Standard & Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AA' long-term rating to Hawaii's $312 million series 2010DX general obligation (GO) bonds (Build America Bonds -- direct payment) and its 'AA' rating to the state's $222.325 million series 2010DY GO refunding bonds. At the same time, Standard & Poor's affirmed its 'AA' rating and underlying rating (SPUR) on the state's outstanding GO bonds and its 'AA-' rating on the state's outstanding certificates of participation (COPs). The outlook is stable.
"The rating reflects the state's well-established, proactive budget monitoring practices, including frequent revenue forecast updates," said Standard & Poor's credit analyst Paul Dyson. "Declines in tourism-related metrics and revenues, construction spending, and other related economic activity have led to lower general fund tax revenue growth rates, but management has been willing to implement aggressive solutions to mitigate the effects."
The series DX bonds are being issued to fund various public improvements, while the series DY bonds are being issued to refund various outstanding GO bonds.
After sustained economic expansion between 2003 and 2007, when many sectors performed at record levels, Hawaii's (population 1.3 million) economic trends decelerated and, in many cases, turned negative in 2008 and 2009. Job counts fell 1% in 2008 and a 3.4% decline was realized in 2009. State officials project an additional decline in 2010 but indications are that it will be a less than 1% decline, followed by growth in 2011. However unemployment, at 6.9% in December 2009, was still well below the national rate of 10%. This 6.9% rate now ranks Hawaii as the 15th lowest nationally. Since 2003, Hawaii's unemployment rate has generally been 2%-3% below the national rate. Personal income growth in Hawaii ranked it fourth nationally during the first nine months of 2009. The state's median household income is what we consider strong at 121% of the national average.
RELATED RESEARCH
USPF Criteria: GO Debt, Oct. 12, 2006
Complete ratings information is available to RatingsDirect on the Global Credit Portal subscribers at www.globalcreditportal.com and RatingsDirect subscribers at www.ratingsdirect.com. All ratings affected by this rating action can be found on Standard & Poor's public Web site at www.standardandpoors.com. Use the Ratings search box located in the left column.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Thai Credit Retail Bank to Re-Emphasize Its Brand as ‘Retail Bank’ and Its ‘99% Retail Portfolio’ Positioning
The Thai Credit Retail Bank (TCRB) shows appreciation towards a report on deposit and loan proportion that surpasses the target despite the world’s economic setback. Thai Credit Retail Bank is also re-emphasizing its brand as a ‘Retail Bank’ employing a ‘better opportunity better life quality for the happiness of Thai people of all ages’ strategy in order to accentuate its strength by developing the exceptionally financial products and services that are different from the other banks’. It also states that, in 2010, it will make a more aggressive move, aiming to increase the size of a new-customer base to 61%.
Mongkon Leelatum, chief executive officer and managing director of Thai Credit Retail Bank Co., Ltd. revealed that the year 2010 is the 4th year of the Thai Credit Retail bank’s operation. In the past year, Thai Credit Retail Bank has proved its operational ability by expanding its business intensively and continually a whole year. Regardless of world economic recession, it brought in the total revenue of 88%. The growth rate of deposits is 51%, compared to last year’s (end of 2008): 99% of them are customers with financial amount less than 10 million baht; average deposit per account is 437,000 baht. The growth rate of loans is 72%: 99% of them are customers with personal loan size less than 10 million baht; average loan size per account is 200,000 baht while the NPL rate is only 1.47%.
“Such a remarkable growth of Thai Credit Retail Bank and positive feedbacks from our clients reflects our marketing strategies, innovative products and financial services that perfectly match the needs of retail customers. We are satisfied with our past performance especially during the challenging time caused by economic fluctuations and drastic competitions. The year 2010 is going to be another challenging year. However, we are certain that, with our adept operational management, core-valued staff as the bank expected which are Team spirit, full of Credibility, Result Oriented and Best Service that will contribute to Thai Credit Retail Bank’s non-stop growth”.
Mongkon also mentioned that the strategy that will propel the business to its goal is ‘customer-centric’ one. Therefore, he put a great emphasis on new financial products and services for retail customers in order to answer the needs that vary upon economic circumstances and current situations. This is to render ‘better opportunity better life quality for the happiness of Thai people of all ages’. Up until now, Thai Credit Retail Bank’s most popular deposit products are the tax-free account with 4% interest and the Plus Account, the saving account which has a high liquidity and high interest, compared to a normal savings account as the interest will be deposited to customer’s account on monthly basis.
“While the most popular loan products are Gold for Cash, Home for Cash, Auto for Cash, SMEs, SE, leasing, home credit, etc,. These Thai Credit Retail Bank products are crafted to enhance its clients’ life quality by offering a happy way of paying back the debts.”
In addition, Thai Credit Retail Bank has instilled its retail positioning by taking over the Thanaban Co., Ltd., a motorcycle leasing company which possesses the 4th market share in Bangkok Metropolitan and its vicinity, to expand a retail customer base.
The 2010 operation plan is still focusing on the expansion of retail customer base. The expansion target of loans including SMEs, leasing, gold, home credit and personal is set to 60% and the deposits 43%. This year, Thai Credit Retail Bank is planning to launch a few new products which are completely different from other banks. They will be mainly about a better life quality and giving opportunity or offering a better option to customers. Besides, in the first half of this year, Thai Credit Retail Bank will launch 4 brand new branches located in Seacon Square, Ngam Wong Wan, Bangkapi and Pathumthani area seek for more business network alliances in order to accommodate a customer’s need for financial transaction. A previous cooperation that becomes successful is the nationwide ‘easy deposit convenient withdraw’ campaign done in conjunction with Thailand Post and Krung Thai Bank.
In addition to the operation plan, Thai Credit Retail Bank is also placing importance on its human resources. It provides special trainings such as gold inspection starting from basic to expert and core of how to serve customers professionally. It also open door for ‘young bloods’, who are ready to grow with the organization, to show their vigorous forces.
Mongkon Leelatum, chief executive officer and managing director of Thai Credit Retail Bank Co., Ltd. revealed that the year 2010 is the 4th year of the Thai Credit Retail bank’s operation. In the past year, Thai Credit Retail Bank has proved its operational ability by expanding its business intensively and continually a whole year. Regardless of world economic recession, it brought in the total revenue of 88%. The growth rate of deposits is 51%, compared to last year’s (end of 2008): 99% of them are customers with financial amount less than 10 million baht; average deposit per account is 437,000 baht. The growth rate of loans is 72%: 99% of them are customers with personal loan size less than 10 million baht; average loan size per account is 200,000 baht while the NPL rate is only 1.47%.
“Such a remarkable growth of Thai Credit Retail Bank and positive feedbacks from our clients reflects our marketing strategies, innovative products and financial services that perfectly match the needs of retail customers. We are satisfied with our past performance especially during the challenging time caused by economic fluctuations and drastic competitions. The year 2010 is going to be another challenging year. However, we are certain that, with our adept operational management, core-valued staff as the bank expected which are Team spirit, full of Credibility, Result Oriented and Best Service that will contribute to Thai Credit Retail Bank’s non-stop growth”.
Mongkon also mentioned that the strategy that will propel the business to its goal is ‘customer-centric’ one. Therefore, he put a great emphasis on new financial products and services for retail customers in order to answer the needs that vary upon economic circumstances and current situations. This is to render ‘better opportunity better life quality for the happiness of Thai people of all ages’. Up until now, Thai Credit Retail Bank’s most popular deposit products are the tax-free account with 4% interest and the Plus Account, the saving account which has a high liquidity and high interest, compared to a normal savings account as the interest will be deposited to customer’s account on monthly basis.
“While the most popular loan products are Gold for Cash, Home for Cash, Auto for Cash, SMEs, SE, leasing, home credit, etc,. These Thai Credit Retail Bank products are crafted to enhance its clients’ life quality by offering a happy way of paying back the debts.”
In addition, Thai Credit Retail Bank has instilled its retail positioning by taking over the Thanaban Co., Ltd., a motorcycle leasing company which possesses the 4th market share in Bangkok Metropolitan and its vicinity, to expand a retail customer base.
The 2010 operation plan is still focusing on the expansion of retail customer base. The expansion target of loans including SMEs, leasing, gold, home credit and personal is set to 60% and the deposits 43%. This year, Thai Credit Retail Bank is planning to launch a few new products which are completely different from other banks. They will be mainly about a better life quality and giving opportunity or offering a better option to customers. Besides, in the first half of this year, Thai Credit Retail Bank will launch 4 brand new branches located in Seacon Square, Ngam Wong Wan, Bangkapi and Pathumthani area seek for more business network alliances in order to accommodate a customer’s need for financial transaction. A previous cooperation that becomes successful is the nationwide ‘easy deposit convenient withdraw’ campaign done in conjunction with Thailand Post and Krung Thai Bank.
In addition to the operation plan, Thai Credit Retail Bank is also placing importance on its human resources. It provides special trainings such as gold inspection starting from basic to expert and core of how to serve customers professionally. It also open door for ‘young bloods’, who are ready to grow with the organization, to show their vigorous forces.
Friday, January 29, 2010
New Trade Landscape Emerging for Asia’s SMEs
FedEx-Commissioned Research Reveals Trade Opportunities for Asia’s SMEs Increasingly Linked to Burgeoning Demand from China’s Domestic Market And to Unrealized Potential of FTAs
FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world's largest express transportation company, today released the findings of new research which reveals the challenges and opportunities for Asia’s Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) emerging from the financial crisis towards economic recovery. The study shows that while cost controls remain crucial to survival, SME exporters may benefit from both new sources of consumer demand within Asia, and from the rising volume of trade within the region—especially if more advantage is taken of its many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Entitled “Towards the Recovery: Challenges and Opportunities facing Asia’s SMEs,” FedEx Express commissioned the research from The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The report is based on interviews with corporate officers at SMEs, regional experts and a review of recent studies published by leading authorities, including the Asian Development Bank and national governments in the region.
“Small and medium sized enterprises, which comprise 95% of businesses in the Asia Pacific region and employ nearly 80% of the workforce, play a critical role in the region’s economy and will be vital in its recovery and growth in 2010,” said David L. Cunningham Jr., president, Asia Pacific, FedEx Express.[1] “With demand in the West making a slower recovery than Asia’s rapidly improving economic outlook, this report provides SMEs in the region with an understanding of the new trade dynamics that are emerging here. As a facilitator of trade, we believe the report’s insights will help SMEs to evaluate these new opportunities and tap into the regional recovery underway in Asia.”
One of the report’s key findings examines how SMEs stand to benefit from two new interlocking dynamics within the economies of the Asia Pacific region. The first is a need to rebalance economies in the region to reduce their reliance on consumers in developed Western markets and turn their attention towards domestic demand.
The second is intra-regional trade, by which SMEs in smaller markets in Asia may take advantage of increasing consumer demand in the region’s developing giant economies, namely China.
Against a backdrop of slow economic recovery in the West, Asian SMEs would benefit from an emerging customer base within the region. There are signs that China may be able to provide this, as its middle class becomes wealthier and policy makers seek to rebalance its economy away from a reliance on exports and towards domestic demand.
In fact, in the first three quarters of 2009, China’s retail sales grew by 15.1% year-on-year, almost as fast as before the financial crisis. The buoyant Chinese economy has the potential to anchor a new region wide trade dynamic, with China not just an assembly point for exports to Western markets, but as a final destination for goods from other Asian countries.
“Throughout this decade we have witnessed the flow of goods into China as it has acted as the assembly line for the region, and then exports out of China to the West. This research shows that Asian consumerism is a force that will lead the region back to prosperity,” Mr. Cunningham said. “FedEx is committed to assisting SMEs seek out emerging trade opportunities within and across the Asia Pacific region through our intra-Asia network which connects 22 major cities. Coupled with our flexible services we can help position SMEs to be even more competitive in today’s rapidly changing business environment.”
Linked to this trend of increasing intra-regional trade is the proliferation of Free Trade Agreements (FTA) that have been signed over recent years in an effort by Asian economies to promote more trade with each other. As of mid-2009 these economies concluded 54 FTA’s among themselves and with countries outside the region. Most recently, an FTA between China and the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) went into effect on January 1st, 2010. This will create a common market of some 1.7 billion people and under the agreement, 90% of goods traded between China and ASEAN’s six richest member states now enjoy zero tariffs.
The trade preferences offered by FTAs represent a major opportunity for SMEs in the region to grow their cross border business. However, the research points to the fact that many SMEs, with their limited resources to handle multiple tariff schedules and document requirements, do not yet know how to make use of FTA provisions. It is clear that better official guidance and information is necessary if SMEs are to take advantage of Asia’s evolving trade dynamics.
“FedEx is a supporter of any act or process that facilitates trade,” Cunningham said. “Confusing customs regulations, duties and taxes remain one of the biggest barriers for SMEs in accessing international markets, which is why FedEx offers dedicated software solutions that help small business expand their reach quickly and simply.”
One such example is FedEx Global Trade Manager, an online tool that simplifies international shipping by identifying the documents needed for shipping to more than 200 countries. The free, online resource even calculates various taxes and duties needed in the process.
“We commissioned this research recognizing the importance of SMEs to the region’s economy and also to the future development of the express market. Today’s international exporters are not major multinational companies, but small businesses,” Cunningham said. “FedEx helps small business owners go global from day one through greater access and its tailored portfolio designed to meet the unique needs of SMEs with personalized services, innovations, tools and discounts focused on value, reliability, reach and service. It is particularly satisfying to see these services as being increasingly relevant in Asia’s changing economies.”
FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world's largest express transportation company, today released the findings of new research which reveals the challenges and opportunities for Asia’s Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) emerging from the financial crisis towards economic recovery. The study shows that while cost controls remain crucial to survival, SME exporters may benefit from both new sources of consumer demand within Asia, and from the rising volume of trade within the region—especially if more advantage is taken of its many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Entitled “Towards the Recovery: Challenges and Opportunities facing Asia’s SMEs,” FedEx Express commissioned the research from The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The report is based on interviews with corporate officers at SMEs, regional experts and a review of recent studies published by leading authorities, including the Asian Development Bank and national governments in the region.
“Small and medium sized enterprises, which comprise 95% of businesses in the Asia Pacific region and employ nearly 80% of the workforce, play a critical role in the region’s economy and will be vital in its recovery and growth in 2010,” said David L. Cunningham Jr., president, Asia Pacific, FedEx Express.[1] “With demand in the West making a slower recovery than Asia’s rapidly improving economic outlook, this report provides SMEs in the region with an understanding of the new trade dynamics that are emerging here. As a facilitator of trade, we believe the report’s insights will help SMEs to evaluate these new opportunities and tap into the regional recovery underway in Asia.”
One of the report’s key findings examines how SMEs stand to benefit from two new interlocking dynamics within the economies of the Asia Pacific region. The first is a need to rebalance economies in the region to reduce their reliance on consumers in developed Western markets and turn their attention towards domestic demand.
The second is intra-regional trade, by which SMEs in smaller markets in Asia may take advantage of increasing consumer demand in the region’s developing giant economies, namely China.
Against a backdrop of slow economic recovery in the West, Asian SMEs would benefit from an emerging customer base within the region. There are signs that China may be able to provide this, as its middle class becomes wealthier and policy makers seek to rebalance its economy away from a reliance on exports and towards domestic demand.
In fact, in the first three quarters of 2009, China’s retail sales grew by 15.1% year-on-year, almost as fast as before the financial crisis. The buoyant Chinese economy has the potential to anchor a new region wide trade dynamic, with China not just an assembly point for exports to Western markets, but as a final destination for goods from other Asian countries.
“Throughout this decade we have witnessed the flow of goods into China as it has acted as the assembly line for the region, and then exports out of China to the West. This research shows that Asian consumerism is a force that will lead the region back to prosperity,” Mr. Cunningham said. “FedEx is committed to assisting SMEs seek out emerging trade opportunities within and across the Asia Pacific region through our intra-Asia network which connects 22 major cities. Coupled with our flexible services we can help position SMEs to be even more competitive in today’s rapidly changing business environment.”
Linked to this trend of increasing intra-regional trade is the proliferation of Free Trade Agreements (FTA) that have been signed over recent years in an effort by Asian economies to promote more trade with each other. As of mid-2009 these economies concluded 54 FTA’s among themselves and with countries outside the region. Most recently, an FTA between China and the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) went into effect on January 1st, 2010. This will create a common market of some 1.7 billion people and under the agreement, 90% of goods traded between China and ASEAN’s six richest member states now enjoy zero tariffs.
The trade preferences offered by FTAs represent a major opportunity for SMEs in the region to grow their cross border business. However, the research points to the fact that many SMEs, with their limited resources to handle multiple tariff schedules and document requirements, do not yet know how to make use of FTA provisions. It is clear that better official guidance and information is necessary if SMEs are to take advantage of Asia’s evolving trade dynamics.
“FedEx is a supporter of any act or process that facilitates trade,” Cunningham said. “Confusing customs regulations, duties and taxes remain one of the biggest barriers for SMEs in accessing international markets, which is why FedEx offers dedicated software solutions that help small business expand their reach quickly and simply.”
One such example is FedEx Global Trade Manager, an online tool that simplifies international shipping by identifying the documents needed for shipping to more than 200 countries. The free, online resource even calculates various taxes and duties needed in the process.
“We commissioned this research recognizing the importance of SMEs to the region’s economy and also to the future development of the express market. Today’s international exporters are not major multinational companies, but small businesses,” Cunningham said. “FedEx helps small business owners go global from day one through greater access and its tailored portfolio designed to meet the unique needs of SMEs with personalized services, innovations, tools and discounts focused on value, reliability, reach and service. It is particularly satisfying to see these services as being increasingly relevant in Asia’s changing economies.”
Sunday, January 24, 2010
“Mew” Lalita – latest presenter of Protex soap – urges Thai families to stay protected from harmful bacteria
Colgate-Palm Olive (Thailand) Co., Ltd. hosts a major press conference of the year to introduce the latest presenter of Protex soap Mew Lalita Sasiprapa, famous professional actress and professional mother, whose important duty is to take care of her 2 young sons “Nong Plankton” Sasidech and “Nong Eton” Sakdidech. She will be calling on all Thai mothers to keep their families protected from harmful bacteria with the use of Protex soap in the latest TV commercial entitled “The Little Scientist”, which already recently be aired nationwide.
Mr. Corrado Jiaquinto, Marketing Director of Colgate-Palm Olive (Thailand) Co., Ltd., disclosed that this year Protex wanted to encourage Thai people to pay more attention to the heath of their skins in order to help reduce exposure to various epidemics. “We have planned out an effective communications strategy for this important campaign - by selecting Mew Lalita Sasiprapa as our presenter to help convey the message of caring to all the Thai families. I personally believe that the effort in trying to make communications understandable and clear through famous presenter and creative television commercials can certainly encourage Thai consumers to realize the importance of skin caring. The new present and TV commercial series will be able to contribute to the growing sales of Protex this year,” he explained.
“Our latest TVC entitled The Little Scientist comes with a plot that focuses on stimulating parents to promote safe development of learning skills of their children. It is always good to see children going out and experiencing new things in the outside world. And with Protex as the guardian, the children are certainly kept protected from the harmful bacteria,” he said.
“Mew” Lalita Sasiprapa, the latest presenter for Protex added that she loved to see her children learning new things by themselves and engaging regularly in outdoor activities. “That is why getting dirty is something inevitable. I would want my children to enjoy learning new things but at the same time I must learn how to keep them protected from the harmful germs and my answer is simply Protex. I choose Protex to keep Nong Plankton and Nong Eton protected while enjoying themselves with new knowledge and discovery. I use Protex shower cream that has been clinically tested in the United States for optimum protection against build up of bacteria to keep my 2 little scientists germs free,” she explained.
Protex soap is developed for skin protection with anti-bacteria agent for optimum cleaning efficiency. The product, with Dermatologists tested, comes in 6 different formulas namely Fresh Formulas – Fresh and Icy Cool; Moisturizing Formulas – Propolis and Aloe; Special Formulas for skin protection - sun care and Protex Deo 12 for deodorizing efficiency.
Mr. Corrado Jiaquinto, Marketing Director of Colgate-Palm Olive (Thailand) Co., Ltd., disclosed that this year Protex wanted to encourage Thai people to pay more attention to the heath of their skins in order to help reduce exposure to various epidemics. “We have planned out an effective communications strategy for this important campaign - by selecting Mew Lalita Sasiprapa as our presenter to help convey the message of caring to all the Thai families. I personally believe that the effort in trying to make communications understandable and clear through famous presenter and creative television commercials can certainly encourage Thai consumers to realize the importance of skin caring. The new present and TV commercial series will be able to contribute to the growing sales of Protex this year,” he explained.
“Our latest TVC entitled The Little Scientist comes with a plot that focuses on stimulating parents to promote safe development of learning skills of their children. It is always good to see children going out and experiencing new things in the outside world. And with Protex as the guardian, the children are certainly kept protected from the harmful bacteria,” he said.
“Mew” Lalita Sasiprapa, the latest presenter for Protex added that she loved to see her children learning new things by themselves and engaging regularly in outdoor activities. “That is why getting dirty is something inevitable. I would want my children to enjoy learning new things but at the same time I must learn how to keep them protected from the harmful germs and my answer is simply Protex. I choose Protex to keep Nong Plankton and Nong Eton protected while enjoying themselves with new knowledge and discovery. I use Protex shower cream that has been clinically tested in the United States for optimum protection against build up of bacteria to keep my 2 little scientists germs free,” she explained.
Protex soap is developed for skin protection with anti-bacteria agent for optimum cleaning efficiency. The product, with Dermatologists tested, comes in 6 different formulas namely Fresh Formulas – Fresh and Icy Cool; Moisturizing Formulas – Propolis and Aloe; Special Formulas for skin protection - sun care and Protex Deo 12 for deodorizing efficiency.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
ETIHAD TO JOIN SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL USERS GROUP
Etihad Airways has joined the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group (SAFUG), an airline-led industry working group established in 2008 to accelerate the commercialisation and availability of sustainable biofuels.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: ““Etihad recognises the need for step-changes in aviation to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and meet our industry’s carbon reduction goal. We also recognise that any fuel alternatives must be morally, socially and environmentally acceptable, while not compromising the future sustainability of the aviation industry.”
SAFUG members are bound by stringent criteria for the development of non fossil fuels, including the following:
The development of plant sources must be undertaken in a manner that is non-competitive with food, with biodiversity impacts minimised and without jeopardizing drinking water supplies. The total lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from plant growth, harvesting, processing and end-use should be significantly less than that from fossil sources. In developing economies, development projects should include provisions or outcomes that improve socio-economic conditions for small-scale farmers and their families and that do not require the involuntary displacement of local populations. High conservation value areas and native eco-systems should not be cleared and converted for jet fuel plant source development.
Each SAFUG member has pledged to work through the Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), a global multi-stakeholder initiative consisting of leading environmental organizations, financiers, biofuel developers, biofuel-interested petroleum companies, the transportation sector, developing-world poverty alleviation associations, research entities, and governments.
“Abu Dhabi, our home base, has itself made a strong commitment towards sustainability and in the promotion of renewable energy through the establishment of Masdar City, which will the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency,” Mr Hogan said.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: ““Etihad recognises the need for step-changes in aviation to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and meet our industry’s carbon reduction goal. We also recognise that any fuel alternatives must be morally, socially and environmentally acceptable, while not compromising the future sustainability of the aviation industry.”
SAFUG members are bound by stringent criteria for the development of non fossil fuels, including the following:
The development of plant sources must be undertaken in a manner that is non-competitive with food, with biodiversity impacts minimised and without jeopardizing drinking water supplies. The total lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from plant growth, harvesting, processing and end-use should be significantly less than that from fossil sources. In developing economies, development projects should include provisions or outcomes that improve socio-economic conditions for small-scale farmers and their families and that do not require the involuntary displacement of local populations. High conservation value areas and native eco-systems should not be cleared and converted for jet fuel plant source development.
Each SAFUG member has pledged to work through the Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), a global multi-stakeholder initiative consisting of leading environmental organizations, financiers, biofuel developers, biofuel-interested petroleum companies, the transportation sector, developing-world poverty alleviation associations, research entities, and governments.
“Abu Dhabi, our home base, has itself made a strong commitment towards sustainability and in the promotion of renewable energy through the establishment of Masdar City, which will the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency,” Mr Hogan said.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Bleach as a multi-purpose disinfectant
Bleach is commonly known and used in our everyday life as a stain remover for clothes, but its applications don’t just end there. Because bleach is a solution that contains sodium hypochlorite, it has the properties of an ideal disinfectant for both home and offices, keeping appliances, utensils, and floors clean and germ-free.
According to Mr. Suthee Asawathamkitti, Haiter Bleach Category Manager, Consumer Product, Kao Commercial (Thailand) Co., Ltd., our everyday life makes us prone to infection of various diseases. It is therefore necessary to ensure sanitary condition in household and workplace with special focus on points of commonly touched surfaces, such as door knobs, handrails, computers, and telephones, etc. because they are where germs spread from one person to another. For good hygiene and to prevent spread of diseases, disinfection of these surfaces is highly recommended.
“Public health authorities in the US encourage people to use bleach that we use in the household as disinfectant for points of shared contacts and surfaces cleaning in order to prevent spread of influenza, because bleach is a sodium hypochlorite solution that kills both bacteria and viruses. By diluting the solution in water, bleach offers an excellent surface cleaning application – it kills 99.99% of germs and serves as a budget alternative to dedicated disinfectant products***,” he tells.
To use bleach in as a cleaning agent and disinfectant for surfaces of appliances and utensils, dilute it in water at a ratio of 1:100, moisten a piece of cloth with the water mixture, wipe the surfaces and leave it for a while for disinfection effect, then wipe the surfaces once again with cloth moistened with plain water. As safety precautions, always wear gloves when using bleach and do not apply it on metal and paint finish.
Disinfect your desk and computer to reduce risk of infection
Your desktop is one of the best places for germs to grow because it is one of the most often-touched areas. Disinfecting the desk surface with diluted bleach can kill germs on your desktop. Firstly, clean the surface well, then dilute ½ bottle cap of bleach in a liter of water, wipe the desk surface with cloth moistened with this mixture, and clean the surface once again with water moistened with plain water.
Keep household items and utensils in hygienic, germ-free condition
Immerse household items and utensils, such as hand towels, cleaning clothes, dish clothes, bins, baskets, plastic boxes, etc. in a mixture of ½ bottle cap of bleach and 1 liter of plain water. Leave the items for 30 minutes then rinse them in plain water.
Ensure odor-free, germ-free refrigerator, kitchen cupboard, and wardrobe
Dilute 1/6 bottle cap of bleach in 1 liter of plain water, dip a piece of cloth in the mixture, wring out the water, then wipe it on the surface to be disinfected. Wipe the surface again with cloth moistened with plain water.
Make home and balcony flooring a hygienic zone
Prepare the floor surfaces by cleaning them with plain water first, then dilute 3 caps of bleach in 5 liters of water, or ½ caps of bleach in 1 liter of water, wash or wipe the surfaces with cloth moistened with the water mixture, leave them for 10 minutes, rinse the floors and wipe them with dry cloth.
Give your clothes odor-free, germ-free cleanliness
Bad odor of clothes can result from many factors, such as poor washing and cleaning, dampness, and germs, especially bacteria growing in damp spots of the clothes. The solution is easy: immerse the clothes in water with detergent and bleach for 5-15 minutes before washing them normally to make the clothes germ-free.
In addition to its basic applications as stain remover and odor killer, bleach can keep places clean and germ-free. To demonstrate how bleach can be used as a disinfectant, Haiter Bleach was in a campaign for prevention of pandemic influenza and to keep various places safe from the H1N1 virus when the spread was at its height early in the year. The campaign focused on disinfecting schools and communities with use of bleach because these places are key areas where the virus spread.
For more information, please visit http://www.kao.com/th/news/news_detail33.html
According to Mr. Suthee Asawathamkitti, Haiter Bleach Category Manager, Consumer Product, Kao Commercial (Thailand) Co., Ltd., our everyday life makes us prone to infection of various diseases. It is therefore necessary to ensure sanitary condition in household and workplace with special focus on points of commonly touched surfaces, such as door knobs, handrails, computers, and telephones, etc. because they are where germs spread from one person to another. For good hygiene and to prevent spread of diseases, disinfection of these surfaces is highly recommended.
“Public health authorities in the US encourage people to use bleach that we use in the household as disinfectant for points of shared contacts and surfaces cleaning in order to prevent spread of influenza, because bleach is a sodium hypochlorite solution that kills both bacteria and viruses. By diluting the solution in water, bleach offers an excellent surface cleaning application – it kills 99.99% of germs and serves as a budget alternative to dedicated disinfectant products***,” he tells.
To use bleach in as a cleaning agent and disinfectant for surfaces of appliances and utensils, dilute it in water at a ratio of 1:100, moisten a piece of cloth with the water mixture, wipe the surfaces and leave it for a while for disinfection effect, then wipe the surfaces once again with cloth moistened with plain water. As safety precautions, always wear gloves when using bleach and do not apply it on metal and paint finish.
Disinfect your desk and computer to reduce risk of infection
Your desktop is one of the best places for germs to grow because it is one of the most often-touched areas. Disinfecting the desk surface with diluted bleach can kill germs on your desktop. Firstly, clean the surface well, then dilute ½ bottle cap of bleach in a liter of water, wipe the desk surface with cloth moistened with this mixture, and clean the surface once again with water moistened with plain water.
Keep household items and utensils in hygienic, germ-free condition
Immerse household items and utensils, such as hand towels, cleaning clothes, dish clothes, bins, baskets, plastic boxes, etc. in a mixture of ½ bottle cap of bleach and 1 liter of plain water. Leave the items for 30 minutes then rinse them in plain water.
Ensure odor-free, germ-free refrigerator, kitchen cupboard, and wardrobe
Dilute 1/6 bottle cap of bleach in 1 liter of plain water, dip a piece of cloth in the mixture, wring out the water, then wipe it on the surface to be disinfected. Wipe the surface again with cloth moistened with plain water.
Make home and balcony flooring a hygienic zone
Prepare the floor surfaces by cleaning them with plain water first, then dilute 3 caps of bleach in 5 liters of water, or ½ caps of bleach in 1 liter of water, wash or wipe the surfaces with cloth moistened with the water mixture, leave them for 10 minutes, rinse the floors and wipe them with dry cloth.
Give your clothes odor-free, germ-free cleanliness
Bad odor of clothes can result from many factors, such as poor washing and cleaning, dampness, and germs, especially bacteria growing in damp spots of the clothes. The solution is easy: immerse the clothes in water with detergent and bleach for 5-15 minutes before washing them normally to make the clothes germ-free.
In addition to its basic applications as stain remover and odor killer, bleach can keep places clean and germ-free. To demonstrate how bleach can be used as a disinfectant, Haiter Bleach was in a campaign for prevention of pandemic influenza and to keep various places safe from the H1N1 virus when the spread was at its height early in the year. The campaign focused on disinfecting schools and communities with use of bleach because these places are key areas where the virus spread.
For more information, please visit http://www.kao.com/th/news/news_detail33.html
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Makeover for M&S as profits stay flat
Marks and Spencer will begin selling grocery and household products featuring top brand names across all of its stores in Britain alongside its ownlabelled goods.
Alongside news of flat first-half profits,Marks and Spencer said it would break with tradition and start selling products such as Coca-Cola fizzy drinks, Kelloggs cereals and Persil washing powder in a bid to improve sales.
"Marks & Spencer announces today that it is to sell a selected range of around 400 branded grocery and household products in all of its UK stores," the company said in a statement.
Company chairman Stuart Rose said the change would make it "so much more convenient" for customers to purchase their goods in just one shop.
The announcement comes as M&S said net profits rose just half-a-percent to ฃ224.3 million during the first six months of its financial year.
Alongside news of flat first-half profits,Marks and Spencer said it would break with tradition and start selling products such as Coca-Cola fizzy drinks, Kelloggs cereals and Persil washing powder in a bid to improve sales.
"Marks & Spencer announces today that it is to sell a selected range of around 400 branded grocery and household products in all of its UK stores," the company said in a statement.
Company chairman Stuart Rose said the change would make it "so much more convenient" for customers to purchase their goods in just one shop.
The announcement comes as M&S said net profits rose just half-a-percent to ฃ224.3 million during the first six months of its financial year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)