Entries tagged with “infrastructure”
Articles
38 articles found for infrastructure:
- Carbon Fiber as Construction Material
Construction materials have evolved significantly over the past decades. Due to technological advances, new and resilient materials such as carbon fiber are replacing traditional ones. This innovative material is gaining traction in the construction industry due to its strength, durability, and flexibility to be molded into the desired design and structure. Moreover, as the material has a low density and high strength-to-weight ratio, it is being increasingly used in building cars and aircrafts.
- Green Hydrogen in Circular Economy
The urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions has prompted countries worldwide to commit to net-zero targets, driving the rapid adoption of low-carbon and renewable energy sources. Green hydrogen, generated from solar and wind power, has immense potential in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize. However, challenges related to costs, infrastructure, and policy intervention hinder its progress. Improving process efficiency, achieving cost efficiency through technological advancements and scale, transforming infrastructure, and implementing supportive policies are crucial for the widespread adoption of green hydrogen as a clean energy solution in the transition to a circular economy.
- Climate Change – A Threat to Human Health
Climate change is causing various adverse effects on human health, including the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, degradation of air quality, and spread of insect-borne diseases. Adaptation measures such as improving infrastructure to withstand adverse weather and providing adequate healthcare services in areas most vulnerable to climate change effects could help mitigate its negative impact.
- National Health Stack - A Feasible Reality or Distant Dream?
The Government of India has designed healthcare initiatives under Ayushman Bharat Yojna to help the low-income households get medical treatments at nominal cost. National Health Stack (NHS) has been designed to support these initiatives and aid implementation of digital health infrastructure. While NHS had many benefits, its enactment involves certain challenges. It is essential to overcome hurdles and ensure that this plan is correctly implemented nationwide.
- Capturing the Opportunity of Carbon Capture & Storage Technology in Petrochemicals
The growing need for environmental sustainability has impelled petrochemical companies worldwide to look for ways to reduce carbon emissions and reach net zero emissions by 2050. Industry leaders globally have been collaborating on exploring carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology as a means to significantly reduce carbon emissions from their petrochemical plants. As this technology is in a nascent stage, companies that make an early entry in developing and investing in CCS and related infrastructure would provide good investment opportunities, considering they would largely benefit as CCS technology gets adopted across the petrochemical industry.
- Security of Natural Gas Supply (Europe)
Prices of gas and electricity increased substantially across Europe in 2021–22 and are expected to rise further in 2022–23, as Russia began limiting gas supply to the region in response to the sanctions imposed. However, individual countries have taken several initiatives such as expanding storage capacity and coal and oil generation to reduce dependency on gas; reducing industrial, residential, and commercial demand; increasing imports from other countries; and investing in new infrastructure that would help secure supply and ultimately lead to stability in prices.
- Metaverse-as-a-Service (MaaS): Raising the Bar of Web 3.0
While the term ‘Metaverse’ is getting a lot of publicity, the concept is still in its infancy. User experience in Metaverse is still developing and is expected to reach phenomenal heights in future. The online world has gone beyond purchasing licenses or setting up software on computers. Nowadays, businesses do not even own or manage their gear; everything from software to document storage to infrastructure hardware is offered "as a service". Therefore, MaaS, or metaverse-as-a-service, is the logical next step. MaaS offers a platform to pilot early concepts by enabling the use of metaverse for branding and marketing.
- The Future of Internal Combustion Engine
In 2021, the worldwide internal combustion engine (ICE) market was approximately worth USD 58,514.15 billion and is predicted to reach USD 93,615.18 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 6.05% between 2022 and 2029 showing tremendous growth. It is likely to expand further as demand for passenger and commercial vehicles rise in both established and emerging markets. Electric powertrains are increasingly coupled with ICE to enhance vehicle fuel efficiency, which is driving industry development. The demand for ICE is growing exponentially in industries such as agriculture, construction, mining, and power generation. The global lack of EV infrastructure availability is partly responsible for the ICE market's growth.
- Gearing up for the Next Wave of AI in Pharmaceutical Industry – From Cost-based to Value-based models
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping business operations in the health industry. Amid the ever-evolving AI infrastructure, growth in tech-savvy patients and availability of big data, the industry is set to make a transition from using AI for controlling costs to utilizing it for improving patient care. The AI in healthcare market is estimated to reach $6.6Bn in 2021 from $600Mn in 2014, recording a CAGR of 40%; in the five years subsequent to 2021, the market is estimated to grow by more than 10 times.1 In this article, we provide insights on the applications of AI in patient-centric models for improving patient care, from diagnosis to post-treatment care.
- Green Steel: How one of the world’s most emission intensive industry plans to decarbonize
Steel is the backbone of societies, buildings, equipment and infrastructure across the globe. It is used in the manufacturing of a range of products, from cars and machines to construction materials for our offices and homes, thereby forming a critical element of contemporary life. However, the innumerable benefits come at a cost as the steel industry is one of the leading contributors to carbon emissions globally. With the steel industry's future at the forefront of climate change discussions, we are in a race against time to clean one of the world's most carbon-intensive industries. As the efforts to meet climate change goals speed up, can innovative technologies enabling the transition towards green steel be the answer to the challenges posed by traditional steelmaking?
- India's Newly Discovered Lithium Reserves – A Boon for the Domestic EV Industry
India's domestic lithium battery manufacturing sector is in its infancy and mostly reliant on the imports of Li-ion cells, which are only assembled into lithium-ion batteries in India. In the next five to six years, demand for Li-ion batteries is anticipated to increase due to the government's goal of achieving widespread EV adoption by 2030. The recently discovered lithium reserve in J&K and Rajasthan is projected to reduce India's reliance on raw material imports and propel the domestic Li-ion battery manufacturing industry, which would ultimately have a beneficial impact on EV adoption.
- US Economic Slowdown – An Opportunity for India?
As the US economy edges toward recession, equity investors are seeking opportunities in other countries. The focus is on emerging economies, specifically in Southeast Asia, and the main contenders are China and India. Both countries have positive and negative factors influencing investor decision. Which country would attract the bulk of the diverted investments is yet to be seen.
- Integrating ESG in Real Estate
Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) is slowly gaining prominence across industries. Real estate has been a late adopter of this concept, but global warming concerns and net zero commitments have accelerated its acceptance within the industry. Real estate companies across regions are embedding ESG practices within their processes. Investors and financial firms also consider it important. ESG is set to become an essential requirement and become an integral part of Real Estate processes.
- Beyond Plastic: Embracing Sustainable Packaging Alternatives
There is a major global shift away from plastic packaging toward other sustainable alternatives. This is driven by increasing environmental concerns and growing recognition of the detrimental impact of plastic waste on the ecosystem. There is a need and demand for more sustainable solutions.
- Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence in Marine Defense
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions has enhanced efficiency, effectiveness, and security in maritime operations. This is helpful for naval forces protecting the country’s coastlines. AI technology is harnessed to deploy advanced systems capable of tracking, detecting, and executing relevant actions. As there are historical complexities associated with navigating oceanic routes, technology can be extremely helpful. Through integration of technologically advanced solutions identification, monitoring, and decision-making can be streamlined and security can be tightened.
- Exploring Web3: Applications and Use-Cases
In this technology-driven world, centralization has enabled billions of people to become familiar with the world wide web or the internet, making way for the advent of many emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and machine learning. The increasing implementation of blockchain has necessitated the interoperability and seamless integration of blockchain platforms. Web3 embraces decentralization and gives more power to individuals than corporate giants, thus providing interesting use cases.
- Unlocking a Billion-Dollar Opportunity: HPC in Healthcare for MedTech and IT Firms
High Performance Computing (HPC) has emerged as a transformative force that promises to revolutionize the industry in ways never seen before. As demand for innovative medical solutions and data-driven insights continues to grow, HPC technologies present a compelling opportunity for MedTech and IT firms. It could significantly impact patient care, medical research, and bottom-line growth for businesses in the healthcare ecosystem.
- USMCA - A Three-Year Retrospective and its impact
The US–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), implemented in 2020, replaced North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and has significantly benefitted North American trade. It led to a substantial surge in trade, with North American trade volume exceeding USD 1.5 trillion in 2022 led by double-digit growth in trade since 2022. This free trade environment created 9.5 million jobs, and the three countries now account for one-third of the world's GDP. Investments in the region posted remarkable growth, with capital investments increasing 134% to reach USD 219 billion. However, USMCA faces challenges, such as trade disputes, and public opinion on international trade has shifted with 66% of Americans now supporting restrictions on imported foreign goods. The agreement's future will depend on addressing these issues before the joint review in 2026. If successful, the agreement could boost trade relations, enhance digital trade, and promote economic growth in North America.
- Role of Technology in Building Resilient Companies of the Future
In a volatile world, with economic recessions, technological disruptions, and global crises like COVID-19, many businesses falter, unable to adapt. Resilience emerges as the cornerstone of corporate strategy, distinguishing between mere survival and thriving. It's about bouncing forward, integrating resilience into a company's DNA. Anticipating threats, withstanding shocks, and adapting are key. Technology plays a pivotal role in bolstering adaptability, streamline operations, and foster innovation. In essence, resilience coupled with advanced technology defines the blueprint for thriving amidst uncertainty.
- HPC Revolutionizing Financial Services
High Performance Computing (HPC) is revolutionizing financial services, giving it a prominent position in today’s fast-paced financial landscape. Fintech giants are particularly leveraging its power to optimize financial analytics, enhance risk management, and refine algorithmic trading. Furthermore, HPC has various use cases in financial services on account of its ability to enhance operational efficiency and agility and improve decision-making. Hence, failure or delay to adopt it can jeopardize a fintech company’s competitiveness in this age of digital transformation, wherein innovation and real-time processing are paramount.
- Towards a Greener Future: The Rise of Eco-Friendly Disposable Hygiene Products
Disposable absorbent hygiene products are becoming more popular among people of all ages and socioeconomic groups. Campaigns for public education, wider availability of the goods, and enhanced marketing initiatives have contributed to normalizing the use of these products and lowering the stigma attached to them. There is a rise in the need for absorbent hygiene products, notably those for adult incontinence, as many nations' populations are getting older. The need for disposable absorbent hygiene products has been influenced by contemporary lifestyles, which include busy schedules, lengthy workdays, and substantial travel.
- AI in Procurement – Expanding Horizons
Emerging technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) is slowly gaining momentum across industries and processes. Companies worldwide are embracing this technology to realize efficiency and increase productivity in their procurement processes. AI algorithms can assist in analysis, prediction, and automation, thus helping to streamline the entire procurement process. However, organizations must understand the best use cases of implementing AI. In addition, the adoption of this technology across geographies remains uneven, where developed countries are moving ahead, while the developing ones are still taking cautious steps.
- Friendshoring: Strategy to Reduce Supply Chain Dependency on China
Supply chains globally have barely recovered from the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic. The Russia–Ukraine war has added to the woes of already fragile supply chains. The only silver lining is that companies realize the perils of relying on a select few countries for manufacturing, raw materials, and components. For decades, companies have followed strategies such as offshoring, nearshoring, and outsourcing business operations to low-cost countries. However, recent events accelerated the movement to safeguard supply chains and move away from depending entirely on countries like China. One such concept that could be a game-changer for global trade order is “Friendshoring.”
- Modern Technologies to Clean Up Space Debris
While space technologies are evolving and leading to the discovery of many facets of the universe, they are also creating space junk. Researchers, space engineers, and startups are deploying various technologies to remove these debris, since the materials floating around space can collide with a space station or satellite and damage it beyond repair. As space technologies continue to advance and increase space traffic, the process to monitor and clean space debris must become continuous and automatic.
- Global Market Opportunity for Bio-Based Resins
Bio-based resin is being increasingly adopted across industries as the need for sustainability has risen. Bio-based resins, made from partially or wholly plant-derived monomers, offer a sustainable and carbon-positive approach for consumers and manufacturers shifting to a bioeconomy model from highly-priced and depleting fossil fuel ingredients. Government regulations have also boosted their application. Successful commercialization is leading to the growth of bio-based resin throughout the world.
- Decarbonization of Natural Gas at Pre-Combustion Stage
Decarbonization is becoming increasingly urgent because of the rise in global warming. Given the substantial utilization of natural gas by corporations in the US and Europe, this need has become notably more significant. Currently, the adoption of renewable energy sources stands out as the most relevant method for mitigating carbon emissions. However, limited availability of renewable energy supplies and declining levelized cost of energy (LCOE), has increased per unit cost of green energy, thereby compelling companies to sustain considerate consumption of natural gas. Companies can adopt other techniques for decarbonization, such as carbon capture storage/utilization (CCS/CCUS), as a feasible option to eliminate carbon dioxide content of natural gas. However, due to high costs associated with carbon capture and storage, evaluating certain other future ready techniques, such as methane processing, to decarbonize the balance usage of natural gas is necessary.
- Climate Tech Startups Saving the Planet
In the past few years, changing weather patterns and an increase in natural disasters became evident as the climate change impact intensified. With the global temperature increasing and ice mass melting, sea levels have risen, which will soon prove to be cataclysmic for the planet. Technology experts and modern entrepreneurs are devising innovative solutions to combat climate change, such as reducing carbon emissions, harnessing renewable energy, and creating sustainable solutions, thereby changing the way of life. Will they be able to reverse the negative effect of environmental degradation and reset the delicate ecological balance?
- 5G–MEC: Where Is the Opportunity and Who Will Rule This Space?
Integration of cloud-native 5G networks with multi-access edge computing (MEC) is expected to significantly benefit telcos and hyperscalers, with the latter steadily making inroads into the telecommunications industry. With growth in enterprise-wide adoption of 5G–MEC use cases, competition among telcos and hyperscalers is expected to intensify. A sound business strategy will depend on identifying the high-opportunity use cases and leveraging one's strengths to develop an effective go-to-market strategy. This article highlights some of the key aspects that telcos and hyperscalers will need to consider within this space.
- Veterinary Medicine – An Emerging Segment
The global veterinary market is benefitting from the growing trend of pet adoption and is witnessing increased demand. Some interesting trends are changing this industry and key players in this space must be aware of these factors. These trends will change the face of veterinary medicine and bring about advancement in animal healthcare.
- Retail in the Metaverse – Present and Future
The retail industry was the earliest adopter of the metaverse. The industry’s substantial investments in the AR/VR ecosystem helped attract a large number of users to virtual spaces. Strategies built around the metaverse will help retailers develop a more immersive and inclusive experience of online shopping.
- Green Gold Rush: Cleantech Startups Attract Global VC Interest
In recent years, cleantech startups have emerged as the favorites of venture capitalists (VCs). The rising concerns surrounding climate change triggered a massive shift in investment patterns and pushed the clean technology sector into the limelight. This transformation is not confined to a specific geographic region; rather VCs across regions are increasingly supporting technologies and innovations that could contribute to a sustainable future. Is this a short-term trend or a new phenomenon?
- The Cost of Inaction: How Climate Change Impacts Farmer Livelihoods
Climate change has caused severe environmental degradation and altered global weather patterns. This has resulted in significant impact on food production, affecting farmers worldwide. In India, agriculture is a critical economic sector, with small and marginal farmers forming a major part of it. Climate change affects various aspects of agricultural production, including rainfall, pest proliferation, soil quality, cropping patterns, and harvest unpredictability, leading to decreased yields and increased costs. The government's initiatives to support farmers in coping with climate change have faced challenges, necessitating sustainable farming practices and increased support to ensure food production.
- Innovation and Sustainability: Setting New Standards for Tailings Management
Though metals and minerals are essential for human progress, the process of mining them is harmful to the environment. The byproduct of mining – tailings – are toxic and their disposal must be managed correctly. Conventional tailings storage and management methods are risky and inadequate for their safe disposal. However, modern methods of tailings management can overcome the shortcomings of the current process and prove more feasible.
- Can ChatGPT Disrupt Financial Services?
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including ChatGPT, have led to increased adoption of AI in financial advisory and risk management. These tools have the potential to address issues related to operational inefficiencies, fraudulent activities, and the need for personalized services. However, it is important to recognize that ChatGPT has limitations, and human intelligence and judgment will continue to be crucial for decision-making.
- Mexico – A Promising Sourcing Destination for US Procurement Organizations
With the global supply chain disruptions, countries are looking to develop strong supply base near to them. For the US, Mexico has emerged as a strong contender. Many drivers contribute to the country being a preferred option. The number of collaborations and trading transactions between the two countries rose in the past year, and this will only increase further. In this article, we discuss why sourcing from Mexico is an attractive option for large US organizations to procure key categories such as metal & electronics components, automotive parts, and other manufacturing products.
- DeFi – Revolutionizing Financial Markets
DeFi has made considerable progress in a surprisingly short time that would contribute to a more transparent and accessible future in finance due to rapid technological developments. There are now over 4.5 million DeFi users worldwide, which is anticipated to reach two-digit millions in the immediate future. However, the technology seems to be in a nascent stage and is yet to be fully stress tested at scale over an extended period. While there are concerns over DeFi replacing the traditional financial system, experts suggest they can coexist and thus improve the global finance architecture and benefit the economy worldwide.
- NFTs in Gaming - Where Passion Meets Business
The gaming industry has risen exponentially over the past few decades. From playing Pac-Man on a 4-feet tall arcade in late-1900s to enjoying 8-bit superhits such as Mario on smaller consoles and immersing in DVD-based action games, for instance, League of Legends, gaming has flourished over time. The Internet revolution accelerated the industry’s growth from a few billion to hundreds of billions of dollars at present. NFT is the new sensation in the gaming business. Supported by crypto capabilities, NFTs are set to boost growth of the gaming industry.
- Forging a Sustainable Future: A Look at Steel Companies' ESG Initiatives
In 2022, worldwide production of crude steel totaled 1,885.02 million metric tons (mmt), and demand for steel is anticipated to increase significantly to meet future requirements. However, the steel industry is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to its reliance on fossil fuels and energy-intensive production processes. Currently, the industry accounts for approximately 8% of the global final energy demand and 7% of the energy sector’s CO2 emissions. Hence, there is pressure on the industry to reduce its carbon footprint. Consequently, it has been exploring various strategies, such as using renewable energy sources, adopting more efficient production methods, and implementing carbon capture and storage technologies to mitigate the environmental impact.
Special Reports
5 special reports found for infrastructure:
- US Legislative Drive for Sustainable Economic Growth
The US senate have passed three legislative bills - Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 in an effort to strengthen the US economy, combat climate crisis; and rebuild and modernize the US infrastructural landscape. This special edition provides the detailed insights on the three legislative bills passed by the US senate and captures the impact on sectors and the US economy.
- Broadcom Inc. acquires VMware
Broadcom (AVGO.O) announced its intention to acquire cloud-computing firm VMware (VMW.N) for $61 billion, along with assuming an additional $8 billion of the company's debt in May 2022. On November 22, 2023, Broadcom confirmed the completion of the acquisition. This strategic move positions Broadcom as a significant player in the infrastructure management software market.
- EV Trends in India
With increasing global awareness and targets to reduce carbon emissions, the government has been supporting the adoption of electric modes of transport in India. Several state-wide measures have been initiated to ensure faster transfer to environment-friendly mobility solutions. The Indian government has also introduced incentivized policies for EV original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to cut down the costs of manufacturing and in turn, help lower the cost of ownership for consumers. However, lack of appropriate infrastructure and higher dependency on imports pose a challenge for the fast-growing EV market in India.
- India’s Electric Vehicle Transition Roadmap
India envisions electric vehicles (EVs) dominating its future roads. Driven by a shift in global climate policies, consumer preference for environment-friendly transport options, and an expanding charging infrastructure network, the EV sector has grown from ~0.5% in CY2018 to ~6.3% by the end of CY2023. The government is targeting 30% EV penetration by CY2030, with volumes set to cross annual sales of 10 mn units. The growth is contributed by the E4W segment with ~2% adoption (CY2023) and the E2W segment with ~5% adoption (CY2023). Traditional gasoline-powered car manufacturers are working on pivoting their models to electric and hybrid cars, with plans to launch more electric variants. The government has introduced various targets and initiatives for the EV industry to accelerate the pace of adoption.
- Metaverse – Mapping Investment Opportunities
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in consumers’ expectations and need for more fulfilling and immersive communication methods. Numerous consumers are seeking ways to adopt the metaverse. Metaverse is considered the next generation of the Internet, ready to penetrate every sphere of human activity. Tech companies worldwide are gearing up to adopt the new technology by including it in their core business activities. Metaverse-specific investments have risen in the past few years. Several tech companies are looking to gain the first-mover advantage through large-scale acquisitions in this space. Metaverse-related ETFs have hit the market over the last 12 months, and many are in the pipeline. Globally, investors have been very bullish about the theme, and prominent institutional investors consider it a game changer. The metaverse also opens doors to key investment areas such as hardware, infrastructure, virtual platforms, payments, content, and assets