Addition of prominent insurance recovery group fuels expansion of the firm’s
national platform in New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, and Atlanta

NEW YORK and NEW JERSEY, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — With the addition of a nationally recognized 12-lawyer insurance recovery group, Barnes & Thornburg — a national law firm with more than 850 lawyers in 26 markets — significantly expanded the suite of insurance litigation and risk management services that the firm’s Insurance Recovery Group provides to its clients. The group builds on a solid foundation and tradition of the firm exclusively representing policyholders in coverage disputes and adds a strong East Coast presence to its existing Midwest and West Coast footprint.

“This sophisticated group joins us at a pivotal time as we execute on our vision to build on our national areas of strength and provide crucial, market-leading service to our clients,” said Managing Partner Andrew J. Detherage. “This latest acquisition continues our strategic growth and success as a destination for high-level talent.”

The insurance recovery team joins Barnes & Thornburg from Lowenstein Sandler and is led by partner Lynda Bennett, who will serve as co-chair of Barnes & Thornburg’s Insurance Recovery Group. Partners Arthur Armstrong, Alexander Brown, Craig Dashiell, Rachel Hudgins, Eric Jesse, Jeremy King, and Heather Weaver round out the East Coast additions along with associates Alexander Corson, Madison Diaz, Michael Kleinman, and Madilynne Lee.

“I’m excited to join Barnes & Thornburg as co-chair of its Insurance Recovery Practice in the firm’s New Jersey and New York offices. I’m especially proud that my team of 11 lawyers and two outstanding assistants have joined me in this next chapter,” said Bennett. “Our team is now strategically based across our East Coast offices in New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, and Atlanta, with more growth ahead.”

The group represents corporate policyholders in high-stakes insurance coverage litigation addressing leading edge coverage issues across a wide array of coverage lines. They help clients maximize their insurance assets and have secured billions in recoveries for D&O, RWI, Cyber, Product Liability, Environmental, Construction, Employment, Severe Bodily Injury and all other manner of liability claims. Likewise, Barnes & Thornburg is among a select few national law firms that exclusively represent policyholders and manage risk on behalf of clients.

“Our team is highly effective because we are a known quantity within the insurance industry and we understand how the market works. We have deep relationships with insurance brokers and are respected by our adversaries for being strategic and pragmatic,” said Bennett. We are excited to join Barnes & Thornburg because the combination of our two insurance teams creates a coast-to-coast powerhouse of highly skilled coverage practitioners who will leverage the firm’s national platform to serve our clients wherever they need us.”

Bennett joins fellow co-chairs Lilit Asadourian and Kevin Dreher to guide this new team that now includes 50 insurance lawyers and places them across the country from Los Angeles to New York.

“This team’s industry prowess is an incredible addition and asset for our clients. They are extremely knowledgeable about the global insurance industry and seasoned litigators when it comes to insurance coverage and bad faith matters,” said Litigation Department Chair Randy Brown.

The addition of these 12 lawyers follows Barnes & Thornburg recently adding a 39-lawyer Public Finance and Infrastructure group to its Government Services and Finance practice and the associated opening of three new offices in Baltimore, Denver and Phoenix. With the addition of this insurance recovery team, Barnes & Thornburg has now welcomed 85 lawyers to the firm in 2026.

“We are excited for this powerhouse insurance recovery team to join our East Coast offices, particularly in New Jersey and Philadelphia where we have built a substantial presence since opening in 2022 and continue to scale our regional footprint,” said Michael C. Zogby, managing partner of the firm’s office in New Jersey. “Our new colleagues are not only renowned legal strategists but also proven leaders. Their deep roots in New Jersey and Philadelphia, combined with a prominent national profile, reinforces our commitment to excellence for our clients.”

About the Partners

  • Lynda Bennett (New Jersey/New York) aggressively litigates, negotiates, and resolves complicated disputes on behalf of corporate policyholders. A “Band-1” Chambers-ranked attorney, Lynda has more than 30 years of commercial litigation experience and has secured billions of dollars in insurance recoveries for her clients. Lynda was named one of New Jersey’s Best 50 Women in Business. Beyond her practice, she is a trailblazer in professional development, having founded her previous firm’s Women’s Initiative Network (WIN) and served as Past President of the New Jersey Women Lawyers Association.
  • Arthur Armstrong (Philadelphia) focuses his practice exclusively on representing corporate policyholders in high-stakes insurance recovery matters. He represents privately held and publicly traded companies against primary and excess insurers to secure and maximize coverage under cyber, property, commercial general liability, directors and officers (D&O), errors and omissions (E&O), and other insurance policies. He has extensive experience counseling clients at all stages of an insurance claim life cycle.
  • Alexander Brown (Philadelphia) represents corporate policyholders in high-stakes insurance litigation in both state and federal court and has successfully represented his clients in some of the largest insurance recovery efforts. Brown also represents clients in other commercial contexts, including commercial contract disputes, as well as disputes involving TV and film, music, publishing, and likeness rights.
  • Craig Dashiell (New Jersey/New York) is a commercial litigator who focuses on resolving complex financial disputes between companies or between individuals over a wide range of matters, including breach of contract disputes and business divorce, as well as trusts and estates litigation with millions of dollars at stake. Dashiell also has extensive experience litigating insurance coverage disputes on behalf of corporate policyholders across a wide array of coverage lines.
  • Rachel Hudgins (Atlanta) represents corporate policyholders in high-value insurance disputes and complex claims, litigating in state and federal courts across the country, including U.S. territories. She is known for balancing litigation strategy with pre-suit resolutions. Rachel is also an active thought leader, frequently presenting at industry conferences and authoring chapters and articles for business and insurance publications.
  • Eric Jesse (New York/New Jersey) has advised corporate policyholders for over a decade on an array of insurance issues in mergers and acquisitions, claim disputes with insurers, and the placement and renewal of insurance programs. In particular, he has deep experience with several niche specialty policies, including representations and warranties (R&W) insurance, directors and officers (D&O) policies, and cyber insurance.
  • Jeremy King (New York) has obtained hundreds of millions of dollars in recoveries for corporate clients in insurance coverage disputes and other civil litigation matters across the country. He regularly represents corporate policyholders seeking to maximize insurance coverage under commercial general liability, directors and officers, crime, property, cyber, and other types of commercial insurance policies. 
  • Heather Weaver (New Jersey/New York) is an accomplished litigator who delivers successful outcomes for corporate policyholders in high-stakes insurance coverage and complex commercial disputes across state and federal courts. Her practice spans a broad range of coverage lines, including commercial property, commercial general liability, professional liability, cyber, crime, and product liability, positioning her as a trusted advisor for navigating the most challenging and high-exposure claims.

About Barnes & Thornburg
Barnes & Thornburg operates 26 offices across the United States, enabling more than 850 lawyers to serve clients nationwide. As one of the 100 largest law firms in the country, we provide seamless coast-to-coast coverage for high-stakes litigation, complex transactions and innovative IP matters. Our national reach and knowledge of local markets help clients conduct business confidently wherever opportunities arise. Visit btlaw.com.

Media Contact: stephen.clark@btlaw.com

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SOURCE Barnes & Thornburg LLP

The article outlines how climate conditions affect flooring choices and what materials perform best in Missouri homes.

FESTUS, Miss., April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How should homeowners in Missouri adapt their flooring choices to handle the state’s dramatic climate swings? HelloNation has published the answer in an article featuring insights from Nick Hopkins of Hopkins Floor Co in Festus, Missouri.

The HelloNation article explains that Missouri flooring solutions must account for both humid summers and cold, dry winters. These seasonal shifts can cause movement in many flooring materials, leading to visible damage over time. The article emphasizes that selecting the right flooring type is essential for maintaining long-term durability and appearance in homes across the region.

According to the article, natural hardwood flooring is especially sensitive to moisture and temperature changes. It expands during humid conditions and contracts when the air becomes dry, which can result in cupping, gaps, or cracks. The article notes that while hardwood remains a popular choice, it requires careful consideration and maintenance in climates like Missouri.

As an alternative, the article highlights engineered hardwood as a more stable option. Its layered construction helps reduce the amount of expansion and contraction caused by environmental changes. This added stability allows homeowners to achieve the look of hardwood while improving performance in spaces exposed to seasonal humidity and temperature swings. Flooring Experts often point to engineered products as a practical compromise between appearance and resilience.

The article also describes waterproof vinyl flooring as another effective choice among Missouri flooring solutions. This material is particularly useful in areas prone to moisture, such as basements, entryways, and kitchens. Unlike laminate, which can break down when exposed to water, vinyl is designed to resist swelling and warping. The article explains that this durability makes it a dependable option for homeowners seeking low-maintenance flooring that performs consistently year-round.

Beyond material selection, the HelloNation article stresses the importance of proper installation. It explains that even the most durable flooring can fail if it is not installed correctly. Key steps include allowing for expansion gaps and ensuring that subfloor moisture levels are properly managed before installation begins. These measures help prevent long-term issues and extend the lifespan of the flooring.

The article further notes that successful flooring outcomes depend on a combination of product choice and installation technique. Flooring Experts emphasize that climate-aware planning can reduce the risk of damage and improve overall performance. By understanding how different materials react to environmental conditions, homeowners can make more informed decisions that align with both function and design.

In addition, the article explains that Missouri flooring solutions are not just about visual appeal. Durability, moisture resistance, and adaptability all contribute to creating a reliable flooring system. The article encourages homeowners to think beyond initial appearance and consider how materials will perform over time in a changing climate.

The article concludes that choosing the right flooring for Missouri homes involves balancing aesthetics with practical performance. It highlights that careful planning and informed decisions can help homeowners avoid common issues related to expansion and contraction. With the right approach, flooring can remain stable, functional, and visually appealing despite seasonal changes.

HelloNation features insights from Nick Hopkins, Flooring Expert at Missouri Flooring Solutions in Festus, Missouri.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content with storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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SOURCE HelloNation

  • Strengthens climate disclosures with enhanced alignment to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S1 and S2, including quantification of key climate risks and opportunities
  • Expands fourth climate change scenario analysis to include Japan, with a 2050 horizon
  • Advances nature and biodiversity conservation, restoration and education with launch of CDL EcoTrain, CDL MicroForest and CDL MicroFarm
  • Recognised across 14 global ESG benchmarks, including MSCI ‘AAA’, CDP ‘A’ List for Climate Change and Water Security, Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World

City Developments Limited (CDL) has released its 19th Integrated Sustainability Report (ISR) 2026, titled “Time for Impact: Future-Proofing Planet, People and Prosperity”. The report highlights CDL’s continued progress in decarbonisation, enhanced climate disclosures in progressive alignment with IFRS S1 and S2, and expanded efforts to accelerate nature-positive outcomes. It also reflects the Group’s sustainability leadership since 1995 and its progress towards achieving its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals and targets under the CDL Future Value 2030 Sustainability Blueprint.

In 2025, CDL reduced its Scope 1 and 2 operational carbon emissions for assets under direct management and operational control by 29% from 2016 levels. It also achieved a 50% reduction in Scope 3 embodied carbon emissions for new developments completed in 2025, based on project-level assessments, alongside a 59.6% reduction in Scope 3 emissions for its investments. These reductions support the Group’s Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)-validated targets.

Ms Esther An, CDL’s Chief Sustainability Officer, said, “As 2030 draws closer, Singapore continues to push forward with strong ambition and clear direction toward decarbonisation and a City in Nature. At CDL, we remain steadfast in maintaining our momentum and commitment to ESG as a driver of long-term resilience and value creation. In 2025, we strengthened our climate and nature-related disclosures, advanced decarbonisation across our operations and value chain, and launched high-impact initiatives such as the CDL EcoTrain and CDL MicroForest to support climate education and regenerate urban biodiversity. These efforts reflect our commitment to sustainability as a long-term business imperative, and we will continue to work with our partners and stakeholders to future-proof our portfolio and contribute to a low-carbon, nature-positive future.”

Strengthening Climate Disclosures and IFRS Sustainability Reporting Standards Alignment

In 2025, CDL continued its dynamic double materiality assessment, evaluating both impact and financial materiality. The top five issues ranked highest for 2025 are:

  • Decarbonisation – Energy Efficiency & Adoption of Renewables
  • Cyber-readiness, Security and Data Privacy
  • Green and Healthy Buildings – Product/Service Quality and Responsibility
  • Occupational Health, Safety and Well-being
  • Governance and Business Conduct

With the implementation of the IFRS S1 and S2 for STI constituents, CDL has taken further steps towards adopting the global sustainability reporting baseline. The Group undertook a rigorous assessment to identify and quantify its top three climate-related risks and opportunities, enhancing transparency and strengthening integration of climate considerations into strategic planning.

In December 2025, CDL completed its fourth climate change scenario study with an independent consultant, significantly enhancing the depth and breadth of its analysis. The study expanded its scope and geographical coverage to include Japan and assessed the Group’s exposure to physical and transition risks across short, medium and long-term horizons from 2030 to 2050.

Amid rapid global biodiversity loss, CDL has intensified its commitment to nature preservation and regeneration, publishing its third Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) report within the ISR. Key advancements include expanding its asset coverage to 27 hotels and offices in the United Kingdom, a deeper dive into the Singapore and New Zealand portfolios, and the use of new nature-related tools and databases for reporting and analysis.

Since 2017, CDL has secured over S$11 billion in sustainable finance, leveraging its strong sustainability performance and credibility, validated by global ESG benchmarks such as FTSE4Good, MSCI ESG Ratings (‘AAA’ since 2010), and the CDP with double A List (‘A’ ratings for Climate Change (since 2018) and Water Security (since 2019). CDL was also ranked 69th on the 2026 Corporate Knights Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World, maintaining its position as Singapore’s top real estate management and leasing company.

Accelerating Collaboration for a Low-Carbon and Nature-Positive Future

As Scope 3 emissions become increasingly critical to the net-zero transition, CDL continues to engage and empower its value chain. In October 2025, the first cohort of 42 SMEs graduated from CDL’s SME Supplier Decarbonisation Queen Bee Programme. The initiative was developed with Enterprise Singapore, Global Green Connect and DBS Bank. Participating SME suppliers were equipped with the knowledge and tools to measure and manage their carbon footprint while strengthening supply chain resilience.

CDL also continued to actively engage tenants in its green building initiatives. In 2025, it concluded the City Green Tenant Bonus Programme, a pioneering decarbonisation initiative launched in 2024 for tenants at Republic Plaza, its flagship commercial property. Building on its Green Lease framework, the programme incentivised tenants to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce energy consumption, supporting efforts to lower Scope 3 emissions.

In 2025, CDL significantly advanced its nature and biodiversity agenda with the launch of three innovative community initiatives at its flagship City Square Mall — the CDL EcoTrain, CDL MicroForest and CDL MicroFarm. These initiatives support CDL’s adoption of the TNFD and underscore the Group’s efforts to enhance urban biodiversity, build climate resilience and inspire future eco-champions. In its first year of operation, the zero-energy CDL EcoTrain reached more than 70,000 visitors and over 1,500 workshop participants. 

Designed to mitigate urban heat, enhance climate resilience and boost biodiversity, the CDL MicroForest, located at City Square Mall’s City Green park, is Singapore’s first research-driven tropical microforest in a retail mall. Based on recent first-year findings, temperatures within the CDL MicroForest can be up to 5°C cooler than in surrounding and roadside areas.

These initiatives reflect CDL’s commitment to advancing climate impact and future-proofing its developments and portfolio.

Issued by City Developments Limited (Co. Regn. No. 196300316Z)
For media enquiries, please contact CDL Corporate Communications:

Belinda Lee, Head, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications
+65 6877 8315 / +65 9751 1004

Eunice Yang
+65 6877 8338 / +65 9690 8224

Jill Tan
+65 6877 8484 / +65 9155 1362

Follow CDL on social media:
Instagram: @citydevelopments / instagram.com/citydevelopments
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/citydevelopments
X: @CityDevLtd / x.com/citydevltd

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LOS ANGELES, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — 45 environmental and public interest groups are demanding that Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Energy Commission immediately implement long-overdue rules to protect consumers from painful run-ups of gas prices at the pump.

The groups pointed to the skyrocketing California gross refining margins, how the industry measures profits per gallon, from 49 cents per gallon in January to an estimated more than $1.50 per gallon in March.

Read the letter.

“This is exactly the type of profiteering that SBx1-2 and ABx2-1, the two special reforms that passed in 2023 and 2024, were supposed to rein in,” the groups wrote. “Unfortunately, the California Energy Commission has not written regulations to address resupply arrangements, minimum inventories or a price gouging penalty.

“We call on the California Energy Commission to write and implement emergency regulations in all three areas immediately. Californians deserve the protections they were promised.” 

Emergency regulations can be promulgated in 30 days. 

The public interest groups sending the letter include: 

350 Bay Area Action, 350 Santa Barbara, 350 South Bay Los Angeles, 350 Southland Legislative Alliance, Amazon Watch, APEN Action, Bay Area-System Change not Climate Change, Biofuelwatch, Center for Biological Diversity, Center for Community, Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ), CERBAT, Change Begins With ME, Indivisible, Climate First: Replacing Oil & Gas (CFROG), Climate Hawks Vote, Climate, Reality Project San Diego, Communities for a Better Environment, Elders Climate Action (ECA) Northern California (NorCal) Chapter, Elders Climate Action (ECA), Southern California (SoCal) Chapter, Fossil Free California, FracTracker Alliance, Good Neighbor Steering Committee of Benicia, Indivisible Marin, Indivisible Ventura, Long Beach Alliance for Clean Energy, Long Beach Gray Panthers, Nevada County, Climate Action Now, Oil and Gas Action Network, RootsAction, Sacramento Climate Coalition, San Francisco Bay Physicians for Social Responsibility, SanDiego350, Santa Cruz Climate Action Network, SoCal 350 Climate Action, Sunflower Alliance, Sustainable Mill Valley, The Climate Alliance, The Climate Center, The Local Clean, Energy Alliance, Transition Sebastopol, United States Campaign Manager, & West Berkeley Alliance for Clean Air and Safe Jobs.

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SOURCE Consumer Watchdog

As the April 15 deadline approaches, CTEC warns against unverified tax preparers

SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Consumer protection experts are warning taxpayers about a growing threat: so-called “ghost preparers,” individuals who prepare tax returns for a fee but refuse to sign them.

These preparers often promise unusually large refunds and low upfront costs. However, once the return is filed and payment is collected, they disappear, leaving taxpayers responsible for any errors, penalties, or audits.

“Ghost preparers intentionally avoid signing returns to escape accountability,” said Fernando Angell, chair of the California Tax Education Council (CTEC). “It’s not just unethical, it’s illegal. And it puts taxpayers directly at risk.”

Tax professionals say these schemes are spreading through word-of-mouth, social media, and informal networks. Common tactics include filing returns marked as “self-prepared,” omitting required preparer information, or providing clients with one version of a return while submitting a different one to tax authorities.

“They’re difficult to track because they deliberately leave no paper trail,” said Lester Crawford, a member of CTEC’s board. “Many taxpayers don’t realize something is wrong until it’s too late.”

Red flags to watch for include:

  • A preparer who refuses to sign your return
  • Requests for cash payments without documentation
  • Promises of unusually large refunds
  • Directing your refund into a third-party account

Tax experts stress that anyone paid to prepare a return must include their identifying information. Legitimate preparers include certified public accountants (CPAs), attorneys, IRS enrolled agents, and credentialed professionals in states with oversight programs like California.

CTEC, which oversees roughly 40,000 registered tax preparers, urges taxpayers to verify credentials before sharing sensitive financial information. For more tips, visit CTEC.org.

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SOURCE California Tax Education Council (CTEC)

PUNTA GORDA, Fla., April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How can homeowners in Florida build smarter, more efficient homes that stay cool and affordable year-round? That question is explored in a HelloNation article featuring insights from Home Building Expert Paul H Schaefer II of Sage Homes LLC in Punta Gorda, Florida. The article breaks down how design choices—from roofing materials to HVAC systems—impact comfort, durability, and long-term energy savings across Punta Gorda and Charlotte County.

Designing a green home in Florida starts with understanding how the state’s warm, humid climate affects daily living. The HelloNation feature explains that homeowners can achieve meaningful energy reductions by working with an energy efficient home builder Punta Gorda residents trust, who understands how each building component influences cooling and insulation performance. Every part of a house, from roof to foundation, contributes to how well it manages heat, moisture, and energy costs.

The roof plays the most critical role. According to the article, homes on Florida’s Gulf Coast receive constant sunlight, and dark shingles or tiles can absorb heat that radiates into the living space below. Light-colored or reflective roofing materials are key to lowering attic temperatures and reducing the load on air conditioning systems. Many energy efficient builders in Punta Gorda now recommend metal roofs with solar-reflective coatings or specialized shingles designed for heat deflection.

Insulation is the next major factor. The HelloNation article details how spray foam insulation, applied to the underside of the roof deck, creates a tight air barrier that blocks both heat and humidity. This method helps maintain steady indoor temperatures and prevents moisture buildup—a frequent issue in Florida’s humid climate. When combined with proper ventilation, spray foam insulation can significantly reduce the energy required to cool a home.

Windows also play an essential role in Florida green building strategies. The article highlights how low-emissivity (e-coated) windows reflect infrared light while allowing visible light to pass through. This type of glass keeps interiors bright while reducing the amount of heat entering the home. With less solar gain, homeowners can rely less on air conditioning, saving money on electricity throughout the year.

HVAC efficiency is another central theme in the HelloNation feature. High-efficiency air conditioning systems equipped with variable-speed blowers and programmable thermostats allow more precise temperature control while using less power. Pairing these systems with a whole-home dehumidifier keeps indoor moisture levels balanced and prevents overcooling. Paul H Schaefer II emphasizes that the best results come from properly sizing the HVAC unit to the home’s layout and square footage, ensuring consistent comfort and performance.

The article also discusses how solar panels are becoming a valuable addition to energy-efficient homes in Florida. With abundant sunshine, solar systems can generate enough electricity to offset or even surpass household energy needs. However, the HelloNation feature notes that before installing solar panels, homeowners should first optimize insulation, windows, and HVAC systems. Once a home’s energy demand is minimized, solar power delivers even greater returns on investment.

Appliances and lighting complete the efficiency equation. Builders focused on Florida green building are now incorporating LED lighting, Energy Star-rated appliances, and tankless water heaters during the design phase. Integrating these systems early ensures that every element of the home works together for maximum performance. Paul H Schaefer II explains that this whole-home approach is what separates standard construction from true energy-efficient design.

Reflective roofing, spray foam insulation, e-coated windows, and HVAC efficiency are just part of a larger strategy to make homes more sustainable. The HelloNation feature emphasizes that these upgrades go beyond meeting state code—they create living spaces that remain cool and comfortable while reducing long-term energy bills. As Schaefer notes, investing in smart design pays off through durability, lower maintenance, and improved quality of life.

In Punta Gorda and across Charlotte County, interest in sustainable construction continues to grow. Homeowners increasingly recognize that an energy-efficient design is not just environmentally friendly but also a sound financial decision. Working with an energy efficient home builder Punta Gorda residents trust ensures that every choice—from roof color to appliance selection—contributes to a home built for Florida’s future.

Building Green: Florida’s Guide to Efficient Home Design features insights from Paul H Schaefer II, Home Building Expert of Punta Gorda, FL, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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SOURCE HelloNation

AMSTERDAM, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — OCI Global N.V. (“OCI” or the “Company”) (Euronext: OCI) today announced the publication of its 2025 Annual Report, including the audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025.

The Annual Report and the audited financial statements therein include disclosures reflecting the substantial transformation of OCI during 2025, including the completion of major divestments, the return of capital to shareholders, and the resulting simplification of the group’s portfolio and capital structure.

The Annual Report has been filed with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) using the European Single Electronic Format (ESEF). The 2025 Annual Report is also available for download on OCI’s website at www.oci-global.com.

Further information regarding OCI’s Annual General Meeting will be communicated in due course.

About OCI Global

Learn more about OCI at www.oci-global.com. You can also follow OCI on LinkedIn.

 

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SOURCE OCI Global

Key Takeaways

  • Climate risk is increasingly being reframed as a core business issue – not just a sustainability additive.
  • Shared supplier challenges highlight the need for collective solutions
  • Validation and opportunities for MCAP

Cascale recently contributed to Schneider Electric Perspectives Day Asia in Hong Kong, convening 150 senior executives from across the consumer goods industry. The event brought together leaders in sustainability, finance, energy, and supply chain to explore practical pathways to net-zero.

Nicole Lee-Kauer, manager of Cascale’s Manufacturer Climate Action Program (MCAP), joined a breakout panel called “Advancing Supply Chain Decarbonization: Leveraging Data, System Interoperability, and Regulatory Compliance,” injecting learnings from the Manufacturer Climate Action Program (MCAP), now in its fifth cohort.

The 18-month program is a pivotal initiative that unifies global manufacturers to combat climate change across the consumer goods industry, driving sustainable change through science-aligned targets (SATs). Engaging over 85 manufacturers to date, the program is open to all manufacturers looking to accelerate the adoption of science-aligned GHG reduction targets within their Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Manufacturers and brands can register for the informational webinar April 21 (register now).

Across the event, a clear theme was present: accountability. Organizations are increasingly integrating climate risk into enterprise-wide risk management, rather than treating it as a standalone sustainability topic. Companies such as Philippines‑based conglomerate Ayala and hotel chain Marriott are embedding climate considerations into governance structures, linking performance to executive decision-making and incentives. This reflects growing alignment between sustainability and financial accountability.

Discussions with brands and retailers, including Japanese beverage retailer Asahi, Henderson Land, and Hong Kong Land reinforced that manufacturers face similar decarbonization challenges across sectors. These shared barriers point to the importance of collective action, aligned tools, and consistent data to drive progress at scale.

A separate session offered insights from FairPrice Group’s supplier decarbonization program. There was strong alignment with Cascale’s MCAP, particularly in terms of the program’s approach to target-setting and capacity building. For example, FairPrice’s use of a supplier segmentation model and structured training offers a practical example of how brands can engage manufacturers more effectively.

At the same time, their experience underscores the role of enabling environments. Public funding, supportive policy frameworks, and cross-border partnerships are key accelerators for supplier decarbonization. These learnings present opportunities to further strengthen MCAP, including the potential development of a simple self-assessment tool to help manufacturers evaluate readiness for programs like MCAP or science-based targets.

In all, events like Perspectives Day Asia reinforce Cascale’s role not only as a convener, bringing diverse perspectives in consumer goods, but also as a contributor to cross-industry dialogue.

Register for MCAP Webinar

BANGALORE, India, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ —

Global Environmental Test Chambers Market Research Report:

There’s a quiet arms race happening inside engineering labs around the world. It’s not about who can build the fastest product — it’s about who can validate it most rigorously before it ever reaches a customer. Environmental test chambers sit at the center of that race, and the numbers reflect just how seriously industries are taking it.

Valuates Reports Logo

The global market is valued at USD 2,712 Million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 4,809 Million by 2032 — an 8.6% CAGR that isn’t built on hype. It’s built on the very real and growing cost of failure.

Market Size & Forecast

  • Market Opportunities: USD 4,809 Million by 2032
  • By Application: Automotive and electronics remain the primary demand centers
  • By Type: Temperature and humidity chambers continue to dominate

Government Policies

A decade ago, regulatory compliance was something engineering teams dealt with near the end of a product’s development cycle. That approach is now effectively obsolete. Standards like MIL-STD, ISO, and ASTM are no longer destination checkpoints — they’re embedded into how products are designed from the outset.

Nowhere is this shift more visible than in aerospace. Following a wave of post-incident scrutiny, OEMs and their supply chains have moved away from sampled testing toward full-cycle stress validation. That’s a significant operational change, and it’s driving real capital investment in advanced chamber infrastructure. Meanwhile, government-backed R&D programs in the U.S. and Europe are accelerating the uptake of next-generation systems — ones that offer higher precision, greater automation, and the audit trails that regulators increasingly demand.

Get Free Sample Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-22Q11924/Global_Environmental_Test_Chambers_Market

Major Trends

The test chamber market doesn’t move in isolation. It responds to complexity — and right now, product complexity across key industries is surging.

Start with semiconductors. As chip architectures become more densely packed, the tolerances for environmental variation tighten significantly. A temperature fluctuation that would have been inconsequential in a previous generation of hardware can now compromise performance or reliability. Semiconductor manufacturers are responding by investing in high-precision chambers capable of replicating extreme and rapidly shifting conditions with a level of consistency that older systems simply can’t deliver.

Electric vehicles tell a similar story, but the stakes are even higher. Battery validation has become one of the most time-intensive and technically demanding workflows in automotive engineering. Getting it wrong carries consequences that go well beyond a product recall — thermal incidents in EV batteries can be catastrophic. Leading OEMs are now deploying advanced environmental chambers to simulate years of thermal stress in a matter of days. One Tier-1 supplier managed to cut battery validation timelines by over 40% by consolidating thermal shock and humidity cycling into a single integrated test environment. That’s not just faster — it’s a fundamental rethink of how validation fits into the development calendar.

The chambers themselves have also evolved. Today’s systems are less passive enclosures and more intelligent platforms. IoT-enabled monitoring gives engineers real-time visibility into test conditions across multiple facilities simultaneously. AI-driven analytics are beginning to surface failure patterns before they emerge as physical defects — catching problems upstream, where fixes are cheap, rather than downstream, where they’re not. For procurement teams evaluating capital expenditure on testing infrastructure, that predictive capability represents a measurable return.

There’s also a clear consolidation trend on the buyer side. Instead of maintaining separate units for temperature cycling, humidity exposure, and corrosion testing, companies are moving toward multifunctional systems that handle several test environments within a single chamber. The footprint reduction is tangible. So are the workflow efficiencies, particularly in high-throughput R&D environments where floor space and technician hours are both in short supply.

By product type, temperature and humidity chambers remain the industry’s workhorse — adaptable, cost-effective, and broadly compatible with testing requirements across virtually every sector. But thermal shock chambers are gaining ground fast. Their ability to swing between extreme temperature ranges within minutes makes them indispensable for aerospace components and high-performance electronics, where material fatigue under rapid temperature change is a critical failure mode.

Specialized chambers are also carving out meaningful share. Corrosion chambers are seeing increased demand from automotive coating manufacturers and coastal infrastructure developers. Xenon chambers — which replicate long-term UV exposure in compressed timeframes — have become essential for solar panel manufacturers and outdoor materials testing. A panel designed to last 25 years in the field needs to prove it can survive the equivalent of that exposure in a lab environment, and xenon testing is how that proof gets generated.

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Trends Influencing the Environmental Test Chambers Market Growth

The fundamentals driving this market come down to two converging forces: rising product complexity and the regulatory frameworks designed to manage the risks that complexity creates.

Consider what’s at stake in EV battery development. A single thermal anomaly can cause performance degradation that undermines the vehicle’s range or, in more serious cases, creates safety risks that escalate quickly. Environmental chambers let engineers simulate extreme heat, freezing temperatures, humidity cycles, and rapid transitions — all before a vehicle prototype ever leaves the controlled environment of a development facility. Testing that previously required weeks of field exposure can now be replicated in a matter of days without sacrificing rigor.

Electronics manufacturers face a version of the same challenge. As components shrink and sensitivity to moisture and heat increases, the margin for error in validation narrows. Aerospace firms are validating systems under simulated altitude and pressure conditions that most testing environments can’t replicate. Pharmaceutical companies rely on stability chambers to ensure drug efficacy holds across the full range of climatic conditions a product might encounter throughout its distribution chain — from a climate-controlled warehouse in Germany to a distribution hub in Southeast Asia.

Regulation isn’t loosening any of this pressure. Certification requirements across aerospace, defense, and automotive are becoming more rigorous, not less. MIL-STD-810 compliance isn’t optional for defense contractors; it’s the baseline. In automotive, tightening safety and emissions regulations are pushing manufacturers to extend environmental testing coverage across EV systems that simply didn’t exist in previous regulatory frameworks.

Technology investment has kept pace with these demands. Modern chambers come equipped with advanced sensor arrays, automated parameter control, and predictive maintenance capabilities that alert operators to potential equipment issues before they interrupt a test run. Remote monitoring has become standard on higher-tier systems, allowing engineering teams to manage simultaneous tests across multiple facilities without deploying additional personnel.

Sustainability considerations are reshaping procurement decisions in ways that weren’t a factor just five years ago. Newer chamber designs are meaningfully more energy-efficient than their predecessors and use refrigerants with significantly lower global warming potential. For cleantech manufacturers — solar panel producers being a prime example — there’s an obvious tension in using energy-intensive testing infrastructure to validate products built around environmental responsibility. Next-generation chambers are designed to reduce that tension, and buyers in sustainability-conscious sectors are noticing.

Customization has moved from niche request to standard expectation. Engineering teams increasingly want systems configured to their specific testing matrix — a single chamber that handles temperature cycling, humidity exposure, and vibration testing in one integrated workflow. The value isn’t just convenience; it’s the reduction in capital expenditure and the elimination of handoff points between separate test environments where inconsistencies can creep in.

Demand is also expanding beyond the market’s traditional anchors. Renewable energy infrastructure, telecom networks (particularly as 5G deployment scales and early 6G development begins), and biotech are all generating new requirements for environmental validation. These aren’t niche applications — they represent long-term demand drivers that will sustain market growth well beyond the current forecast window.

How is the Environmental Test Chambers Market Segmented?

By Type

  • Temperature and Humidity Chamber
  • Thermal Shock Test Chamber
  • Corrosion Test Chamber
  • Xenon Test Chamber

By Application

  • Automotive
  • Aerospace
  • Electronics
  • Pharmaceutical

Key Companies

  • ESPEC
  • GWS Environmental Equipment
  • TOMILO
  • Suzhou Sushi Testing Group
  • Chongqing Yinhe Testing Instrument
  • DOAHO Testing Equipment
  • Chongqing ATEC Technology
  • Weiss Technik
  • Hardy Technology
  • ZHONGZHI TESTING INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD.
  • Envsin Instrument Equipment Co., Ltd.
  • KOMEG
  • SOYATEA TEST
  • SanmTest
  • ATMARS
  • Giant Force Instrument Enterprise (Suzhou) Co., Ltd.

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Environmental Test Chambers Market Share

Segment & Application Growth

Automotive and electronics command the largest share of demand — and the logic is straightforward. Whether you’re stress-testing an EV battery pack or qualifying a semiconductor wafer for aerospace deployment, failure isn’t an abstract risk. It’s a liability, a recall, or worse. That’s the environment driving procurement decisions.

Temperature and humidity chambers dominate the product landscape because they’re the most versatile tool available for the widest range of testing requirements. They’re equally at home in an R&D lab running exploratory durability tests and on a production line verifying that every batch meets spec. That adaptability keeps them central to testing infrastructure across industries — and it’s why they’ll continue to lead by volume even as more specialized chamber types accelerate their growth trajectories.

Regional Analysis

Asia-Pacific remains the center of gravity for this market. The region’s manufacturing scale—particularly in China, Japan, South Korea, and India—continues to drive strong demand for environmental testing equipment.

North America is seeing robust growth, supported by high R&D spending and a strong focus on innovation, particularly in aerospace, defense, and advanced electronics.

Europe maintains a solid position, largely due to its stringent regulatory environment and well-established engineering sectors.

Emerging regions such as Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are beginning to invest more heavily in industrial infrastructure. While still smaller in scale, these markets are gradually opening new opportunities for chamber manufacturers.

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