PETLUX V3, a next-generation self-cleaning litter box specifically designed for large cat breeds and multi-cat households. Unlike many automatic litter boxes on the market, PETLUX V3 is engineered to eliminate leaks, reduce odors, and provide a hygienic, hands-free solution to litter box maintenance.
With a 100-liter capacity, a seamless waterproof design, and biodegradable waste management options, PETLUX V3 resolves common frustrations such as small, cramped litter spaces, frequent cleaning needs, and lingering odors. Its app-connected system allows pet owners to monitor waste levels, track their cat’s litter box habits, and activate cleaning cycles remotely. Meanwhile, the ultra-quiet 30 dB operation ensures that both pets and their owners are undisturbed.
A Spacious & Hygienic Litter Box for Large Breeds
Finding a litter box that accommodates large cat breeds can be a challenge, with many models proving too small for breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and Norwegian Forest Cats. PETLUX V3 addresses this with a 100-liter drum and a 48 cm inner diameter, providing ample space for cats to turn, dig, and cover their waste comfortably. In a multi-cat household, PETLUX V3 can comfortably accommodate up to four large cats, making it the ultimate litter box for big breeds.
Beyond space, hygiene is a key concern for pet owners. PETLUX V3 features a fully waterproof, seamless design that eliminates the risk of leaks and prevents bacteria buildup. Traditional litter boxes often have seams and hard-to-reach corners where waste accumulates, leading to unpleasant odors and difficult cleaning. With PETLUX V3’s smooth, non-porous interior, cleaning is effortless, requiring only a rinse or wipe-down.
Its self-cleaning rotating mechanism automatically separates waste from clean litter in just 3.5 minutes, ensuring a fresh litter bed after every use. This automation minimizes daily maintenance, allowing owners to go up to 10 days without manually emptying the waste bin in a single-cat household.
Odor Control & Sustainable Waste Management
One of the biggest concerns with any litter box is odor control. PETLUX V3 is equipped with an advanced air filtration system, utilizing resin granules that absorb and neutralize odor molecules. Unlike mechanical deodorizers, this system is natural and low-maintenance, requiring a simple filter change every 60 days to keep the home fresh.
PETLUX V3 also introduces a more sustainable approach to waste management. Instead of relying on plastic waste bags, users can choose between two eco-friendly options:
Biodegradable cardboard waste trays: A disposable, sustainable alternative to plastic waste bags, designed for easy removal and composting.
Stainless steel waste trays: A durable, odor-resistant, and reusable option that reduces single-use waste.
This dual-option system not only makes waste disposal more convenient but also allows pet owners to reduce plastic consumption, making PETLUX V3 a more environmentally responsible choice.
Smart Features for Effortless Monitoring & Control
For busy pet owners, PETLUX V3 offers remote app connectivity, allowing full control and monitoring from anywhere. The PETLUX app provides real-time updates on:
Waste tray levels: Notifications alert users when it’s time to empty the waste bin.
Cleaning cycles: Users can remotely activate or schedule automatic cleaning.
Filter maintenance: The app notifies owners when the filter needs replacement.
Cat behavior tracking: PETLUX V3 records a cat’s visits and weight, offering insights into their health and litter box habits.
The system is designed to be shared with up to 10 users, making it ideal for multi-cat households with multiple caretakers.
Safe & Quiet Operation for a Stress-Free Experience
PETLUX V3 prioritizes safety and comfort for both cats and their owners. Many automatic litter boxes have loud motors that can scare cats, but PETLUX V3 operates at just 30 dB, making it quieter than most household appliances.
It also incorporates dual safety sensors to protect cats during operation:
Weight sensors detect when a cat is inside and prevent the cleaning cycle from activating.
Infrared sensors automatically pause the cleaning cycle if a cat enters mid-process.
Petlux v3 black
Petlix V3 white
These features ensure that PETLUX V3 is completely safe for cats of all sizes, giving pet owners peace of mind that their pets won’t be startled or put at risk.
Compatibility with Most Clumping Litters
PETLUX V3 is designed to work with a variety of clumping litter types, including:
Bentonite clay litter
Corn-based litter
Ecolitter and activated carbon-based options
This flexibility in litter choice allows pet owners to continue using their preferred brand, avoiding the limitations imposed by some automatic litter boxes that require proprietary litter. However, non-clumping litter, gel granules, and wood pellets are not recommended, as they do not work efficiently with the self-cleaning mechanism.
Pricing & Availability
PETLUX V3 is set to retail at $699 (650 EUR), with exclusive early-bird pricing for crowdfunding backers starting at $399. The automatic litter is available in black and white, offering a sleek design that integrates seamlessly into any home environment while ensuring a cleaner, fresher, and more convenient litter box experience for pet owners.
Additional biodegradable waste trays and a stainless steel waste tray add-on will also be available for purchase.
Ireland is no small player on the global tech stage, and it continues to punch well above its weight. In a way, it has become the digital frontier of Europe, adopting various innovative tech, from AI-driven analytics and immersive gaming to greener energy and top-of-the-line cybersecurity. Let’s take a look at the most exciting tech trends that are redefining Ireland’s technology landscape in 2025.
Mobile Gaming
Mobile-first has become the new default. Smartphone penetration continues to soar in Ireland, and the mobile gaming sector is riding high on that trend.
The spotlight of this boom is on iGaming right now, with Irish gamers favouring mobile casinos and sportsbooks. Research shows that over 70% of adults play at least one game a year, and a significant portion of them do so online, via mobile. Slick interfaces with intuitive design keep attracting more audiences, while innovations like biometric logins, live betting, and AI-powered odds make the whole experience quick and seamless.
As many players look for more freedom and flexibility, the trend of exploring casinos outside Gamstop leads them to choose offshore platforms with better bonuses, fewer restrictions, and a broader range of games (source: casinos-not-on-gamstop.com).
AI Integration
More than just a buzzword, Ireland has adopted AI as a serious business backbone. Recent stats show that around 15% of enterprises and over 50% of large companies use AI. Recently, the public sector has joined in as well—government departments are already training civil servants in responsible AI usage, as part of the National AI Strategy.
The impact of this technology stretches through many verticals. From customer support to fraud detection, it’s an invaluable tool. In fact, for SMEs, using AI is a competitive differentiator. A survey carried out in 2024 showed that over 30% of Irish SMEs already use AI in some form, while close to half of them plan to expand—using it for sales forecasting, automation, and other methods of turning data into action.
Sustainable Energy
Sustainability has upgraded from being a side project to a proper strategy. Ireland is investing heavily in renewables, and with €7.4 billion saved in fossil fuel imports since 2000, it’s already paying off. Data-driven giants among tech companies are getting increasingly serious about sustainable energy. Cloud providers and data centres are under pressure for their energy consumption, which accounts for over 20% of Ireland’s total electricity use. Irish startups also have an opportunity to jump on the train of smart grid software, carbon analytics, and green innovations.
Cybersecurity
Cyber threats are now a reality rather than a hypothetical danger. In 2024, the National Cyber Security Centre handled 5,200 incident reports, with 721 confirmed cases. When it comes to business security, it’s a daily battle, with an average of 58 cyber incidents every year.
This surge in attacks has led to more investment in cybersecurity. 70% of organisations in Ireland plan to raise their budgets for security in 2025, covering everything from endpoint protection and data encryption to more advanced threat detection systems. More than just a trend, we are seeing cybersecurity become mission-critical for almost everyone.
Cloud Computing
In one year, the number of Irish companies and organisations hosting their infrastructure in the cloud has gone from 15% to 32%. Currently, an additional 33% are actively migrating, choosing cloud over legacy on-prem systems.
Many benefits are driving this rapid shift, from a growing reliance on remote collaboration tools to the need for flexibility and scalability. More agile startups gain the ability to compete with larger enterprises through reduced IT overheads and improved uptime. In 2025, 90% of IT leaders are expected to increase cloud investments, which puts the country in the fast lane of innovation.
VR & AR
Although first introduced in gaming, immersive technology has turned into something more. In Ireland, augmented and virtual reality are now being introduced into real estate, tourism, and even education. You can now take a virtual campus tour, attend an immersive training course, or view AR product previews as part of the mainstream experience.
Of course, gaming is still at the forefront here. VR casinos are also gaining ground, overlaying odds, stats, and live game data to make the activity more engaging and interactive. Shops are introducing gamification methods to deliver more impactful loyalty programmes. The popularity of these aspects is rising, and we can expect even more developers and investors to double down on immersive solutions in the times ahead.
SolarSmart Energy Ltd, Ireland’s only female-owned domestic and commercial solar company, has been awarded the Irish Small Firms Association (SFA) Services Award. This national recognition underscores SolarSmart’s impact in making solar power more accessible and financially viable for Irish homeowners, businesses, and farmers.
Empowering Solar Adoption in Ireland
Founded by Morgan Pierce in 2020, SolarSmart has rapidly become a leader in Ireland’s renewable energy sector. The company has installed over 1,200 solar PV systems, contributing nearly 7 Megawatts annually toward Ireland’s climate action goals. SolarSmart’s customer-centric approach, including up-front SEAI grants and hassle-free financing, has removed traditional barriers to solar adoption, making it easier and more affordable to transition to renewable energy.
“Winning this award is a huge honour and a reflection of our team’s dedication to delivering top-tier solar solutions with customer service at the core,” said Morgan Pierce, Founder and CEO of SolarSmart. “Our mission is to ensure that solar power is not just an environmental choice but also a financially smart one for every Irish household and business.”
Powering Ireland’s Electricity Demand & Driving a Renewable Future
Ireland’s electricity demand is set to rise by 45% over the next decade, fueled by increasing consumption from data centers, electric vehicles, and heat pumps. This growing energy demand underscores the urgent need for scalable, sustainable solutions.
At the same time, with a target of 1 million solar rooftops by 2030, equating to 2.5 gigawatts of capacity or 22% of all residential electricity demand, Ireland is currently far behind. Estimates suggest that only 100,000 homes have installed solar, leaving 900,000 more to be equipped in the next five years.
SolarSmart is leading the charge in closing this gap. By prioritising affordability, customer service, and sustainability, the company is enabling the transition to solar with ease. Committed to accelerating Ireland’s renewable future, SolarSmart aims to install 5,000 solar systems annually, ensuring that the country stays on track to meet its energy and climate commitments.
SolarSmart’s growth trajectory has been exceptional, more than doubling installations each year. Key business driver milestones include:
Up-Front SEAI Grant Processing: SolarSmart became one of the first solar companies in Ireland to credit the SEAI grant to customers immediately, eliminating the financial strain of waiting for reimbursements.
New Low-Interest Financing Option: Launched in partnership with Finance Ireland, allowing homeowners to install solar panels for a lower monthly cost than their expected energy savings.
The Team & 4-Day Workweek for Installation Group: A first in the Irish solar industry, ensuring work-life balance for staff who often travel long hours for installations. This initiative has resulted in zero employee attrition in 2024, a remarkable achievement in a sector struggling with workforce retention.
Customer-First Approach: With 86% of support tickets resolved within one business day and a 1-hour response time, SolarSmart sets the standard for aftercare in the solar industry.
About SolarSmart
A leading provider of photovoltaic (PV) solutions for homes, businesses, and farms across Ireland. Founded in 2020, the company has installed over 1,200 systems to date, contributing to Ireland’s renewable energy transition. SolarSmart offers innovative financing solutions and industry-leading customer service to make solar energy more accessible and cost-effective.
LinkedIn has officially opened its new campus at 4 Wilton Park, consolidating its Dublin operations into a modern, sustainable hub. This brings together LinkedIn’s teams under one roof across 4 and 5 Wilton Park, with a combined footprint of 290,000 sq ft — making Dublin home to LinkedIn’s largest office outside of the United States.
The new campus is designed to support LinkedIn’s evolving ways of working and foster collaboration among its 2,000+ employees in Ireland, who represent 60% of LinkedIn’s EMEA workforce and over 70 nationalities.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD said:
“I’m delighted to open LinkedIn’s new office at 4 Wilton Park. This expanded EMEA HQ — LinkedIn’s largest office outside the US — is a strong endorsement of Ireland as a destination for global investment. Over the past 15 years, LinkedIn Ireland has grown significantly, now employing over 2,000 people. This is a testament to Ireland’s talented workforce and tech expertise.”
Building on this, LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky added: “When we decided to put our EMEA headquarters in Dublin back in 2010, we started with three employees, and now we’re more than 2,000 strong. None of this would be possible without the support of the Irish government and the wider community. We’re excited to continue shaping a brighter future of work together.”
Sustainability is at the core of the campus, which has been designed to operate at net-zero carbon, and is in the process of achieving LEED Platinum and WELL Platinum certifications — among the highest global standards for environmental performance and employee wellbeing. The site features hydroponic gardens producing over 90kg of fresh ingredients per month, rooftop beehives, and a focus on locally sourced food. The project utilised responsibly sourced materials, such as those with recycled content, take-back programs, and bio-based materials.
Another key feature of the campus is the new LinkedIn Dublin Community Space, a free venue for local nonprofits to host events that help connect underserved communities to economic opportunity. Since launching in the previous building, the Community Space has hosted nearly 200 events for more than 300 organisations in the past year alone, welcoming over 10,000 attendees, with LinkedIn employees also volunteering their time and expertise to support these initiatives.
Sue Duke, Head of LinkedIn Ireland, commented: “The opening of 4 Wilton Park, and the significant investment behind it, highlights the pivotal role our office plays in LinkedIn’s global growth. Our team in Dublin is central to delivering LinkedIn’s vision of creating economic opportunity for everyone, whether that’s developing AI tools to better connect jobseekers and employers or working with policymakers on future skills. “
James Geoghegan TD for Dublin Bay South (Fine Gael) also welcomed the opening, adding:
“As a local representative, I welcome LinkedIn’s continued investment in Dublin with the opening of its new offices—now home to over 2,000 employees from 70 nationalities. LinkedIn’s remarkable 15-year journey in our city reflects not only its global success but also its deep commitment to supporting our local community and economy.”
IDA Irelandtoday unveiled its new five-year strategy, Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation,2025-29, building on its previous success in helping to transform the Irish economy. The strategy has been developed from a position of strength evidenced by the significant economic impact delivered to Ireland and the global economy through the investments from IDA Ireland’s client base.
The FDI sector, established and embedded in Ireland, is a national asset which has been transformative for the economy and the people of Ireland, accounting for 11% of total national employment and expenditure of over €38bn in the Irish economy annually. Ireland is viewed internationally as a centre for value and knowledge creation, exporting over €420bn in goods and services globally on an annual basis.
The new strategy, which is aligned with the Programme for Government and the White Paper on Enterprise, sets out IDA Ireland’s ambition for continued growth through four key strategic objectives;
Strengthen long term investment
Scale cutting-edge innovation
Drive sustainable change
Maximise regional opportunities
While recognising the challenges ahead for FDI investment including increased competition, geopolitical uncertainty, and rapid technological change, IDA Ireland has identified four key growth drivers – digitalisation and AI; semiconductors; health; and sustainability – which will lead to a range of intersecting and connected opportunities across IDA Ireland’s core sectors of focus – Life Sciences, International Financial Services (IFS), High Value Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology and Content & Consumer Services.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
Strengthen long term investment
IDA Ireland will prioritise retaining and renewing the 1,800 client companies based in Ireland, acknowledging their vital role in the Irish economy. We will partner with them as they aim to enhance their competitiveness and productivity through transformative talent development initiatives and assist them in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in a changing global economy.
Scale cutting-edge innovation
Ireland’s FDI base has helped position the country as a central hub for global technological innovation. The new strategy aims to build on the existing innovation ecosystem, enhance pan-European and global innovation linkages, and increase the scale and impact of innovation by supporting next-generation and collaborative research, development, and innovation (RD&I).
Drive sustainable change
IDA Ireland client companies are instrumental in shaping a green and digital global economy. Ireland has the potential to be a prime location for green-powered and digitally enabled enterprises. IDA Ireland will collaborate with clients to enhance their digital maturity and sustainability, while attracting a new wave of green and digitally enabled investments.
Maximise regional opportunities
Maintaining the strength of Dublin as a key global hub remains a strategic priority. The significance of our capital city enables the attractiveness of Ireland and supports our ambition for balanced regional development. IDA Ireland client companies employ over 165,000 people in regional locations across Ireland, benefiting from the local ecosystem, infrastructure, and talent to drive investments. The regional strategy has proven to be successful, and IDA Ireland is committed to further enhancing regional opportunities for clients by providing next-generation sites and building solutions.
TARGETS
In pursuit of these objectives, IDA Ireland will win 1,000 investments to:
Secure €7bn in new RD&I investment
Deliver 550 regional investments
Reduce IDA Ireland client carbon emissions by 35%
Create 75,000 jobs
Upskill 40,000 people
In turn, this will support IDA Ireland client spending in Ireland of €250bn over the lifetime of the strategy on wages, Irish goods and services, and capital investment, providing further opportunity and economic impact across local supply chains. By 2030, the strategy aims for a more competitive, innovative and sustainable FDI environment in Ireland. The ambitious plan underscores Ireland’s commitment to fostering a resilient economy, adapting intelligently, and seizing new growth opportunities in an era of change and evolvement.
Minister Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise Tourism & Employment said: “I very much welcome the publication of IDA Ireland’s new strategy today and recognise the importance of ensuring we work together to protect FDI’s position as a cornerstone of Irish economic success. Ireland remains committed to foreign direct investment (FDI) as one of the key components of the Irish economy. We have proven adept in the past at anticipating and responding to shifts in the global landscape, realising growth opportunities as sectors evolved and new technologies emerged. In a period of marked global change and uncertainty, this strategy will direct the focus of IDA Ireland as it partners with client companies to enhance the resilience, productivity, and innovation of Ireland’s FDI base.
In a world of uncertainty, companies can be certain that Ireland remains determined to remain a leading location in which to grow, innovate and succeed. Through decades-long partnership across the public and private sector, Ireland has won investment and built up an FDI base in high value, cutting edge services and manufacturing sectors. Protecting this existing base, positioning it for further success and securing the next generation of investment is of critical importance. This strategy will ensure IDA adapts to a changed global landscape to achieve these ambitious objectives.”
Feargal O’Rourke, Chairman IDA Ireland said: “Our new strategy is designed to keep the FDI pipeline strong but also to recognise the importance of holding on to what we have. FDI companies in Ireland tell us of their need to constantly show relevance back at corporate HQ whether it is upskilling their employees with digital and AI skills, having a sustainable operation, or maximising their effectiveness and efficiency. Our role is to help our client companies in these areas and our strategy will underpin this. If we can lead, and play our part in delivering on our strategy, it will have a positive societal and economic impact for Ireland. While today marks the launch of our strategy, it also represents an opportunity for Ireland to recommit to a strong FDI strategy and to, in a sense, “renew our vows” to make Ireland the best, most sustainable and most welcoming country in the world for FDI.”
Michael Lohan, CEO IDA Ireland said, “Innovation, competitiveness, resilience and ambition are at the core of our new strategy that is designed to further propel FDI in Ireland. I am extremely proud of the performance by the IDA team who, in partnership with our 1,800 clients and stakeholders, have achieved exceptional results against the objectives set out in our previous strategy. The impact of FDI is reflected in every facet of the Irish economy from our employment numbers to our enterprise base, integrated supply chains and the development of critical infrastructure.
We are now ready to rise to the challenges of today. Our new strategy recognises the scope and scale of our clients’ activities, their transformational journeys, as well as the complexities of the global landscape in which IDA Ireland and our clients now operate. It identifies Ireland’s areas of strength and the opportunities for continued FDI growth. It is now absolutely crucial that we build on the solid foundation we have laid and focus on continued partnerships with the strong FDI base in every region in Ireland, to drive sustainable growth through capital investment, innovation and talent development that will strengthen, maintain and deepen our position as a location of choice for continued foreign direct investment.
Download Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation here
This holiday season, embrace the spirit of giving while reducing overconsumption and waste. Instead of rushing to buy the latest gadgets and contributing to the growing issue of e-waste, consider gifting consciously. Swappie, a leader in high-quality refurbished iPhones, offers the perfect tech solution for a sustainable Christmas. With a rigorous 52-stage refurbishment process and a 12-month warranty, Swappie makes it easy to invest in the circular economy.
But why stop there? Once you’ve unwrapped your new phone, sell your old one back to Swappie, no matter its condition. It will either be refurbished for a new user or responsibly repurposed for parts. By choosing Swappie, you’re giving technology a second life while making an eco-friendly choice that truly matters.
Pair this idea with other anti-consumerist gifting tips, from experiential presents to handmade items, to create a Christmas that’s kinder to the planet.
Swappie’s Tips for a greener Christmas
Experiences, more than things,Instead of buying physical gifts that may end up unused, gift experiences such as concert tickets, cooking classes, or even a subscription to an online service. These gifts are memorable, personalized, and don’t produce waste.
Shop local
Supporting local artisans with sustainable practices reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping and packaging. It also helps build community resilience.
Buy gifts with a purpose
Choose gifts from brands that prioritize social and environmental impact, such as fair-trade goods, organic products, or items from companies with a clear give-back mission. Swappie, for example, gives old phones a new life, reducing the need for new production and cutting down e-waste.
DIY
Handmade gifts, such as home-baked treats, upcycled crafts, or personalized photo albums, carry sentimental value without harming the environment. Encouraging creativity and personalization can reduce the waste that comes with mass-produced items.
Wrapping
Avoid single-use wrapping paper and instead, opt for reusable alternatives like fabric gift wrap (like furoshiki, the Japanese wrapping technique), recycled paper, or repurposed materials like old maps or newspaper. Tying gifts with reusable ribbons or natural materials like twine can also add charm without waste.
Charity
For the person who has everything, make a donation in their name to a cause they care about, such as an environmental charity or a community project. It’s a thoughtful way to reduce material waste and contribute to a meaningful cause.
Go digital!
Gifting digital content, such as e-books, audiobooks, or streaming subscriptions, minimizes material waste while offering entertainment or learning opportunities.
Long lasting is the way!
Encourage choosing products that are built to last, reducing the likelihood of them being replaced or discarded quickly. For tech, refurbished iPhones from Swappie are a great example of high-quality, durable gifts, thanks to a 12-month warranty and extensive 52-stage refurbishment process
The international student design competition, which has now supported more than 400 problem-solving inventions from young engineers and scientists worldwide, received nearly 2,000 entries this year.
Speaking of the 2024 winners, James Dyson said: “We started the James Dyson Award nearly 20 years ago to encourage students at university to solve problems. And we’ve had thousands and thousands of entries since. It’s wonderfully encouraging to see how many students have solutions to severe global problems. Instead of sitting back and talking about it, they’re doing something about it – and that’s what the James Dyson Award encourages. We’ve got two brilliant winners this year which we’re thrilled to support, and I hope the Award will give them a springboard to future success.”
James Dyson surprised Olivia, Shane and Danial with the exciting news during an online video call.
Medical Winner – Athena, by Olivia Humphreys from Ireland.
The problem
Some 65-99% of patients going through chemotherapy will be affected by chemo-induced hair loss. Current hair-loss prevention techniques commonly use scalp cooling, a method which involves applying ice cold temperatures to the scalp before, during, and after chemotherapy, which can be very painful for patients. It mitigates hair loss by shrinking blood vessels and limiting blood flow to the scalp. After chemotherapy, cooling can also help hair grow back faster and stronger.
However, the availability of scalp cooling is limited due to its high costs. This year’s Medical Winner is from Ireland where the Minister for Health estimated the total cost of installing a scalp cooling machine at €216,000, with additional costs needed for staffing as the treatment requires additional help to operate the equipment.
Ensuring the equipment fits the patient properly and the extended time it means someone needs to be in hospital for are additional hurdles. There are cheaper, manual cooling alternatives available, yet these are less powerful, and they don’t provide long-lasting effects.
Not all hospitals offer scalp cooling for patients too. In fact, in Ireland, scalp cooling is only available in eight out of the country’s 86 hospitals.
The solution
Olivia Humphreys, a 24-year-old product design and technology graduate, invented Athena to tackle these issues after witnessing the impact of chemotherapy-induced hair loss when her mother was diagnosed with cancer in 2019. Having spent time with her mother during treatment, Olivia was inspired to reimagine hair-loss prevention technology.
Athena is a portable, thermoelectric hair-loss prevention device that uses scalp cooling. It’s more cost effective and timesaving than current hospital models, without compromising on the quality of treatment. For those exploring advanced hair wellness solutions and scalp care.
Current scalp cooling products use refrigeration technology requiring constant plugged in power. The patient must arrive at hospital 30 minutes early and stay for 90 minutes after infusion for pre and post scalp cooling. Battery powered Athena, weighing around 3kg, consists of a carry case and a cooling headpiece, that fits to different head shapes, and enables people to spend less time in hospital on a chemotherapy infusion day. It works by using low-cost thermoelectric semiconductors called Peltiers, and these cool a tank of water, which circulates the cold water around the head with the smartly designed headpiece.
With Athena, patients can start and end the scalp-cooling process themselves from wherever they wish, such as the comfort of their own home. At full power, it can run for 3.5 hours, allowing the patient to commute to and from the hospital while cooling, and move around during infusion, such as for bathroom visits. Athena aims to give control back to patients during a time when they usually have little of it.
Athena is patient-centric and so Olivia also chose bright colours for the device’s materials as a change from conventional, clinical colours found in hospitals. Taking its name from the powerful Greek Goddess of wisdom and battle strategy, for Humphreys, Athena is a symbol of resilience, which is a quality often seen in those living with an illness as serious as cancer and going through the necessary treatments.
The estimated cost for Athena would be around €1,000, according to Olivia, which is significantly less than industry machines which start at around €20,000. Athena has the potential to make hair-loss prevention more accessible and affordable for both patients and healthcare providers – Olivia’s ideal scenario would involve partnering with hospitals and charities to offer Athena through a rental or loan scheme.
To take Athena to the next level, extensive research and development is required, and the James Dyson Award prize money will kickstart this. Long term, Olivia is exploring novel technologies for future hair loss prevention methods beyond scalp cooling.
James Dyson, Founder of Dyson, said: “I haven’t had cancer, but members of my family have had cancer and hair loss is a particularly depressing and debilitating part of chemotherapy treatment. You can freeze your scalp which you have to do in special facilities, but these aren’t always available, are costly and it’s very painful. This year’s Medical Winner, Olivia Humphreys, has tackled this problem by designing Athena, for portable scalp cooling. You can wear it while you travel, you can wear it in the car to and from hospital, you can use it at home – it’s a low-cost alternative available to everybody, with the potential to make a real difference.”
Speaking about the development of Athena, Olivia Humphreys said: “I decided to build a working prototype to test the capabilities of the Peltier semiconductors. Using a Peltier computer cooling fan system, a diaphragm pump, my mum’s old suitcase, and my dad’s plane battery, I was able to create a strong proof of concept to gather valuable feedback to develop the concept. Following this, I focused on the product’s form, creating cardboard and foam models and determining functionality aspects and touchpoints to ensure the best user experience. Ultimately, I arrived at my final model, Athena, which was crafted using SolidWorks 3D CAD modelling.”
On winning the James Dyson Award, Olivia said: “I’m incredibly proud of the hard work, ambition, and commitment that went into creating Athena. The recognition from the James Dyson Award validates not just my efforts, but also the stories and insights shared by people who’ve experienced cancer treatment. My mum inspired this journey, and it’s incredibly emotional and rewarding to have my project reach this level. The Award has motivated me to recognise my potential, and it opens up exciting opportunities for me as a young designer and innovator.”
Professor Mark Beresford, Consultant Oncologist at the Royal United Hospital Bath, said: “Hair loss is one of the most outward and distressing side effects of chemotherapy. Current scalp cooling techniques can reduce the risk or extent of hair loss, but need to be attached in the chemotherapy unit for a period of time before and after the chemotherapy infusion, committing patients to a long day in hospital. This new mobile version will allow patients more freedom, reclaiming some of their day, and also free-up valuable chemotherapy chair time for other patients to receive treatment.”
Liz Yeates, CEO of the Marie Keating Foundation, said:“I want to congratulate Olivia for creating the mobile scalp cooling device and being awarded this year’s global winner of the James Dyson Award. Any invention that can help prevent hair loss for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy would be so positively received. When I went through cancer, there was no option for me to use a scalp cooling device, and losing your hair can be one of the most devastating impacts for most people. This device offers new hope, and it could make a real difference for those facing chemotherapy in the future. Any use of scalp cooling should always be under the guidance and direction of the patient’s oncology or cancer care team.”
Sustainability Winner – airXeed Radiosonde, by Shane Kyi Hla Win and Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful from Singapore.
The problem
Every day, weather stations worldwide launch devices via weather balloons that gather critical atmospheric data for accurate weather forecasting. These small devices, called radiosondes, measure air pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction and transmit this data back to ground stations, helping meteorologists track weather patterns and forecast conditions. However, current devices are single-use and contribute to tonnes of plastic and e-waste globally.
After reaching high altitudes, the balloon carrying the device bursts, and the sensor descends rapidly, often crashing in remote and costly-to-retrieve locations, without collecting further atmospheric data as it falls.
There are 1,300 weather stations around the world, and it’s predicted they release at least two single-use radiosondes per day. So, over a year, almost one million radiosondes are released, costing $190million and estimated to cause 48 tonnes of e-waste.
These devices are crucial to the rapidly growing weather forecasting industry, valued at over $2.25 billion in 2023 and projected to reach approximately $5.23 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by the rising demand for precise weather forecasting across sectors like agriculture, energy, transportation, and aviation. Extreme weather events have increased the demand for better forecasting systems too.
The solution
This year’s global Sustainability Winner aims to make weather forecasting more eco-friendly. AirXeed Radiosonde is a reusable device tackling the amount of e-waste created by single-use radiosondes on the market. It also aims to increase the amount of atmospheric data these devices collect, improving quality of forecasting.
Young engineers Shane Kyi Hla Win and Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful, from the Singapore University of Technology and Design, drew inspiration from nature to create airXeed Radiosonde. Their focus was to improve the descent and end-of-life of a radiosonde to make them reusable, reducing e-waste and minimising pollution in remote areas.
The team used the autorotation of maple seeds in their solution. A maple seed’s asymmetrical shape creates lift and drag, allowing it to spin like a helicopter as it falls. Shane and Danial applied this principle to their radiosonde design, enabling it to spiral during descent. This not only slows the device, preventing damage upon impact with the ground, but also increases the likelihood of it landing in an accessible location, making retrieval and reuse easier. The team used machine learning to optimise this design for the best flight performance. AirXeed’s controlled descent allows it to collect and transmit more atmospheric data to weather stations, as traditional radiosondes cannot do this.
To avoid collision with aircraft, and very windy conditions that could deviate the descent, Shane and Danial’s device stops auto rotating when passing through aircraft cruise altitude. It enters a dive mode to increase its speed. The team have also added an onboard controller to manage the device’s stability and flight path to land without impact near the closest collection zone for reuse.
This controller is enhanced by machine learning to estimate wind speed and direction onboard, as well as select the best landing location. Collection zones would be established based on weather patterns and local government collaboration. Equipped with GPS and flight navigation, the radiosonde would select the optimal collection zone from multiple options at each weather station, ensuring a smooth return based on weather and flight trajectory.
Shane and Danial prioritised sustainability in their material choice, using balsa wood and foam for the lightweight wing and cowling. Modular components allow for easy replacement and recycling of worn parts, catering to industry needs.
After winning the James Dyson Award, Shane and Danial hope to collaborate with more weather stations and weather sensor manufacturers for real-world trials to gather data and feedback to improve their invention, to ultimately bring airXeed Radiosonde to market.
James Dyson, Founder of Dyson, said: “Weather balloons that collect atmospheric information fall back to Earth and pollute the environment with electronic waste. Shane and Danial, our Sustainability Winners, have found a way of returning these devices to Earth highly intelligently to where the operators want them to land. AirXeed Radiosonde uses the maple seed principle, helicoptering down gently but also plummeting in areas where there are likely to be planes. This is a reusable weather detector, saving environmental waste and saving money. I think it’s a very clever idea.”
On winning the James Dyson Award, Shane said: “Winning the James Dyson Award global sustainability prize is a huge step forward for us. It shows that our design has potential and gives us a platform to showcase how airXeed Radiosonde can positively improve the weather industry – hearing it from James Dyson himself makes it even more special. It’s incredibly motivating to see such a prominent figure in innovation take the time to encourage young inventors like us, developing solutions that are sustainable and address critical global challenges”.
On what’s next for the team, Danial said: “With the Award’s recognition, we hope to connect with experts in the weather industry, secure partnerships and attract funding to further test and develop our design. It’s a huge boost in our journey towards turning airXeed Radiosonde into a fully realised solution that can reduce electronic waste and make weather monitoring smarter
In recent years, material sciences have made a big impact on various industries, including jewelry. Jewelers are now integrating scientific insights into their designs, enhancing both functionality and appearance. This shift is especially noticeable with earrings, as there’s rising demand for pieces that are not only beautiful but also durable and safe for all skin types. This interest comes from growing awareness about different skin sensitivities and preferences among consumers. By using advanced materials, jewelry designers aim to create pieces that meet modern needs.
Here, technology and tradition blend together, showing how scientific advancements are reshaping the production of earrings and studs alike. You’ll discover the process of selecting quality materials, improving strength, ensuring skin compatibility, and adopting sustainable practices. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of how these innovations are setting new standards for jewelry design, shaping what consumers can expect from their favorite pieces.
Material Sciences in Jewelry
Material science is key to modern jewelry making, guiding choices and techniques for crafting earrings that work well for everyday wear. At its core, this field emphasizes how properties like hardness, flexibility, and conductivity impact the final product. For instance, metals like platinum or palladium add both shine and strength, while polymers and ceramics offer lightweight options with unique patterns.
Understanding alloy composition is essential, as small changes can affect an earring’s durability and resistance to tarnish. These principles help address practical issues like skin sensitivity and lifespan. Combining technology with artisanal skills leads to innovative, beautiful, and comfortable earrings. Scientific advancements are transforming earring production by addressing the complexities of material selection, enhancing strength, ensuring skin compatibility, and incorporating sustainable sourcing and surface treatments.
Innovations in Durable Earring Materials
When it comes to durable earrings, new materials are changing how we think about strength and longevity without losing style. Engineers and designers now use advanced technologies like nanostructuring and metal matrix composites to make metals tougher for everyday wear. This means earrings stay shiny and keep their shape longer.
Treatments like anodization and ion plating add protective layers to resist scratches and damage, extending the life of earrings without sacrificing beauty. For consumers, this means jewelry that not only looks stunning but also lasts—bringing together tradition and modern technology for durability and style.
Creating Hypoallergenic Earrings
To meet the demand for hypoallergenic earrings, jewelers now focus on using non-reactive metals and specific treatments for sensitive skin. Materials like titanium, niobium, and surgical-grade stainless steel are popular choices because they rarely cause allergies. Titanium, for instance, is strong and skin-friendly, making it ideal for people with sensitivities.
Surface treatments like rhodium plating and oxide coatings add a protective layer, reducing direct contact with the skin. For customers, hypoallergenic earrings offer both comfort and peace of mind. Jewelers committed to these materials and methods show a dedication to inclusivity, making stylish earrings wearable for everyone.
Coatings and Surface Treatments
Coatings and surface treatments play a vital role in enhancing both the look and durability of earrings, helping them stay beautiful and last longer. Using processes like electroplating and vapor deposition, thin layers of metals or ceramics are applied to protect against tarnishing. This prevents oxidation, keeping earrings shiny and extending their lifespan by reducing wear. These treatments also make earrings more comfortable for sensitive skin; for instance, gold plating not only gives a luxurious finish but also limits exposure to allergens.
These innovations ensure that earrings withstand daily wear while maintaining their appearance. For consumers, this means owning jewelry that lasts, combining beauty with engineering. For designers, it reflects a blend of tradition and technology, expanding what’s possible in modern jewelry design.
Sustainability and Ethical Material Sourcing
Today, sustainability and ethical sourcing are transforming jewelry production as awareness of environmental impact grows. Advances in material science are helping by making it possible to use recyclable and ethically sourced materials in jewelry, meeting the demand for eco-friendly products while keeping to strict environmental standards. For example, using recycled gold and silver cuts down on mining and its ecological footprint, while responsibly sourced gemstones support fair labor practices and local communities.
These practices appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and set a new bar for ethical craftsmanship. Transparency in sourcing builds trust and connects buyers with the story behind each piece, showing that jewelry can be both beautiful and responsibly made. A great example of this are lab grown diamonds, which avoid the ethical concerns of mining and exploitation by being produced sustainably in a controlled environment.
The jewelry industry is entering a new era where science and ethics drive innovation, especially in earring production. With advanced materials, hypoallergenic options, and sustainable practices, jewelers are meeting modern demands for beauty, durability, and inclusivity. From hypoallergenic metals to protective coatings and ethically sourced gemstones, these advancements ensure that earrings not only look stunning but also provide comfort, longevity, and environmental consciousness. By blending tradition with cutting-edge material science, today’s earrings are setting new standards in quality and responsibility, redefining what consumers can expect from their jewelry.
Today, as AI seamlessly integrates into our daily lives, its adoption and impact are no longer a question of ‘if’ but ’when’ and – most importantly – ’how’. Mark Hopkins, Sales Director at Dell Technologies Ireland
According to a Dell Technologies study, 76% of IT leaders believe that generative AI (GenAI) will be significant or transformative for their organizations. Meanwhile, McKinsey estimates that work automation using GenAI, and other technologies will boost productivity by 60-70%.
As AI becomes more embedded in our daily lives, its potential to help build a more sustainable future is becoming increasingly evident. AI’s ability to analyze vast amounts of data allows businesses and governments to make more informed decisions about sustainability efforts. Moreover, from optimising energy consumption to enhancing supply chain efficiency new technologies can help achieve sustainable goals in the era of AI.
This comes as the EU pushes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2050, new sustainability reporting standards are being enforced, compelling businesses to rethink their ESG strategies.
Organisations in Ireland see the opportunities that lie ahead. Dell’s Innovation Catalysts Study found that 80% of Irish business leaders said that emerging technologies has positively impacted their sustainability goals, with 37% using technology to improve energy efficiency.
However, integrating AI is not without challenges. One of the most pressing concerns is the energy intensity of AI technologies. According to a Gartner®report1, increasing adoption of GenAI will lead to dramatic increases in energy use, with annual ICT electricity increases of 25% or more. This rise in energy use threatens sustainability goals, as companies risk falling short of environmental performance targets.
Accelerating energy efficiency
Modernising data center infrastructure is one of the most effective ways to advance sustainability. AI can support this by driving efficiencies while also enhancing company’s ability to monitor and manage its carbon footprint.
Energy-efficient technology has also evolved significantly over the years, rendering old hardware a burden. What took six servers in 2013 takes just one today. Meanwhile, innovative software and remote management solutions can provide an overview of the organization’s energy usage and environmental impact.
By carefully designing their IT environment in line with their priorities, businesses can find a balance between reducing their physical footprint, increasing efficiency, and equipping themselves with the capacity they need to grow.
However, as companies approach IT transformation, what they do with their data will have implications for future growth. 37% of respondents to the 2023 Dell GenAI Pulse Survey indicated that their data and intellectual property are too valuable to be placed in a GenAI tool to which a third party might have access. By bringing AI to your data, you can maintain data sovereignty while embracing the benefits of GenAI.
As-a-Service enabling AI transformation while advancing sustainability
The demand for flexible consumption models like ‘As a Service’ (aaS) is growing, as it offers companies greater agility in developing AI workloads. A Forrester study found that 88% of businesses expect sustainability benefits from adopting aaS model, and 65% anticipate cost savings for more than 10%.
An aaS model ensures access to the latest, energy efficient hardware produced with sustainability in mind, all while reducing waste.
By opting for an aaS model, businesses can cut costs and reduce waste while gaining more control over their applications and data, thereby allowing them to modernise their IT environment and scale with AI where necessary.
Adopting AI without compromising energy efficiency to drive the future of work
Modern devices are increasingly being designed, manufactured, and shipped with sustainability in mind, in addition to having intelligent AI-enabled features that keep users productive. For instance, Dell Optimiser adapts and responds to how users work, adjusting performance to meet peak worktimes and extending battery life through intelligent power-saving features.
Simple actions such as aligning energy settings with performance needs, powering down devices after work, and using rechargeable peripherals contribute to energy efficiency.
Regular technology refresh cycles also ensure that companies are operating with the most energy-efficient devices, reducing both upfront costs and total cost of ownership while driving sustainability efforts forward.
Leveraging AI for a more sustainability future
Adopting energy-efficient infrastructure is a powerful way to advance sustainability and is already bringing about a shift in how businesses in Ireland approach innovation and growth, especially in the context of the country’s goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
However, integrating AI into these efforts requires a commitment from the entire organisation. To fully leverage these opportunities, businesses must adopt a holistic approach, bringing together leaders from various departments to collaborate and embed AI-driven strategies into every aspect of their operations.
As Ireland embarks on this critical journey towards a sustainable future, the era of AI has begun, and there has never been a better time to prioritize multifaceted energy-efficient initiatives that align with national carbon reduction goals.
