft remains mum to the rights of informal workers in which developing countries rely tremendously for managing waste resources. The draft is regressive at every level in protecting the environment and preventing pollution.
- Mayang Azurn, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, Asia Pacific
For media inquiries, please contact:
Dennis Paule
09456741746
Jen Derillo
+639175088841
**NGO Forum on ADB is an Asian-led network of civil society organizations (CSOs) that has been monitoring the projects, programs, and policies of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
For more information visit: https://www.forum-adb.org/
Source :NGO Forum On ADB
This article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
COMTEX_451871432/2777/2024-05-04T05:44:45
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Press Release
Shared Pets LLC Launches Revolutionary High-Tech Products to Enhance Pet Care Experience
United States, 24th Oct 2024 – Shared Pets LLC, a leading innovator in the pet care industry, is excited to announce the launch of its latest line of smart, high-tech products designed to improve the lives of pets and their owners. Focused on merging advanced technology with pet care, Shared Pets LLC is committed to creating solutions that offer convenience, entertainment, and health benefits for pets and their families.
The company’s mission is clear: to enrich the bond between pets and their owners by offering innovative products that simplify daily care routines and enhance the quality of life for both. Each product in Shared Pets LLC’s collection is designed with the modern pet parent in mind, combining technology and functionality to make pet ownership more enjoyable and hassle-free.
A Vision for Enriching Pet Lives
Shared Pets LLC strives to bring the latest advancements in technology to the pet care sector, ensuring pets receive the best care possible while strengthening the connection between pets and their families. The company meticulously designs and selects its product range to meet the highest standards of quality, innovation, and usability. From smart feeders to health monitoring devices, Shared Pets LLC aims to make every moment spent with pets more rewarding.
“Our mission is to provide pet owners with high-tech solutions that improve their daily interactions with their pets,” a spokesperson for Shared Pets LLC shared. “We recognize the deep bond between pets and their families, and we want to support that relationship with products that offer both practical benefits and joy.”
Innovative Product Offerings for Modern Pet Owners
Shared Pets LLC’s product line includes an impressive range of high-tech pet care tools, such as smart feeders, interactive toys, GPS trackers, and health monitoring devices. These products are designed not only to improve pet well-being but also to provide peace of mind and convenience for pet owners.
- Smart Feeders: These innovative feeders allow pet owners to manage and monitor their pet’s meals remotely, ensuring proper portioning and timely feeding, even when they are away from home.
- Interactive Toys: Designed to keep pets mentally stimulated and entertained, these toys offer interactive features that engage pets, helping reduce boredom and anxiety.
- GPS Trackers: These devices provide pet owners with real-time location tracking, ensuring the safety and security of their pets wherever they may roam.
- Health Monitoring Devices: Shared Pets LLC’s health-focused devices help pet parents keep track of their pet’s physical activity and well-being, allowing for early detection of health issues and promoting overall fitness.
Crafted with Premium Materials
All Shared Pets LLC products are handmade using high-quality materials to ensure durability, comfort, and safety. The company places a strong emphasis on creating products that meet the highest standards of reliability while maintaining an aesthetic appeal that suits both pets and their owners.
Bringing the Future of Pet Care Today
Shared Pets LLC is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of pet care by leveraging cutting-edge technology to simplify pet ownership and create more interactive experiences. The company invites pet owners to explore its innovative products and discover how technology can enhance the care, safety, and happiness of their pets.
For more Information visit https://sharedpets.com
About Shared Pets LLC
Shared Pets LLC is a technology-driven company that specializes in creating high-quality, innovative pet care products. Focused on merging the latest advancements in technology with practical pet care solutions, Shared Pets LLC aims to enhance the bond between pets and their owners while providing products that are both functional and enjoyable.
Media Contact
Organization: Shared Pets LLC
Contact Person: PR Contact
Website: https://sharedpets.com/
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Release Id: 24102418970
The post Shared Pets LLC Launches Revolutionary High-Tech Products to Enhance Pet Care Experience appeared on King Newswire. It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it.
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Houston, TX – IntegrateSun, a leading provider of solar energy solutions, is proud to announce its designation as an Elite+ Installer on EnergySage, the most trusted online marketplace for clean energy. This prestigious recognition solidifies IntegrateSun’s position as a top-tier solar installer and reflects the company’s commitment to providing exceptional service and quality control.
As an Elite+ installer, IntegrateSun joins a distinguished group of solar companies who consistently deliver both quality solar and stellar customer service for over two years on the EnergySage platform. This partnership amplifies both companies’ shared mission to accelerate the transition to clean energy by making solar energy more accessible to homeowners and businesses alike.
“Achieving Elite+ status on EnergySage is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team,” said Waqas Hassan, CEO of IntegrateSun. “At IntegrateSun, we prioritize delivering quality and building trust with our customers. Partnering with EnergySage allows us to expand that mission and reach more people across the country who are ready to embrace clean and sustainable energy.”
Headquartered in Houston, TX, IntegrateSun serves multiple key markets, including Texas, California, Oklahoma, Nevada, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Georgia. With a strong track record in residential and commercial solar installations, IntegrateSun is poised to further its leadership in the renewable energy sector.
“We’re thrilled to recognize IntegrateSun for achieving Elite+ Installer status,” said Sam Thompson, VP of Marketplace at EnergySage. “Their commitment to providing high-quality solar installations and top-tier customer service aligns perfectly with our mission at EnergySage. This partnership enables us to better serve homeowners looking for trusted, reliable solar installers in their regions.”
About IntegrateSun:
IntegrateSun specializes in delivering cutting-edge solar energy solutions for residential and commercial customers. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and customer service, IntegrateSun continues to expand its footprint nationwide, helping customers harness the power of solar energy for a cleaner future.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Houston, TX
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Press Release
Royalty Management Acquires Royalty Stream In The Controlled Environment Agriculture Industry
Provides Royalty Management with an equity interest and royalty stream from sales of patented products that serve the indoor farming and controlled agriculture spaces.Investment continues Company’s target of investments in food security sectors.
FISHERS, INDIANA / October 24, 2024 / Royalty Management Holding Corporation (Nasdaq: RMCO) (“Royalty Management” or the “Company”), an innovative royalty company building shareholder value by acquiring and developing high value assets in a variety of resource-driven and emerging technology industries, is pleased to announce that it has purchased an equity interest and royalty stream from sales of controlled agriculture and greenhouse products produced and sold by a leading-edge innovator in the greenhouse space. The royalty stream comes from sales of certain innovative, patented consumables used in controlled growing environment.
The amount of the royalty payable to the Company is based on volumes of these greenhouse consumable product sales, and ranges from 1.4% to 2.2% of sales. The seller is expected to start producing royalty income for Royalty Management starting in early 2025. A confidentiality agreement currently in place restricts Royalty Management from disclosing the name of the producer of the greenhouse/controlled agriculture products.
Thomas Sauve, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, stated, “Innovative controlled growing environment platforms that increase food production and yields will be essential for our food security and as regional populations grow. We are thrilled to continue our investment in this critical industry given the need for affordable and productive food based growing environments. This investment, combined with our previous participation as a gold member sponsor of the CASFER technologies (www.casefer.us) provides us direct investment royalties and cash flows from food production and technologies products.. This investment and this company have the ability to revolutionize the indoor agriculture and controlled growing environment space though high-density production of foods and produce. We are excited about this partnership for a variety of reasons, including the potential for further investment and collaboration with our partner and their team on accelerating deployment and innovation of this technology.
About Royalty Management Holding Corporation
Royalty Management Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: RMCO) is a royalty company building shareholder value to benefit both its shareholders and communities by acquiring and developing high value assets in sustainable market environments. The business model focuses on acquiring and structuring cashflow and revenue streams around assets that can support the communities by monetizing the current existing cash flow streams while identifying transitionary cash flow from the assets for the future. For more information visit www.royaltymgmtcorp.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the initial public offering. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those that will be set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and proxy statement/prospectus to be filed with the SEC. Copies will be available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The information contained in this release is as of the date first set forth above. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.
Media Contact
Organization: Royalty Management Holding Corporation
Contact Person: Thomas Sauve
Website: https://www.royaltymgmtcorp.com
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +13178559926
Address: 12115 Visionary Way
Address 2: Suite 174
City: Fishers
State: Indiana
Country: United States
Release Id: 24102418971
The post Royalty Management Acquires Royalty Stream In The Controlled Environment Agriculture Industry appeared on King Newswire. It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it.
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