BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–4ocean removed 50M lbs of plastic & trash from world’s ocean, rivers & coastlines – one of the largest verified ocean cleanup milestones in history.
Month: February 2026
Originally published by Mastercard
By Sophie Hares, Contributor
When Miray Kaplangi, 29, visited her grandparents in Istanbul, they would often pull out their smartphones and ask her to help them adjust their settings or check their bank balance online, small tasks that carried big anxieties.
Like many seniors, they had heard plenty of horror stories about people falling victim to online scams, making them hesitant to use digital banking, even though it could make their everyday lives easier.
It’s a trepidation many older people share as more of daily life moves online and as AI sends cybercrime into overdrive, with scams from romance fraud to phishing attacks now totalling trillions of dollars a year in losses. Estimating that more than half of older people globally have been victims of online threats, cybersecurity firm Avast says many still write passwords on a piece of paper and are more likely to click on suspicious links and share personal information.
Fraud isn’t limited to the elderly — in fact, recent surveys have shown that Gen Z is more likely to fall for certain scams than older generations are — but older adults have distinct needs around security, clarity and control. Banks and fintechs are responding with tools that balance independence and protection. For example, Greenlight’s Family Shield subscription plan in the U.S., with an optional Mastercard debit card, lets families receive real‑time fraud alerts and offers up to $100,000 in deceptive transfer fraud coverage.
Earlier this year, when Kaplangi, a Mastercard data and services consultant, recounted her grandparents’ anxiety to her Istanbul colleagues, they hit on an idea for how they could best use the time the company gives them to volunteer. By combining their finance knowledge and consulting skills, they could help their grandparents’ generation better understand digital banking.
They pitched the idea of financial literacy workshops for those over age 65 to a center for older people in the district of Besiktas. Just 10 minutes from the Mastercard office, the center offers activities designed to encourage people to pick up hobbies and develop new skills. After getting the green light, the five-strong volunteer team began drawing up a series of PowerPoints for their initial session.
When 25 seniors brought their smartphones to the first class, the Mastercard team members were relieved to know they had hit on the right topic but realized they needed to find ways to combat the distrust of online transactions many of the older folks had.
“There was a stigma toward mobile apps, like, ‘If I log in, then someone’s going to steal my money,’” Kaplangi says. “They were all scared and seeking reassurance.”
Starting with the basics, Kaplangi and the team designed visuals to walk people through how to register for online banking, set up secure passwords and biometrics and see their balances on-screen.
Next, they showed the older adults how to use their phones to turn off their payment cards, request changes to credit card limits and receive notifications when money was withdrawn from their accounts.
“Overall, the feedback was great,” Kaplangi says. “They said, ‘Our grandsons tried to show us, but it was never as detailed or visual as you guys have shown.’ They were hungry for more.”
More than just learning the online banking basics, the session was the first step toward integrating them into the wider digital sphere. Once they can confidently make payments online, older people can pay bills and use apps to have groceries delivered instead of struggling with bags as they shop around Istanbul, which is famously built on seven hills.
The project was recently recognized by Mastercard’s CEO Force for Good Awards, the company’s highest volunteering honor, and the volunteer team is planning to host regular sessions at the municipality-run center in Besiktas.
With fewer people over age 65 making payments and transactions online than any other age group, according to the Banks Association of Türkiye, there is plenty of room to expand projects that are carefully tailored to older individuals.
Recalling how one Besiktas participant had been the victim of a costly scam after using his bank card on an unsecured website, Kaplangi says future sessions will emphasize how to stay safe online.
Treading a fine line between scaring and protecting older people, the Mastercard team plans to highlight classic scams, show how to spot fraud attempts, and explain why password hygiene and two-factor authentication matter.
For Kaplangi and her colleagues, it’s rewarding to see the positive real-world impact of their efforts to help usher older adults into the digital ecosystem.
It’s also underscored why it’s more effective to give people like their own elders a big- picture view and help visualize their digital banking journey, instead of just tackling ad hoc problems: “It’s just enabled them to have confidence and convenience in their life.”
Continue reading here.
Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.
Appointment Reinforces Company’s Long-Term Commitment to Strategic Growth in the North American Market
PITTSBURGH, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its broader global growth strategy, Steelforce Packaging has organized its North American operations under the newly established Steelforce America entity. This structure reflects the company’s recognition of increasing demand and the need for expanded leadership, infrastructure, and commercial focus to support long-term growth in the North American market.
Steelforce Packaging today announced the appointment of Brion S. Talley as CEO, North America. In this role, Talley will lead the company’s regional strategy, commercial operations, and long-term growth initiatives across North America.
As Steelforce Packaging’s North American operations matured toward the end of 2024, leadership began evaluating what would be needed to elevate the business to its next phase of development. The answer required more than growth — it required leadership capable of strengthening long-term relationships, sharpening strategic positioning, and accelerating innovation across the region.
“We were looking for someone with the knowledge, expertise, and mindset to grow the business in the right way — someone who truly understands the intrinsic value of building relationships,” said Davide Padovani, CEO of Steelforce Packaging. “Brion checked every box. His track record in the market, his leadership style, and his ability to combine inventory flexibility, broad product capabilities, and innovation made him the clear choice.”
Talley brings more than three decades of executive leadership experience across the steel and metals industry. Most recently, he served as CEO/President of JFE Shoji America, where he became the first non-Japanese executive to lead a business unit of JFE Shoji Corporation. Under his leadership, the $500+ million organization strengthened its position across automotive, construction, energy, and packaging markets while building a high-performing, multicultural team across North America.
Throughout his career, Talley has led strategic sourcing initiatives, global supply chain programs, and large-scale commercial operations, consistently delivering disciplined growth and strong organizational alignment. He holds an MBA from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School and a BA from the University of Maryland.
Kurt Crollet, Chairman of Steelforce Group, the company’s Antwerp-based parent organization, added: “North America is a key pillar in our global strategy. Brion’s experience and leadership strengthen our ability to execute locally while leveraging the full strength of our global network. This appointment reflects our long-term commitment to the U.S. market.”
“I am honored to join Steelforce America at such an important stage of its development,” said Talley. “The company has built a strong foundation. I look forward to expanding customer partnerships, driving innovation, and working closely with Davide and the broader team to unlock new growth opportunities.”
Talley’s appointment signals Steeforce’s continued investment in leadership, operational excellence, and long-term value creation in North America.
About Steelforce Packaging
Steelforce Packaging the North American arm of Steelforce Group, a global steel trading and distribution organization headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium. Through its international sourcing network and localized commercial execution, Steelforce provides steel and metals solutions to customers across packaging, automotive, construction, energy, and industrial markets.
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2918107/Steelforce.jpg
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SOURCE Steelforce
Appointment Reinforces Company’s Long-Term Commitment to Strategic Growth in the North American Market
PITTSBURGH, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its broader global growth strategy, Steelforce Packaging has organized its North American operations under the newly established Steelforce America entity. This structure reflects the company’s recognition of increasing demand and the need for expanded leadership, infrastructure, and commercial focus to support long-term growth in the North American market.
Steelforce Packaging today announced the appointment of Brion S. Talley as CEO, North America. In this role, Talley will lead the company’s regional strategy, commercial operations, and long-term growth initiatives across North America.
As Steelforce Packaging’s North American operations matured toward the end of 2024, leadership began evaluating what would be needed to elevate the business to its next phase of development. The answer required more than growth — it required leadership capable of strengthening long-term relationships, sharpening strategic positioning, and accelerating innovation across the region.
“We were looking for someone with the knowledge, expertise, and mindset to grow the business in the right way — someone who truly understands the intrinsic value of building relationships,” said Davide Padovani, CEO of Steelforce Packaging. “Brion checked every box. His track record in the market, his leadership style, and his ability to combine inventory flexibility, broad product capabilities, and innovation made him the clear choice.”
Talley brings more than three decades of executive leadership experience across the steel and metals industry. Most recently, he served as CEO/President of JFE Shoji America, where he became the first non-Japanese executive to lead a business unit of JFE Shoji Corporation. Under his leadership, the $500+ million organization strengthened its position across automotive, construction, energy, and packaging markets while building a high-performing, multicultural team across North America.
Throughout his career, Talley has led strategic sourcing initiatives, global supply chain programs, and large-scale commercial operations, consistently delivering disciplined growth and strong organizational alignment. He holds an MBA from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School and a BA from the University of Maryland.
Kurt Crollet, Chairman of Steelforce Group, the company’s Antwerp-based parent organization, added: “North America is a key pillar in our global strategy. Brion’s experience and leadership strengthen our ability to execute locally while leveraging the full strength of our global network. This appointment reflects our long-term commitment to the U.S. market.”
“I am honored to join Steelforce America at such an important stage of its development,” said Talley. “The company has built a strong foundation. I look forward to expanding customer partnerships, driving innovation, and working closely with Davide and the broader team to unlock new growth opportunities.”
Talley’s appointment signals Steeforce’s continued investment in leadership, operational excellence, and long-term value creation in North America.
About Steelforce Packaging
Steelforce Packaging the North American arm of Steelforce Group, a global steel trading and distribution organization headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium. Through its international sourcing network and localized commercial execution, Steelforce provides steel and metals solutions to customers across packaging, automotive, construction, energy, and industrial markets.
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2918107/Steelforce.jpg
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SOURCE Steelforce
LOVELAND, Colo., Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Hach announced the launch of the NP6000sc Phosphate Analyzer, a next-generation solution designed to set a new benchmark in nutrient monitoring for water treatment facilities. Designed specifically for utilities encountering issues with data reliability, analyzer downtime, and extensive maintenance requirements, the NP6000sc delivers enhanced accuracy, increased operational uptime, and streamlined workflows. These improvements enable water professionals to consistently meet regulatory standards.
The NP6000sc is designed to address our customer needs directly.
Building on the trusted legacy of Hach’s Phosphax sc analyzer, the NP6000sc introduces several workflow improvements. Its enhanced grab sample feature syncs measurements between lab and online analyzers, reducing discrepancies and supporting audit-readiness. The new FX6 filter is 75% lighter than previous models, making maintenance safer and simpler. The innovation of the NP6000sc Phosphate Analyzer delivers greater confidence in process performance through continuous, precise measurement across three ranges (0.015–75 mg/L) enabling operators to achieve lab-grade accuracy directly in the process.
The NP6000sc addresses this directly through an innovative filtration system and optimized design that extends the cleaning frequency from once a month to once every three months. It also enhances serviceability with reagent bottles now positioned for convenient front access, eliminating the need to expose internal electrical components during routine changes. Together, these advancements reduce downtime and help operators make more efficient use of staff resources compared to earlier models.
“Our customers have been clear about the challenges they face – downtime, maintenance, and compliance pressures,” said Nicole Puhl, Vice President of Product & Strategy at Hach. “The NP6000sc is designed to address those needs directly. With the NP6000sc we’re not just improving on the Phosphax – we’re redefining what operators should expect from a nutrient analyzer. Longer uptime, smarter automation, and trusted data accuracy give teams the confidence to run their facilities more efficiently, every single day.”
With the launch of the NP6000sc, Hach continues its commitment to equipping water professionals with reliable, easy to use, and future-ready nutrient monitoring solutions that support confident decision-making and regulatory compliance.
To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/40m5cmo.
Media Contact: Crystal Allen, Hach VP Global Marketing, crystal.allen@hach.com
About Hach
Hach, a global water analysis and innovation company, develops reliable, accurate instrumentation and chemistries that ensure water quality for people around the world. Hach makes water analysis better through products that provide our customers with solutions across a variety of industries like municipal, food, power and production. An operating company of Veralto, which became publicly traded in October 2023, Hach offers a broad portfolio of water analytics and differentiated water treatment solutions that safeguard the quality of our world’s most important resource. Visit www.Hach.com to learn more.
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SOURCE Hach
LOVELAND, Colo., Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Hach announced the launch of the NP6000sc Phosphate Analyzer, a next-generation solution designed to set a new benchmark in nutrient monitoring for water treatment facilities. Designed specifically for utilities encountering issues with data reliability, analyzer downtime, and extensive maintenance requirements, the NP6000sc delivers enhanced accuracy, increased operational uptime, and streamlined workflows. These improvements enable water professionals to consistently meet regulatory standards.
The NP6000sc is designed to address our customer needs directly.
Building on the trusted legacy of Hach’s Phosphax sc analyzer, the NP6000sc introduces several workflow improvements. Its enhanced grab sample feature syncs measurements between lab and online analyzers, reducing discrepancies and supporting audit-readiness. The new FX6 filter is 75% lighter than previous models, making maintenance safer and simpler. The innovation of the NP6000sc Phosphate Analyzer delivers greater confidence in process performance through continuous, precise measurement across three ranges (0.015–75 mg/L) enabling operators to achieve lab-grade accuracy directly in the process.
The NP6000sc addresses this directly through an innovative filtration system and optimized design that extends the cleaning frequency from once a month to once every three months. It also enhances serviceability with reagent bottles now positioned for convenient front access, eliminating the need to expose internal electrical components during routine changes. Together, these advancements reduce downtime and help operators make more efficient use of staff resources compared to earlier models.
“Our customers have been clear about the challenges they face – downtime, maintenance, and compliance pressures,” said Nicole Puhl, Vice President of Product & Strategy at Hach. “The NP6000sc is designed to address those needs directly. With the NP6000sc we’re not just improving on the Phosphax – we’re redefining what operators should expect from a nutrient analyzer. Longer uptime, smarter automation, and trusted data accuracy give teams the confidence to run their facilities more efficiently, every single day.”
With the launch of the NP6000sc, Hach continues its commitment to equipping water professionals with reliable, easy to use, and future-ready nutrient monitoring solutions that support confident decision-making and regulatory compliance.
To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/40m5cmo.
Media Contact: Crystal Allen, Hach VP Global Marketing, crystal.allen@hach.com
About Hach
Hach, a global water analysis and innovation company, develops reliable, accurate instrumentation and chemistries that ensure water quality for people around the world. Hach makes water analysis better through products that provide our customers with solutions across a variety of industries like municipal, food, power and production. An operating company of Veralto, which became publicly traded in October 2023, Hach offers a broad portfolio of water analytics and differentiated water treatment solutions that safeguard the quality of our world’s most important resource. Visit www.Hach.com to learn more.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hach-unveils-np6000sc-phosphate-analyzer-redefining-reliability-and-simplifying-compliance-for-water-treatment-facilities-302693948.html
SOURCE Hach
TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — OPC Energy Ltd. (TASE: OPCE), an energy company operating in Israel and the United States and providing reliable and efficient electricity through a diversified mix of natural gas and renewable energy, today announced that Giora Almogy, Chief Executive Officer, will participate in the 2026 Jefferies Power, Energy, Clean Energy, and Utilities Conference in New York City on March 2, 2026.
Mr. Almogy will be available for on-site one-on-one investor meetings on that day.
To schedule a meeting, please contact your Jefferies representative.
About OPC Energy
OPC Energy Ltd. (TASE: OPCE) is a leading energy company operating in the Energy Transition space in Israel and the U.S. and provides electricity in an efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly manner while combining highly efficient natural gas with solar, wind and storage.
In Israel, OPC is the first and leading private electricity producer, offering its customers an integrated solution by supplying all energy needs through the company’s production sites and in the customer’s yard. OPC continues to expand its generation portfolio and customer base in Israel, advancing a growing pipeline of renewable and dispatchable projects to support the evolving needs of the Israeli electricity market.
In the U.S., the company operates through the CPV Group, which has over 25 years of success in the development and operation of highly efficient and low emitting electric generation and renewable projects. CPV is focused on applying its extensive experience to advance its current portfolio of over 11 GW of renewable and dispatchable generation projects.
For more information, please visit: www.opc-energy.com/en
Investor Relations Contact:
Miri Segal
MS-IR LLC
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2918125/OPC_Energy_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE OPC Energy
TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — OPC Energy Ltd. (TASE: OPCE), an energy company operating in Israel and the United States and providing reliable and efficient electricity through a diversified mix of natural gas and renewable energy, today announced that Giora Almogy, Chief Executive Officer, will participate in the 2026 Jefferies Power, Energy, Clean Energy, and Utilities Conference in New York City on March 2, 2026.
Mr. Almogy will be available for on-site one-on-one investor meetings on that day.
To schedule a meeting, please contact your Jefferies representative.
About OPC Energy
OPC Energy Ltd. (TASE: OPCE) is a leading energy company operating in the Energy Transition space in Israel and the U.S. and provides electricity in an efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly manner while combining highly efficient natural gas with solar, wind and storage.
In Israel, OPC is the first and leading private electricity producer, offering its customers an integrated solution by supplying all energy needs through the company’s production sites and in the customer’s yard. OPC continues to expand its generation portfolio and customer base in Israel, advancing a growing pipeline of renewable and dispatchable projects to support the evolving needs of the Israeli electricity market.
In the U.S., the company operates through the CPV Group, which has over 25 years of success in the development and operation of highly efficient and low emitting electric generation and renewable projects. CPV is focused on applying its extensive experience to advance its current portfolio of over 11 GW of renewable and dispatchable generation projects.
For more information, please visit: www.opc-energy.com/en
Investor Relations Contact:
Miri Segal
MS-IR LLC
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2918125/OPC_Energy_Logo.jpg
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/opc-energy-ltd-to-participate-in-the-2026-jefferies-power-energy-clean-energy-and-utilities-conference-on-march-2-302694463.html
SOURCE OPC Energy
TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — OPC Energy Ltd. (TASE: OPCE), an energy company operating in Israel and the United States and providing reliable and efficient electricity through a diversified mix of natural gas and renewable energy, today announced that Giora Almogy, Chief Executive Officer, will participate in the 2026 Jefferies Power, Energy, Clean Energy, and Utilities Conference in New York City on March 2, 2026.
Mr. Almogy will be available for on-site one-on-one investor meetings on that day.
To schedule a meeting, please contact your Jefferies representative.
About OPC Energy
OPC Energy Ltd. (TASE: OPCE) is a leading energy company operating in the Energy Transition space in Israel and the U.S. and provides electricity in an efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly manner while combining highly efficient natural gas with solar, wind and storage.
In Israel, OPC is the first and leading private electricity producer, offering its customers an integrated solution by supplying all energy needs through the company’s production sites and in the customer’s yard. OPC continues to expand its generation portfolio and customer base in Israel, advancing a growing pipeline of renewable and dispatchable projects to support the evolving needs of the Israeli electricity market.
In the U.S., the company operates through the CPV Group, which has over 25 years of success in the development and operation of highly efficient and low emitting electric generation and renewable projects. CPV is focused on applying its extensive experience to advance its current portfolio of over 11 GW of renewable and dispatchable generation projects.
For more information, please visit: www.opc-energy.com/en
Investor Relations Contact:
Miri Segal
MS-IR LLC
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2918125/OPC_Energy_Logo.jpg
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/opc-energy-ltd-to-participate-in-the-2026-jefferies-power-energy-clean-energy-and-utilities-conference-on-march-2-302694463.html
SOURCE OPC Energy
LISHUI, China, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CN Energy Group. Inc. (NASDAQ: CNEY, “CNEY” or the “Company”) today announced that it has entered into a Share Purchase Agreement to acquire 100% of the outstanding shares of Blessing Logistics Ltd. (“Blessing Logistics”), an oil trading company incorporated in Alberta.
Under the terms of the agreement, the total purchase consideration is USD $2.0 million, expected to be satisfied through the issuance of Class A Ordinary Shares of CNEY. The number of shares to be issued will be determined based on the volume-weighted average price of CNEY’s Class A Ordinary Shares for the five consecutive trading days immediately preceding the closing date, subject to adjustment as provided in the agreement.
The closing of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to occur on or before March 31, 2026.
Founded in 2015, Blessing Logistics is a registered oil company with the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) and holds Canadian crude oil export licenses. The company is also recognized as a qualified trader within the CNPC system, and is engaged primarily in oil trading as well as crude oil and asphalt exports.
The proposed acquisition is expected to provide CNEY with a fully operational North American entity and critical regulatory licenses supporting the Company’s strategic expansion into the North American oil market. The integration of Blessing Logistics is expected to strengthen CNEY’s operational capabilities and enhance its participation in global crude oil trading and export activities.
Mr. Wenhua Liu, interim CEO of CNEY, commented:
“We are pleased to enter into this agreement to acquire Blessing Logistics. This transaction represents an important step in executing CNEY’s global energy strategy. Following closing, we expect to leverage Blessing Logistics’ operational platform and licenses to expand our international crude oil trading business and create long-term value for our shareholders.”
About CN Energy Group. Inc.
CN Energy Group. Inc. is currently listed on NASDAQ under the symbol “CNEY.” CNEY has pioneered and specialized in producing high-quality recyclable activated carbon from raw carbon materials, converting harmful wastes into invaluable wealth and delivering significant financial, economic, environmental and ecologic benefits. CNEY’s products and services have been widely used by food and beverage producers, industrial and pharmaceutical manufacturers, as well as environmental protection enterprises. CNEY also develops and provides customizable robotics products, automation tools, and related software solutions for small and medium-sized industrial, logistics, and service businesses in North America. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.cneny.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements can generally be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions and are not guarantees of future performance.
These forward-looking statements include statements regarding the expected closing of the transaction, the expected benefits of the acquisition, and the Company’s strategic expansion plans. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including those described under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and actual results may differ materially, including if the parties do not enter into definitive agreements, required approvals are not obtained, or the Company is unable to integrate the business or realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction.
Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them, except as required by law. Information on the Company’s website or social media is not incorporated by reference into this press release.
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SOURCE CN Energy Group. Inc.
