NEWS
Coastal land reclamation: A glimpse into today’s urban development strategies
August 25, 2023 10:30 p.m.
Coastal land reclamation is increasing and will continue to grow and be a popular urban strategy in places that experience urban growth.
This is according to a study, “Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation,” that analyzed landsat satellite images from 2000 to 2020 to quantify spatial extent, scale, and land use of urban coastal reclamation of 135 cities globally with populations exceeding one million. Key findings indicate that 78% of these cities have turned to reclamation to create additional land, resulting in 253,000 hectares of new land, an area equivalent to Luxembourg.
Land reclamation is the process of creating new land from the sea. It’s often used in places with scarcity of land and high population density for many purposes. From Western Europe and West Africa to the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, these countries’ cities reclaim lands for port extension, residential/commercial, and industrial purposes aimed at creating tourist and green spaces. Key drivers like global trade and rapid urbanization are already ubiquitous, so for the next step, these cities desire prestigious place-making efforts and enhanced international reputation.
“Coastal land reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” says Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal architect of Fulgar Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners, and modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban environments specifically designed to meet their needs.
“Architects and urban planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges,” adds Architect Fulgar.
Cities that lead coastal land reclamation
Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong, says Architect Fulgar, are some of the world’s most notable cities with impressive urban reclamation projects. “Not only have they transformed their respective landscapes but also captured global attention,” he says.
Photo credit to Anastasia Yudin. An aerial shot of Flower Dome in Singapore.
Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are testaments to the city-state’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The former is a luxury integrated resort famed for transforming Singapore’s coastline and city skyline, whereas the latter is a spectacularly unique horticultural destination that combines art, science, and nature. These reclaimed land developments further boost the country’s international reputation and real estate value around the area.
For some parts of the United Arab Emirates, coastal land reclamation has significantly changed its geography. Dubai, which has completely transformed into an ultramodern city, features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable developments in the world like Palm Jumeirah and The World. “They have reshaped the coastline and established the city as a leader in innovative development, significantly elevating Dubai’s real estate value and worldwide interest,” says Architect Fulgar.
Photo credit to Abid Bin Nazar. An aerial view of Palm Jumeirah.
Palm Jumeirah is an awe-inspiring artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above. It houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences, and entertainment venues. Likewise, The World is a groundbreaking project composed of small artificial islands in the shape of a world map.
Lastly, Hong Kong’s commitment to preserved art, culture, and ongoing sustainable urban development is exemplified by its West Kowloon Cultural District. It is a 40-hectare reclaimed site along Victoria Harbour’s waterfront designated as the city’s vibrant cultural quarter where the local arts scene can interact, develop, and collaborate throughout its sustainability principles.
Architect Fulgar, who firmly believes in creating spaces that foster belonging and unity, highlights that Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong share common denominators in their successful urban reclamation projects. These are innovative design and planning, focus on sustainability and commitment to cultural and societal development, and the subsequent increase in real estate value.
“These projects have created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront, integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” says Architect Fulgar on these cities’ commitment to sustainability atop function and aesthetics.
Best practices of coastal land reclamation
Despite recognition of world-class reclamation projects, one of their primary challenges is facing criticism and potential issues over sustainability concerns. Architect Fulgar shares that the solution is through the responsibility of vital stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach and adaptive strategies in implementing best practices, such as prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience goals in waterfront developments.
“The future of city development, especially in coastal areas, rests with stakeholders prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience. By adopting a comprehensive, collaborative, and adaptable strategy, they can transform the design, construction, and management of waterfront development – ultimately creating more sustainable, resilient, and prospering urban environments that benefit both people and the environment,” adds Architect Fulgar.
Moreover, Architect Fulgar puts emphasis on a well-planned project that begins with the developers’ thorough research and analysis of the selected area about potential environmental impacts, disaster risks, and local community needs. Architects and engineers need to incorporate sustainable design principles and green and blue spaces to reduce the development’s environmental footprint.
“Trends and insights on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in addressing various urban development, environmental conservation, and community well-being needs – leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter future.”
NEWS
SCG promotes green homes with sustainable products
12:36 p.m. April 24, 2024
Siam Cement Group (SCG), a pioneer in the construction material industry and the number one brand in Thailand, showcased during the 2024 Construction Exhibit (CONEX) some of its ground-breaking product innovation, sustainability, and durability, bringing a new perspective to convention attendants and industry peers.
As a prominent player in the construction industry and a home solutions provider, SCG has demonstrated its adaptability to recent market trends, considering consumer demands, longevity, and environmental preservation, making the brand inclusive and holistic.
SCG ensures that its products follow the necessary standards, like the Green Choice Award, which is given to products and services certified to be less environmentally harmful.
“In SCG, we are currently pushing for eco-friendly products. This is something that we really want to emphasize and we are really passionate about improving,” said SCGM President Bancha Chaiprom who also highlighted how the Philippine market is a strong venue because of their affluence to climate concerns and because of their constant exposure to its adverse effects, like intense heat or extreme rainfall.
Showcase green innovations and design trends
In recent years, SCG has placed a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and durability in its product development efforts. Additionally, SCG is the first in Thailand to self-certify the environmental friendliness of its products and services using an eco-label ‘SCG Green Choice’, giving buyers an assurance that these products are truly friendly to the environment and safe to their well-being by providing clear information, product knowledge, and attributes of the labelled products.
Now, at Conex, we are thrilled to showcase some of our ground-breaking products that exemplify these principles. SCG Conex is an annual event that serves as a premier platform for unveiling the latest advancements in construction materials, technologies, and design trends.
As SCG positions itself as a home solutions provider, homeowners can find eco-label products for decorative products with SmartWood and the newest C-Channel product, roofing with SCG concrete roof and Shinkolite, ceiling and walls with SCG SmartBoard, AAC with SmartBlock and insulation with SCG Stay Cool. Each product is carefully produced to meet green standards by omitting harmful ingredients or designed to promote sustainability within homes.
The SmartWood is a unique product from SCG that combines green, durable, and innovative aspects, and satisfies all ceiling, wall, and floor applications. It’s asbestos-free to maintain a healthy space and lessen environmental pollution while promoting durability to serve as an alternative for natural resources like wood.
Moreover, SCG also designed the SmartBoard ULTRA, a revolutionary fiber cement board that combines the best of both worlds: strength and flexibility. This product solves the common fiber cement issue, like edge cracking. It can also withstand extreme conditions, moisture, and impact.
Another green insulation solution from SCG to keep homes cool is the SCG Staycool, which is designed for ceilings, and reduces heat using HydroProtec technology to repel water and moisture to help prolong insulation performance. The natural insulation within their spaces will also enable homeowners to cut energy consumption and costs.
One product that also stands out is the SCG C-Channel Plus. This innovative solution mimics the functionality of steel beams but with numerous advantages. Constructed from fiber cement, the C-Channel Plus is lightweight, weighing five to six times less than real steel. This characteristic not only facilitates easier handling but also potentially lowers installation costs, making it a compelling choice for various construction projects.
Another notable product is Shinkolite, a renowned brand of transparent acrylic roofing sheets manufactured by SCG Chemicals, a subsidiary of the Siam Cement Group in Thailand. Shinkolite has emerged as a preferred option for contemporary construction endeavors, thanks to its exceptional blend of aesthetics, functionality, and longevity. Its transparent nature allows for ample natural light, enhancing the ambience of indoor spaces while maintaining durability and weather resistance. Shinkolite stands as a testament to SCG’s commitment to delivering high-quality solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern construction projects.
Besides the C-Channel Plus and Shinkolite, consumers can also find a lightweight and innovative building material called SCG SmartBlock. The primary advantage of SCG SmartBlock lies in its cellular structure. It consists of lightweight, air-filled bubbles that significantly reduce weight compared to standard concrete. Despite its lightness, SCG SmartBlock boasts impressive strength and durability. Moreover, the air bubbles trapped within the material create excellent insulation, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer during the cold season, all while contributing to energy savings, allowing for a greener, more comfortable home.
Furthermore, SCG also offers the SCG Facade, which isn’t a single product but an umbrella term for SCG’s range of facade solutions made available by their subsidiaries, SCG D’COR and DECAAR by SCG. These solutions combine aesthetics with functionality to enhance the exterior of a building.
Coinciding with the company’s bid for easy-installation products, they have a technical team that consumers can consult with from the design phase and before installation to get the best results possible.
“We also recently launched the Smart Academy to teach contractors how to properly install our products, is available nationwide through dealers and online,” said President Bancha.
The products’ durability reduces the need for frequent replacements or repairs, minimizing the environmental impact associated with construction activities over a building’s lifespan. President Bancha also emphasizes how SCG uses recycled plastic materials in its products to reduce environmental waste.
As Thailand’s number one home solutions provider, SCG continues to produce innovative, eco-friendly, and durable products to cater to their market’s preferences and stay updated with the latest trends in construction.
NEWS
Toyota Motor Vietnam selects Synology as Data Management Partner
6:53 p.m. March 31, 2024
Toyota Motor Vietnam, one of Vietnam’s largest automobile manufacturers, has partnered with Synology to strengthen its data management infrastructure for its growing data storage and resiliency demands.
“Synology’s storage solution has increased our business resilience,” said Bui Ta Hoan, IT Division Head at Toyota Motor Vietnam. “Synology is reliable, secure, and provides future-proofing scalability for growing data needs.”
Toyota Motor Vietnam deployed Synology data management systems to securely store hundreds of terabytes of data that are generated from assembling over 10,000 vehicles per year. Together with Synology’s high availability and remote data protection features, Toyota Motor Vietnam’s IT infrastructure is more resilient than ever against disruptions.
“Synology solutions are widely adopted in the manufacturing industry for a few simple reasons,” said Jola Le, Synology Vietnam Sales Manager. “Its robustness and ease of use save our customers considerable time. We’re proud to be able to transform and help modernize Toyota Motor Vietnam’s data management and protection needs.”
To learn more about the deployment, please visit: Synology customer story – Toyota Motor Vietnam
NEWS
Kaspersky shares cybersecurity tips for a peaceful getaway during the Holy Week
5:18 p.m. March 28, 2024
As the holiday season approaches, the urge to unwind and kick back is natural. And it’s all too common for people to let their guard down completely when connecting to the Internet too– but shouldn’t.
Recently, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group shared their findings on identity theft cases in the country. Between November 2023 and February 2024, they uncovered 178 cases of “hijack profile” incidents. Half of these cases, eighty-nine (89) happened just in February. These cases mirror an upward trend seen throughout 2023, where the PNP recorded almost 3,000 cyber identity theft incidents.
Identity theft occurs when a fraudster obtains personal details from a victim, enabling them to commit identity fraud or fraudulently obtain goods/services. This stolen data can be used to open new bank accounts, take over existing ones, or impersonate the victim for criminal activities.
“In 2023, we monitored 26,164,699 web threats attacks in the Philippines, which made the country 4th with the highest web threats attacks globally, and when we looked at it closely, we found out that Filipinos were facing one (1) attack per second. These numbers are a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant at all times,” said Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky.
Web threats are browser-based attacks used by cybercriminals to spread malware. This includes common dangers like phishing and viruses, along with offline data theft.
To help Filipinos enjoy a peaceful holy week vacation, below are some of Kaspersky’s recommendations to follow:
General travel tips:
- Be skeptical of tantalizing offers
- Check to make sure your connection is secure before entering any personal information on a website
- Always check the address bar to make sure you are actually on the website you are supposed to be on
- Buy tickets and book hotel rooms either from the company directly or through a well-known ticketing or hotel site
- Do not participate in questionable giveaways
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication wherever possible
- Checking the address bar is always a good idea, but it may be insufficient; some malefactors know how to fake addresses. So always use a security solution like Kaspersky Premium that scans malicious links.
Avail up to 20% discounts on Kaspersky’s consumer solutions like Kaspersky Premium, Plus and Standard for the whole month of March at https://www.kasperskyph.com/.
On protecting your personal data against identity theft:
- Keep things to a minimum: Use social media sparingly. Don’t use your real name, never post any personal information and don’t share any personal data via social messaging services.
- Keep your computer up to date: Many hackers now use malware to steal your information. Keeping your computer up to date with security patches and antivirus software helps protect against existing vulnerabilities and detect new attacks.
- Browse safely: To limit the chance of a malware infection, don’t open unknown email attachments or browse suspicious websites.
- Be self-aware: Take the time to check your credit card statements for any strange charges, and contact your credit card bank provider the minute you notice that something’s awry.
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