Month: April 2022

POCO announces the Apex Flagship POCO F4 GT POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition and POCO Watch

POCO, a popular technology brand among the world’s young techies, is announcing the global launch of its latest flagship POCO F4 GT smartphone, heralding the apex of power, along with POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition and POCO Watch – the brand’s first-ever AIoT products.

Living up to its potential, POCO F4 GT delivers an impressive apex performance with a flagship 4nm Snapdragon® 8 Gen 1 processor, backed by a sophisticated LiquidCool Technology 3.0, a flat AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, magnetic pop-up triggers, and topped off by 120W HyperCharge. Meanwhile, POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition offers the most immersive listening experience for smartphone users – especially mobile gamers and Genshin Impact fans – with an all-new design, AI self-adaptive noise cancellation and 28-hour ultra-long battery life . In addition, the new POCO Watch, which has more than 100 fitness modes built in, a 24-hour heart rate tracker and a battery life of up to 14 days, is designed for fitness lovers who care about their personal health and well-being.

 

“We are thrilled to unveil POCO F4 GT today. With such an uncompromising user experience at a surprisingly affordable price, we believe that POCO F4 GT will be the daily essential for all young tech enthusiasts, especially gamers,” said Angus Ng, Head of Product Marketing at POCO Global. “We are also very excited to launch POCO’s first expansion of its line-up of AIoT products starting with POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition and POCO Watch. It is always our top priority to fulfil different consumers’ needs by expanding into different product offerings.”

POCO F4 GT: Apex flagship smartphone that offers unsurpassed performance 

With a flagship 4nm Snapdragon® 8 Gen 1 processor and an octa-core processor running at 3.0 GHz, POCO F4 GT is sure to win over the tech-savvy youth, especially hardcore gamers. The mighty Android chipset increases CPU performance by 20% and GPU performance by up to 50%. Meanwhile, POCO F4 GT offers a fully-fledged LPDDR5 RAM with up to 6400Mbps for shorter load times, along with an upgraded UFS 3.1 ROM.

The true test for a mobile gaming smartphone is heat management. Requiring a small device to run for extended periods can lead to poor performance. For this reason, POCO F4 GT is equipped with the latest LiquidCool Technology 3.0, one of the most advanced cooling systems in the industry. The 4,860mm² dual VC cooling system manages to bring down high temperatures, culminating from a powerful machine optimized to run intense gaming sessions.

To feed the power, POCO F4 GT boasts POCO’s first 120W HyperCharge and a 4,700mAh big battery, which can be fully charged in 17 minutes. And if gamers need more juice in mid-game, POCO F4 GT can replenish its battery to 100% in only 27 minutes. Not only does POCO F4 GT sport rapid recharge times, the battery’s lifespan can be optimally preserved as a benefit of its AdaptiveCharge feature. This feature prevents the battery from overcharging in the critical 80% to 100% charge range throughout the night.

Magnetic triggers pop up, standing tall in preparation for battle. The setup has surpassed expectations. The unique levitating magnetic pop-up triggers, able to handle 1.5 million times press, have been tested on more than 100 popular games. This ensures unbeatable stability, responsiveness and durability. To attain a more premium gaming experience, the CyberEngine, one of the best linear motors available on Android smartphones, offers more ranges of vibration. POCO F4 GT is ready for whatever users may throw at it, not only for the extended sessions of mobile gaming, but also for daily use. When out of gaming mode, the triggers can also be used as a shortcut for quick access on the go, such as a shortcut to activate camera, screen recording or flashlight.

At the press of a button, users can turn on the screen to be floored by POCO’s latest 6.67-inch flat AMOLED and 10-bit TrueColor display, which when combined with the responsive 480Hz touch sampling rate and the up to 120Hz refresh rate, makes the screen come to life. Whether gaming or streaming shows, the true-to-life colour spectrum leaps from the screen. POCO F4 GT also works to simultaneously maintain colour accuracy in low-light settings while using high-frequency PWM dimming to protect its users’ eyes during marathon screen time sessions. POCO F4 GT’s display has set and matched 15 display performance records from Display Mate and is rated as an A+ screen.

True to its nature as an apex of power, POCO is adding one more service to its list of inaugural features for the latest device. Users can enjoy the premium after-sales service, which offers a one time free screen repair service during the first 6 months after purchase. In addition, YouTube’s subscription service, YouTube Premium, will come pre-installed on POCO F4 GT. To sweeten the deal, customers can enjoy YouTube Premium for up to two months free. That means two months of ad-free, offline viewing, and uninterrupted access to video and music content across the YouTube platform.

First POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition: Providing the most immersive listening experience

POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition are specially designed for Genshin Impact fans. From the moment the earbuds are turned on, fans will hear familiar voice notifications from the iconic character, Klee. Just pull them from their carrying case inspired by Klee’s backpack, slip them on, and become immersed as if you’ve already fired up the game.

As one of POCO’s first AIoT products, POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition use artificial intelligence to automatically adjust noise cancellation settings based on the surrounding noise level and the user’s daily routine. Whether it’s for enjoying music, having a good time catching up with friends, or a hectic meeting, POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition deliver the best sound quality and the most appropriate ANC mode for the user. During calls, each earbud can provide crisp and clear audio even in the noisiest of environments with an advanced AI algorithm.

POCO BUDS techbuzzireland

For a more hardcore audio performance, every sound that is delivered has been tweaked and perfected by audio professionals to create a dynamic experience. Everything from an audiobook to a rock opera is presented with sharp and clear sound. The 9mm composite dynamic driver guarantees that the user gets access to both sound processing at the most professional level, and the most authentic and detailed sound. And to never miss a beat, the earbuds’ in-ear detection feature pauses audio when they are taken out. The device is also IPX4 water resistant, preventing damage from rain, sweat and splashes.

POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition are made to create an uninterrupted listening experience. The charging case can last up to 28 hours , and the buds can be charged within 10 minutes. And the charging case, which can also be charged wirelessly, while the earbuds are able to do the same in about an hour. The earbuds can also connect to two devices, allowing users to seamlessly transition between sources. This means switching between a smartphone and a laptop to join a meeting has never been easier.

 

First POCO Watch: The omnipotent daily fitness companion with a fashion focus

POCO Watch is the go-to choice for fitness enthusiasts looking to bring out their style and personality. With a variety of distinct colours available, POCO Watch is a cool, yet effective way to track their health. The 1.6-inch AMOLED touch display and an ultra-slim bezel lights up the screen with stunning clarity. Wearers can also stand out with more than 100 customizable watch faces. POCO Watch is more than just a fashion statement, however; it’s all about health and fitness.

To better track your fitness progress, for example, your vitals on trail runs or capturing the moment you summit a mountain, the Multi-system GPS offers greater accuracy while using one of the more than 100 exercise modes that come installed on POCO Watch. It can also detect when a user is doing a variety of activities from running on a treadmill to taking a walk outside. In conjunction with sleep monitoring function, POCO Watch monitors blood oxygen levels during sleep. Along with these functions, users can learn how best to adjust their routine for their lifestyle by POCO Watch.

POCO Watch does all this, powered by a battery that can last up to 14 days. That means it can handle all the box jumps, laps around the park, or afternoon naps. When POCO Watch’s battery runs low, simply plug it into the easy-to-carry magnetic charger and be ready for the next adventure.

Global Product Availability

POCO F4 GT will come in three colours: Stealth Black, Knight Silver, and Cyber Yellow. It will also be available in two variants: 8GB+128GB and 12GB+256GB.

8GB + 128GB: Recommended retail price at €599 via official e-commerce channels.

12GB + 256GB: Recommended retail price at €699 via official e-commerce channels.

Starting April 28th, POCO F4 GT will be available for purchase at an early bird price of €499 and €599 for two variants for a maximum of 7 days in different sales regions via leading e-commerce platforms.

POCO Buds Pro Genshin Impact Edition will be available for purchase at a price of €69 and POCO Watch will be available for purchase at a price of €79, both via e-commerce platforms.

*Price and availability vary between markets and sales channels.

Please refer to po.co for product availability and detailed sales information in your region.

UK Product Availability

POCO F4 GT and POCO Watch will launch in UK in late May. Full pricing and availability will be published closer to the date.

Edifier release the stylish MP230 speaker after CES Innovation honour

Edifier® International Limited award-winning manufacturer and designer of consumer audio electronics, announce details for the MP230 Portable Bluetooth Speaker – a stylish new product which matches modern hi-fi stereo with a vintage-inspired design language.

Edifier’s MP230 combines classic design aesthetics with modern smart audio to produce a well-rounded, premium Bluetooth speaker that wouldn’t look amiss on the shelves of a trendy inner-city apartment in London’s Soho or Pierre Koenig’s Stahl House in the Hollywood Hills.

Producing high audio fidelity, the MP230 is designed to help users enjoy music in comfort and escape the bustling day-to-day. The speaker includes a stereo acoustic system composed of two 48mm full-range drivers and an integrated large double passive radiator, capable of producing a frequency response of 70Hz-13KHz. Thanks to in-built Class-D digital amplifiers (with 10W + 10W RMS power output), the MP230 can reduce distortion and enhance bass frequencies bringing users an open sound field and well-rounded-yet-engaging audio experience. One thing’s for certain, it produced more than enough ‘oomph’ to fill any small-to-medium size room making it perfect for use in nearly any living space.

Combining nostalgia with ambitious form and function, Edifier’s MP230 places particular importance on material technology. Built using the most advanced production techniques and materials, aesthetically, the MP230 mixes classic ’70s chic with the minimalist tendencies of mid-century modernism, including: a beech-like finish, a multi-colour fabric mesh enclosure and gold trim. For those who appreciate sturdy and reliable build quality, the MP230 also has satisfying, piano-like keys that press with a warm and gratifying ‘click’ – a nice retro touch reminiscent of old analogue tape recorders and Walkmans. 

In terms of structural design, the MP230 comes in an acoustic-friendly wooden cabinet matched with front and rear covers made of high-density resin: a material which suppresses excess vibrations during high-frequency resonance. This and the precision machining of MP230 allow it to have minimal quality loss at varying volume levels, producing impeccable sound quality across the board– one of the major advantages of this product against a crowded market of small, affordable and portable speakers.

Finally, the MP230 comes with up to 16 hours of playback time, smart-charging capabilities and multiple input options, including: stable Bluetooth v5.0, AUX, sound card and TF card.

 

Main Features:

  • Stereo acoustic system composed of two 48mm full-range drivers and integrated large double passive radiator
  • MDF wooden enclosure reduces acoustic resonance
  • 2600mAh large battery capacity supports up to 16 hours of music playback under Bluetooth connection
  • Class-D digital amplifier with 10W+10W RMS power output
  • Bluetooth V5.0 ensures stable connection
  • Multiple inputs: AUX, sound card and TF card
  • Retro design with easy button control

Specifications:

Sensitivity 98dB
Bluetooth version V5.0 V5.0
Power outputs (RMS) 10W+10W
Frequency response 70Hz-13KHz
Audio inputs Bluetooth, TF card, AUX, sound card
Input sensitivity
Signal-noise ratio ≥85dB(A)
Noise level 400mAh
Better capacity 2600mAh
Playback time Up to 16 hours
Charging port USB Type-C

 

Price & Availability:

 

Available for £99.99  from Amazon 

SEON Raises $94 Million Series B to Address Exponential Growth of Online Fraud

SEON, a London-based Anglo-Hungarian startup that powers online fraud prevention raised $94 million in Series B funding. Led by Silicon Valley-based IVP, the round also includes existing investors Creandum and PortfoLion, as well as, angel investors including founders and senior executives from the very best product-led tech companies: Aiven, Coinbase, DataDog, DoorDash, Figma, G2, GitHub, Public, Slack, Supercell, UiPath, Veriff, and Wise. The funding, which comes just a year after the company’s Series A, will be used to expand SEON’s presence in North America, LATAM, and APAC, build partnerships with leading e-commerce platforms, heighten product functionality, and integrate additional data sources to help customers better fight fraud. 

As the pandemic accelerated consumer activity and transactions online, identity fraud has grown exponentially. Fraud is a problem faced by every company that transacts with customers online from the world’s most significant financial technology companies to online marketplaces, digital health, education, gaming, and e-commerce companies. Bad actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated and companies need better tools to fight back. Historically, effective fraud tools were only readily accessible to large enterprises with the budget and staff to handle complex implementations. SEON democratizes access to fraud-fighting technology, making the internet a safer place for business.

“SEON is bringing something different to the fraud prevention market by offering an accessible and flexible solution, which delivers instant results. Once discovered, our solution can be trialed by potential customers in less than 30 seconds and up and running in less than a day,” said Tamas Kadar, CEO and Co-founder at SEON.

With an API-first approach, SEON allows enterprises to plug into their system and go live within 24 hours. SEON’s Data Enrichment module uses data to establish an individual’s digital footprint based on their email address, phone number, IP address, or location in real-time. This GDPR-compliant approach to analyzing a user’s digital footprint helps companies accept more transactions while blocking fraudulent ones. SEON’s Full fledged platform leverages the company’s advanced machine learning capabilities to help global enterprise teams set rules, wean out false accounts, and detect fraud in real-time. The company’s solution can verify users with zero friction, enabling businesses to save money and fully complement their KYC / IDV checks.

SEON experienced significant growth in 2021 and is now the go-to fraud prevention solution for companies like Revolut, NuBank, Afterpay, Patreon, Sorare and mollie. In 2021, the company more than tripled its annual recurring revenue, grew its headcount by 4X, and opened new offices in Austin, and Jakarta. 

Along with welcoming IVP into its portfolio of investors, SEON will appoint Michael Miao, Partner at IVP to its board. 

“Identity is one of the most important and biggest problems on the Internet. This product-led team is making a remarkable dent in fraud prevention by making it easy for every business to adopt its data-driven solution. As fraud explodes at an exponential rate, IVP is honored to help guide this talented group as they work to expedite the fight against online fraud,” said Michael Miao, Partner at IVP.

For more information about SEON and its Series B announcement, please visit SEON’s blogpost or watch their announcement video.

About SEON:

SEON is the go-to fraud prevention solution for ambitious FinTech leaders, like Revolut, NuBank, Afterpay, Patreon, Sorare and mollie. By offering rapid integration and pay-as-you-go flexibility, SEON is able to offer a simplified, modern way to fight fraud. The company’s industry-leading solution uses AI and fully explainable machine learning to adapt across sectors. 

Since its formation, SEON has served over 5,000 merchants and reviewed over 1 billion transactions. In turn, this has helped the company to save its customers more than €50 million in potentially fraudulent transactions. The globally focused business operates offices in Austin (TX), Budapest, London, Jakarta and Singapore.

With specialties in the neo banking, crypto, eCommerce and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), Web 3.0 sectors, SEON is well-equipped to deal with the demands of modern online fraud prevention and has recently launched an AI-based fraud detection and one click prevention app on Shopify.

First Look – Tronsmart Trip Bluetooth Speaker

Summer is coming and when it comes to tech we are not short of choices,again like any tech there is something for all pockets and everyone is catered for, with Tronsmart this brand is consistent with great quality audio products and they have a great range of speakers too and their latest model the Tronsmart Trip has landed.

As with most out tech we let you take a first look to give an idea of what it is all about then you can fire away with your questions whilst we test it so check out the unboxing below and watch out for a full review soon when we will have more hands on and of course audio samples and less of the stock image approach..

Features

  • SoundPulse® Technology.
  • Up to 20 Hours of Playtime.
  • IPX7 Waterproof.
  • TrueWireless Stereo Pairing.
  • Built-in Microphone.

BUY

Video Link

Sennheiser introduces the SPORT True Wireless earbuds

SPORT True Wireless delivers an exceptional sound experience thanks to Sennheiser’s TrueResponse transducer. Designed and engineered in Germany, the acoustic system is powered by a unique 7mm dynamic driver that delivers full bass and superior clarity without distortion – even at high volume. The SPORT True Wireless also puts athletes in control of how they experience sound and perceive their surroundings. The unique Adaptable Acoustic feature allows athletes to choose either open or closed ear adapters and adjust EQ settings for the perfect custom training sound.

The open ear adapters in combination with the Aware EQ settings help to reduce body-borne noise and allow some outside sounds to enter for better situational awareness. In this mode, runners hear fewer distracting noises such as their own heartbeat or footsteps and more of their surroundings, blending their favourite exercise playlist with sounds of nature or the city while improving awareness. Those who prefer their own music in noisy gyms and don’t want to be distracted by the busy environment will find peace of mind with the closed ear adapter and Focus EQ settings.

In addition to the Sennheiser Smart Control App’s Focus and Aware EQ settings, athletes can make fully customisable presets for their listening experience via the Sound Check feature. The intuitive touch controls of the SPORT True Wireless let users personalise the sound to their preferences and facilitate access to audio navigation and voice assistants. Bluetooth 5.2 compatibility and support for audio codecs like SBC, AAC and aptX also make it easy to stay connected to mobile devices, smartwatches, smart TVs, and connected fitness devices for a seamless audio experience.

 

 

A secure fit that can be counted on
“Every movement during sports is a challenge for your earbuds fit to keep delivering great sound. For anyone who likes to listen to music while exercising, it’s important to be able to concentrate fully on the sport without fear of the earbuds slipping out of place. As all ears are unique in shape and size ‘one fits all’ is not secure, so we have focused on providing a fully customisable solution for maximum wearing comfort and a secure fit.” says David Holm, Sennheiser Sports Product Manager.

The ergonomic design of the SPORT True Wireless was developed precisely for this purpose. The earbuds can be customised with a choice of ear adapters in three sizes and four different ear fins to withstand any workout. With an IP54 rating, the SPORT True Wireless is dust and splash resistant and can also easily withstand sweat, runs in the rain, and even workouts at the beach.

Runs longer than you can
The SPORT True Wireless doesn’t just stand up to the physical challenges. With a battery life of 9 hours, and another 18 hours with the charging case, it offers uncompromising performance to go the distance.

Pricing and availability
The Sennheiser SPORT True Wireless can be pre-ordered starting now and will be available on May 3, 2022, with an MSRP of 119.99 GBP/129.90 EUR.

Sennheiser launches the MOMENTUM True Wireless 3

The multi-award-winning MOMENTUM series from Sennheiser introduces a new member to the family. The MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 set new standards when it comes to sound quality, adaptive noise cancellation (ANC), and wearing comfort. Encased in a design that was defined using high-quality materials and precise workmanship, the earbuds offer a range of technologies and features that take the listening experience to a new level.

“Our MOMENTUM series continuously succeeds in redefining the boundaries of possibility,” said Frank Foppe, Sennheiser True Wireless Product Manager. “The MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 build on a powerful heritage. With the Sennheiser Signature Sound, TrueResponse technology, next-level adaptive noise cancellation and an even better fit, these earbuds are the natural successor of the MOMENTUM series.”  

A superior sound experience 
Just like its predecessors, the MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 delivers outstanding sound quality, centred around Sennheiser’s True Response transducer. Based on dynamic 7mm drivers manufactured in Germany, it produces an immersive stereo sound with deep bass, natural mids and detailed highs. The new Sound Personalisation feature provides an enhanced sound experience via a guided listening test to setup the perfect sound for each user’s individual hearing. In addition, the Smart Control App offers a choice of presets and an equaliser feature to tailor the sound to the user’s taste.

Since the MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 was created for everyday life on-the-go, Sennheiser has specifically improved the earbuds with Adaptive Noise Cancellation which automatically adjusts to your environment. The system continuously observes ambient noise to suppress it in real time. Users who want to be aware of their surroundings to hear things such as train announcements, for example, can deactivate the noise cancellation at the touch of a button, or switch to transparency mode.

For the best possible synchronisation between audio and visual content, the MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 support a wide range of audio codecs such as AAC, SBC and aptX™ Adaptive, which reduce latency to a minimum. In addition, each earbud now features three microphones that promote crystal-clear call quality, enabling smooth and easy-to-follow video calls. The intuitive touch controls of the MOMENTUM True Wireless 3, which users can tailor to their personal preferences, make it easy to navigate the audio and access voice assistants.

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 3 true wireless

Exceptional design and extraordinary comfort
Winner of a 2022 Red Dot Design Award, the new stylish and futuristic ergonomic design enables a long-lasting comfortable fit. The MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 also comes with several silicone pads in different sizes that are designed to fit all ear shapes and sizes. Thanks to its IPX4-certified splash-resistant casing, the MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 is made for almost any adventure. Whether it’s running in the rain or a strenuous fitness session, the new Sennheiser earbuds deliver a top-class listening experience even under adverse conditions.

No matter where users of the new MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 may be, a battery life of seven hours – which can be extended to 28 hours using the case – means that users no longer have to worry about finding a power source nearby. And because the high-quality case supports wireless charging, the process itself is easy as it can be.

Pricing and availability
The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 is now available for pre-order, and will be available from 10th May 2022 with a RRP of £219.99 / €249.90 in black, white and graphite.

Non-Fungible Motors: You Can Now Get An NFT Of Your Car, So You Can Love It Long After It’s Gone

A new service has been launched by Scrap Car Comparison that gives car lovers the opportunity to get their hands on a one of a kind NFT of their prized motor, so they have the ultimate keepsake of their car which will last for eternity.

Partnering with NFT artist Amy Kilner to make the service possible, the UK-based scrap comparison company has opened up the opportunity to give anyone who’s said goodbye to their beloved car the chance to have it immortalised on the blockchain. Motorists simply need to register their interest on the Scrap Car Comparison website by Sunday 22nd May 2022.

We reminisce fondly about our first cars, the ones that gave us our independence and got us on the roads, and often had a lot of character too, but unfortunately, there’s always a time when we’ll have to say goodbye. While we’d previously wave our cars away as they got taken off into the distance, with only photos to help us take a drive down memory lane, this unique opportunity will give car lovers the virtual ownership rights, as well as the physical.

And so that potential owners have an idea of what their Non-Fungible Motor will look like, Scrap Car Comparison has created two examples inspired by two of the UK’s most driven (and scrapped) cars.

To gauge interest in the new service, one lucky car owner will be given a unique NFT of their car, with the opportunity for full personalisation – from pesky scratches that have gone un-repaired to missing hubcaps or other accessories such as stickers, personal registration plates, favourite air fresheners and more. The artwork will then be recorded on the blockchain, registered to its rightful owner forever – or at least until they decide to trade or sell.

Dan Gick, Managing Director of Scrap Car Comparison comments:

“Thousands of cars go to the scrap heap each year, but more often than not, our customers are extremely sad to be saying goodbye to their cars. We’ve all sat around with a group of friends and swapped stories about our first cars, and often their quirks and niggles, but don’t always have photos of them to share. In many cases, people will also personalise their vehicles, either with personal registration plates and more expensive modifications, or smaller meaningful accessories that are significant to them. Although we may have photos, the essence of our favourite vehicles is something that has historically been hard to capture. 

With this in mind, we want to try and bring car ownership into the digital age, by taking the step into NFTs and web3, and giving car fans their own piece of art that will be forever available for them to see online. It might not be for everyone, but we’re sure that some people would love to have their car with them virtually, as well as physically, so we’re very excited to offer this opportunity to the market!”

The Non-Fungible Motors service will initially be available to one lucky car owner, with the registration form open until 23:59 Sunday 22nd May 2022. To find out more and register interest in the service, visit: https://www.scrapcarcomparison.co.uk/blog/non-fungible-motors/

Gas Networks Ireland named Green Public Sector Organisation of the Year at Green Awards 2022

Following another successful year delivering on its holistic sustainability programme, Gas Networks Ireland was named Green Public Sector Organisation of the Year at the 2022 Green Awards at the Clayton Hotel on Burlington Road in Ballsbridge..

The semi-state utility was also shortlisted for the Green Energy Provider Award and to retain its Green Large Organisation of the Year Award for a third year, which were won by SSE Airtricity and An Post respectively.

Additionally, Gas Networks Ireland was selected by the judges to be one of six organisations shortlisted for the Green Business of the Year Award – an award it won last year, but was deservingly won this year by Hotel Doolin.

Gas Networks Ireland Sustainability Manager Anne Moore said winning a green award for the third year in a row was a testament to the whole organisation’s commitment to sustainability

“We are delighted to be recognised for our contribution to sustainability and our commitment to maintaining the highest standard of excellence in our operation of the gas network. We are extremely proud of all our staff for their hard work, passion and continued dedication,” Ms Moore said.

 “Sustainability is very important for Gas Networks Ireland and we aim to deliver our services in a sustainable manner that contributes to the protection of the environment while supporting the social and economic development of the communities we operate in, as well as the wider economy.”

One of only 46 companies in Ireland to hold a Business Working Responsibly Mark, Gas Networks Ireland was also recognised for “taking coordinated action on climate issues” and achieved a ‘B‘ in the Carbon Disclosure Platform (CDP) global emissions ratings, exceeding the global, European and sector averages to finish in the top quartile of all businesses assessed globally.

Ireland’s national gas network is considered one of the safest and most modern gas networks in the world and will play a crucial role in Ireland’s cleaner energy future.

The semi-state utility advanced its journey to a decarbonised gas network with approval from An Bord Pleanála for Ireland’s second renewable gas injection facility in Mitchelstown, the development of a hydrogen research and development facility in Citywest and the opening of its third and fourth public compressed natural gas (CNG) refueling stations in Limerick City and Clonshaugh.

“Climate change is one of the most urgent global challenges we face and as the operators of Ireland’s gas infrastructure, sustainability is a focal point of our plans to decarbonise the gas network in line with national and EU policy,” Ms Moore said. 

In a European first, the company partnered with environmental group, Leave No Trace Ireland, Coillte and the Burncourt Community Group to help restore Glengarra Wood in Co. Tipperary as part of the international “Hot Spot” programme.

The organisation also backed over 52,000 hours of social inclusion and environmental education initiatives within communities across Ireland, with staff completing over 890-hours of volunteering.

“As a business, we are on a continuous journey to reduce our emissions and continue to support and promote biodiversity within our communities,” Ms Moore said.

Gas Networks Ireland’s fourth annual Sustainability Report, which is in line with the Global Reporting Initiative standard and includes more highlights from 2021, will be published later this quarter.

 

Bolt, the mobility super-app, has pledged to plant a tree every time the Bolt app is used on Earth Day

Bolt, the mobility super-app, has pledged to plant a tree every time the Bolt app is used on Earth Day this Friday. The global initiative will be live across all Bolt products in Ireland and will result in millions of trees being planted.

The pledge will be delivered in partnership with Seedballs, a reforestation project in Kenya.

Seedballs Kenya is the first in a series of nature-based solutions Bolt is investing in to generate better impacts for the environment as part of the company’s commitment to neutralise the impact of its own operations.

Working closely with Seedballs Kenya, Bolt will facilitate the spread of 25 Tons of indigenous seeds to damaged land across Kenya where natural reforestation is unlikely to occur, the equivalent to planting 11.25 million trees. The Earth Day initiative will result in millions more trees being planted.

Seedballs

James Bowpitt – Ireland Country Manager – Bolt, said: “Having a positive environmental impact is a core part of Bolt’s mission: to build cities for people, not cars. In addition to helping reduce emissions in cities by providing alternatives to private car ownership, we are committed to alleviating the environmental impact of our operations through projects like Seedballs and are pleased to go one step further to mark Earth Day with this new initiative.”

Teddy Kinyanjui, Co-founder – Seedballs said: “In Kenya, like many other countries, the forests and grasslands are under great pressure. One of the many challenges of landscape scale restoration is that indigenous seeds are often food for different types of animals like mice and birds. That’s where we come in. The Seedballs program overcomes this challenge by coating native seeds in waste charcoal dust which prevents the seeds from being eaten. This means that the native grass and tree seeds can be planted year round rather than waiting for the rainy season. When it rains enough, the charcoal dust dissolves and the seed sinks into the ground back to its natural state, ready to grow.”

For Bolt, this project is the latest example of the business’ commitment to reducing its overall impact on the environment which started with the launch of its Green Plan in 2019. By investing millions into the Green Plan, Bolt has adapted its operations to minimise its impact on the environment, neutralising over 4.5 billion km of rides; becoming the first e-scooter platform to operate climate positive e-scooters in December 2020; and launching e-bikes across Europe in 2021.