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What Happens if You Lose or Damage Your Number Plate?

By
Roger Bishop
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It’s far from uncommon to lose one of your vehicle’s number plates, whether as the result of an accident that damages the front or rear of your vehicle, theft or one of many other reasons. 

According to Armen Khoshoryan, car accident attorney in Torrance, “Driving without a valid rear license plate is illegal in all 50 states. Some states, however, don’t require a front license plate. All passenger vehicles registered in California must display valid license plates on both the front and back of the car. ”

Contrary to popular belief, replacing a number plate isn’t as complicated as you may think — in fact, it’s a straightforward, simple process. However, there are several important things that you should be aware of ahead of time if you need to replace a number plate for your vehicle.

To help make the process easier, we’ve worked with Number1Plates to explain the process from start to finish. 

Replacing a Number Plate

If you’ve recently lost a number plate from your vehicle, or if one or both of your number plates have become damaged due to an accident, it’s important that you replace them using a legally certified replacement number plate provider.

In the United Kingdom, number plates need to comply with British Standard BS AU 145e to be legal for road use. 

These standards mandate that number plates need to meet a certain level of quality, legibility and durability in order to be used on the road. For example, they need to be able to withstand impacts from stone chips, thermal change, abrasion and other common potential hazards.

They also need to meet certain aesthetic requirements, such as using the correct color scheme and using a contrast scheme that’s readable by ANPR cameras. 

If your number plate was stolen, you’ll need to begin the process of replacing it by reporting the theft to the police. Number plates are commonly stolen in order to disguise vehicles that may be used on the roads illegally, or to assist in crimes such as petrol theft. 

You can report a number plate stolen by contacting your local police station. It’s also best to call the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to report the theft. This can help to protect you from fines and other penalties that could occur if a criminal uses your number plates.

Replacing a stolen, lost or damaged number plate is a relatively simple process. A new number plate or set of number plates can be purchased online from a registered supplier, often at a low cost. 

When ordering a replacement number plate, there are several factors that you’ll need to keep in mind. These include the shape of the number plate that’s suitable for your vehicle, the colour of the plate (yellow for the rear of the car and white for the front) and several others.

Finally, you’ll need to fit your new number plate to your vehicle. This can be done by yourself at home using either adhesive pads or screws. Alternatively, your local garage or mechanic should be able to help you with this step for a small fee. 

Throughout the process of replacing your number plate, it’s important to remember these tips:

  • Always report a stolen number plate. Stolen number plates are often used by criminals for theft and other crimes. Reporting a number plate stolen will help to protect you from fines and other penalties that may result from illegal actions.
  • Only ever buy number plates that are made to British Standard BS AU 145e. Driving with non-compliant number plates could cause your vehicle to fail its MOT. You may also face fines of up to £1,000.
  • If you plan to tow a trailer behind your car, you’ll need to order a number plate with the same code as your vehicle. This needs to be fixed to the trailer in order to comply with UK laws.
  • Check your vehicle’s number plate type before ordering. Number plates are available to fit the majority of road going vehicles, including standard cars, SUVs, trucks, trailers and motorcycles.

Keeping Green After Lockdown: How Can We Help Our Planet?

By
Elaine Goetz
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As we come out of lockdown, we are likely to see attitudes towards the environment change, and with this, changes in our habits. Lockdown has proven that we are ready and able to make adjustments and sacrifices for the sake of the larger picture, so let’s think about how we can alter our habits in the long run and keep carbon emissions at an all time low.

During lockdown, we have experienced what scientists are now calling an “anthropause”, meaning the temporary slowdown in human activity across the globe — to the overwhelming benefit of other species. Let’s take a close look at what impact this pause has had and how we can maintain environmental efforts after lockdown has been lifted.

The impact of the anthropause

Every day we are edging closer and closer to a ‘new normal’. We’re seeing lockdown restrictions in the UK gradually lift, and many other countries such as Spain and Italy are reopening their borders and allowing businesses to get back up and running. We may still feel a long way from full normality, but we’re certainly seeing some big changes that will propel us towards our new day-to-day.

However, before we spring right back to ‘normal’, we should consider the changes we’ve gone through under lockdown, how these changes have altered our attitudes, and which of these new ways of thinking we’d like to hold on to. One thing is for sure — we’ve embraced ‘slow living’, a calmer way of life that benefits both the individual and the environment. The changes we’ve made during lockdown have had a transformative effect on the world around us, proving that striving for real environmental change is truly possible.

As countries from around the globe shut down their industries and began to restrict travel, we saw incredible environmental results. In Europe, we witnessed a clean-up in air pollution that has resulted in 11,000 fewer deaths; carbon dioxide emissions have fallen by 25 per cent in China, as well as around 10 per cent in New York; satellite images have documented the gradually fading away of air pollution, including a drastic decrease of nitrogen dioxide over Northern Italy. On top of this, we’ve seen inspiring pictures of the newly crystal-clear canals of Venice, and many instances of native wildlife returning to cities.

Of course, these huge environmental changes haven’t been down to conscious eco-friendly efforts as much as they’ve been a happy side effect to lockdown life. However, these miraculous occurrences have proven beyond doubt that we can change our ways to the benefit of the planet.

How can we keep up our effort for the environment?

With visible changes to our planet, come major changes to our attitudes. Consider the ways in which you could maintain this momentum and lead a more eco-friendly life.

Cut out the commute

Although we will likely see many cars back on the roads after lockdown is fully lifted, cutting down on transport wherever possible is one of the best ways to stick to a greener lifestyle. After all, transport makes up a quarter of carbon emissions, which is one reason why we’ve seen such a massive dip since we’ve been largely confined to our houses.

With many offices now open to remote working as a permanent option, more people than ever will have the option to cut out the commute and reduce their daily carbon emissions.

Shop sustainably

Shopping sustainably is yet another way to minimise your carbon footprint and make a real change. Throughout lockdown, we’ve seen an increase in community spirit, with many people making the change to shop locally and support small businesses. As well as boosting local economies, shopping nearby will have a long-lasting positive impact on the environment, reducing air miles, and cutting costs.

As well as shopping within the community, consider shopping second-hand. To you, this might mean scouring charity shops or investing in antique jewellery. Either way, your newfound love for second-hand treasures will benefit the environment while also allowing you to find some unique and charming investment pieces.

Take a staycation

Finally, consider your holiday habits post-lockdown and give stepping onto your next long-haul flight some extra thought. Long-distance flights are one of the main culprits of air pollution and global warming, and we’ve seen the miraculous effect of cutting down on air traffic over the past few months. But just because you’re not jetting off abroad doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a holiday! Once it is safe to do so, plan a staycation and visit a corner of the country you’ve never had the opportunity to explore before.

Even when lockdown is lifted, there will be plenty of ways that you can make a difference and ensure that carbon emissions stay as low as possible. We’ve seen that big changes are possible, so why not make some lockdown habits more long-term and strive for a happier and healthier planet.

Why independent living is important to the elderly

By
Elaine Goetz
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If you are an older person living alone, you may experience feelings of loneliness which can have a hugely negative impact your mental health. If you find yourself feeling lonelier as time passes, you may want to consider an independent living property.

As you or your loved one grows older, it is important to preserve independence and remain socially active to combat loneliness.

We are going to cover what independent living is, what the benefits are and what you need to consider before moving to independent living accommodation.

What is independent living

Independent living allows you to move from your home to somewhere that makes life easier, while still allowing you to maintain your independence.

Independent living accommodation such as that available within the Amesbury Abbey Group offers age-restricted communities allowing residents to live as independently as they wish but with added support for general maintenance and welfare.

Most facilities offer activities, excursions and lunchtime services to help create a community with the aim of providing a better place for seniors to live. The basic amenities are looked after such as the garden, laundry and cleaning, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their time at home, socialising and following their interests.

The difference between assisted living and independent living

Independent living allows you to live independently without any direct care. If you require medical or daily assistance to help you during the day while living in one of these communities, it would be your responsibility to hire help.

Although they are similar, the main difference is that if you need direct care, then you will no longer be living independently. Most facilities can include an assisted care package which you can add on to your fees.

The benefits of independent living and why is independent living important to the elderly?

There are many and varied benefits of independent living. These include socialising, maintenance care, and peace of mind.

Feel like an individual

Having the freedom and ability to make choices in your day to day life can have a huge impact on how you feel about yourself. The idea of feeling more independent means you are no longer reliant on your friends and family to help with general life administration, giving you the time to focus on doing the things you enjoy most.

Being able to socialise

It can be difficult to remain social due to your living circumstances and arrangements. Independent living communities create environments that promote regular socialisation and friendships within your community.

The majority of independent living facilities offer dining areas and allow you to enjoy meals with fellow residents. They arrange regular activities and trips including social events, classes, shopping excursions and much more.

Maintenance care

These facilities offer a range of maintenance care, so you won’t have to worry about gardening, washing or cleaning.

Even if you are fit enough to complete these tasks, it does not mean you have to do them. Instead, you will have extra time to socialise, join in on activities or spend time with family and friends.

Improve mental health and wellbeing

Loss of independence can be isolating. Elderly people who are isolated can develop feelings of hopelessness and depression. The negative effects on mental health often lead to lower quality of life.

Independent living facilities surround you with individuals in similar situations. The sense of purpose and understanding of being around others will help improve your mental health and wellbeing.

How to find the best place

Deciding to move to independent living accommodation is a big decision to make. Before committing, you need to understand what your options are. First, you should check that independent living is the right option for you, both now and in the future. Second, you need to decide what is most important to you if you decide to move. You should ask questions such as does the facility allow pets? Is it in a good location close to loved ones? And will it provide for my needs for me into the future if my health deteriorates?

You should consider other essential aspects of your independent living situation. Including accessibility both inside the community and to the other places in the area. It is also worth spending time chatting with the residents at your favoured facility before committing to a long-term decision.

There are many reasons why you would decide independent living is for you or your loved one, however, it is a big decision to make and not one to take lightly. Consider the pros and cons carefully and spend time visiting other facilities to get a feel for what they are like.

For more information please visit amesburyabbey.com

If you’d like to know more about aged care services be sure to check out Medical & Aged Care Group.

Lifestyle Photography

By
Elaine Goetz
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Lifestyle Photography is one of the most familiar terms in the field of photography. You also must have seen some expert lifestyle photographer’s work on social media. But you may have wondered what this term means! Or what sort of photography comes under this category! How much image editing is connected to this genre! Or should you remove-background after taking the photograph!

Well, your wondering will come to an end today. Today I am going to share some key ideas about the basics of lifestyle photography. What it is, and how to take the best looking lifestyle photos and so on. So, let’s get started.

Lifestyle Photography: A Definition

In short, it is a type of portrait photography that focuses mainly on real-life events. That means, the lifestyle photographers take real-life photos aesthetically. This kind of photography aims to show the life stories of people more naturally and candidly. So, it seems more realistic.

How to Shoot Lifestyle Photography

The most significant difference between lifestyle photography and other photography is the naturality of photos. In any kind of photography other than lifestyle, we tend to pose, take preparation, and try to shoot. But in lifestyle photography, we don’t take much preparation to pose. We do what we do usually and let the photographer take the shots during our normal activities. So, it’s not an easy task to take a perfect lifestyle photo. Here are some tips that can help you become a professional lifestyle photographer.

Look for Authenticity

We all know the focus of lifestyle photography is to show life as it is. So, you should look for some authentic situations. You should consider the situations that will make your photos more natural and realistic. Your aim should be to present the subjects so that they don’t seem to be posing for a photo. Their eyes should not be looking at the camera. That will make your photos more authentic.

Make a Plan Beforehand

Some of us may assume that in lifestyle photography you don’t need to plan. Because the idea is to show life as it happens. But you have to make a plan for the whole session. Where you take photos, the number of shots, the happenings of everyday life. As a part of the plan, you should try to know your clients. Collect data about their likings and dislikings. If you make a plan beforehand, you can execute that during the photo session. Otherwise, you are going to mess.

Choose Everyday Locations

In other types of photography, we tend to look for a place with good daylight. But in lifestyle photography that is not the case. You rather go for an everyday location where the subjects go. Take their life in your camera in those locations. That will make the photos more authentic. The focus is to make your photos not look like the photos taken in studios.

Make Your Subjects Feel Comfortable

Not everyone feels easy in front of the camera. And when you are shooting photos of people that you didn’t know personally, it’s become an awkward moment for them to stay easy in front of the camera. In that case, you must make them feel comfortable. Talk to them about how to be like. When you will behave friendly, they will become comfortable slowly.

Always Be Ready

As I said, you have to present the people naturally. So, you have to be prepared for you don’t know when you are going to have the most awesome position. So keep yourself ready for that moment.

Predict Every Moment

Usually, lifestyle photography is more like wildlife photography. Dynamic, constant, and changing in every moment. So, you have to predict what is going to happen next. You have to understand that lifestyle photography is all about catching a perfect moment. It may happen in a minute.

Pay Attention to Small Details

Well, this is the most important tip for lifestyle photography. You have to pick the small detail of any incident. You have to know that lifestyle photography is not only a portrait photography session. Take some close shots focusing on the details of the incidents. That will make your photos more realistic. However, if you find something irrelevant or unwanted in the background of your subject take background removing service to remove that. Otherwise, your photos will look unprofessional.

Final Words

Finally, I would suggest you try to take part in the conversation with your clients. Let them be natural in front of the camera. Keep your camera ready and take photos while life is happening. That’s it about lifestyle photography. Hope you make the best of it.

Both lifestyle photography and photos on social media capture authentic moments, portraying the beauty of everyday life through visual storytelling. Printing cherished memories from social media using canvas prints brings digital moments to life, preserving them in tangible beauty for years to come.

Worthily Films Opens the Dialogue about Men’s Mental Health

By
Claire James
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Men’s mental health is an issue that is hardly spoken about in social circles, much less portrayed in film and television.  While mental health awareness in the media has risen, the primary protagonist in fictional depictions or news stories are women.  That is not to say that the awareness for women’s mental health should take a backseat but that men’s stories should be covered just as often.  In a Samaritans report from 2018, men were found to be three times as likely to die by suicide than women 1.  Men are clearly suffering.

The stigma around this topic is shifting, thanks to mental health champions such as Ariyon Bakare, one of the lead actors in Worthily Films’ latest short, ‘Waiting for Time’.  Bakare is an advocate for amplifying underrepresented voices.  His charity, iC4RE2, brings about conversations on racial inequality, with other actors and actresses supporting the cause as well.  His passion for this advocacy extends into his passion for the arts – Bakare chooses film and television roles that touch him personally, those that instantly resonate with him.  His decision to take the role of ‘Heath’ in the Worthily Films’ short was not purely a professional one – it was also personal.

‘Waiting for Time’ delves into the pain and exaltation that love can bring, especially love that borders on infatuation and obsession.  Heath meets Lily, played by Jade Harrison, at a pub and instantly falls in love.  When she feels overwhelmed by the attention and dependency of Heath and leaves his life, Heath spirals downward into a dark hole, where the only respite is the memories of Lily that he keeps locked away in his mind.

The film uses innovative storytelling devices to bring the viewer into Heath’s mind, such as filming his memories through a pint glass, allowing us to see what he sees when he reminisces about when they were together.  Shot on Super-16mm film, the film creates a visual experience that adds to the intensity of the storyline and acting.  The viewers are intimately brought into this world with Heath.

But Heath is suffering on his own.  He is left alone with his thoughts, and his solitary ruminations only serve to push him further into the abyss that he fell into following Lily’s departure.  For someone else, the loss of a first love might be an event that is cause for writing a soppy love song or venting to their friends before moving back into the dating scene.  For Heath, and many men like him, it exacerbated the mental health difficulties that were already present in his life.  The film aims to show that depression and other issues can manifest in different ways and affect anyone.  As a black actor, Bakare was keen to emphasise the importance of not only highlighting men’s mental health but black men’s mental health

About Worthily Films:

Worthily Films is an independent production company focusing on commercial and narrative production.  Founded by Steve Dodsworth and Chelsea Leigh Macleod and based in London, Worthily Films creates imaginative work with high production value and character-driven plotlines.

Worthily Films caters to both large and small brands and is open to receiving short, full-length and TV pilot script submissions.

Connect with Worthily Films across various social media platforms for interviews, articles and the short film trailer for ‘Waiting for Time,’ which can be viewed here.

African Americans In New York State benefiting From Formation of NY State Largest Chamber LIAACC

By
Roger Bishop
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New York, New York – The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. pioneering ways are impacting the growth potential of small business owners in New York State.  New York State’s largest African American Chamber of Commerce LIAACC (Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.) is taking a proactive approach to empowering African American Businesses in New York State through its campaign to retool, refocus and rebuild Black Wall Street.

We are requesting business owners and professional service providers to join our movement as leading chamber of commerce in New York State fostering small business growth in the region.  The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is not only the people’s champion.

In 2019 the New York District Office of the United States Small Business Administration names LIAACC as the 2019 Small Business Champion for 14 counties in Downstate, New York.  As the 2019 Champion for the New York District Office of the United States Small Business Administration we would like to take the time to highlight a few of our success stories at the chamber.

Angela Gibbs, CPCP – Honored at The Boss- the Experience of Black Business Documentary Screening and 2019 LIAACC Women’s History Month program honoring 2019 Small Business honorees. Angela Gibbs is one of Long Island Business News’ 2019 Top Influential Women on Long Island Award Winners –Photo Left to Right – Anissa D. Moore, President of City Council, Long Beach New York and Angela Gibbs, CPCP

Angela Gibbs, CPCP – Angela Gibbs is the founder and lead artist for COSBEAU Ink, a permanent makeup studio where are our natural tattoo designs have transformative effects on our client’s lives.

Well trained by renown artists on face and body tattoo techniques, Angela possesses a host of certifications, awards, and experience to create a memorable experience for her multi ethnic clientele.

Her kind and consultative approach is well received by her clients who regard her as a caring knowledgeable artist.  Visit: https://www.cosbeauink.com/

ButterMEssentials A Natural Hair and Body Company

Vayden Pinnock and Mrs. Negesti Pinnock – ButterMEssentials is a family owned company run by Mrs. Negesti Pinnock and her husband and partner Vayden Pinnock.

ButterMEssentials line of products includes hair, bath and body products for women, men and children. Bath and body products are made to make your skin feel silky.  Customers have been providing great reviews for our products; as our products focus on the nourishment of the hair and skin. Visit: http://buttermessentials.com/?afmc=5g

Georgia Woodbine – Georgia Woodbine is one of the top women speakers worldwide in the areas of personal and professional development. Visit www.georgiawoodbine.com to view her entire catalog of products and services. Visit www.georgiawoodbine.com

About – The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. an affiliate of the US Black Chambers, Inc. and has been featured on  WABC Here and Now, NBC Positively Black, and Black Enterprise BE Modern Man. New York State’s largest African American Chamber of Commerce LIAACC (Long Island African American Chamber, Inc.) is a shining example of chamber development and its impact on the regional and local area that it is chartered to serve in New York State.

Since its inception in 2010; LIAACC has continued to grow significantly in numbers, along with increasing its impact on its service territory. LIAACC helps small business owners in the areas of access to capital, technical assistance, advocacy, and entrepreneurial training.

For more information regarding Membership, Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities, or to be placed on the email list of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. email us today at info@liaacc.org or call us @ 347-475-7158. To become a member today log on to https://liaacc.org/join-liaacc/#join

Why some shops don’t accept cards – and how it hurts them

By
Roger Bishop
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Wandering into that new shop on your high street, you immediately start browsing their products and enjoy the atmosphere as you explore the place. You pick out some great new items, quickly peruse the opening sale rail, and make your way to the checkout when you’re hit by a sudden realisation – they don’t take card, and you’ve got no cash.

Believe it or not, this isn’t a fleeting experience in modern Britain. With a significant number of small businesses still operating without the benefits of a card machine, many cash-only retailers find themselves labouring with reduced earnings and diminished customer loyalty in comparison to their more tech-smart counterparts.

The fact is that many retailers are still stuck on using cash, and whilst they might have good reasons for this, failing to improve and adapt could leave them out of pocket or worse.

Why do some shops only accept cash?

There are lots of reasons why retail business owners may opt not to accept card payments, but whilst they might appear to make commercial sense, the reality is that often they’re misinformed.

Processing costs

The bottom line is that businesses pay fees to accept card payments. From the costs of their card machine to the per-transaction fee they pay for processing, business owners might feel that by accepting card payments they’re signing away a small portion of their earnings every time they make a sale.

The problem with this is that not accepting card payments could leave you at the mercy of a smaller customer footfall, and modern-day merchant services providers such as UTP Group only charge limited fees that are tailored to meet the needs of the business involved.

Complicated transactions

Another commonly cited reason for not taking card payments is that it can be difficult to find the right payment solution to suit your business. Often, retailers feel that the traditional way is best and that trying to take card payments is like reinventing the wheel.

They want to keep things simple for their staff and customers, but really, complex card payments are a myth. Provided that you have the right merchant services partner to help you along the way, putting the infrastructure in place is all you’ll need to start taking card payments – which could make life easier for you and your clientele.

Cash flow

Small businesses of all kinds frequently list cash flow amongst their top concerns – and so it’s no surprise that many prefer to take their payments in cash. Coins and notes in hand allow businesses to take stock of their assets and to keep on operating.

The problem with this philosophy is that it’s outdated. Business owners understand that cash is available to them immediately but it’s a commonly held misconception that card payments take a long time to process. In today’s commercial world, faster processing has seen payment solutions providers offer same day funding which could see a customer’s money hitting your account within just hours of the transaction being completed.

It’s understandable why businesses are so wary of card payments with processing times having previously stretched across the best part of the week – but that’s simply no longer the case.

How being ‘cash only’ could hurt your business

When customers hear you chant the dreaded “sorry, we don’t take card payments” or spy a “cash only” sign at your till, they don’t think why you might have made this decision – only that it’s a massive inconvenience to them.

Even despite the many rationales for businesses not accepting card payments, modern customers are often wary of parting with their hard-earned cash in establishments that prefer paper. From concerns about tax evasion through to a general movement away from cash-carrying across society, the public want to be able to pay their way and not be limited by an arcane policy that requires them to track down the local cashpoint that in many cases won’t even be around anymore.

With UKFinance reporting over 1.3 billion UK debit and credit card transactions during April 2020 alone, it’s crystal clear that opting not to accept this hugely popular payment method could damage your trading figures. Given that all of these transactions were conducted when the nation was still very much in the grips of a government-mandated lockdown, the sheer volume of card payments stands testament to the preferences of many members of the public who may simply turn their backs on retailers who won’t accept payment in a flexible way.

Card payments, your way

The thing to remember when considering an upgrade to card payments is that it’s not just an added cost to consider, but an investment in your profits and the very way that your business works. Taking contactless payments via a mobile card machine could allow your staff to traverse the shop floor with ease, completing sales anywhere on your premises or even getting out and about with a portable card reader that facilitates on-the-go payments.

When you invest in your payment solutions infrastructure, you’re not just getting a card machine and running with it but committing to the future of your business. As a more convenient end to your sales process, it could attract new customers, inspire loyalty amongst existing clients, and make your life much easier without all of those bank runs.

Ten Outstanding Tech Trailblazers to Explore

By
Elaine Goetz
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From the world of science to self-help, we’re all in search of challenging new ideas presented in motivational talks. Luckily, thanks to resources such as TED talks, we have unlimited inspiration and insight at our fingertips.

Are you keen to find out what ignited our curiosity over the last year? Some themes have captured our imagination and sent us on a ravenous search for more information. Climate change is one such area, with a massive increase of climate related Google searches over 2019 (the term “BBC climate change – the facts” for example, rose by 40,300 per cent in the UK). Searches around the topics of artificial intelligence and virtual reality have also rocketed in volume. Judging by these regular inquiries, it seems that people are more engaged and intrigued in the science and tech industry than ever.

The likes of TED talks make this sector more accessible than it has ever been before. Some challenging subjects have been opened up to the masses. People are clearly eager to learn about diverse subjects, and the viewing rates of 2019’s favourite tech related TED talks prove an unrivalled enthusiasm. Let’s take a look at our very favourite motivational speakers in the tech industry right now.

  1. Shohini Ghose

A beginner’s guide to quantum computing

3,612,968 views

Previously, many would have been intimidated by this title. This talk however, has made the riveting subject of quantum computing appealing and accessible. In this video, quantum physicist, Shohini Ghose tells us how new scientific techniques are leading us towards technology that “holds the potential to transform medicine, create unbreakable encryption and even teleport information.” No wonder viewers are tuning into this talk — quantum computing holds the key to some unimaginable developments!

  1. Margaret Heffernan

The human skills we need in an unpredictable world

2,236,574 views

Interestingly, this highly viewed talk is less ‘tech-positive’ than the rest. Focussing her attentions on the importance of human skills, Heffernan warns us against a complete tech reliance. In relation to the necessity to retain essential human values like bravery, she says “We are brave enough to invent things we’ve never seen before…We can make any future we choose.”

  1. Juliet Brophy

How a new species of ancestors is changing our theory of human evolution

2,105,997 views

Simply by the title, you know that this talk is going to be a game changer. Paleoanthropologist Juliet Brophy takes us right back to the beginning, questioning our ancestry and what it means to be human. This talk centres around the discovery of unusual fossils in South Africa in 2013. The fossils revealed a new species of ancient humans — a revelation that has put humanity as we know it into question. Judging by the popularity of this talk, it looks like science enthusiasts are as interested in looking into the past as they are the in envisioning future.

  1. Karissa Sanbonmatsu

The biology of gender, from DNA to the brain

2,085,575 views

Get ready to reject gender binaries as you know them once and for all. In this mind-blowing talk, structural biologist Karissa Sanbonmatsu unhinges the concept that gender is all about chromosomes. Studies on DNA activity have shown that genes can be altered and expressed in different ways because of social factors. This talk discusses these new concepts and uproots our very understanding of gender.

  1. Rob Reid

How synthetic biology could wipe out humanity — and how we can stop it

1,727,822 views

Any title that includes the words “wipe out humanity” is naturally going to grasp our attention, and this talk from Rob Reid holds us fixated throughout. The concept of doomsday bugs has so far stayed safely within the realms of dystopian fiction, but in this talk, Reid warns us that it is a very real threat. A terrifying thought, yet one we’re all keen to tune in to.

  1. Keith Kirkland

Wearable tech that helps you navigate by touch

1,513,859 views

Haptic Designer, Keith Kirkland, is bringing the idea of wearable tech to life — and we’re not just talking about smart watches. In this talk, he discusses the development of “haptic language”, which he has created as part of his work to develop smart clothing that could double up as a navigational device for the blind and visually impaired.

  1. Erika Hamden

What it takes to launch a telescope

1,475,846 views

Do you know what it takes to launch a telescope? No? Me neither. At least not until Astrophysicist Erika Hamdem talked us all through the decade-long journey. Her team are developing the FIREBall telescope, whose mission is to figure out how stars are created. TED talk viewers have been eagerly tuning in all year to learn about her mission.

  1. Andrew Marantz

Inside the bizarre world of internet trolls and propagandists

1,434,980 views

This story of how writer, Andrew Marantz, immersed himself in the world of internet trolls and propagandists gives us an unnerving insight into the most toxic areas of the internet. In the midst of a turbulent political landscape, this issue couldn’t be more topical, and thousands of viewers agree.

  1. Majd Mashharawi

How I’m making bricks out of ashes and rubble in Gaza

1,414,308 views

This innovative talk revolves around creating something important even in the most despairing of circumstances. Engineer and Entrepreneur, Majd Mashharawi, came up with the idea of turning rubble into new building materials and designed bricks made from ashes to help rebuild destroyed areas of war-torn Gaza. This project has captivated the imagination of thousands of viewers.

  1. Tiana Epps-Johnson

What’s needed to bring the US voting system into the 21st century

1,397,608 views

Although this final talk leans more towards politics, Tiana Epps-Johnson (Civic Engagement Champion) discusses how we can use tech to bring the US electoral system into the 21st century. With so many viewers from around the world, and the transcript available in 14 languages, it is clear that you don’t have to be from the US to feel invested in this topic.

Thanks to the accessible style of these videos, and the iconic event signage that makes TED talks recognisable to just about anyone, viewers have been able to engage with some diverse and unusual subjects. Interestingly, many of the most watched talks contain a prominent human element. This shows that we don’t only want to keep up with the latest developments in tech solutions, but we also want to understand our role within this rapidly advancing world.

print company: Where The Trade Buys

10 Steps to Encourage a Safe Return to the Office After Lockdown

By
Elaine Goetz
-

With lockdown placing a huge strain on both individuals and businesses now, many of us are feeling eager to return to normal, or at least a ‘new normal’. Since the Covid-19 lockdown, research shows that approximately 60 per cent of the UK’s adult population are now working from home, a transition that has been essential, yet difficult for many.

So, what happens when lockdown restrictions are lifted, and businesses have an opportunity to get back up and running? The government is set to release a series of papers which will outline its approach and advise businesses on how to return to work safely. Even with government regulations in place however, it will be up to you to go above and beyond for your employees and create an office environment that is safe, hygiene-focussed, and considerate of mental health needs.

In relation to a safe return of the workforce, Gary Peeling, Chief Executive Officer at Where The Trade Buys, said: “With shared office spaces gradually reopening, businesses will require numerous health and safety products to ensure the safeguarding of their staff. Before doors can reopen, careful planning will be needed in order to put the necessary protective equipment in place and enhance health and safety measures before employees return to the workplace.”

With this in mind, here are ten ways to ensure that your return to the workplace is smooth, safe, and positive:

1.  Closely monitor government guidelines

As an employer, it is up to you to stay on top of all the recent information and act accordingly. Remember, even when government says it’s possible to return to work, that doesn’t mean you necessarily have to. Take in all the official guidance available to you and make a carefully-considered decision based upon your business and your employees’ needs.

2.  Install social distancing floor stickers

When you do reopen the office, social distancing is going to be a challenge. According to the BBC, the “principles may not necessarily insist that workers strictly observe a two-metre social distancing rule”. However, where possible, you should try to adhere to social distancing in any way you can. Tools such as social distancing floor stickers make this a little easier — offering your employees guidance and reassurance that they are not getting too close to one another.

3.  Implement a one-way system in the office

Another way to implement social distancing efforts in the office is to encourage a one-way system. If you have to ways in and out of your building, consider how these could be utilised so that your staff aren’t risking close physical contact.

4.  Provide hand sanitisers and other cleanliness reminders

Cleanliness is key, and you need to up your hygiene procedures as much as possible. As you were most likely doing before the full lockdown came into place, encourage thorough handwashing, provide hand sanitisers wherever possible, and install health and safety posters as regular reminders around the office.

5.  Make sure you’ve done a deep clean before you reopen

Before you open your doors once more and endeavour to return to ‘business as normal’, try to create as clean and hygienic a space as possible. Not only will starting on a fresh slate create a safer environment, but it will show your employers that you’re taking health and safety precautions with the utmost seriousness.

6.  Provide your employees with PPE equipment is appropriate

If you want to go the extra mile, provide your employees with PPE equipment such as face masks and gloves. Depending on the environment you’re working in, fabric facemasks might also do the job.

7.  Consider staff who use public transport or visit other premises

The previous point is especially applicable for staff members who use public transport to get into the office or those who have to visit various premises due to their role. Make sure you’re listening to the needs of each individual staff member so that you can provide extra support to those who might be more at risk.

8.  Conduct one to one ‘back to work’ meetings

Managers should conduct one-to-one meetings with each staff member to make sure they feel supported and listened to. Chances are, each employee has had a completely different lockdown experience — some may have been working from home throughout with 100 per cent pay, whereas some may have been furloughed and faced financial stress or anxiety related to other issues. The only way you’ll be able to offer the support each staff member needs is to take the time to understand their needs individually.

9.  Offer mental health support

In addition to these back-to-work meetings, you should make sure your workforce has access to ongoing mental health support. Each member of staff will likely have felt the impact of this crisis, and whether that has manifested itself in health anxiety, financial concern, or loneliness, you must show them that the company is there for them to provide ongoing emotional support. For more information and guidance, consult the resources available at Mind UK.

10.  Wherever possible, make it optional

Finally, take into consideration that each staff member will be in a unique position, and for some, remote working might still be a safer and more productive option. Your employees will appreciate your flexibility and the fact that you are reviewing everyone’s circumstances individually. After all, if you’re a business that can work as productively online, it makes sense to allow people to continue doing so until they feel safe and confident to return to work.

Currently, it’s impossible to predict when you’ll be able to resume ‘business as usual’. Until then, carry on supporting your employees as best you can. When the moment to return to work finally does come however, take all the precautions you can in order to create a happy, healthy, and productive workplace dynamic.

This article was researched by UK print company Where The Trade Buys, currently producing PPE for UK workplaces, education spaces, shops, the NHS and more. The company has also been involved in manufacturing face visors for NHS essential workers in the fight against Covid-19.

How Is Smart Technology Set to Transform the Automotive Industry?

By
Elaine Goetz
-

The automotive industry is laden with technological advancement — and always has been.

Whether it be for safety, entertainment, comfort, or innovation, you can be confident that manufacturers are working tirelessly to develop the latest bit of tech every single day.

In recent years, the focus for automotive giants around the world has been automation. Manufacturing innovation has given us so much in the past — what the future holds is almost unimaginable.

In a way, it is almost as if we are starting afresh, because the cars of the future will be so advanced we will barely be able to recognise them.

With this in mind, we thought we’d take a look at some of the smart technologies we can expect to see making an appearance before the end of the decade.

What we can expect

Vehicle to vehicle communication

In a perfect world, there would be no car crashes. Unfortunately, we cannot see into the future, and we cannot pre-empt what is around the next corner. But what if our cars could?

Vehicle-to-vehicle communication, or V2V systems as they are known, will “use dedicated short-range communications (DSRC), which are two-way wireless channels that enable V2V-equipped cars to communicate with each other at roughly 300 meters, and whose broadcast updates 10 times per second.”

Effectively, your car will have already spoken to a number of cars on the road ahead and calculated a plan for you, the driver, to avoid any potential collisions.

In most parts, it will revolutionise safety within cars thanks to the fact it will be able to detail when a car in front has run a red light, meaning it is unsafe for you to proceed. However, additional features will include the ability to warn drivers not to pass as there is a vehicle in front manoeuvring and there is abrupt deceleration ahead.

Reduced weight, reduced costs

For decades, it has been a desire of both motorists and manufacturers alike to reduce the weight of the vehicles we travel in.

In this department of innovation, there has already been rapid developments, but they were simply working to combat where weight gain had occurred in other areas. The 1967 Ford Fairlane 500 weighed only 19 pounds more than its 2017 Focus SE counterpart, while the 1967 Plymouth Fury III Wagon steps on the scales and comes in 15 pounds lighter than the 2017 Dodge Challenger.

Ford and BMW are just two manufacturers working to drastically decrease the weight of their automobiles, introducing more aluminium and carbon-fibre compounds. The Ford F-150, for example, has an aluminium body with a reduced curb weight of 698 pounds!

Not only does a lighter car save money when it comes to refuelling, it is also less damaging to the environment — meaning everyone’s a winner.

AR dashboard

Whether it be Back to the Future, one of the many Bond films, or any other film franchise which invoked a serious feeling of disbelief, you could almost guarantee that an augmented reality dashboard would work its way in somewhere. Now, the technology is set to make the leap from the big screen to the real world at last.

In effect, an AR dashboard would collate information from outside the vehicle, such as other moving objects and road conditions, and display them ahead of the driver on the windscreen. This removes the need for a driver to disturb their line of sight ahead.

The technology itself was used prominently when Pokémon GO was unleashed to the world back in 2016, but it is now used across many different platforms in many different industries.

German automotive giant BMW has been working to create a highly accurate camera and sensor system that will allow for the introduction of a full AR dashboard — displaying every bit of information that the driver could possibly need to know about the road ahead right in front of their eyes.

The smart technologies that we have already been gifted are nothing shy of amazing, but what the future holds for new cars is simply mind blowing. We are unsure when these advancements are going to come into play, but we are confident that when they do, they will transform the industry.

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