#Data Retention

[garymdm]

10 Steps to Effective Data Retention

A Guide to PoPIA Compliance10 Steps to Compliant Data RetentionConclusion A Guide to PoPIA Compliance The Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPIA) in South Africa imposes strict requirements on the collection, processing, and retention of personal data. Organizations must ensure that personal information is collected lawfully, used only for specified purposes, and, according to Section…

[rajaniesh]

Supercharge Your Data: Advanced Optimization and Maintenance for Delta Tables in Fabric

Dive into the final part of our series on optimizing data ingestion with Spark in Microsoft Fabric! Discover advanced optimization techniques and essential maintenance strategies for Delta tables to ensure high performance and efficiency in your data Ops

Welcome to the third and final installment of our blog series on optimizing data ingestion with Spark in Microsoft Fabric. In our previous posts, we explored the foundational elements of Microsoft Fabric and Delta Lake, delving into the differences between managed and external tables, as well as their practical applications. Now, it’s time to take your data management skills to the next…

[thedbahub]

The Importance of Archiving SQL Server Data: Balancing Performance and Retention Needs

Introduction As a SQL Server DBA, one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is dealing with rapidly growing history tables. I’ve seen them balloon from a few gigabytes to terabytes in size, causing all sorts of performance headaches. But at the same time, the application teams are often hesitant to archive old data due to potential requests from other teams who may need it. In this article, I’ll…

[newsfrompeoplesmovement]

The EU’S AI Act

Changes to the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act will allow police to use facial recognition technology on recorded video footage without a judge’s approval — going further than what was agreed by the three EU institutions according to a leaked document. Hahn, a German MEP said the final text of the bloc’s new rules on artificial intelligence was “an attack on civil rights” and could…

[abha-23]

https://medium.com/dataarchiva/why-consider-dataarchiva-while-architecting-salesforce-platform-for-data-retention-compliance-35d0c04856f9

[tonguethulhu]

the amount of people in the notes who have never heard of a $15 external-usb dvd player is nuts, and yes some can be plugged right into your phone or tablet too

u used to be able to put a dvd in your computer. and then u could watch it

[unitedstatesrei]

Ultimate Guide to Investing in Industrial Real Estate in 2025

Key Takeaways Industrial real estate—including warehouses and data centers—provides a stable investment opportunity amid evolving U.S. commerce. Technology advancements and urban development are fueling demand and creating new avenues for growth within this sector. Understanding resilience factors and strategic approaches is essential for maximizing returns in 2025.   Unlocking the Potential of Modern Industrial Spaces If you're thinking about where to grow your money in 2025, industrial real estate in the U.S. stands out like a beacon. Picture warehouses buzzing with activity and data centers powering daily life—these spaces drive modern commerce and offer you real stability. With technology shaping how goods move and cities evolving fast, you have a chance to get ahead. But what makes these properties so resilient, and which strategies will set you up for real success next year? Key Drivers of Industrial Real Estate Performance in 2025 In 2025, several powerful forces are shaping the future of industrial real estate in the United States. You’ll notice that e-commerce growth is driving high demand for warehouses, last-mile delivery hubs, and specialized cold storage. Innovative leasing has become common, as businesses want flexible terms that support inventory swings and supply chain resilience. Investors and developers need to watch out for growing threats like title fraud and squatting, which can cause significant financial setbacks if not proactively managed. Infrastructure investments are boosting areas near highways, ports, and major cities, making these locations even more valuable. Vacancy rates have risen slightly due to a steady pace of new deliveries, highlighting the importance of location and tenant quality when making investment decisions. Investors focus on properties that align with these trends—close to transportation and population centers, with smart upgrades like automation. You can see how lifestyle changes, like faster shipping expectations and the rise of subscription services, push demand further. If you understand these drivers, you’re better prepared to spot opportunities—and act dynamically. Pros and Cons of Industrial Property Investments Thinking about investing in U.S. industrial real estate? One big plus is the steady rental income you can get from long-term leases, especially when your tenants are reliable. Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing—you’ll need to keep an eye on vacancy risks and changes in demand, since even solid markets can shift unexpectedly. Industrial real estate values have outpaced retail and office sectors in recent years, making this sector particularly attractive for investors seeking growth. The good news is that spotting the right opportunities for upgrades can't only increase your property’s value, but also help you stay ahead of the competition. Rental Income Stability Although real estate investments come in many shapes and sizes, industrial properties often stand out for their reliable rental income. If you want steady returns, you'll appreciate how tenant diversification cushions you against single-company downturns. Leasing to multiple tenants spreads your risk and keeps income flowing, even if one renter leaves. With lease escalation clauses, you benefit from regular rent increases—national in-place rents grew 6.6% to 6.7% year-over-year in Q1 2025, showing exceptional income growth. Unlike other sectors, industrial buildings typically require fewer costly improvements. This means your net returns are stronger, and you'll spend less time on renovations. Rising vacancy rates in some regions—now at 8% nationally and higher in places like Phoenix and Chicago—may pose a challenge for income stability, highlighting the importance of choosing your market carefully. However, some regions haven't matched national averages, and shrinking lease rate spreads might test future rent gains. Still, strong demand makes income stability a leading advantage. Vacancy and Absorption Risks

Steady rental income can bring peace of mind, but every investment comes with its own set of challenges. When you invest in industrial real estate, vacancy and absorption risks are never far behind. Vacancies in the U.S. industrial market climbed to 8.5% in early 2025, as new developments outpaced demand. Notably, regions like New Jersey experienced the highest rent growth at 11.3%, signaling that while some markets see strong pricing power, high rents could also limit the pool of prospective tenants. You might see rents cool and your income shrink if market saturation grows or if technological disruption alters the way tenants use space. Net absorption has slowed, which means fewer new tenants are filling spaces. Higher long-term interest rates and uncertain trade policies also add to the risk. To protect your investment, diversify across locations, watch for signs of market saturation, and remain alert to changes caused by technological disruption and shifting economic conditions. Value-Add Opportunities If you’re looking to shape the future of American industry—and capture strong returns along the way—value-add industrial real estate offers a unique playground. Picture an older industrial park filled with outdated warehouses. By upgrading these spaces with warehouse automation and modern layouts, you can reset below-market rents and appeal to logistics and e-commerce tenants craving efficiency. Industrial assets offer stability and cost efficiency for investors, giving owners a dependable income stream even as improvements are underway. Renovating older stock for hybrid uses—like blending manufacturing and logistics—taps into reshoring trends and drives above-average returns. Still, you should weigh the risks: locked-in leases may slow your rent resets, while supply chain delays can spike redevelopment costs. Retrofitting for ESG standards or specialized tenants adds complexity. Success depends on market timing, smart tenant mixes, and keen analysis of national and local demand swings. Comparing Industrial and Commercial Real Estate Sectors When you look at the environment of industrial and commercial real estate in the U.S., it feels a bit like comparing a steady mountain to a rolling hill. Industrial real estate offers you a trail marked by strong historical trends, while commercial sectors can feel unpredictable. If you’re thinking about market diversification for your portfolio, studying these differences is key. Industrial spaces usually show steady growth and low vacancy rates, making them dependable no matter the economic forecast. Notably, industrial properties remain stable, with vacancy rates held at 6.8% in Q3 2024, driven by ongoing demand from e-commerce and logistics. In contrast, commercial properties like offices and retail spaces often react faster to market ups and downs. Here are four things to think about when comparing these sectors: Industrial properties often have lower vacancies. Industrial investments thrive on stability and cost efficiency. Commercial spaces face higher volatility. Market diversification often favors industrial for steady returns. Warehousing Demand and Distribution Center Growth Have you noticed how quickly packages show up at your door these days? That speed isn’t luck—it’s a direct result of booming warehousing demand and rapid distribution center growth. E-commerce continues to soar, driving the need for more warehouse space across the U.S. In 2025, expect warehouses to expand even more, powered by Innovative Parcel Logistics and Automated Inventory Management. These tools help companies deliver products faster and handle larger volumes with precision. Vacancy rates are expected to rise intermittently as new facilities enter the market, but strong demand continues to keep the sector healthy. Industry disruption from agile new entrants has also pushed companies to improve speed and efficiency in warehouse operations. Distribution centers are also strategically popping up closer to major cities, making deliveries quicker and more reliable.

Automated technology ensures operations run smoothly, saving both time and money. As consumer spending rises and supply chains get smarter, investing in warehouses becomes essential for meeting the ever-growing demands of modern logistics. Role of Data Centers and Flex Space in Portfolio Diversification As boxes move faster from warehouses to your doorstep, another quiet revolution is changing what industrial real estate can do. You're seeing a surge in data centers, thanks to massive AI infrastructure needs and the shift from pure logistics to tech-driven assets. In order to maximize return on investment, strategic management practices, such as regular inspections and open communication, should also be applied in evaluating these emerging property types. Flex spaces—offering hybrid office, storage, and light manufacturing—let you tap into cross-sector synergy, making your portfolio nimble and resilient. In the U.S., blending data centers and flex space helps you steer market shocks, as each asset’s strengths offset the other's risks. Today, about 60% of public REIT market cap now sits outside traditional sectors like pure industrial, helping you benefit from much broader diversification when adding new asset types to your portfolio. Here’s how you can benefit: Capture stable returns as AI infrastructure fuels the need for data centers. Diversify risk by adding flex space with adaptable leasing. Maximize value via conversions between asset types. Leverage cross-sector synergy in growth markets. Evaluating Industrial REITs Versus Direct Investment Though many investors dream about owning a warehouse or high-tech facility, you don’t need millions to step into the world of industrial real estate. You can begin with Industrial REITs, buying shares for as little as $50, letting you enjoy income without the headaches of direct ownership. But if you crave control—setting up biometric security, choosing tenants, or driving ethical investing decisions—direct investment may suit you better. Compare your options: Recent market data shows that Industrial REITs delivered competitive total returns through both dividends and capital appreciation in 2025. Building a financial cushion is a critical strategy that helps investors navigate market cycles and take on opportunities in both REITs and direct ownership. Feature Industrial REITs Capital Needed Low (share price) Liquidity High (sell shares) Yield 3.96%–12.27% (2025) Management Professional teams Risk Diversified portfolio REITs let you submerge quickly and ethically, but direct investment rewards hands-on effort and customization. Your path depends on your vision. Build-to-Suit Projects and Customization Trends We’re seeing a real shift across the U.S. as more companies look for spaces designed specifically for them—everything from high-tech manufacturing facilities to last-mile delivery centers. With build-to-suit projects, it’s all about meeting those unique requirements, whether that means installing extra-tall ceilings for automation or adding on-site solar panels for sustainability. Creating the right environment through brand storytelling can also make these spaces more attractive and memorable for tenants. Additionally, as demand-driven project pipeline continues to lag behind due to zoning hurdles and construction slowdowns, these customized facilities give tenants the certainty and operational efficiency that speculative development can’t match. By responding to these needs, you’re not just providing a building; you’re actively shaping what’s next for American industry. Growing Demand for Customization While industrial real estate keeps changing, the demand for build-to-suit projects and tailored spaces has taken center stage across the U.S. You’ll notice a shift from traditional, cookie-cutter warehouses to spaces designed for specific industries and advanced manufacturing needs. This new trend isn’t just about fancy upgrades—it’s rooted in the historical development of industry and our growing urban infrastructure.

As companies aim to stay ahead, they’re asking for more custom features than ever before. Build-to-suit projects are increasingly popular as tenants want to secure long-term leases in facilities precisely designed for their needs, which also helps reduce the risk of oversupply in certain sectors. Here’s why this matters for you: Semiconductor and EV growth: These industries need specialized buildings due to technical demands. Advanced technology support: Custom facilities help companies integrate automation and AI. Environmental responsibility: Tenants want eco-friendly buildings to meet regulations. Flexible design: Adaptable spaces prepare you for future changes in your business model. Tenant-Driven Design Features Demand for tailored spaces isn’t just a trend—it’s completely changing the way industrial properties are built and used across the U.S. Today, tenants expect more than four walls and a roof. They want high-tech infrastructure, automation, and smart technology woven into every detail. Build-to-suit projects let you offer true space customization, making your property align perfectly with tenants’ unique business needs. As technology-enabled properties that elevate tenant engagement become a top opportunity in commercial real estate, integrating digital building systems and flexible infrastructure is not just expected but increasingly essential for attracting quality tenants. Integrate AI-driven features and energy-efficient systems to deliver tenant amenities that boost productivity and comfort. Consider wellness zones, flexible workspaces, and sustainability features—adding value for companies focused on innovation and employee satisfaction. When you focus on tenant-driven design features, you don’t just attract tenants; you build loyalty and long-term partnerships that can set your industrial investments apart in the 2025 market. Understanding Cap Rates and High-Yield Industrial Assets Even as the market keeps shifting, understanding cap rates is one of the most important skills for investors looking to spot high-yield opportunities in U.S. industrial real estate. Cap rates show the return you’ll get compared to the property’s price, making them a key measure when sizing up deals. If you’re eyeing high-yield assets, pay special attention to industrial zoning and environmental regulations—these often impact both property value and long-term returns. Over the past year, cap rates have declined across all classes, supporting sustained investor demand even in uncertain times. Now, consider these essentials: Cap rates for Class A, B, and C properties vary, so know your target range. High-yield assets usually sit in strong markets like Dallas or Miami. Interest rates and GDP growth directly influence cap rate trends. Tenant quality and mid-sized facility demand drive leasing success. Think smart, act informed—maximize your gains. Off-Market Strategies for Sourcing Industrial Deals Spotting the right cap rate is just one piece of the high-yield puzzle—but getting first crack at a high-potential industrial property gives you a real edge. You can tap into off-market strategies by reaching out directly to property owners, networking at industry events, and partnering with skilled real estate agents who know the local U.S. market. Taking inspiration from business leaders who emphasize community connections, building sincere relationships can enhance access to off-market opportunities and long-term deal flow. Leverage data-driven platforms to spot hidden gems and build a reputation that attracts exclusive opportunities. As the industrial and manufacturing sector is projected to be a top investment opportunity in 2025, focusing on these properties can align your strategy with emerging demand and strong fundamentals. Off-market deals let you secure properties with lower competition and often better pricing. These strategies also offer the opportunity for innovative leasing or leasing consolidation, letting you tailor deals to tenant needs and boost value.

Still, be prepared: information can be scarce, due diligence matters, and strong negotiation skills will be vital. Top U.S. Metro Areas for Industrial Investment in 2025 Thinking about diving into industrial real estate? Coastal cities such as Jacksonville and Houston are still standout choices, thanks to their strong port access and solid infrastructure. Meanwhile, inland markets like Dallas-Fort Worth and Kansas City are gaining serious traction, driven by rapid growth and supportive local policies. Notably, metropolitan areas are central hubs of economic activity across the US, fueling much of the national momentum in industrial sectors. In cities like St. Louis, recent urban renewal efforts and major new funding are transforming former decline into opportunity, paving the way for dynamic investment environments. Whether you’re leaning toward the coasts or looking inland, there’s a lot to consider—let’s take a closer look at what makes these top metro areas so appealing for industrial investment in 2025. Coastal Cities Outperform Peers While many cities compete for your investment, coastal cities across the U.S. stand out as powerful hubs for industrial real estate in 2025. These cities thrive on port synergy and have demonstrated impressive coastal resilience, even in the face of climate risks. If you’re searching for vibrant options, look closely at places like Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, and Houston. Coastal cities are also benefiting from international appeal and strong commercial real estate activity, which further accelerates investor interest and development potential. Why do these markets outperform their peers? Consider these advantages: Expanding infrastructure: Upgraded ports and logistics drive steady demand. Demographic growth: Rapid population increases fuel the need for industrial spaces. Diverse economies: Cities with varied industries provide stability and growth. Robust job markets: Employment growth supports long-term investment success. Inland Hubs Gain Momentum Coastal cities often steal the spotlight, but it’s the nation’s inland hubs that are rapidly building a new kind of industrial real estate powerhouse for 2025. If you trace historic trends, you’ll see places like the Inland Empire, Houston, and Richmond steadily claiming more investor attention. Surging leasing activity, import growth, and expanding logistics networks set these markets up for strong returns. But you should recognize market challenges too—price disparities and shifting tenant needs demand a smart strategy. Houston’s economic diversification and affordable operations offer resilience, while Phoenix and Nashville leverage regional connections to shine. Markets with growing populations and job opportunities serve as a foundation for sustainable industrial real estate growth in these regions. Inland Empire’s robust sales and import-driven demand showcase its unmatched momentum. When you look beyond the coasts, you’ll discover inland hubs rewriting the industrial investment story. Industrial Property Financing and Lending Options Curious about how you can finance your next industrial property deal? You've got a range of options to contemplate, each with its own advantages and lending requirements. In 2025, U.S. industrial real estate investors face fierce competition due to high demand, higher interest rates, and evolving loan products. As you explore financing, remember that lease negotiation skills and landlord incentives might boost your deal’s appeal, especially when working with alternative lenders or during seller financing discussions. Keeping regular inspections in mind can also minimize costly damages to your property investment over time. Commercial loans generally have shorter terms and require larger down payments compared to residential mortgages, meaning that you should prepare for a significant initial investment when seeking your industrial property loan. Here are four key lending options to review:

Bank Loans: Offer flexible leverage but require strong credit and business history. Life Company Loans: Favor long-term, stable properties for risk-averse investors. CMBS Loans: Provide large-scale, competitive loans with stricter terms. Hard Money Loans: Deliver fast, short-term capital, typically at higher rates. Cash Flow Analysis for Industrial Properties Once you’ve figured out your financing, it’s time to look closely at how much money your industrial property will actually put in your pocket. Cash flow analysis starts with your net operating income (NOI)—that’s the money left after subtracting key expenses like taxes, insurance, maintenance, and utilities from your total rent. Many investors also deduct a standard vacancy factor from potential rent to account for unoccupied periods or non-paying tenants, ensuring their projections are realistic. U.S. industrial spaces often offer stable cash flows because leases run longer and tenant turnover stays low. When determining your timeline for returns, remember that break-even points on industrial properties are typically reached after several years, depending on market conditions and total costs. As industrial automation and shifting supply chain dynamics keep driving demand, you’ll want to project future cash flows with a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Check cash-on-cash returns, IRR, and make sure debt service coverage is healthy. Don’t overlook possible costs for capital repairs or changing tenant needs. Smart cash flow analysis puts you in control of your investment’s future. Navigating Leasing Trends and Triple-Net Lease Structures As you explore the world of U.S. industrial real estate, leasing trends and triple-net lease structures quickly become key to your success. Leasing activity is booming, especially for modular spaces, as tenants seek agility for industries like battery technology and urban farming. Triple-net leases let you offload most property expenses and enjoy more stable cash flow, but tenants are taking on rising operational costs. Warehouse lease renewals are costlier than ever, with U.S. asking rents reaching $10.13/SF in Q4—a 61% increase from Q4 2019.] To steer through today’s market, keep these essential tips in mind: Focus on mid-sized logistics facilities for robust demand. Explore secondary markets with lower land costs and faster permitting. Prioritize properties with sustainability features—these attract higher-paying tenants. Choose newer, build-to-suit assets when possible; they reduce default risks and vacancy. Stay informed and adapt to maximize your returns. Industrial Asset Management: Best Practices and Tips Even in a fast-changing world, strong asset management sets you apart in U.S. industrial real estate. To thrive, you need to blend industrial innovation with asset resilience. Start by focusing on effective expense management, always watching costs, and using smart budgeting tools. Schedule regular maintenance, so problems never become expensive surprises. Build open, reliable communication with your tenants and vendors—you’ll cultivate loyalty and trust. Here's a quick reference table: Best Practice Benefit Preventive maintenance Fewer unexpected repairs Energy efficiency Lower utility costs Tenant feedback Higher tenant retention Manage financials diligently—keep your cash flow strong and understand every cent. Finally, lead proactively by planning capital improvements and always refining your emergency responses. Driven asset management builds sustainable value—and your edge in the market. Don't overlook the impact of quality paints on both property durability and visual appeal, as selecting the right products can help your assets retain their value over time. Underwriting and Valuation of Industrial Real Estate Deals When you’re underwriting industrial real estate deals, think of it as taking a deep dive into the property’s future cash flow—will it stay steady and strong, or are there risks that could throw things off course?

It’s important to make sure your rent growth projections actually reflect what’s happening in the local market; guessing too high can really skew your investment outlook. And don’t forget to pay close attention to vacancy and absorption rates, since these will give you a clear idea of how quickly you can lease up any empty space and keep your money working for you. Incorporating upgrades that boost property value and enhance safety, such as modernized electrical systems, can also play a key role in improving long-term returns and retaining tenants. Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a closer look at the different valuation approaches you can use for industrial properties. Evaluating Cash Flow Potential How do you really know if an industrial property will bring in steady cash flow? You need to dig into the details that truly impact an investment’s success. Environmental impact can affect a property’s long-term appeal, while zoning regulations can limit or boost potential uses. Next, it’s imperative to review market data and measure operational efficiency. Here’s how you can evaluate cash flow potential: Analyze tenant mix and lease structure: Reliable tenants and strong leases create predictable income streams. Review historical sales prices and vacancy rates: Past market performance sets a baseline for future expectations. Check financial statements and property appraisals: These help verify the property’s real income and expenses. Examine key metrics: Pay attention to Loan-to-Value (LTV), Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR), and Net Operating Income (NOI). Assessing Rent Growth Assumptions Looking beyond cash flow, you also need to judge whether rent growth assumptions in industrial real estate deals make sense. In 2025, experts project modest rent increases—just 1–3% nationwide, even though some Southern markets might see stronger gains. Pay close attention to market regulation and zoning policies, because they shape how much new supply can enter an area and affect rent trends. While concessions like free rent are increasing, they lower the true rent landlords collect. Some areas, like Los Angeles, are even experiencing rent drops of over 10% year-over-year. Always dig into local data: Are zoning policies limiting new projects? Is market regulation keeping growth in check? Use this research as your guide—it’ll help ensure your assumptions reflect reality, not just wishful thinking. Analyzing Vacancy and Absorption In industrial real estate, understanding vacancy and absorption trends can make or break your investment strategy. You need a sharp eye on both historical vacancy and current market absorption to stay ahead. With national vacancy rates hitting decade highs—nearing 8.5%—and market absorption lagging behind the swell of new supply, you must read the market’s pulse. Some regions—Miami and Seattle, for example—still show strong tenant interest, but national numbers tell a cautionary tale. Here’s how to decode these shifts: Review historical vacancy—watch for patterns that signal risk or opportunity. Compare supply deliveries to market absorption each quarter. Identify markets where excess supply threatens rent growth or lease renewal. Adjust your underwriting to include higher vacancy and slower absorption in 2025. Stay vigilant to safeguard your investments. Value-Add and Adaptive Reuse Opportunities While many investors focus on buying and holding, true growth often comes when you breathe new life into industrial properties. Think of it as industrial art—turning overlooked warehouses into supply chain masterpieces. You can target under-leased spaces and raise rents to match the market. Upgrade with energy-efficient lighting, HVAC, or better insulation to spark tenant interest and cut costs. Expand loading docks, add cold storage, or even automate with smart tech to make your property stand out. Adaptive reuse is powerful, too—old malls can become ultimate last-mile delivery hubs if you focus on strong structural features and the right zoning.

Evaluate local demand, especially where e-commerce drives growth. By creatively repositioning assets, you can transform forgotten buildings into high-demand supply chain anchors. As you implement these strategies, consider how tokenized investments are also making it possible to diversify your capital allocation and enhance the liquidity of industrial real estate portfolios. Industrial Property Tax Planning and Incentives Even small steps in industrial property tax planning can open big savings and reshape your investment returns. Tax incentives aren’t just past stories—they’re active tools you can use now to thrive in 2025. By understanding historical tax incentives and current zoning regulations, you position your industrial real estate projects for maximum financial success. Here's how you can benefit today: Apply for abatement programs: Explore GPLET for 8-year property tax breaks or site-specific PILOT deals. Claim equipment exemptions: Seize the new $500,000 personal property tax exemption for machinery. Leverage clean energy credits: Use Section 48E for solar, microgrid, and storage tax credits, with extra bonuses for U.S.-made content. Access regional programs: Target Opportunity Zones with zoning fast-tracks and local job training reimbursements. Incorporating a sustainability focus into your industrial property tax strategy not only increases cost savings but also aligns your investments with emerging industry trends and long-term viability. With the right strategy, every tax dollar saved fuels your property's long-term growth. Impact of Logistics and Last-Mile Distribution on Site Selection New tax incentives can set your investment up for bigger wins, but smart owners look beyond the balance sheet. When you pick a site for industrial real estate, you need to understand how last-mile logistics shape demand. E-commerce giants and smaller retailers want warehouses close to customers, even if urban congestion pushes up costs. They're grabbing urban micro-fulfillment sites fast, despite tough zoning rules and higher property prices. Automation and AI-powered routing let teams overcome traffic and make those costly miles count. At the same time, facilities with strong EV infrastructure get priority, as green fleets become the norm for U.S. cities. If you pick real estate near EV charging corridors and labor pools, you set yourself up for enduring investment value. Just as strategic painting choices can boost demand in residential rentals by appealing to broad audiences and enhancing key features, selecting sites that maximize natural light, flexibility, and operational efficiencies can give your industrial properties a competitive edge. ESG and Energy Efficiency in Modern Warehousing So, if you’re aiming to future-proof your warehouse investment, putting sustainable building standards and green technologies front and center is key. Opting for energy-efficient materials and integrating smart systems isn’t just about doing what's right for the environment—it’s a smart move for your bottom line, too. Not only will you see reduced operating costs, but your property’s value and reputation in the U.S. market will also get a boost. Upgrading to LED lighting solutions can significantly enhance warehouse appeal, cut long-term energy expenses, and position your property as a modern, eco-friendly asset in a competitive market. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the latest ESG innovations shaping warehouses today. Sustainable Building Standards While the industrial real estate market keeps growing, today’s warehouses must do more than just store goods—they need to meet strong sustainability and energy efficiency standards. Adopting sustainable building standards and seeking green certifications is no longer optional if you want to stay competitive and compliant in the U.S. Sustainable buildings prove you’re serious about both meeting regulations and making a positive environmental impact. When you invest in a warehouse, follow these steps:

Align your facility’s design with current U.S. energy codes and sustainability regulations. Aim for respected green certifications, such as LEED or ENERGY STAR, to show stakeholders your commitment. Conduct regular energy audits to reveal possible improvements. Use recycled materials and eco-friendly roofing to further boost efficiency and ESG alignment. Future-focused buildings can inspire responsible growth. Green Technology Adoption How can you make a real impact on both your bottom line and the planet? Start by adopting green technology in your warehouses. Switch to LED lighting—it cuts energy use by 75% and lasts much longer. Add AI integration to control lights and automate schedules, ensuring you only use energy when you need it. For climate control, smart thermostats and predictive maintenance keep HVAC costs down and comfort up. Solar incentives make installing solar panels practical, boosting energy savings and qualifying you for tax breaks. Use emission-reducing strategies like electric yard trucks and AI-powered dock scheduling to slash pollution and avoid EPA fines. And don’t forget sustainable packaging—buyers appreciate it, and U.S. regulations reward your effort. Green tech leads to lower costs and enduring returns. CRE Market Cycles and Distress Investment Opportunities in 2025 As 2025 approaches, you’ll notice the industrial real estate market shifting into a fresh cycle, opening doors for bold investors who are ready to plunge into new opportunities. Understanding market timing is key, especially as interest rates normalize and economic growth fuels new activity. Many cities update zoning regulations, making certain locations even more valuable if you spot them early. With demand for high-quality spaces rising, older properties may become distressed, but that’s where you can find great deals if you act strategically. Consider these opportunities: Pinpoint markets with favorable zoning regulations and supply-demand imbalances. Seek distress opportunities in outdated industrial properties, then renovate. Monitor market timing to buy low as vacancies increase. Diversify into data centers, as digital economy trends drive demand. Success means seizing the cycle’s best moments. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. Why is industrial real estate such a hot investment in 2025? Because it offers stability, consistent demand, and high adaptability. With e-commerce, AI, and logistics booming, warehouses and data centers are essential infrastructure, and investors are capitalizing on that. 2. What types of industrial properties are best for investment? Top performers include distribution centers, cold storage facilities, data centers, and flex spaces. Build-to-suit and value-add properties also offer strong returns when customized for modern needs. 3. Should I invest directly or go through an Industrial REIT? It depends on your goals. REITs offer easy entry and liquidity. Direct investment gives you more control and potentially higher returns, but requires more capital and involvement. 4. How do I find good industrial deals in today’s market? Look off-market first—via brokers, networking, or direct outreach. Prioritize areas with strong port access, major highways, and population growth, like Jacksonville, Dallas, or Kansas City. 5. What are the biggest risks in industrial investing? Rising vacancy rates, tech disruption, and market saturation. Poor location choices or ignoring due diligence (like zoning or environmental factors) can also hurt long-term returns. 6. How much money do I need to start investing in industrial real estate? Direct ownership usually requires six to seven figures, but you can get started with as little as \$50 by investing in Industrial REITs or through crowdfunding platforms. 7. What are triple-net leases, and why do they matter? A triple-net (NNN) lease means the tenant covers property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. For landlords, this reduces expenses and creates more predictable cash flow.

8. Are tax incentives available for industrial property investors? Yes. Programs like GPLET, Opportunity Zones, and green energy tax credits (like Section 48E) can significantly lower your costs and increase long-term profitability. 9. What makes a good market for industrial real estate? Strong infrastructure, population growth, business-friendly policies, and logistics demand. Inland and coastal hubs like Phoenix, St. Louis, and Houston check many of these boxes. 10. Is industrial real estate good for buy-and-hold strategies? Absolutely. Long leases, durable tenants, and steady income make it ideal for buy-and-hold. Value-add upgrades and sustainability features can further boost appreciation. Assessment Building Your Industrial Real Estate Future So, as you look at the crossroads of risk and reward, picture your future anchored by dependable warehouses and innovative facilities, not just the ups and downs of the stock market. Industrial real estate is all about trading some guesswork for more predictable, steady growth. Whether you’re eyeing those busy coastal ports or the steady potential in inland hubs, there’s a space to fit your investment style. Maybe it’s investing in data centers or making older warehouses greener—every move shapes the landscape of tomorrow. The journey might have its bumps, but with a clear strategy and an eye for opportunity, industrial assets can become your stepping stone to lasting success. Ready to take the next step? Explore industrial real estate opportunities and start building your bridge to a solid investment future.

[jcmarchi]

AI’s Real Value Is Built on Data and People – Not Just Technology

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/ais-real-value-is-built-on-data-and-people-not-just-technology/

AI’s Real Value Is Built on Data and People – Not Just Technology

The promise of AI expands daily – from driving individual productivity gains to enabling organizations to uncover powerful new business insights through data. While the potential of AI appears limitless and its impact easy to imagine, the journey to a truly AI-powered ecosystem is both complex and challenging. This journey doesn’t begin and end with implementing, adopting or even consistently using AI – it ends there. Realizing the full value of an AI solution ultimately depends on the quality of the data and the people who implement, manage and apply it to drive meaningful results.

Data: The Cornerstone of AI Success

Data, the organizational constant. Whether it’s a Mom-and-Pop convenience store or an enterprise organization, every business runs on data (financial records, inventory, security footage  etc.) The   management, accessibility and governance of this data is the cornerstone to realizing AI’s full  potential  within an organization. Gartner recently noted that 63% of organizations either lack confidence or are unsure about if their existing data practice or management structure is sufficient for successful adoption of AI. Enabling an organization to unlock  the full potential of AI requires a well thought out Data Practice. From collection, storage, synthesis, analysis, security, privacy, governance, and access control – a framework and methodology must be in place to leverage AI properly.  Additionally, it is essential to mitigate the risks and unintended consequences. Bottom line, data is the cornerstone of analytics and the fuel for your AI.

The access your AI solution has to your data determines its potential to deliver – so much so, we’re seeing the emergence of new functions tailored specifically to it, the Chief Data Officer (CDO). Simply put, if an AI solution is introduced to an environment with “free-floating” data accessible to anyone – it will be error-prone, biased, non-compliant, and very likely to expose sensitive and private information. Conversely, when  the data environment is rich, structured, accurate, within a framework and methodology for how the organization uses its data – AI can return immediate benefits and save numerous hours on modeling, forecasting, and propensity development. Built around the data cornerstone are access rights and governance policies for data, which present its own concern – the human element.

People: The Underrated Factor in AI Adoption

IDC recently shared that 45% of CEOs and over 66% of CIOs surveyed conveyed a hesitancy around technology vendors not completely understanding the downside risk potential of AI. These leaders are justified in their caution. Arguably, the consequences of age-old IT risks remain similar with governed AI (i.e., downtime, operational seizures, costly cyber-insurance premiums, compliance fines, customer experience, data-breaches, ransomware, and more.) and are amplified by the integration of AI into IT. The concern comes from the lack of understanding around the root-causes for those consequences or for those that are not aware, the angst that comes with associate AI enablement serving as the catalyst for those consequences.

The pressing question is, “Should I invest in this costly IT tool that can vastly improve my business’s performance at every functional level at the risk of IT implosion due to lack of employee readiness and enablement?” Dramatic? Absolutely – business risk always is, and we already know the answer to that question. With more complex technologies and elevated operational potential, so too must the effort to enable teams to use these tools legally, properly, efficiently, and effectively.

The Vendor Challenge

The lack of confidence in technology vendors’ understanding goes beyond subject matter expertise and reflects a deeper issue: the inability to clearly articulate the specific risks that an organization can and will face with improper implementations and unrealistic expectations.

The relationship between an organization and technology vendors is much like that of a patient and a healthcare practitioner. The patient consults a healthcare practitioner with symptoms seeking a diagnosis and hoping for a simple and cost-effective remedy. In preventative situations, the healthcare practitioner will work with the patient on dietary recommendations, lifestyle choices, and specialized treatment to achieve specified health goals. Similarly, there’s an expectation that organizations will receive prescriptive solutions from technology vendors to solve or plan for technology implementations. However, when organizations are unable to provide prescriptive risks specific to given IT environments, it exacerbates the uncertainty of AI implementation.

Even when IT vendors effectively communicate the risks and potential impacts of AI, many organizations are deterred by the true total cost of ownership (TCO) involved in laying the necessary foundation. There’s a growing awareness that successful AI implementation must begin within the existing environment – and only when that environment is modernized can organizations truly unlock the value of AI integration. It’s similar to assuming that anyone can jump into the cockpit of an F1 supercar and instantly win races. Any reasonable person knows that success in racing is the result of both a skilled driver and a high-performance machine. Likewise, the benefits of AI can only be realized when an organization is properly prepared, trained, and equipped to adopt and implement it.

Case in Point: Microsoft 365 Copilot

Microsoft 365 Copilot is a great example of an existing AI solution whose potential impact and value have often been misunderstood or diluted due to customers’ misaligned expectations – in how AI should be implemented and what they believe it should do, rather than understanding what it can do. Today, more than 70% of Fortune 500 companies are already leveraging Microsoft 365 Copilot. However, the widespread fear that AI will replace jobs is largely a misconception when it comes to most real-world AI applications. While job displacement has occurred in some areas – such as fully automated “dark warehouses” – it’s important to distinguish between AI as a whole and its use in robotics. The latter has had a more direct impact on job replacement.

In the context of Modern Work, AI’s primary value lies in enhancing performance and amplifying expertise – not replacing it. By saving time and increasing functional output, AI enables more agile go-to-market strategies and faster value delivery. However, these benefits rely on critical enablers:

A mature Data Practice

Strong Access Management and Governance

Robust Security measures to mitigate risks

People enablement around responsible AI use and best practices

Here are a few examples of AI-driven functional improvements across business areas:

Sales Leaders can generate propensity models using customer lifecycle data to drive cross-sell and upsell strategies, improving customer retention and value.

Corporate Strategy & FP&A Teams gain deeper insights thanks to time saved analyzing business units, enabling better alignment with corporate goals.

Accounts Receivable Teams can manage payment cycles more efficiently with faster access to actionable data, improving outreach and customer engagement.

Marketing Leaders can build more effective, sales-aligned go-to-market strategies by leveraging AI insights on sales performance and opportunities.

Operations Teams can reduce time spent reconciling Finance and Sales data, minimizing chaos during end-of-quarter or end-of-year processes.

Customer Success & Support Teams can cut down response and resolution times by automating workflows and simplifying key steps.

These examples only scratch the surface of AI’s potential to drive functional transformation and productivity gains. Yet, realizing these benefits requires the right foundation – systems that allow AI to integrate, synthesize, analyze, and ultimately deliver on its promise.

Final Thought: No Plug-and-Play for AI

Implementing AI to unlock its full potential isn’t as simple as installing a program or application. It’s the integration of an interconnected web of autonomous functions that permeate your entire IT stack – delivering insights and operational efficiencies that would otherwise require significant manual effort, time and resources.

Realizing the value of an AI solution is grounded in building a data practice, maintaining a robust access and governance framework, and securing the ecosystem – a topic that requires its own deep dive.

The ability for technology vendors to a valued partner will be dependent on both marketing and enablement, focused on debunking myths and calibrating expectations on what harnessing the potential of AI truly means.

[technologyequality]

AI-Powered Business Analytics: Make Smarter Decisions, Faster

AI-Powered Business Analytics Make Smarter Decisions, Faster 💡 AI-powered analytics give you instant insights into what’s working and what’s not. Learn how to use AI to optimize business decisions. The Problem: Are You Guessing or Growing? Let’s be real—making business decisions based on gut feelings is like throwing darts blindfolded. Sure, you might hit the target occasionally, but most of…

[abhibaj]

Growth Marketing Strategies That Actually Work in 2025

Growth marketing is more than just customer acquisition—it’s about cultivating lasting relationships, enhancing engagement, and increasing customer lifetime value. Unlike traditional marketing, which often centers on short-term wins and brand awareness, growth marketing embraces a data-driven, experimental approach. It continuously optimizes strategies across multiple channels using methods like A/B testing, SEO, referral programs, and personalized campaigns. By combining creativity with analytics, businesses can deliver tailored experiences that not only retain customers but also turn them into brand advocates—contributing actively to long-term business growth.

Get full insights@ https://itechseries.com/blog/growth-marketing-strategies/

What is Growth Marketing?

At its core, growth marketing is a dynamic, data-driven strategy that focuses on sustainable business expansion. It’s built on constant experimentation and performance optimization. While traditional marketing may emphasize brand awareness or long-term positioning, growth marketing is more agile and tactical. It uses tools like A/B testing, conversion rate optimization, and real-time analytics to adapt quickly and improve continuously.

One of the key characteristics of growth marketing is its customer-centric foundation. It revolves around deeply understanding customer behaviors, preferences, and pain points to create personalized experiences that drive engagement and revenue. It also spans the entire customer journey—from acquisition to retention—leveraging automation, digital platforms, and behavioral insights to ensure scalable and impactful campaigns. Startups and fast-growing tech companies especially benefit from this flexible and results-focused approach.

Growth Marketing vs. Demand Generation

Growth marketing addresses every stage of the customer journey, from acquisition to retention. It thrives on experimentation, personalization, and rapid iterations to enhance engagement and ROI. For SaaS companies especially, a comprehensive growth strategy ensures long-term success and measurable impact.

In contrast, demand generation focuses more on driving awareness and interest. It often involves SEO, content marketing, and paid campaigns to bring potential buyers into the funnel. While demand generation fills the top of the funnel, growth marketing is responsible for nurturing and converting those leads into loyal customers. For scalable success, especially in SaaS, a hybrid approach combining both growth and demand strategies is essential. When executed together, these tactics deliver consistent and sustainable outcomes.

Why is Growth Marketing Important?

In B2B settings, scalable marketing is essential for driving efficient and measurable growth. It allows businesses to reach high-value prospects through cost-effective, targeted strategies while accelerating pipeline velocity and long-term revenue. Growth marketing also supports the development of repeatable, data-backed processes that reduce customer acquisition costs and increase retention.

Explore the latest marketing and tech insights@ https://itechseries.com/gtm-library/

Rather than relying on broad, high-cost campaigns, modern growth marketers use tactics like ABM (Account-Based Marketing), thought leadership content, and social networking—especially on LinkedIn—to engage decision-makers and generate leads with high ROI. Performance is tracked via KPIs such as CAC (Customer Acquisition Cost), LTV (Lifetime Value), and conversion rates. With continuous testing and fine-tuning, marketing efforts remain agile and effective.

Retention is another major pillar of growth marketing. Businesses invest in personalized nurture journeys, value-led content, and customer success initiatives to maintain long-term relationships. Since retaining existing customers is often more cost-effective than acquiring new ones, this approach ensures revenue continuity and deeper customer loyalty.

Building a Growth Marketing Campaign

A successful growth marketing framework covers all stages of the customer journey. It begins with awareness, where marketers build visibility through channels like social media and search. A/B testing helps determine which messaging and content formats perform best.

Next is acquisition, focusing on converting engaged audiences into leads through tactics like lead magnets, newsletters, and landing pages. Then comes activation, which aims to ensure customers get value from the product as soon as possible—whether through onboarding flows, tutorials, or in-app support.

Once customers are activated, marketers prioritize retention by reducing churn and maintaining engagement with loyalty programs, exclusive content, and top-tier support. The final phase is referral, where happy customers are encouraged to share the brand via incentive programs or community engagement—creating a self-sustaining loop of growth.

Real-World Examples of Growth Marketing

Some of the most innovative companies are thriving thanks to smart growth marketing.

Calendly exemplifies product-led growth through its freemium model. Every time someone uses a Calendly link, the product markets itself—generating virality with minimal effort.

Slack leverages community and user experience to boost adoption. Its features reduce email clutter and promote team collaboration, while online communities help drive advocacy and engagement.

Miro blends content marketing with product-led strategies. It offers templates, integrations, and webinars that support users across different industries, driving retention and upsell opportunities within existing accounts.

Final Thoughts

Growth marketing goes far beyond traditional methods by taking a data-driven, customer-first approach to every stage of the buyer’s journey. It’s about experimenting, optimizing, and engaging in a way that builds lasting customer value. Whether through referral loops, personalized content, or agile iteration, this strategy supports sustainable success.

For B2B companies, growth marketing and B2B marketing together offer a powerful framework to scale efficiently, maximize ROI, and build meaningful relationships. With the right blend of experimentation, analytics, and empathy, businesses can transform their customers into loyal advocates—and growth into a continuous cycle.

[goodoldbandit]

How to Use Telemetry Pipelines to Maintain Application Performance.

Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo. skm.stayingalive.in Optimize application performance with telemetry pipelines—enhance observability, reduce costs, and ensure security with efficient data processing. 🚀 Discover how telemetry pipelines optimize application performance by streamlining observability, enhancing security, and reducing costs. Learn key strategies and best…

[roboticsysinfo]

The Premier Email Marketing Company in Haryana: Robotic Sysinfo Leads the Way

In digital marketing, email marketing is one of the most effective methods. It has direct access to a business' audience and gives an excellent opportunity to engage with prospects as well as growth for any business. With the numerous companies offering email marketing solutions, how do you know which company to believe and hand over your brand's email campaigns? There is always the case of robotic Sysinfo, an email marketing company in Haryana. Let's talk about why it is one of the leading companies that every business puts its faith into its effective email marketing strategy.

1. The Power of Email Marketing in Today's Digital World

Email marketing is one of the oldest and most trusted practices of business correspondence with customers, generating sales, and developing long-term relationships. With more than 4 billion email users worldwide, as recently reported by Statista, it's no surprise that companies resort to email campaigns to enhance their reach. In Haryana, Robotic Sysinfo has capitalized on this trend to assist businesses in increasing their marketing ROI. They create tailored email marketing campaigns that strike a chord with the receiver and are measurable in their outcome.

2. Why Robotic Sysinfo Is Different

Robotic Sysinfo, a Premier Email Marketing Company in Haryana has established a niche by offering customised email marketing solutions to clients belonging to various sectors. The company has over ten years of experience in email marketing and has mastered its art through time, always staying ahead of the curve when it comes to changing technologies.

One of the essential features that differentiate Robotic Sysinfo from other companies is that they are choosy about details. From email list segmentation to creating excellent content, the tactics that this company has to offer will be specific to the client's requirement. The company takes care to create messages that will effectively reach the target audience and not send the same old general emails. This kind of personalization is what generates a higher open rate, better engagement, and ultimately more conversions.

3. High Technology and Innovation

Robotic Sysinfo is not just an email sender. They know that data and analytics are important. Advanced tools track and analyze email campaign performance for the company. It is all data-driven, ensuring optimization of designs, subject lines, and timing in each email campaign.

More than that, though, Robotic Sysinfo also included automation into their email marketing. It saves time but will still communicate with the audience on a consistent basis. For example, an automated email sequence lets businesses nurture leads with the right messages at the right times, all without sending each one of those emails individually.

4. Results-Driven Approach

At Robotic Sysinfo, they focus on the results. They do not send out e-mails and sit back to hope that everything will go well. Rather, they keep track of open rate, click-through rate, and all other KPIs, which prove that each campaign brings some value. There is a specific team that tracks each campaign, learns from mistakes made in previous campaigns, and enhances strategy for future ones.

The track record speaks for itself. Hundreds of clients have witnessed a huge surge in conversions and customer retention after working with Robotic Sysinfo. With this expertise, businesses in Haryana can be assured that they are working with a firm that delivers real, measurable results.

5. Customer-Centric Philosophy

But what actually makes Robotic Sysinfo a top-class email marketing agency is their commitment towards their clients. They take out the time to know each client's goals and problems and then customise their approach to meet them. Whether a small business in a city or a huge enterprise, at Robotic Sysinfo, all its clients are dealt with the same amount of passion and care.

Read More:

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an email marketing company in Haryana that delivers results, look no further than Robotic Sysinfo. With a unique blend of technology, data-driven strategies, and a customer-first mentality, they have proven time and time again that they are the premier choice for businesses looking to thrive in today’s digital landscape. By choosing Robotic Sysinfo, you’re not just investing in an email campaign; you’re investing in the growth and success of your business.

[manufacturerbusiness]

Website: https://www.manufacturer.com/

Address: 4154 Glenview Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78476

Phone: 361-544-4567

Manufacturer Limited is a global corporation specializing in the production and distribution of a wide range of consumer and industrial products. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability, Manufacturer Limited serves diverse markets including automotive, electronics, appliances, healthcare, and more.

Business Email: infoshanto@gmail.com

[reasonsforhope]

When self-described “ocean custodian” Boyan Slat took the stage at TED 2025 in Vancouver this week, he showed viewers a reality many of us are already heartbreakingly familiar with: There is a lot of trash in the ocean.

“If we allow current trends to continue, the amount of plastic that’s entering the ocean is actually set to double by 2060,” Slat said in his TED Talk, which will be published online at a later date. 

Plus, once plastic is in the ocean, it accumulates in “giant circular currents” called gyres, which Slat said operate a lot like the drain of the bathtub, meaning that plastic can enter these currents but cannot leave.

That’s how we get enormous build-ups like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a giant collection of plastic pollution in the ocean that is roughly twice the size of Texas.

As the founder and CEO of The Ocean Cleanup, Slat’s goal is to return our oceans to their original, clean state before 2040. To accomplish this, two things must be done.

First: Stop more plastic from entering the ocean. Second: Clean up the “legacy” pollution that is already out there and doesn’t go away by itself.

And Slat is well on his way.

Pictured: Kingston Harbour in Jamaica. Photo courtesy of The Ocean Cleanup Project

When Slat’s first TEDx Talk went viral in 2012, he was able to organize research teams to create the first-ever map of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. From there, they created a technology to collect plastic from the most garbage-heavy areas in the ocean.

“We imagined a very long, u-shaped barrier … that would be pushed by wind and waves,” Slat explained in his Talk. 

This barrier would act as a funnel to collect garbage and be emptied out for recycling. 

But there was a problem.

“We took it out in the ocean, and deployed it, and it didn’t collect plastic,” Slat said, “which is a pretty important requirement for an ocean cleanup system.”

Soon after, this first system broke into two. But a few days later, his team was already back to the drawing board. 

From here, they added vessels that would tow the system forward, allowing it to sweep a larger area and move more methodically through the water. Mesh attached to the barrier would gather plastic and guide it to a retention area, where it would be extracted and loaded onto a ship for sorting, processing, and recycling. 

It worked. 

“For 60 years, humanity had been putting plastic into the ocean, but from that day onwards, we were also taking it back out again,” Slat said, with a video of the technology in action playing on screen behind him.

To applause, he said: “It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen, honestly.”

Over the years, Ocean Cleanup has scaled up this cleanup barrier, now measuring almost 2.5 kilometers — or about 1.5 miles — in length. And it cleans up an area of the ocean the size of a football field every five seconds.

Pictured: The Ocean Cleanup's System 002 deployed in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Photo courtesy of The Ocean Cleanup

The system is designed to be safe for marine life, and once plastic is brought to land, it is recycled into new products, like sunglasses, accessories for electric vehicles, and even Coldplay’s latest vinyl record, according to Slat. 

These products fund the continuation of the cleanup. The next step of the project is to use drones to target areas of the ocean that have the highest plastic concentration. 

In September 2024, Ocean Cleanup predicted the Patch would be cleaned up within 10 years. 

However, on April 8, Slat estimated “that this fleet of systems can clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch in as little as five years’ time.”

With ongoing support from MCS, a Netherlands-based Nokia company, Ocean Cleanup can quickly scale its reliable, real-time data and video communication to best target the problem. 

It’s the largest ocean cleanup in history.

But what about the plastic pollution coming into the ocean through rivers across the world? Ocean Cleanup is working on that, too. 

To study plastic pollution in other waterways, Ocean Cleanup attached AI cameras to bridges, measuring the flow of trash in dozens of rivers around the world, creating the first global model to predict where plastic is entering oceans.

“We discovered: Just 1% of the world’s rivers are responsible for about 80% of the plastic entering our oceans,” Slat said.

His team found that coastal cities in middle-income countries were primarily responsible, as people living in these areas have enough wealth to buy things packaged in plastic, but governments can’t afford robust waste management infrastructure. 

Ocean Cleanup now tackles those 1% of rivers to capture the plastic before it reaches oceans.

Pictured: Interceptor 007 in Los Angeles. Photo courtesy of The Ocean Cleanup

“It’s not a replacement for the slow but important work that’s being done to fix a broken system upstream,” Slat said. “But we believe that tackling this 1% of rivers provides us with the only way to rapidly close the gap.”

To clean up plastic waste in rivers, Ocean Cleanup has implemented technology called “interceptors,” which include solar-powered trash collectors and mobile systems in eight countries worldwide.

In Guatemala, an interceptor captured 1.4 million kilograms (or over 3 million pounds) of trash in under two hours. Now, this kind of collection happens up to three times a week.

“All of that would have ended up in the sea,” Slat said.

Now, interceptors are being brought to 30 cities around the world, targeting waterways that bring the most trash into our oceans. GPS trackers also mimic the flow of the plastic to help strategically deploy the systems for the most impact.

“We can already stop up to one-third of all the plastic entering our oceans once these are deployed,” Slat said.

And as soon as he finished his Talk on the TED stage, Slat was told that TED’s Audacious Project would be funding the deployment of Ocean Cleanup’s efforts in those 30 cities as part of the organization’s next cohort of grantees. 

While it is unclear how much support Ocean Cleanup will receive from the Audacious Project, Head of TED Chris Anderson told Slat: “We’re inspired. We’re determined in this community to raise the money you need to make that 30-city project happen.”

And Slat himself is determined to clean the oceans for good.

“For humanity to thrive, we need to be optimistic about the future,” Slat said, closing out his Talk.

“Once the oceans are clean again, it can be this example of how, through hard work and ingenuity, we can solve the big problems of our time.”

-via GoodGoodGood, April 9, 2025