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With companies across the world now back in full swing, many will be gathering to set out their objectives for the year ahead and establishing crucial roadmaps for how to achieve this. Therefore, this month we are celebrating a whole range of companies which have taken the new year by storm and are already working towards their goals for 2024. For many, this is reflected in sustainability goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and work towards establishing a future for their respective companies, local communities, and the environment.
Almost all of the companies we look at this month are moving into the new year with innovation as a primary focus. This innovation may be to build technologies, solutions, or services; however, the central goal is to make their operations add value to global industries whilst also respecting the planet. We see this critically from SBM Offshore which is meeting the global demands of the energy sector by creating new and innovative solutions to make energy and its subsequent infrastructure more accessible and renewable.
We then return to Newmont Corporation looking critically at the company’s mining operations in South America including the Pueblo Viejo Mine in the Dominican Republic which is one of the world’s largest gold assets. We got to see how the jointly owned project has made strides towards sustainability with the conversion to natural gas at the site’s Power Plant, with the hope of helping the two companies achieve their sustainability goals.
Furthermore, this month we also look at some essential companies in the energy and petroleum industries, a vial mining project bringing development to Australia and a range of port and shipping companies which are helping to manage pivotal ports across the planet.
Overall, we loved getting to see how all of these companies are stepping into the new year and we look forward to seeing what 2024 holds for them all. We wish you all well for the year ahead and look forward to bringing you yet another year of great articles on some of the biggest companies and projects across the world.
by Carley Fallows
Asia/Oceania
Australia Celebrates Denmark’s Queen Consort
Following the abdication of Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, her son, Crown Prince Frederik was made king and his Australian-born wife Queen consort. Queen Margareth II abdicated looking to bring in the next generation of Denmark’s royals, with a focus on future-proofing the royal institution for Denmark symbolically.
The appointment of her son Crown Prince Frederick as her heir, alongside his wife has brought a new sense of ambassadorship to the country as the queen consort is Australian. Whilst she renounced her citizenship many years ago, her role as an Australian in Denmark’s royal family is being widely celebrated by Australians.
Cutting Cancer Drug Costs in India
Currently close to 2 million cancer cases are reported every year in India. However, many patients have to pay for healthcare themselves with only a little assistance from insurance or government schemes and many live in rural areas away from the bulk of healthcare resources. Therefore, receiving treatment for many patients has proved to be a difficult and costly experience.
This has seen some hospitals such as Cachar Cancer Centre in the state of Assam bulk buy treatment drugs to bring down the cost for its patients by over 85%. This reduction has seen an increasing number of patients travel to the centre for affordable treatment, but it highlights a growing problem across India for cancer treatment costs. However, the work at the Cachar Cancer Centre is hoped to show more small practices and healthcare providers ways of reducing cancer treatment costs which in turn is hopes to make treatments more readily available at an affordable price for patients across the country.
Japan Makes Contact with Moon Lander
Following the complicated landing of the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (Slim) aircraft on the moon, the craft had to be turned off for a week in an attempt to recover its battery supply. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (Jaxa) responsible for landing the craft on 20th January decided to cut off the landers power supply to conserve energy because Slim landed with its solar cells pointing away from the sun - so could not effectively recharge alone until the angle of the sun changed. However, Jaxa announced that they had reestablished contact with the rover and that the glitch had been fixed. Since the connection has been reestablished, the lander has been taking images of the moon’s surface, with the aim of analysing the composition of rocks to understand the origin of the moon. The technology used to land the slim craft could be utilised for future exploration of the hilly moon poles, which are thought to be a potential source of fuel, water, and oxygen.
Africa
Ghanaian Chef Breaks World Record in Cook-A-Thon
Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak spent more than 227 hours cooking as part of her cook-a-thon in an attempt to break the current world record. The current record stands at 119 hours and 57 minutes and was completed by Alan Fisher.
With the support of the local community of Tamale, Failatu attempted to break the world record whilst cooking a whole range of delicious foods. After she completed her attempt at the record, she left with an emotional salute to the people who had gathered to see her take the title.
Her team have now sent evidence of her cooking challenge to the Guinness World Records board who are yet to confirm whether she has officially broken the previous record.
Photography Putting Young Black Africans at the Heart of Wildlife
The Wild Shots Outreach (WSO) program is a blackrun organisation working to connect local schools to get more young black South Africans interested in conservation through photography. The programme is taking students through Kruger National Park and its surrounding areas where they will encounter and hope to take pictures of wildlife living there.
The program began as many people who live close to some of South Africa’s largest natural reserves have never seen some of the wildlife that the land has to offer, instead seeing these animals is often reserved only for tourists on safaris. The program has now had over 1,300 local residents take part and has continued to see schools across the local area take part to inspire its young people to get to the heart of wildlife.
Builders in Mozambique Cyclone Proofing Homes
With the rate of natural disasters continuing to rise across the world with hurricanes, flooding and cyclones causing widespread devastation builders in Mozambique are reinforcing homes to withstand the extreme winds and rain of cyclones. 5 years ago Mozambique was hit by Cyclone Idai, which left builder José Joaquim and his family terrified as the winds blew away the metal roof sheets of his home and cracked his door in half.
Cyclone Idai resulted in 1500 people’s lives lost and left roughly 3 million affected by the cyclone’s effects across Mozambique and its neighbouring countries. Therefore, José Joaquim, who studied civil engineering, has been working to build roofs which are specifically designed to withstand extreme winds and torrential rain. Joaquim has now helped Young Africa to build more than 130 houses across two sites which are designed to provide people with more protection should another cyclone. These homes were given to people who lost their lives during Cyclone Idai.
Americas
Plane Makes Emergency Landing
Just 6 minutes into an Alaskan Airline flight from Portland Airport, the plane was forced to make an emergency landing in the US State of Oregon after an outer section of the plane fell off. The section of fuselage left a large hole in the plane which quickly depressurised the cabin. Thankfully, the plane had only reached 16,000ft when it began its emergency descent according to flight tracking data. No people on board were injured, however, it is reported that a child has their shirt sucked off of them and out of the hole in the plane.
Following the incident, all Boeing 737 Max 9 sets were grounded to inspect for what caused the section of the plane to fall off. It is thought the unused cabin door was not bolted in place properly as the ‘plug’ door is not intended to be opened. It is currently being investigated to see if it was a fault or a manufacturing error.
Fuel Prices in Cuba Set to Soar
Cuba has been experiencing a key economic crisis and increasing fuel shortages over recent months. However, the Cuban government has announced that fuel prices are also set to increase which is thought to bring further economic pressure for many across the country. From February, prices are expected to rise from 25 pesos per litre of petrol to 132 pesos.
The government, which subsidises many goods across the country, are implementing the petrol price hike in the hope of reducing its deficit. The finance minister also said the price of diesel, electricity prices and natural gas are also set to see a price increase. However, many have spoken out across the country that fuel prices are making car ownership, in a place where very few can afford cars already, an even more impossible feat.
Kansas City Chiefs face San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl 58
Following the Kansas City Chiefs defeating the Baltimore Ravens at home 17-10, the returning champions are again back at the Super Bowl hoping to take the title again following their win over the Eagles there last year.
Their opponent will be the San Francisco 49ers who had a late victory against the Detroit Lions. The 49ers were behind going into the second half but managed to pull back a win scoring 17 points in 8 minutes to draw the game level with the Lions. Then in the final 10 mins, the 49ers drew ahead with a final score of 34-31.
If the Chiefs are to win the Super Bowl 58 it would be their third NFL Super Bowl title in the space of 5 years and would make them the second team to win the Super Bowl for 2 consecutive years. The Super Bowl 58 is set to take place on 11th February in Las Vegas.
Middle East
Medicine Arrives in Gaza from Qatar
Following the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, medicine has now entered Gaza according to Qatar. Under the agreement mediated by Qatar medication would be delivered to both Israeli hostages currently being held by Hamas and Palestinian civilians.
The Gaza Strip is currently facing severe medicine and medical supply shortages, which according to UNICEF has led to operations being performed without anaesthesia. The situation is dire for civilians with the United Nations’ emergency relief chief reporting that hundreds of thousands are starving across Gaza. Whilst aid has been slowly entering the strip via two border crossings in the South, agencies are warning that it is not enough.
Turkey Approves Sweden’s NATO Bid
Parliament in Turkey has in recent days approved Sweden’s NATO Membership following hours of debates. The decision came after a 20-month-long delay but is expected to be signed into law in the coming days. Turkey’s approval leaves just Hungary to approve both Sweden and Finland’s bid to join NATO. Both of these applications began in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine almost 2 years ago.
Turkey approved Finland’s bid in April making the country the 31st member of the NATO alliance. Finland’s membership has doubled NATO’s border with Russia and is thought to strengthen the defences of the nations bordering Russia.
First Alcohol in Saudi Arabia in 70 Years
Saudi Arabian officials have opened a shop in Riyadh which will sell alcohol to diplomatic staff. Previously these expats had to import alcohol sealed in official diplomatic packages. The store will be in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter; however, it is reported that to use the shop diplomatic staff will need to register beforehand and receive clearance from the government. In addition, no one under the age of 21 will be allowed in the store and they will always need to be in proper attire. Buyers will also have to enter the shop themselves instead of a proxy, and monthly limitations will be set.
There are no current thoughts that the clientele of the shop would be opened to foreigners without diplomatic privileges who officially have no access to alcohol in the country. However, drinkers should be mindful of where alcohol is consumed, as the country does have strict laws surrounding alcohol possession and consumption.
Europe Volcano in Iceland Erupts
Seismic activity on the Reykjanes peninsula has been frequent over the last 5 years, with another eruption reported last month close to the fishing town of Grindavik. People from the local community were evacuated from their homes due to a big increase in seismic activity, which resulted in an eruption the day after. The eruption took place only 450 metres from the town, with a second crack opening just a few hours later on the edge of town. As the lava slowly crept towards the fishing village, houses began to be engulfed by fire. At least 3 homes are thought to have been lost to the flame as seismic activity remains ever-changing along the peninsula.
Norway Approved Deep-Sea Mining
Norway is the first country in the world to have approved commercial-scale deep-sea mining. In a bill passed early last month, the country will accelerate the hunt for precious metals which are increasingly in demand for green technologies. The plan currently only concerns Norwegian waters, but it is thought that an agreement on international waters could also be reached in the coming months.
However, the move to deep-sea mining has been a controversial one for many environmentalists. Environmental scientists have warned it could be devastating for marine life as the process required to harvest minerals from the sea floor could generate significant noise and light pollution. This could also cause damage to the habitat of organisms on the sea floor. EU and UK governments have called for a ban on the practice of environmental damage. The Norwegian government has said it would only begin issuing licences once further environmental studies were carried out.
Plastic Pellets Wash Up On Coast
Small plastic pellets began arriving on the coast of Northern Spain over the last month believed to have fallen from a vessel operated by the Danish company Maersk. The plastic pellets are used most commonly to manufacture goods such as plastic bottles and are all less than 5mm wide. The size of the pellets makes them extremely difficult to clean up, leaving volunteers meticulously combing through the sand and water with sieves. The worst affected areas are around the Galician port town of Noia.
Public prosecutors have opened an investigation into the spill, which is feared that it could soon spread further along the northern coast. The pellets are made of PET plastic which is non-toxic, however, they still bring environmental fears that they may endanger wildlife and pose a great threat to the fishing industry.
As the energy demand continues to soar across the globe, companies such as SBM Offshore are working to create new and innovative solutions which hope to make energy more accessible. However, SBM Offshore is doing this by harnessing the ocean to move the world towards a future of renewable energy. SBM Offshore utilises its vast expertise across the sector to bring energy to some of the world’s biggest cities whilst constantly working to protect to planet and its people.
To achieve carbon neutrality across the energy sector, SBM Offshore uses its technological expertise to design, build, install, and operate offshore floating facilities across the worldwide energy industry. According to SBM Offshore, twothirds of the world’s cities are located near a shoreline, therefore the need for energy solutions on coasts has the potential to bring significant local prosperity. However, a key focus for SBM Offshore is harnessing the natural power of the ocean to bring energy to local communities whilst not putting these communities or the environment at significant risk. This attention to protection and energy infrastructure building is what positions SBM Offshore as such a significant player in the future of energy development.
SBM Offshore specialises in a range of offshore deepwater solutions including floating production storage and offloading (FPSO), oil and gas production operations and installation services, offloading terminals, TMS LNG, wave converters and floating offshore wind terminals. It has positioned itself at the top end of the FPSO market and deals with some of the largest and most complex projects in the sector. SBM Offshore focuses on using innovation to deliver high-performance solutions which always aim to meet and exceed its client’s expectations, often going beyond what is available across the market. Its deepwater systems work to tackle unique sets of engineering challenges and make energy infrastructure possible through its comprehensive research and development teams.
A key pioneering strategy of SBM Offshore’s operations is its Fast4Ward program which includes its Multi-Purpose Floater (MPF). The MPF is a generic hull which can accommodate an internal turret, external turret, or spread-mooring solution to facilitate topsides for increased production capacity. The Fast4Ward program has been designed to transform its operations by reducing the cycle time to energy delivery by de-risking projects and improving the quality and safety of its solutions. Therefore, the resulting energy solutions produced by SBM Offshore are paving the way towards future generations of FPSOs across the energy sector.
The Fast4Ward program hopes to add value to its clients’ operations by improving the economics of their deep-water projects which in turn will lower break-evens. To achieve this, SBM Offshore has leveraged its experience by standardising its designs to improve execution of multiple projects which has knock-on benefits across the deepwater
Connecting the future: Cables International leads the global market through innovative cable management
Becoming the world’s leading supplier of specialty cables for the marine and offshore sectors is no mean feat. Yet with more than 50 years of experience, research, and innovation behind them, Cables International have firmly established themselves as global market leaders. Their history, however, is only part of the story. Today, the company’s exceptional range of partnerships has allowed Cables International to continue building momentum: a steadfast customer-centric focus provides a continuous impetus to pioneer new, creative solutions.
One such partnership, namely with the Prysmian Group, has resulted in Cables International’s marketleading offering of offshore cables.
Required to deliver reliability and quality results in the harshest environments, these cable solutions provide high-performance power, instrumentation and control systems. Offshore oil and gas locations all around the world are served from Cables International’s distribution centers in Singapore, Malaysia, China, Australia and Dubai.
Meanwhile, Cables International’s extensive range of cable cleats from industry leaders Ellis Patents has been designed specifically to meet the gruelling needs of the energy sector.
As a matter of course, the design is driven by safety, and the products are measured against stringent quality standards. Designed for heavy-duty use, they can be relied upon consistently in the most testing environments.
While safety and longevity are at the core of Cables International’s entire product offering, these design pillars also support one of their core values – sustainability. The first industrial company in Southeast Asia to achieve carbon neutrality, they are strongly committed to maintaining an environmental focus throughout their business and supporting their customers in their own sustainability goals.
Sustainability, in fact, forms a key part of Cables International’s strategic partnership with SBM Offshore, a global frontrunner in the supply and installation of Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels and a pioneer in developing a sustainable and affordable energy source from the world’s oceans. Significant collaborations to date include the supply and installation of cables for the FPSO Almirante Tamandaré, Mero 4 and FPSO One Guyana.
These products provide enhanced protection against the intense forces associated with short circuits, pulling and slamming that are often found in industrial environments. Manufactured from superior metallic and composite materials, the components have international industryappropriate certifications, making them a vital addition to any high-risk, high-load energy installation.
Similarly, through working closely with cable specialists Tecnikabel and APS Finland, Cables International’s portfolio of telecommunications cables now satisfies the widest range of customer requirements and meets or exceeds the strictest international standards. Reliable and longlasting performance is thus a given no matter the conditions.
In addition to offshore cabling solutions and cable cleats, Cables International also provides plugs and sockets, an offering that the company has diversified and honed with expert support from partner Marechal Electric.
A crucial factor in making the collaboration run smoothly has been Cables International’s flagship program, Cable Management Solutions. This service guarantees that a customer’s cables and wiring are carefully devised, exactingly installed, and meticulously overseen, ensuring that every system works at maximum efficiency from day one. The company’s team of experts offers support with every aspect of design, engineering, procurement, installation, and ongoing maintenance for all kinds of cable management systems, providing regular and detailed communication with customers throughout the entire process.
Through their continued focus on developing productive partnerships and anticipating customers’ needs, Cables International have earned their place at the head of the cable industry. With so many changes, developments, and innovations happening throughout the sector, however, they refuse to leave space for complacency. Look out for more exciting news from Cables International in the coming year. www.cablesinternational.com
SBM Offshore
solution industry due to their repeatability. In addition to this, SBM Offshore has worked to seamlessly incorporate digital solutions into its offshore solutions, which allows its models to constantly improve their performance whilst also remaining continually optimized for the specific needs of its client’s operations. At present, SBM Offshore has completed the construction of two Fast4Ward hulls with more planned in the future.
In addition to this, SBM Offshore has its Ocean Infrastructure program which delivers value platforms that are safe and sustainable, whilst also creating a more affordable energy solution. This includes a fleet which has been made increasingly efficient by SBM Offshore to lower the carbon footprint of its solutions and produce a leading uptime and safety track record. Therefore, SBM Offshore leads the market with its leased FPS solutions and currently has multiple units in operation across the globe which continue to provide the company with a unique breadth of operations experience across the energy sector.
However, everything that SBM Offshore does is framed by climate change mitigation which can be seen throughout its operations with its strong commitments to net-zero by building facilities and infrastructure in a carbon-reduced way. A key way SBM Offshore does this is through its emissionZERO program which aims, as the name suggests, to
achieve near-zero emissions from its operations. To do this SBM Offshore has set targets in line with the net-zero emission of its key stakeholders and continues to develop products in an emissionreducing way. This is seen in its continued product developments which not only provide a platform for stakeholder engagement but uses the development of its FPSOs to show the energy industry what is possible when strict emission targets are put into place across such a global company. Its Fast4Ward programs are the foundation of this for SBM Offshore.
Furthermore, SBM Offshore remains committed to these carbon-neutral goals through its 3 key strategy pillars of environment, social and governance. As we have seen, in terms of the environment, SBM Offshore is continually investing in energy-efficient technologies whilst also working to bring environmentally friendly solutions to a global market. In addition, the company continues to work closely with its suppliers to encourage innovation and ensure that sustainable solutions encompass its supply chains at every level. We see this in its zero-emission solution for hydrocarbon production which, as the company moves towards the future, is hoped to continue to create value for all of its stakeholders as it leads the market with carbon-zero energy solutions.
Additionally, SBM Offshore fosters a safe and inclusive environment where the people are at the heart of its every function. The company aims to inspire and empower people by focusing on strict guidelines on workplace health, safety and security, community relations, human rights, diversity, and inclusion. It is this keen focus on its people that has earned SBM Offshore global recognition as a responsible corporate citizen. In turn, those who choose to use SMB Offshore as their energy solutions provider, know they are working with a company that has a reliable reputation as a reliable and supportive partner across international markets.
Throughout SBM Offshore there is a strong commitment to achieving high operation performance which focuses on a value-based approach. This approach prioritizes strong leadership, clear decision-making processes, effective communication between management and stakeholders, as well as strong ethics and
SBM Offshore
compliance. All of these factors are part of the company’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement which helps it achieve operational excellence and consistently high-quality solutions. As the company moves towards the future, it has continued to incorporate digitalization into its operations and governance to help it remain ahead of the curve. However, what remains the same about SBM Offshore is its central values of integrity, care, entrepreneurship, and ownership which can be seen throughout every single aspect of its operations.
As SBM Offshore looks towards the future its key focus is on its new-build FPSOs with oil production volumes of up to 250,000 barrels per day which previously was the focus of the Fast4Ward FPSO. The large conversion FPSO with an oil production volume of up to 150,00 barrels per day will rival traditional FPSO markets as it continues to convert oil tankers to FPSOs. Furthermore, SBM Offshore will continue to take a selective approach to market opportunities
with a key focus on the main FPSO markets in Brazil and Guyana where the majority of low breakeven oil-price prospects are concentrated. In addition, SBM Offshore continues to develop its business across the globe which hopes to see up to 35 FPSO projects reach a Final Investment Decision (FID) between 2021 and 2023.
Overall, SBM Offshore continues to strive to keep pushing the boundaries across the energy sector to produce solutions which respect the planet whilst also bringing essential energy infrastructure to coasts across the globe. What separated SMB Offshore from its competitors is it commitment to sharing its experience with the industry to continually deliver safe, sustainable, and affordable energy solutions from the oceans which can provide essential energy for many generations to come. We look forward to seeing how SBM Offshore continues to develop the offshore energy industry and continues to show the industry how crucial sustainability is in the energy sector.
Newmont Corporation
Newmont Corporation is home to a vast portfolio of world-class assets, prospects and talent operating across multiple mining jurisdictions spanning the globe, from the Americas, Australia, and Africa. Newmont is a world-leading gold mining company, with many favourable operations also producing copper, silver, zinc, and lead across the globe. However, Newmont is focused on creating value throughout its operations by following strict safety standards, superior execution regulations and a leading level of technical proficiency that has established it as a leading player in the international mining sector.
Newmont began its operation focusing on the natural resources industry that mines gold, copper, silver, lead, zinc, lithium, uranium, coal, nickel, and various aggregates, as well as helping facilitate key developments in the oil and gas industry. However, today thanks to its continued development since it began publicly trading in 1925, Newmont now has a portfolio that is unmatched across the mining industry with more than half of the world’s Tier 1 assets, including many long-life operations, value-accretive projects, abundant exploration opportunities and world-class talent. This is why it is the only gold producer now listed on the S&P 500 Index. The company’s assets, prospects and people have allowed it to continue to expand its reach across the globe, as it continues to work to create value and opportunities for its shareholders, host communities and employees across every mining operation.
A central mining area for Newmont is in South America where its operations continue to develop the regions on both local and international scales through value-adding mining operations which support employment opportunities across the region. A key site for gold mining for Newmont is the Pueblo Viejo mine in the Dominican Republic. The mine operation is located 100km northwest of Santa Domingo and began construction in 2005, with commercial production beginning in 2013. The site is one of the largest gold assets in the world, however, it also produces silver and copper. The Pueblo Viejo Mine project is jointly owned by Barrick Gold Corporation and Newmont Corporation, with Newmont having a 40% ownership in the project. The site includes two open pits, a processing plant, and a storage facility which is operated by Barrick Gold Corporation.
The Pueblo Viejo Mine project has a 97% Dominican workforce as part of the jointly owned operation’s desire to ensure that all of its operations are creating value for the people that their mining projects affect. By employing a largely Dominican workforce, the companies are making the most of the expertise on the ground and providing those closest to the operations with economic development and growth through employment at the mine site and subsequent processing operations.
To make the Pueblo Viejo Mine project more sustainable the mine’s Quisqueya 1 Power Plant
Mining done right.
Since 2008, BGC Engineering has supported the Pueblo Viejo (PV) gold mine located in the Dominican Republic, northwest of the capital city, Santo Domingo. PV is operated by the Pueblo Viejo Dominicana Corporation—a joint venture between Barrick (60%) and Newmont (40%).
BGC’s work on PV includes site investigations, feasibility studies, construction monitoring, and Engineer of Record services for a tailings impoundment that contains conventionally slurried tailings. More recently, we have begun site investigation for a new tailings impoundment to provide required storage for expanded reserves.
Our global experts serve the mining industry from exploration to closure, focusing on the safe and resilient design, construction and operation of mine tailings facilities and open pits. BGC is committed to “mining done right,” delivering projects that benefit our clients and their stakeholders financially, socially, and environmentally. In collaboration with our clients, we aim to develop unique and innovative solutions to often complex problems.
bgcengineering.ca
Newmont Corporation
was converted to natural gas from fuel oil. This conversion took place in 2020 as a measure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% and nitrogen oxide emissions by 85%. This shift is just one way the mine site is hoping to continue to reduce its environmental impact because, for Newmont, operating in a way that respects the environment as much as possible whilst also using its operation to add value to the mined resources is crucial.
The mine operation at Pueblo Viejo announced just last year that the engineering design of the El Naranjo Tailing Storage Facility that operates within the mine operation will extend its life to 2040 and beyond. This continued development is expected to sustain gold production above 800 thousand ounces (Koz) per year (100% basis) going forward. The extension will require comprehensive engineering, environmental and community involvement, which is expected to be conducted over several years. The hope is that Pueblo Viejo will help to double its existing contributions to the Dominican Republic’s economy and continue to do so for many years to come.
Another key site of operation for Newmont is in Suriname at the Merian Mine. Newmont Suriname LLC is the fully owned subsidiary of the Newmont Goldcorp Corporation which operates the Merian Mine on behalf of Suriname Gold Project CV - a Suriname Limited partnership. Newmont Suriname owns a 75% interest in the limited partnership with Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., Suriname’s state-owned oil company, which owns the remaining 35% interest. The Merian Mine is an open pit mine for gold which began construction in 2014. The mine has a mine life of 12-14 years and is committed to partnering with the Surinamese government, the local population, the Pamaka community and the Kawina community, to create value and improve lives through sustainable and responsible mining practices.
As part of Newmont Suriname’s keen commitment to the local community through the Merian Mine,
it established a Community Development Fund (CDF) in 2016 with the goal of regularly contributing to sustainable projects which will benefit the Pamaka community. These projects have included providing drinking water, electrical supply, and agricultural projects to develop the local regions towards success. Furthermore, Newmont Suriname is currently in deliberation with the local Kawina community who have been impacted by the Merian activities to find a way that this community can also reap key benefits from Newmont’s mining activities within its community. Consequently, Newmont is committed to continuing its close engagement with government and local community members to advance the development of the project in a manner that will generate sustainable economic and social benefits for people across Suriname.
A further significant development for the Newmont Corporation in South America is in the Yanacocha Mine located 800 kilometres northeast of Lima, Peru. The project invested more than $1 billion in environmental and social responsibility projects between 1993 and 2012 and remains committed to investing in the local community for many years to come. The Yanacocha Mine is South America’s largest gold mine which is situated between 3,500 and 4,100 meters above sea level and has development activities in four primary basins. The mine is wholly owned by Newmont and remains one of its largest mining operations in South America.
Yanachocha is a surface mine, which poured its first gold ore bar in 1993 and has an annual gold production of 270 Koz. However, whilst being Newmont’s largest gold mine operation it is keenly concerned with creating profitable production that generates sustainable developments and opportunity for the region. It plans to do this through its key guiding values of integrity, trust and respect which saw it establish the Asociación Los Andes de Cajamarca (ALAC) to promote sustainable development in the Cajamarca region. The activities of ALAC are focused primarily on three areas: entrepreneurial development, institutional capacity building and human capital development. Through its ALAC organisation, it can focus on bringing greater development across health infrastructures and services, its farming initiatives, and its nonprofit farming organisation FONCREAGRO, all with the
Developing South America’s Mining Industry
combined aim of bringing economic development on a local and regional level.
The final key operation of Newmont in South America is in Argentina at the Cerro Negro project. The mine complex sits 600 metres above sea level on the low Patagonian plains in the southern part of the country. The complex includes 3 high-grade underground operating mines including Eureka, Mariana Central and Mariana Norte. However, the complex has many sites of development including 2 underground deposits being developed (Emilia and San Marcos), and 5 other deposits in latestage evaluation which are hoping to expand the existing operations in Mariana’s complex and establish operations across the eastern district. The Newmont Cerro Negro complex is a key site of development for the company with a vast range of deposits currently being developed to continue to bring Newmont and the local community in the province of Santa Cruz continued economic development.
These key mining operations in South America have established the vital role that the region
plays in developing the mining industry towards continued global success. We can see from all of its operations across the Dominican Republic, Suriname, Peru and Argentina that the central focus for Newmont is to develop, support and develop the mining industry in South America whilst always prioritising the impact its operations will have on local communities. By working with the local communities at each respective mine site, Newmont ensures that its operations are always positively impacting the people and the environment. The company’s focus on opening a dialogue and implementing employment opportunities, alongside its implementation of strict regulations and certifications for its operations, has ensured that every aspect of its mining remains governed by national and local environmental standards. We look forward to seeing how Newmont continues to develop its global reach, and specifically how it will develop its South American operations over the coming years as it continues to be a world-leading gold company.
RUBIS Caribbean
As one of the largest fuel suppliers in the Caribbean, RUBIS Caribbean has established itself over the last 20 years as a major player in the downstream petroleum sector across Africa, Europe and most importantly the Caribbean. It continues to be a leading supplier of premium petroleum for everything from day-to-day use to aviation, liquified petroleum gas (LPG) and lubricants across 13 countries in the English-speaking Caribbean.
Founded in 1990, RUBIS Caribbean began as a specialist in the downstream petroleum and chemicals sector. Through its range of bulk liquid storage facilities, it was able to store and supply petroleum products and chemicals suited to meet the needs of the people across the Caribbean. This operation was facilitated through the company’s subsidiary RUBIS Terminals. Consequently, as RUBIS Caribbean’s presence began to grow across the region, it quickly became a leader in the fuels distribution business which was facilitated predominantly through the company’s RUBIS Energie subsidiary.
Later in 2011, RUBIS Caribbean acquired the assets owned and operated by Chevron under the Texaco Brand across the eastern parts of the Caribbean which solaidified Rubis Caribbean’s position as a competitive player in the downstream business in countries such as Antigua, Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent, the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago. This acquisition added to the company’s already expansive role across Bermuda, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and French Guyana due to its previously acquired assets. Then in 2012, following further acquisitions of Chevron, RUBIS Caribbean also gained key assets in the Bahamas and the Cayman Islands, as well as the islands of Turks and Caicos.
What separates RUBIS Caribbean from its competitors is its dedication to constantly improving productivity and product technology to drive steady growth across the industry. RUBIS Caribbean has successfully optimised its fuel distribution with a focus on speed, safety, and efficiency. This focus has allowed RUBIS Caribbean to remain a key player across an expansive range of industries including automotive, home, business, aviation, shipping, marine, commercial, and industrial.
For local communities, RUBIS Caribbean offers a friendly service and premium products to keep vehicles driving longer, cleaner, better, and smoother. Its Ultra Tec gasoline and diesel have been designed to improve the performance of the engine as it is specially formulated to clean your vehicle’s engine values and combustion chamber to remove deposits whilst you drive. This means that customers get better fuel efficiency from
RUBIS Caribbean’s fuel which results in them saving money every day.
In a further effort to remain present across communities, RUBIS Caribbean has a range of Ultra Shops which provide a one-stop-shop for its customers to purchase ready-to-eat meals, snacks, drinks, and car care items. The Ultra Shops also provide a range of additional services such as ATMS and fast-food outlets to help provide convenient access to essentials throughout the region. In addition, RUBIS gas is the company’s liquid petroleum gas brand which provides LPG and composite bottles to households across the region which are perfect for cooking, grilling, or fuelling. This convenient presence throughout communities as the key provider of all fuel needs has highlighted RUBIS Caribbean as a key player across the Caribbean.
A key industry for RUBIS Caribbean is in aviation for which it is the leading supplier of premium aviation fuels servicing 19 airport locations. Its role in supplying the aviation industry is evidently significant as it is now a member of the
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Precision Build
Tampa Tank, now part of the Precision Build family, has over 60 years of experience in oil & gas products storage including turnkey fuel terminal projects. We are a global company and value our regional partners in the Caribbean. Committed to total customer satisfaction and project execution, Tampa Tank delivers unmatched quality and value, safely and on schedule.
BUILDING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TOGETHER
Throughout the Caribbean, Tampa Tank and Florida Structural Steel continue to bring their combined capabilities, expertise and experience to liquid storage and construction projects of all types and sizes, completing them on budget and on time.
International Air Transport Association (IATA) and it continues to serve as a strategic partner for many airlines. Furthermore, over the coming years, RUBIS Caribbean is expected to continue to invest in its aviation business with the hope of bringing storage, hydrant systems, and re-fuelling equipment across its operations. These developments will allow the company to enter into new aspects of the aviation industry and hope to expand its role as a leading aviation fuel supplier to even more locations across the Caribbean.
With its products shipped to a variety of destinations across the Caribbean, the company prides itself on being the fuel supplier of choice for many sectors across the region thanks to its reputation for safety and convenience. The RUBIS Shipping, Supply and Trading team are therefore responsible for ensuring that each of its 13 RUBIS
Markets across the Caribbean and Latin America are quickly, efficiently, and reliably supplied with diesel, gasoline, JET fuel oil (petroleum products) and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). For this RUBIS Caribbean maintains a continuously active fleet of vessels which are operating between suppliers and markets. The company has deployed 5 product and 2 LPG ships to help support its constant schedule as a key supplier of petroleum across the region. Consequently, RUBIS Caribbean are working to constantly ensure that every customer and market receives the same level of efficiency and care which has made them such a household brand for people across the Caribbean.
However, with such a vast operation across aviation, shipping, convenience, and business markets, RUBIS Caribbean are also keenly aware of the role it needs to play in the global shift towards carbon emissions. RUBIS Energie announced that it was committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 30% (from its baseline taken in 2019) by 2030. This commitment has been reflected across RUBIS Caribbean with a major focus on shipping and land-based fuel transport, which has seen the company begin operating some of its vessels with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) 100 as bunker fuel. This shift to fossil fuel-free diesel products made from raw materials is hoped to cut carbon emissions from 50% to 90% compared to traditional bunkering fuels. The use of HVO in these vessels should save roughly 500 metric tonnes per month of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere. This commitment to moving to alternative fuels signifies the company’s ongoing commitment to doing its part to protect and preserve the environment for many years to come.
Overall, RUBIS Caribbean continue to lead the downstream petroleum market across the Caribbean and Latin America. With petroleum operations across such a vast range of industries, from domestic everyday fuelling of cars and houses at petrol stations and convenience stores to working with large businesses and aviation companies as their key supplier, RUBIS Caribbean is now a household name for many across the region. However, the company remains committed to serving the community and the environment by implementing the global shift towards alternative fuels to continue to expand its reach across the fuel industry through its fleet, whilst actively working to reduce its environmental impact representing a more sustainable future for the petroleum industry.
Carnival Corporation and PLC
Providing travellers from around the world with life-changing vacations, Carnival Corporation and PLC is one of the largest cruise line groups in the world. With huge brands such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P+O Cruises (Australia and UK), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, and Cunard under the corporation’s umbrella, the company offers a wide variety of cruise options to suit any customer. Therefore, it is no surprise that every year nearly 13 million customers cruise with Carnival Corporation.
The corporation began operation in 1972 with just one second-hand ship, called the Mardi Gras, set on making a single trip from Miami to San Juan. The ship featured many innovative elements along with a thematic ambience that established the level of high-quality travel experience that many of the corporations’ brands focus on today. The success of this first initial voyage highlights the pioneering spirit and passion for travel which forms the basis of the corporation’s daily operations today.
Since the company was first founded, it has spent the last 50 years acquiring key cruise liners from across the world and now has representation in almost every market segment in the cruise industry. In 2004, Carnival Corporation combined with P+O Princess Cruises which created one of the first global cruise operators encompassing 12 highly recognisable brands. At the time this was one of the largest leisure travel companies in the world, which began to establish the corporation’s reputation as a leading cruise line provider.
With the continued acquisition of brands, the company now has 9 reputable and giant cruise line providers from across the globe under its umbrella. However, with all of these key cruise line brands, Carnival Corporation remains firm that each one keeps its own defined brand identity. This brand autonomy is what the company attributes a large amount of its success to because each one can focus its individual sales, marketing and reservation offers to specifically cater to its audience and geographical reach. This focus on brand autonomy is why the corporation is now a global leader in the cruise industry. Looking towards the future, Carnival Corporation aims to continue to innovate its fleets and deliver memorable vacations and borderless connections across the globe.
Throughout every single cruise operation under Carnival Corporation, the ports in which the vessels stop at are essential to keeping the industry running. Cruise ships under Carnival Corporation stop at over 700 ports around the world, where they receive vital reserves and maintenance via a range of ship-to-shore services. These include refuelling, handling, essential supplies replenishment, and facilitating excursions/security checks- to name just a few.
Los Cristianos
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
La Estaca
Santa Cruz de la Palma
San Sebastian de la Gomera
Palma La Gomera
Carnival Corporation and PLC
Ports of Tenerife:
Top cruise destination all year round.
The volcanic Canary Islands are one of the most well-known holiday destinations for Europeans, with a temperature fluctuating between 18 and 22oC all year round. But that is just one of the many reasons that make the Canary Islands one of the most popular destinations for cruise traffic, specially during the colder months of the year.
Tenerife island has two cruise ports: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the ideal port for homeport operations and Los Cristianos, located in the most touristic area of the island. On the other hand, the rest of the islands offer a wide variety of exotic destinations: La Palma island or “la Isla Bonita” -the Beautiful Island-; La Gomera island, last Columbus call before the America’s Discovery and El Hierro island, known as the end of the world by the ancient conquerors.
The islands are highly connected to Europe and the Spanish mainland through daily and direct flights to Germany, Great Britain, France, Italy, Finland, Belgium and more recently even to the vibrant city of New York in the US. And the list goes on. Due to these connections, Santa Cruz de Tenerife provides easy access to a wide range of excursions and experiences: the visit to El Teide volcano – where they will find the most spectacular views of the Canary Islands – and San Cristóbal de La Laguna – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites –, or feel like the locals the Carnivals of Santa Cruz de Tenerife – one of the best in the world – and the celebration of the “Día de Los Indianos”, which is held every year on Carnival Monday on the island of La Palma as the greatest tribute to its relationship with Cuba.
But not only this: you will be amazed, for example, under the clear sky of La Palma, chosen by the International Scientific Community as the headquarters of one of the most important Astrophysics Observatories from the Northern Hemisphere and the views of a newborn volcano. La Gomera, the history of the New World and its quaternary Laurisilva forest should not be missed, but also the “gomero whistle”, the hissing language to communicate through ravines. Finally El Hierro, an example of sustainability where the trade winds are the main source of energy and where you will be thrilled with ancient lizards and incredible sea bottoms ideal for diving.
YouTube: Autoridad Portuaria de Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The vital role ports play in keeping all cruise lines under Carnival Corporation running smoothly cannot be understated. Therefore, the company has partnered and established agreements with a range of ports and port authorities across the globe. A significant existing agreement is with The Port Authority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the busiest cruise ports in the Canary Islands, which is visited by AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Lines, Princess Cruises, Seabourn and P+O Cruises UK under the Carnival Corporation umbrella alone. Therefore, Carnival Corporation maintains strong ties to the port authority and its port services as it continues to be a vital stop for many of its cruise ships and so allows the company to continue to offer great holiday excursions in the Canary Islands.
Under Carnival Corporation is its own Carnival Cruise Line which is the leading provider of yearround cruises to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Mexico from America, with seasonal cruises to Canada, New England, Alaska, Hawaii, Bermuda, and Europe. Carnival Cruise Line is a leader in contemporary cruising focusing its 23-ship fleet on providing fun and memorable vacation experiences designed for all the family at a great price. With over 180 rooms with 11 different categories of
suite options, you are sure to find a restful night’s sleep to suit your vacation needs and price point. Its vessel line includes the Mardi Gras, which was introduced in 2021 and is the first cruise ship in North America to be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG). This ship represents the gradual move by Carnival Corporation towards a more sustainable future for the leisure and tourism industry.
A key cruise line under Carnival Corporation is Princess Cruises which began operations in 1965. The company is now a world-leading international cruise liner and tour company with a fleet of 15 modern cruise ships. Travelling to 330 destinations around the globe including the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada, New England, Antarctica, and world cruises. This expansive offering includes over 170 different itineraries with options ranging from 3 to 11-day trips. Each ship is designed with the culture, colours, and flavours in mind of the countries the voyage will be visiting to provide its customers with an immersive quality experience.
The Holland America Line has been in operation for over 145 years and today under Carnival Corporation has 10 spacious, mid-sized ships visiting more than 425 ports of call across over 100 countries around the world on all 7 continents. The ships are known for their immersive culinary experiences and extensive wine selections along with highly acclaimed brand partnerships across
Carnival Corporation and PLC
the ship’s entertainment. In recent news, Holland America Line’s cruise offers will be extended to 11 countries between September 2025 and April 2026, with a strong focus on Japan where it will visit 24 different ports. The development will offer visits to Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam, and will further expand Carnival Corporation’s offerings across the globe. The luxury brand behind Carnival Corporation is Seabourn which is known as a luxury resort at sea. Seabourn has only 3 vessels in its fleet, however, the reduced passenger size ensures an intuitive personalised service for every guest. It is the youngest company in the luxury segment of the cruise industry but prides itself on having an industry-leading crew which are known for its experience and excellence in expedition travel. Customers on board the Seabourn vessel can make the most of spacious all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views, and experience awardwinning gourmet dining and premium food and drink every night. The ships travel to every continent on the globe, making more than 400 port visits to top cities as well as off-the-beaten-track gems which are handpicked by its expert travel itinerary teams, across Europe, Asia, the South Pacific Island, Australia, New Zealand, the Americas and Antarctica.
Costa Cruise Lines represents Europe’s leading cruise liner under the Carnival Corporation which visits more than 260 ports worldwide. The 12 contemporary ships across its fleet are deployed throughout the Mediterranean Sea, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, Brazil, Argentina, the Arabian Gulf, and the Indian Ocean. Trips with Costa Cruise lines cover anywhere between 7 to 20-day trips, with exotic sailing trips from 20-30 days. The company is also the leading cruise line in China and also has a world voyage itinerary option. Throughout Costa Cruise Line’s voyages pampering on board and top voyage destinations has made them a leading cruise liner
for many across Europe to experience the finest of what the continent has to offer. In 2019, Cost Cruise Lines added the Costa Smeralda to its fleet which is the first vessel to use LNG both at port and at sea. This again highlights the innovative approach that is fostered across Carnival Corporation’s sphere to make the cruising industry more sustainable.
A final vital cruise line operator under Carnival Cruises is P+O Cruises. Under the Carnival Corporation is P+O Cruises UK and Australia. P+O Cruises UK is Britain’s cruise liner of choice. The brand is known for discovery, choice and relaxation offering every visitor a restful stay catered to British tastes. The ships are great for all the family with activities for kids, as well as adults-only lounges. P+O Cruises UK offers voyages to 200 destinations worldwide with 2-to-3-month options. In recent years, P+O Cruise UK added the Arvia vessel which is focused on the future of ship travel. The ship is the latest innovation for P+O and is designed to focus on the newest trends in travel, dining, and entertainment. Offering contemporary holidays, the Arvia has a SkyDome, 16 guest decks, the first
Cruising With The Best
altitude skywalk at sea experience, as well as a plethora of food and dining experiences.
Overall, Carnival Corporation and Plc is such a vast cruise line company which continues to expand its offerings to bring once-in-a-lifetime holiday offerings to customers all over the globe. The company remains focused on the vital role that the individual brands under its umbrella play in diversifying the tourism industry and innovating holiday options to suit every customer’s needs. However, Carnival Corporation is also highly focused on respecting and maintaining the relationships the company has with ports across the world as they help to keep cruise lines running smoothly. Furthermore, we have seen that many of the companies under Carnival Corporation are starting to shift towards using LNG to fuel their vessels, which is hoping to move the tourism and leisure industry towards a more sustainable future. However, one thing is for sure, no matter which brand you travel with under Carnival Corporation, you are sure to have the adventure of a lifetime supported by teams of people passionate about travel.
FOLKLORE AND RAINBOWS: THE SKÓGAFOSS WATERFALL
Written by Carley Fallows
Located on the Skógá River, the Skógafoss Waterfall is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland that has become a major stopping point for tourists visiting the beautiful surrounding landscape. The waterfall has a 60-metre drop and is 25 metres wide offering a wall of water that visitors can walk up to. However, the waterfall is shrouded in the mystical folklore of a giant’s treasure which continues to fascinate visitors from far and wide.
The giant waterfall has become a key stopping point on many self-drive tours and vacation packages across Iceland as many come to wonder at the wall of water as it cascades below. On the east side of the waterfall, visitors can hike and trek up the pass between the glacier of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull where you can take in the full beauty of the waterfall. Alternatively, you can walk directly up to the waterfall but be ready as the spray from the falls will leave you rather wet.
One of the magical wonders of the waterfall is that due to this volume of water a massive cascade spray is produced, so, as long as there is sunshine, the waterfall is covered in rainbows. Many tourists capture images showing multiple rainbows across the waterfall making this natural wonder just a little more beautiful.
However, behind the waterfall is a keen folkloric history which today is celebrated in the Waterfalls Skógasafn Folk Museum. In the museum, tourists can see old wooden and turf houses, as well as many artefacts from the area. But what is possibly more interesting is the golden ring on display. According to legend, the golden ring is from a chest that was owned by Þrasi Þórólfsson.
Þrasi Þórólfsson is believed to have been one of the first Viking settlers in the area, however, folklore indicates that he may have been a giant. The legend suggests that before his death in 900AD, he buried a chest filled with gold in the cave behind the Skógafoss Waterfall. Many attempts were made to find and retrieve the chest after Þórólfsson’s death, but none were successful.
Years later it is believed that locals did manage to find the chest. However, the legend states that as they grasped the golden ring on the side of the chest it broke off and the treasure was lost forever. The ring was given to the church and later passed onto the museum where it is currently on display for all those who come to visit the waterfall.
Overall, whether you’re planning on visiting the waterfall to marvel at the spectacular natural wonder or to see for yourself where the legend took place, you are sure to be hit with all the beauty that Skógafoss has to offer.
Located in Louisiana, The Port of Lake Charles is a deepwater seaport along the Calcasieu Ship Channel which runs north of the US Gulf Coast. Encompassing roughly 203 square miles of prime channel-side real estate, the port is now the 12th busiest across the nation and annually handles over 56 million tons of breakbulk and bulk cargo travelling along the channel. Therefore, the Port of Lake Charles continues to play a pivotal role in developing the economic landscape of Louisiana through vital cargo shipment and handling facilities.
The Port of Lake Charles is responsible for managing the Calcasieu Ship Channel which runs inland 36 miles and extends out into the Gulf of Mexico a further 32 miles. This Ship Channel drives almost $40 billion of the US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as it facilitates the shipment of cargo and materials across the Gulf Coast of America. Therefore, the Port of Lake Charles provides essential cargo and landlord services and today is regarded as the 14th busiest port district in the nation as ranked by the US Army Corps of Engineers based on tonnage.
The Port opened in 1926 following its authorization by Act 67 of the Louisiana Legislature just a few years earlier. The official title of the port upon opening is The Lake Charles Harbour and Terminal District, a title the port has kept to this day. However, since its origins the role of the port has continued to expand and now is annually responsible for helping the shipment of vital cargo such as forest material, aluminium ingots, grain, rice, petroleum and petroleum products, frac sand, and heavy lift project cargos. All of these cargos are handled by the port and delivered to the vital land logistical infrastructure across Louisiana.
The Port of Lake Charles is governed by a 7-member board of commissioners who are responsible for overseeing the 2 marine terminals and the 500 acres of property which make up the Lake Charles Harbour and Terminal District. Therefore, serving as the landlord to companies across the port property as well as various other leasable sites near the Calcasieu Ship Channel, the Port of Lake Charles plays an expansive and committed role in ensuring the development of the Louisiana region via the port’s services and land.
A key part of the Port of Lake Charles’ operation is in marine shipping. The port has developed a custom shipping solution which delivers big results for the shipping channel. This includes the City Dock Facility, where the majority of cargo operations take place. It includes 12 deep water berths, where cargo is offloaded or loaded. The berths have a projected depth of 35 feet (ft), with berth 8 having a depth of 40 ft which is used for bulk grain shipments. The facility also includes a 1.6 million square foot of covered storage for warehouse services. The City Dock Facility is located close to essential rail links
making it an ideal location to connect the port to the rest of the state and beyond.
The Port’s Bulk Terminal No.1 provides 7 acres of dry bulk terminals at the Rose Bluff Cutoff along the Calcasieu Ship Channel and can accommodate 2 vessels for loading and unloading. Furthermore, the terminal also operates 2 travelling ship loaders and 2 travelling clamshell bucket unloaders, these include a pet coke ship loader which can facilitate 3,200 short tons per hour, and a calcined coke ship loader with a capacity for 1,200 short tons per hour. Bulk Terminal No.1 provides vessel-tovessel, vessel-to-truck, or vessel-to-open storage solutions. Consequently, the terminal processes more than 3.1 million short tons of dry bulk material annually which includes petroleum coke, calcined coke, barite, rutile, and other dry bulk commodities. In addition, the port is home to Bulk Terminal No.4 which deals in aggregates and is leased to a private company. The Terminal has a 251ft dock face, which can extend to 355 ft with dolphins and has a depth of 35 ft to help move more than 1 million metric tons of imported aggregate annually.
Port of Lake Charles
The facilities at the port have been designed to deal in such high quantities of multiple different types of cargo including break-bulk, speciality, heavy-lift, and project cargo from industrial components to forest/lumber products. Whilst the port facilities help to optimise the efficiency of shipment across the terminals, the port is also in a great strategic location just 12 miles upriver from the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, is close to rail lines (Port Rail) and only 2.5 miles from an interstate. Therefore, the shipment of cargo from the port across land logistical services is made so much easier. Therefore, it is no surprise that the port trades with more than 70 countries around the world thanks to its reputation as the port of choice along the shipping channel.
As the company looks towards the future it is set on developing facilities at the Port of Lake Charles to cope with the $46 billion worth of pre-planned projects set to take place along the ship channel. This will add a further 90.8 million tons of cargo to the existing 56 million tons already travelling through the channel and port every year. The port has already begun inputting new port docks which can accommodate loads of 1500-2000 pounds per square foot, which is almost 4 times the strength of its current berths. This is part of more than $287 million in capital projects which are planned over
the next decade to expand the port’s role and capacity as it continues to be a key player in world trade and speciality cargo.
Another key development for the future is the opening of Cameron LNG (Liquified Natural Gas) Facility which will handle the exports of coke by-products from local petroleum refining, imported lumber, exported bagged and bulk grain, wind energy equipment, project cargo, limestone, rutile, barite, rubber, and chemical products. As this development will take place on the leased land of the Lake Charles Harbour and Terminal District, it will continue to establish the port as a key player for international shipping of cargo.
Overall, the Port of Lake Charles is home to one of the most pivotal ports along the Calcasieu Ship Channel and is responsible for developing a significant part of the Louisiana economy thanks to cargo shipment both into and out of the country. With key developments set to take place over the coming years to meet the growing demand for shipments along the Calcasieu Ship Channel, we look forward to seeing how the port’s facilities continue to expand and meet the needs of the future as a leading port and cargo terminal.
Operating the world’s largest transhipment hub, PSA Singapore provides unrivalled connectivity in the heart of Southeast Asia. PSA Singapore is a world-leading ports and terminals group which handled 37 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) of containers in 2022. Therefore, as the flagship terminal of PSA International, PSA Singapore leads the industry across the region providing handling, management, depot, and warehousing services to a whole range of container vessels.
PSA Singapore began as the Port of Singapore Authority, which was a statutory board responsible for regulating, operating, and promoting the Port of Singapore in the 1960s. However, in the 1970s its container port and handling facilities were established which over the next few decades saw expansive growth reaching 5 million TEU by 1990. By this point, Singapore was the largest container port in the world, and so in 1996, the regulatory functions of the original company were transferred to Singapore’s new maritime regulator, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). In 1997, the Port of Singapore Authority converted into an independent commercial company which kept the PSA initials and added Singapore removing the original acronym meaning. Since the container port and handling services began as the central focus for PSA Singapore, it has continued to expand and play a vital role in the overarching multinational PSA International group.
The core business of PSA Singapore is the movement of cargo from one vessel to another whilst in transit to its destination. This vital role is due to its strategic location at the heart of
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Southeast Asia, at the crucial crossing point of many major shipping routes. Therefore, the PSA Singapore has become an important hub for global supply chains as feeder vessels bring containers to the Port of Singapore which are then loaded onto larger vessels which are then taken on shipments to their final destinations.
This transhipment method is both costeffective and efficient because it allows vessels to make a single voyage to the port, rather than multiple journeys to each individual destination. Consequently, approximately 85% of the containers that arrive in Singapore are transhipped to another port of call, and so the role that PSA Singapore plays in facilitating and maintaining this system of transhipment can be felt across the local and international cargo industry.
Across PSA Singapore there are 55 berths at the Tanjong Pagar, Keppel, Brani and Pasir Panjang ports. These ports all are equipped with container handling equipment and have a combined capacity of 50 million TEUs. The largest facility is at the Pasir Panjang Terminals (PPT) which has 3 dedicated births and is supported by an open car yard and multi-storey car storage yard which accommodates 20,000 car park lots. In addition, PSA Singapore has its Jurong Island Terminal which is located on the western corner of Jurong Island and has 2 berth terminals with a capacity of 400 TEUs.
A significant part of the development of PSA Singapore is the Tuas Port which is currently under development to consolidate all the company’s container terminals into a single location on the western seaboard of Tuas. The finished port is planned to have an automated and integrated operations system which will be deployed to tackle the next generation of cargo demand. Construction of the first set of berths began in 2021 and is expected to be completed by 2040. The entire project is part of PSA Singapore’s vision to form a holistic ecosystem which will bring goods anywhere in the world faster and more reliably.
For PSA Singapore sustainability is not just an option but a responsibility. It is working constantly to ensure that in order for the business to retain its resilience and continue to grow without compromising the environment it has set out on a mission to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the next generation. It has committed to a range of targets which are in line with Singapore’s climate ambitions. A crucial step towards these initiatives came in a recent partnership between PSA Singapore and the Pacific International Lines (PIL). As announced this month, the two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop sustainable solutions to cut carbon emissions and optimise maritime efficiency. This includes the development of a set of low-carbon emission routes for containers shipped by both companies.
PIL is the largest home-grown carrier in southeast Asia with strong shipping links in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Oceania. As leaders in their respective industries, the partnership signifies a crucial move towards sustainability throughout the shipping industry. Mr Nelson Quek, Regional CEO of Southeast Asia for PSA International discusses the partnership between its flagship
Singapore division and PIL in the company’s recent press release, stating that “PSA is pleased to partner with PIL as we take the bold and essential step towards decarbonising the global supply chains that power our economy. We remain committed to working hand-in-hand with likeminded stakeholders as we spur concerted action towards our transition to a cleaner and sustainable future beyond the areas served by our ports”.
Therefore, this crucial partnership is set to drive change across the industry and allow each company to meet the common goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. It is these joint ventures with other respected stakeholders within the shipping and cargo industry, that have allowed PSA Singapore to develop its operations and establish itself as a crucial hub for these industries on a global scale. Through strategic partnerships, PSA Singapore continues to deliver productivity and efficient terminal services.
Overall, PSA Singapore has worked tirelessly over the last 50 years to move from a regulatory board into the world-leading ports and terminal group,
which has continued to expand across the globe. PSA Singapore plays a crucial role in an international network of port and container handling services both under PSA International, but also in the shipping industry as a whole. Consequently, through this work to develop its facilities and through strategic partnerships with significant stakeholders across the industry, PSA Singapore continues to foster a leading supply chain which is powered by its innovation, technology, and sustainable practices.
National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited
For many years, Trinidad and Tobago has been known as a vital player in the energy sector on both a national and international scale. This reputation has brought a wealth of economic development to the region, which is set to continue as the region has made big strides towards carbon reduction in line with the global shift towards more sustainable energy resources. A key player in the region’s energy industry and the global shift towards green energy is the National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (National Energy), which is committed to developing the sustainability of the energy sector through the advancement of gas and energy-based industries. To make these commitments possible, National Energy works to implement the necessary infrastructure to support this mission.
National Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of the government-owned National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (NGC), has spent the last 45 years developing the region’s energy sector. The company’s mission is to harness the potential of the region to produce a reliable and environmentally sustainable supply of energy for the benefit of its citizens. National Energy has made big strides towards the use of green renewable resources across the energy sector including the implementation of hydrogen energy resources. This is crucial for the company as green hydrocarbon energy already has begun to play a significant role in moving both the sector and the world towards a more sustainable future, and so National Energy is highlighting how Trinidad and Tobago are key players in facilitating this shift in the Caribbean.
National Energy was incorporated in 1979 and has over 4 decades of experience implementing vital infrastructure across Trinidad and Tobago’s energy industry to better serve its customers on both a local and international scale. However, today, the company’s central mission is to be the global leader in the development of sustainable energy-based industries by leveraging its expertise accumulated across the years, as well as from the ownership and operation of assets, to produce energy solutions for the future which focus on innovation, whilst optimising its strategic alliances and the wealth of market intelligence at its disposal.
For National Energy hydrogen is the future of energy services, and so the company has devised its own Green Hydrogen Roadmap. The plan is in collaboration with the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) which has set out a roadmap for a green hydrogen economy for Trinidad and Tobago. Through the development of its oil and gas infrastructure, National Energy is set on giving the nation a head start when it comes to establishing a hydrogen economy by developing its existing storage and export facilities. Therefore, the region will continue to play a major role as a natural gas exporter whilst it leverages its existing facilities and connections to attract investment from around the globe and exploit green energy carriers to ensure a future of sustainable economic growth.
For National Energy the natural first step towards developing the region towards alternative energy starts in developing energy efficiency of existing energy infrastructure. Consequently, the company is currently undertaking an Energy Services Company (ESCO) Programme which is looking at unlocking the full potential of all enterprises locally. The programme hopes to create an environment which spurs entrepreneurial activity, as well as job creation, whilst developing definitive feasibility energy efficiency programmes based on robust financial analysis to facilitate large-scale implementation of energy-efficient projects.
Current projects under National Energy include the Preysal Service Station, where renewable energy is integrated into the commercial operation of the business. The service station provides a full range of liquid fuels, compressed natural gas and electric vehicle charging via renewable energy. In 2021, a 100-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system was commissioned and installed at the service station to provide the facility with continued renewable energy resources. The entire design, procurement and supply of the system was facilitated by National Energy to continue its goal of significantly reducing carbon emissions by 2030.
National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited
Other projects include the development of the Brechin Castle Solar Farm as part of Project Lara. The solar farm will have an output power capacity of roughly 112 megawatts (MW) and is being developed by a consortium of Light Source BP, BP, and Shell. The Brechin Castle Solar Farm is the largest of two commercial projects under Project Lara and is hoped to save Trinidad and Tobago 123,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emission when operational. In addition to the solar field, National Energy has partnered with both the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) and the University of Trinidad and Tobago to build a one-of-a-kind solar house. The house is 732 square feet and is designed to meet the average energy needs of a household of 4-5 people. It is not connected to the national power grid and highlights the future of construction infrastructure to build properties which are entirely self-sufficient thanks to solar energy.
Due to the location of Trinidad and Tobago in a sunny climate, it is a great location to implement both solar and wind-powered energy infrastructure.
Consequently, to harness the power of the region’s location and to establish a strong and sustainable infrastructure for the future, National Energy continues to work with MEEI to implement renewable energy systems such as solar lighting at a range of schools and community centres. This highlights the role that National Energy continues to play in implementing key infrastructure for the benefit of citizens first. Furthermore, National Energy continues to invest in the community and the environment with a goal of 30% of the region’s electricity to come from renewable energy resources by 2030.
To facilitate the energy industry, National Energy has also developed 3 industrial estates which play a vital role in working with the region’s industrial ports to help in the delivery of oil shipments, plant components, LNG, and petrochemicals. The industrial estates have fully integrated infrastructure and utilities, with the La Brea Industrial Estate having its own deep-water port. Ports are vital to National Energy’s operations and so a significant part of its role is working with companies operating in the energy sector as these companies need dedicated ports for
the importation and exportation of materials and products. Consequently, industrial ports have been developed by the company to facilitate these shipments of vital fuel and components. Therefore, National Energy also facilitates a range of port activities including towage, management, and operation of 3 strategically located industrial ports (Port of Galeota, Port of Brighton and ISCOTT Dock).
Overall, National Energy has such a vast array of operations across Trinidad and Tobago as it works to make energy infrastructure secure for the future, all whilst implementing key measures to develop green energy resources from solar and wind to capture the geographical benefits of the region. All of the company’s operations can be seen to be working towards the global call for carbon reduction, and ultimately to bring benefits to both the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the environment. We look forward to seeing how National Energy continues to play a leading role in moving the region toward a green energy economy, as the world moves ever more towards carbon reduction.
Facilities
SURINAME DRYDOCK AND SHIPBUILDING COMPANY S.A.
One floating drydock of 50.00 x 22.00 x 1.60 meters with breadth of 18.00 meters between the wing walls and a lifting capacity of 1100 tons
One floating drydock of 30.00 x 13.40 x 1.22 meters with breadth of 10.05 meters between the wing walls and a lifting capacity of 150 tons
One slipway with a capacity of 100 tons and one for new buildings and repairs of vessels up to 600 tons with a length of 70.00 meters
One machine shop for repairing and machining of shafts, bearings and parts
One propeller shop for repairing several kinds of propellers such as manganese bronze, bronial, aluminum and stainless steel
The Gruyere Gold Mine Project
Western Australia is home to some of the largest gold deposits in the world and so the region boasts a range of low-cost, long-life mine sites and operations. One of the most notable gold mine operations in western Australia is the 50:50 joint venture between Gold Road Resources and Gruyere Mining Company (Pty.) Ltd. Gruyere Mining Company is a wholly owned Australian subsidiary of the larger Gold Fields company. The Gruyere Gold Mine Project takes advantage of one of Australia’s largest underdeveloped Archaean orogenic gold deposits to bring continued economic prospects to both the country and the companies for the future.
The Gruyere Gold Mine Project is a Tier 1 lowcost and long-life asset, which has a current expected mine life of 10 years. The mine project has 4.05 million ounces of ore reserves, and 6.69 million mineral resources (both with 100% basis). The deposit was first discovered by Gold Road in 2013 on the southern Dorothy Hills Trend and first poured gold in July 2019. The mine is estimated to produce more than 300,000 ounces of gold per year. Under the joint venture agreement, Gold Fields has been appointed the manager to develop and operate the mine operations, whilst Gold Road has retained its responsibility for the exploration of the joint venture investments.
Just a few years after pouring its first gold, the project has now grown to have 153 million tonnes grading 1.33g per tonne for 6.69 million ounces of contained gold. This makes it one of the largest virgin discoveries in all of Australia. In 2022 the Gruyere Gold Mine Project delivered a record annual gold production of 314,647 ounces of gold, to a total of 918,479 total ounces of gold yielded from the venture as of 31st Dec 2022 (both at 100% basis). Consequently, the project is set to become one of the nation’s deepest open-cut gold mines and announced in April 2023 that the Gruyere Life-ofmine plan set out by Gold Road Resources reaffirms the sustainable production of gold at a rate of approximately 350,00 ounces per annum through to 2030 as further developments of the mine complex continue to be explored.
Operations at the Gruyere Gold Mine currently focus on one main open pit which has been developed in stages to an approximate depth of 500m below the surface. Activities at the mine site currently include loading, hauling, drilling, and blasting. All of this work is carried out by the project’s existing mining contractor, MACA and an expansive workforce of roughly 490 people using largescale mining equipment. MACA carried out the bulk earthworks at the Gruyere mine, the first stage of the run-of-mine pad work and the construction of the tailings storage facility.
Furthermore, due to the remote nature of the mine site, a large majority of the workforce is required to commute to and from the mine every day. This commute includes a 90-minute flight bringing workers from Perth, or a regular bus service to bring
CONTRACTOR OF CHOICE AT GRUYERE
MACA is a trusted contract partner for the Gruyere Gold Mine project. With experience in a wide range of commodities our operating divisions improve your project economics at every stage of the mining cycle.
REHABILITATION
maca.net.au
those from more local communities. This bus takes roughly two hours and services local communities in Laverton and Cosmo Newberry.
In addition to mining activities, The Gruyere Gold Mine Project also includes a processing plant which has a capacity of 9.75 million tonnes per annum and treats oxide, transitional and fresh ores from the mine. The processing plant consists of a single storage gyratory crushing circuit, 14 MegaWatt (MW) semi-autogenous grinding (SAG) and a 15MW Ball Mill (SABC) grinding circuit, as well as gravity recovery. This processing also includes four 48” Knelson concentrators, a GEKKO In-Line reactor, a Pre-Leach thickener, one Leach and six Carbon-in-Leach (CIL) agitated tanks, split AARL elution circuit and a thickened downstream tailings storage facility.
Following Gold Road Resource’s announcement of the life of mine extension beyond 2030, the company is looking to further develop the mine operation to expand the existing operation into a 7-stage mine design. This development comes alongside the Gold Highway Project which is located roughly 25 kilometres west of the existing Gruyere mine site. The Gold Highway Project currently totals 14 million ounces of gold at 1.44g/t AU for 0.67 million ounces and includes an existing ore reserve of 7 million tonnes at 1.28g/t AU for 0.29 million ounces. The project is currently undergoing feasibility-level studies and is hoped to begin operations by early 2026.
Furthermore, in June 2023, The Gruyere Gold Mine Project announced that mining service provider, MACA, who is the existing mining contractor has secured a contract extension at the mine site. MACA currently provides load, haul, drill and blast, crushing, and screening services to the project, as well as light voltage and high voltage maintenance. The extension of the contract is expected by MACA to generate 850 million Australian dollars of revenue over the 5-year term. MACA are committed to working with the traditional landowners to ensure a collaborative approach to the mine operations which benefits everyone involved.
Overall, the Gruyere Gold Mine Project highlights the rich gold deposits that companies such as Gold Fields and Gold Road Resources are developing towards a future of sustained gold production. The project represents the vast community effort that projects such as these require. With an expansive workforce, pivotal mining contractors and local communities all working together; the mine project is already carving its way to being one of the most significant gold mining operations across western Australia. Furthermore, with developments across the Gold Highway project, we look forward to seeing how the companies continue to develop their joint venture in Australia to bring crucial economic benefits for many years to come.
OPPORTUNITIES, SUPPORT AND HOPE:
DON’T STOP YOUR FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Written by Carley Fallows
Over the last 10 years, the prevalence of serious knife-related crime amongst today’s youth seems to be increasing at a disturbing rate. According to the BBC more teenage homicides were recorded in 2023 than the previous year and saw 18 young people lose their lives due to stab injuries. There is a clear knife epidemic throughout the country, that seems to be increasing at a substantial rate.
The needless deaths of so many young people in the UK have prompted celebrities such as Idris Elba to join the country’s fight to save the country’s young people from this violence. Elba has set up the Don’t Stop Your Future Campaign which is working with community grassroots organisations which are seeking to put an end to knife crime whilst amplifying the voices of marginalised communities and those which are most affected by knife and gun crime.
As ministers returned to parliament and children returned to school in early January, DSYF placed a series of neatly folded outfits in Parliament Square. Each of these clothing piles represents the lives lost in 2023 due to knife crime to share the message that whilst victims of knife crime may come from all
walks of life, they all got dressed in those clothes the morning of their deaths not knowing it would be their last.
The clothing demonstration in Parliament Square comes after the government promised to ban ‘zombie knives’ and machetes in August last year. However, 5 months later no new legislation has been passed. Therefore, the campaign is asking for the ban to be put in place immediately. In addition, DSYF calls for a new Coalition to End Knife Crime that works across party lines to bring together governmental bodies, grassroots organisations, sporting bodies and young people themselves to end the knife crime epidemic. However, one crucial step for the campaign group is to work with tech companies to stop weapons from being advertised and sold to young people online. DSYF are seeking for tech companies to step in and stop those who are profiting from putting weapons in the hands of young people.
To share the campaign’s message, DSYF has been working with organisations that share the same passion for stopping knife crime where 100% of the profits made through these brand collaborations go towards organisations that work to fight the causes of knife crime. These include working with
Faz Amnesty which is asking young people to hand in their knives in exchange for vouchers. The knives are then handed to the police.
Another collaboration is between Idris Elba and Dallas Cowboys Coach Aden Durde called ‘My Cause, My Cleats’ who have teamed up to join artists and cleat manufacturers together to create customdesigned cleats for players to wear on the field. Also within the sporting world, DYSF is working with the Arsenal X Addidas collaboration to tackle the root causes of youth violence and to provide safe spaces and more opportunities for young people.
The government has recently announced that new legislation hopes to close the current loophole in the ‘zombie-knife’ definition which has prevented some knives from being ceased and to include ‘cyclone knives’ which have two spiralled blades. The new legislation will also raise the maximum sentence for possession of banned weapons from 6 months to 2 years and will give police the power to seize and destroy knives found in homes if there are reasonable grounds to suspect they will be used for serious crime. Whilst this is the government’s third attempt at banning the weapons since 2016, the government took the new rules to parliament in recent weeks, and the new rules are hoped to take effect in September 2024.
Caribbean Cinemas has spent the last 20 years as a leading cinema chain across the Caribbean, offering a plethora of top international film titles from around the world via its top-of-the-line cinema locations. With roughly 30 theatres and over 260 screens across the company, Caribbean Cinemas delivers top-quality cinema experiences to over 10 million viewers annually.
When you step inside a Caribbean Cinema location you are met with top-quality theatres offering a range of cinema experiences showing some of the most loved film titles from across the world. These titles currently include films such as Barbie, Wonka, Anyone But You and La Pecera. The wide range of titles brings the people of the Caribbean international hits as well as more regional film options ensuring that whether you’re a local or visiting there is always a great film ready for you to watch. Having opened in 2004, the company has spent the last 20 years expanding across the Caribbean bringing top-quality cinema experiences to its expansive range of locations and cafes which have in turn continually developed the Caribbean tourism and entertainment sector.
Caribbean Cinemas believe in creating quality cinema experiences with every visit; therefore, every theatre has been designed with topquality projectors, audio, and comfortable seating. In May 2023, the company conducted a key redevelopment of the Las Piedras Theatre to add premium auditoriums to the cinema location. These integrated three new concepts into the cinema experience; a CXC auditorium, a 4D auditorium and 2 VIP auditoriums, and added to the ever-growing offerings of the Caribbean Cinema chain. This was the first time that the company had ventured into implementing VIP rooms within the traditional cinema setting to provide an all-around top-quality experience with great dining options included. However, the majority of Caribbean Cinemas’ theatres have been designed with stadium-style seating to provide greater space between rows so that every customer can watch in complete comfort and with an unobstructed view.
Caribbean Cinemas works with stakeholders across the digital cinema solutions landscape to deliver top-quality technology and software to ensure every customer gets to experience the same reliably high-quality audio and visual experience the Caribbean Cinema’s name has come to represent. These systems are backed by performance, security, and reliability to ensure a great experience every time. A crucial stakeholder in this is GDC Technology Limited, which is a leading global digital cinema solutions provider that has installed many digital cinema servers and theatre
Caribbean Cinemas
management systems in the Asia-Pacific region. The company is one of the largest globally and through its comprehensive suite of digital cinema products and services, it provides a comprehensive suite of digital cinema products and services. Therefore, GDC Technology Limited works closely with Caribbean Cinemas to supply a one-stop solution for all of its digital cinema needs.
In addition to top-quality screen and audio systems, Caribbean Cinemas also offer a range of food and restaurant offerings with varied menus to best suit your cinema needs. Across all locations, you can be sure to find concession stands, luxuryfeeling lobbies and a range of LED screens displaying upcoming and current film showings. Furthermore, should you have time before screening some of the locations offer game rooms and birthday party rooms that are perfect for passing time before your film begins or to make the cinema experience a fun group event. For this, the Caribbean Cinema chains offer birthday and corporate event options. The key development at Las Piedras which includes many of these facilities and so has been designed to bring a fun entertainment experience with a range of cinema formats, food and drink options, and titles to suit the whole family.
However, as part of Caribbean Cinemas’ growing sphere across the Caribbean, the company announced at the end of 2023 that it had partnered with students to give them vital access to the film industry. This partnership is with Sacred Heart University (Sagrado) which will enable its students to gain professional experience in the various aspects of film and entertainment, as well as about the company’s development to enhance the student’s professional growth. As part of the partnership, students will showcase productions from Sagrado’s Ferré Rangel School of Communication’s Audiovisual and Film Production program by offering them the opportunity to present their own work on the big screen.
The first of these exhibitions was held at Caribbean Cinemas Fine Arts Cinema Café in Miramar, which showed a compilation of the best student projects from the partnership program at the end of each academic semester. Films included
music videos, commercials, and documentaries with many focusing on community, justice, and peace. Furthermore, the partnership plans to host a competition among students where the winning production will be shown in selected Caribbean Cinema theatres in Puerto Rico in the coming months. President of Caribbean Cinemas, Robert Carrady, comments on this partnership that “Film is an industry with great potential for growth in Puerto Rico, and this collaboration will provide important avenues of development for our future filmmakers and industry professionals”.
Overall, at Caribbean Cinemas you can be sure you are going to have a great film-watching experience. With theatres and services to cater for everyone from small kids to corporate events, the cinema chain continues to provide top-quality cinema experiences to people across the Caribbean. We look forward to seeing how the company continues to expand its reach across the Caribbean as it expands and develops its location to provide even more great cinema experiences.
El Sol Brands Inc.
Whilst striving to provide high-quality tropical produce to fine food suppliers across the East of the United States and Canada, El Sol Brands Inc. has established itself as a key player in the agriculture and retail industry and a company that prioritises quality throughout every aspect of its operations. On a mission to be the premier supplier of tropical roots and produce, the company strives to always provide the highest level of quality across its products, services, and relationships to foster a crucial sense of value in every aspect of its operations.
El Sol Brands began its operations over 20 years ago and has spent the last two decades working to make high-quality and accessible tropical produce readily available across the US. Working across all aspects of produce from planting and fertilising, all the way to packaging and distribution to suppliers across the country. The company works with suppliers to accurately market and provide retail training to bring the same passion for produce that began the company all those years ago.
As El Sol Brands expanded, it began to notice the increasing demand for tropical produce from Latin, Caribbean and Asian customers across the country. Therefore, El Sol Brands shifted its operations significantly towards producing premium-grade tropical produce to meet the growing demands of the population over the last 10 years. Consequently, El Sol Brands is now one of the largest exporters and importers in the tropical produce business and now provides some of the most popular produce from Costa Rica, Brazil, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Mexico to its customers. With a dedicated team of professionals behind the company, El Sol Brands continues to expand its offerings as it brings its passion for produce to suppliers and customers across the region.
For El Sol Brands, maintaining a high level of quality is what separates them from competitors in the market. The company wants customers to feel confident that when they choose products from El Sol Brands or with the El Sol Brands logo, they are investing in produce which has been carefully developed from seed to end product by a team of people who are passionate about making tropical produce exceptional and readily available. The people behind El Sol Brands have an expansive knowledge of the produce and a wealth of experience in the merchandising and marketing of fresh tropical produce so they are well equipped to assist in every aspect of high-quality produce getting to its customers.
The company currently has over 100,000 square feet of warehouse space in Miami and New York which it optimises as packing facilities. El Sol Brands has invested majorly in its packing facilities to ensure that they meet rigid US standards and through its warehouses deliver top-quality produce overnight
El Sol Brands Inc.
www.exfrutec.com.ec
EXPORTING PREMIUM QUALITY TROPICAL PRODUCTS
Working in partnership with El Sol plus a large number of selected producers, which allows us to supply all our clients with good quality products all year round.
Exporting plantain, malanga, yucca, eddoes, plus more.
Call. +593 (04) 2658077
Contact: melissa.campos@exfrutec.com.ec – Melissa Campos - CEO andrea.orna@exfrutec.com.ec – Andrea Orna - International Trade Executive
to most places on the east side of North America. As part of the company’s in-depth grading process, products are selected and graded according to its high standards. These standards include a developed proprietary post-harvest method which helps the company to improve the quality and shelf life of products when they reach end markets.
El Sol Brand product packers are trained in the company’s grading and election process with items such as roots, tubers and squashes going through three rounds of grading. This three-step process includes grading at the farm, at the packing facility and then at distribution centres. It is this rigorous process which ensures that over 70% of its produce has the El Sol Brand premium label to represent it has passed the quality standards that the company has become so known for. Therefore, El Sol Brands takes its training right to the retail stores and suppliers as the company believes that training at a retail level ensures that produce managers will inspire the same passion for the product down the entire production line.
Exfrutec S.A. is located in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador; the nation’s primary port city. Our main focus revolves around the export of premium tropical products. We are committed to delivering these products to international markets in impeccable condition.
Within our diverse product portfolio, you’ll find offerings such as malanga, plantain, yuca, eddoes, dragon fruit, among others. We work in partnership with a large number of producers who have experience and knowledge in the harvesting, handling, and selection of fruits. To oversee every step of the process, from packaging to final delivery, we boast a team of highly trained professionals.
One of Exfrutec’s key strengths lies in our robust logistical capabilities. With an extensive distribution network and strategic alliances, we can efficiently transport products to various destinations. Our comprehensive services cover customs and transportation procedures, ensuring timely arrivals at their intended destinations.
At Exfrutec, customer satisfaction is paramount. We prioritize the establishment of enduring partnerships based on principles of traceability, transparency, and sustainability. These values underscore our commitment to delivering high-quality tropical products while maintaining ethical and responsible business practices.
www.exfrutec.com.ec
Exfrutec S.A.
In terms of products, El Sol Brands offers a wide range of produce from plantain, Thai chilli peppers, and cactus leaf, to avocados, guavas, and dragon fruits. The range of offerings is vast and has allowed El Sol Brands to remain in step with the growing demands from people across the region for more tropical produce. As the demand for products continues to grow, El Sol Brands’ growers and packers continue to work tirelessly to meet these demands and facilitate the delivery of these products through the logistics systems in place. Therefore, throughout El Sol Brands’ operations, the company thanks to its strong relationships with suppliers, logistical providers, growers, packers, and retailers who continue to allow the company to continue to serve the growing demand whilst maintaining a consistent level of quality throughout every operation.
El Sol Brands is a vast operation which is committed to providing high-quality tropical produce to suppliers across the region. Through its rigorous quality grading systems, it continues to be a significant player and the El Sol Brand is one that is widely trusted and respected for its quality. With expertise in marketing the company provides essential training to suppliers to accurately promote and meet produce demands on both local and regional levels. However, what remains a clear focus for the company is its strong relationships and communication across supply chains to ensure rigid standards of quality are maintained from crop to end products. This focus on relationships is what ensures El Sol Brands continues to provide great tropical produce across the regions, as it believes it cannot truly thrive if its suppliers are not thriving.
Titan Cloud Software
As a well-respected industry leader, Titan Cloud today works with some of the largest names across the retail petroleum industry and commercial fleet market. This extensive network, which spans roughly 50% of all U.S. consumer gasoline companies, enables Titan to provide its customers with reliable data and analytics that can help manage risk and fuel profit. Consequently, with an industryleading Fuel Asset Optimization software platform, Titan Cloud Software provides its customers with the tools to effectively manage a range of operations, including environmental compliance risk, reducing maintenance costs, and increasing revenue.
Founded in 2021, Titan Cloud connects people, equipment, and facilities to maximise operational efficiency and minimise the environmental impact of the petroleum industry via fuelling facilities. Titan Cloud achieves this through its industry-leading software solutions which focus on environmental compliance, advanced fuel analytics and facility management. These solutions mean that its customers can effectively manage risk and run efficient, profitable businesses.
Titan Cloud’s software interacts with tanks, dispensers, sensors, and other devices to provide its customers with a comprehensive and bespoke service to effectively monitor their fuelling operations. These systems are designed to work with fuel equipment across all major manufacturers to deliver flexible solutions and premium services to help grow fuelling businesses. One of the key perks of the Titan Cloud software is that it is an all-in-one system that gives clear feedback on operations directly to its customers via Titan Cloud’s secure system.
In convenience store settings Titan Cloud provides a seamless software platform which allows companies to track and monitor everything from the forecourt to the backoffice operations. In addition, one of the main focuses of Titan Cloud is its environmental compliance checking software. This helps owners, operators, and regulators streamline the compliance process, cut down on fines, and maintain an efficient system of compliance.
Using intelligent fuel monitoring and insight data systems, Titan Cloud works to make every drop of fuel count. Titan Cloud does this to boost the profits of owners and operators by providing them with round-the-clock access to gauge data for improved flow rates and reduced downtime. These are all essential for fuel at convenience store businesses to ensure that they remain profitable and efficient in delivering refuelling services to customers. In addition, the systems set up by Titan Cloud allow clients to manage vendors, technicians, and work orders remotely more easily. The remote nature means that operations can be tracked for their status to continually streamline the work order of its clients.
Another significant section of Titan Cloud’s operations is to improve the software of fleets. Today, Titan Cloud is the industry’s leading software
provider for fleets, which works to simplify environmental compliance for its customers. Titan Cloud works throughout fleets across the world to make fuel delivery accurate every single time. The company’s systems work to provide visibility into the tank inventory of fleets to provide vital data in realtime. These systems help customers to streamline their fleets, maximise uptime and minimise loss of fuel, as customers can use Titan Cloud’s systems to implement work order flows and help customers follow up with vendors automatically. Consequently, Titan Cloud’s systems are so widely trusted that its fleet software is used in the top 3 car rental fleets in the United States.
For service providers, Titan Cloud provides a built suite of tools and applications that help companies work smarter. A key aspect of this is to provide a comprehensive system where all documents, files and spreadsheets can be accessed in one secure location. Its Advanced Facility Inspection tool allows Titan Cloud customers to digitize all paper files for better efficiency for data inspections. The system then digitally can transpose inspection results onto state forms when required. In addition, customers can set up alarms which allow Titan Cloud to connect directly to equipment and get visibility into their alarms. This allows for remote troubleshooting and gives the customer clear insights into the issues and how to fix them. This comprehensive service allows Titan Cloud to remain the partner of choice for its customers as they can gain a much more indepth view of their equipment and get important data, tracking and e-filling systems to make the whole fuelling process much more seamless.
As we have seen, Titan Cloud is such a vast company that is working to greatly improve the retail petroleum industry through its key Fuel Asset Optimization software platform. However, just last September they acquired Leighton O’Brien, a global fuel analytics software and field technologies provider, which continues to expand Titan Cloud, and solidifies its place as a global leader in the downstream fuel software market. The acquisition hopes to bring the two company’s expertise in environmental compliance site maintenance and fuel management solutions together to expand the global company’s footprint to 6 continents and 43 countries. Furthermore, the acquisition adds 20,000 sites to its fuel monitoring capabilities which means it can provide a faster return on investment and a more streamlined experience to its 85,000+ gasoline solutions worldwide.
ONE stop solution for downstream retail oil and gas equipment
Titan Cloud Software
CEO and Chief Product Officer of Titan Cloud, David Freese commented in a press release on the acquisition that “Titan Cloud is committed to connecting people, equipment and facilities to maximise operational efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of every fuelling facility on the planet. With this acquisition, we will accelerate our global growth, extend our product portfolio, and expedite our Fuel Asset Optimization roadmap”. He continues, “Customers will benefit from the industry’s best and most complete Fuel Asset Optimization Platform for operational scale, performance and ROI”. Freese’s comments highlight the expansive role that Titan Cloud continues to play, and this acquisition is just another step in providing the best Fuel Asset Optimization Platform for its customers.
This was echoed by the CEO of Leighton O’Brien, Chris Cooper, “We’re excited to unlock the next stage of growth by leveraging our complementary strengths to deliver the best solutions on the market – creating more value for our customers and opportunities for our employees”. Cooper will join Titan Cloud as the President of International to lead global expansion serving fuel retailers,
fleet operators and service providers across both established and emerging markets. Cooper continues, in the press release that “Titan’s deep product portfolio, robust platform and financial backing, combined with our global footprint, rich wetstock IP, and decades of experience, strengthens our collective position and provide the operating scale needed to serve our growing international customer base”.
Overall, Titan Cloud provides an expansive Fuel Asset Optimization software platform which is designed to make the whole petroleum retail industry seamless. Its crucial software allows its customers to stay connected throughout its operations from its forecourts, head offices and throughout its fuel fleets. The company’s secure and reliable data software allows the company to lead the software industry across this sector with a reputation for expertise and efficiency throughout all of its systems. This is why with key acquisitions, such as Leighton O’Brien we look forward to seeing how Titan Cloud continues to expand its role across international markets as it continues to provide its customers with leading software solutions.
The proud guardian of Sudan’s substantial gold resources, Ariab Mining Company Ltd is targeting portfolio diversification in conjunction with international investors.
As the mineral-rich republic’s leading operator in gold exploration and exploitation, the ambitious company is seeking to dig deeper and unlock additional value in several existing mines and highly prospective exploration tenements.
With the goal of achieving long-term value that is strategic, significant, and sustainable, the state-owned firm is on a quest to increase technology acquisition to develop a world-class project pipeline. The forward-thinking enterprise is adopting winning strategies, transforming operational performance and delivering step-change improvements throughout the value chain – from strategy to capital productivity and to developing skills in local communities. With Sudan introducing investment laws that match international standards, now is the ideal time for intelligent investors to bring knowledge and technology to achieve lucrative rewards.
