Articles from April 2025

Wales and England consulting on environmental permitting reforms

Environment agency

The UK and Welsh Governments have launched a joint consultation on reforms to environmental permitting regulations.

The eight-week consultation covers reforms to environmental permitting in England and Wales, which aim to speed up the work of regulators and the industries they support.

Commenting on the consultation’s launch, Environment Minister Emma Hardy said the UK Government is committed to delivering streamlined regulation that protects the environment while also driving economic growth.

“As part of the Plan for Change, we are rewiring Defra and its arms-length bodies to boost economic growth and unleash an era of building, while also supporting stringent environmental safeguards,” Hardy said.

The consultation was recommended as part of a review by former Labour adviser Dan Corry found that the current environmental regulation system is “outdated, inconsistent, and highly complex”.

The independent review of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ (Defra) regulatory landscape recommended allowing regulators to issue fines for minor waste offences without going through the court system.

We are rewiring Defra and its arms-length bodies to boost economic growth and unleash an era of building…

The proposals cover a wide variety of activities undertaken by businesses or individuals operating within environmental regulations, such as those handling waste.

The changes being consulted on include closing exemptions Defra says rogue operators are abusing to clamp down on illegal activity.

Defra said the proposed reforms will allow the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales to make decisions proportionate to the level of environmental risk on which activities should be exempt from environmental permits.

Jo Nettleton, Chief Regulator at the Environment Agency, welcomed the proposed reforms, which he said will “empower” the regulator.

“The Environment Agency firmly believes protecting the environment and sustainable development go hand-in-hand and we support the government’s aim to get the economy growing,” Nettleton said.

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Solving the PCB problem: How Jiva Materials is revolutionising e-waste

PCBs

Ian Thomas, managing director of Turquoise International, speaks to Jiva Materials’s founder Jack Herring about how his innovative new product could revolutionise how we deal with e-waste.

In a world increasingly dependent on electronics, the disposal of electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.

I sat down with Jiva Materials to discuss the company’s innovative PCB substrate designed to tackle e-waste head on.

E-waste is among the fastest-growing solid waste streams globally. Approximately 62 million tonnes of e-waste is generated worldwide on an annual basis, projected to reach 82m tonnes by 2030. Of this, a mere 22.3% was formally documented as collected and recycled.

Informal e-waste recycling is also a significant global health issue. Lead, a toxic substance, is often released into the environment through informal e-waste recycling practices, such as open burning or improper storage.

Printed circuit boards (PCBs), a vital component in all electronic devices and the backbone of electronic systems, account for a significant portion of this waste.

The printed circuit boards (PCB) quandary

Every year, an estimated 18 billion square metres of PCBs are produced globally, causing significant recycling and disposal issues.

With the rising value of precious metals contained in PCBs and growing global concern for environmental sustainability, efficient recycling has become a critical necessity.

Jiva Materials has a compelling solution to this problem. Jack Herring, Jiva’s founder, began developing the product Soluboard®, a patented, cost-competitive and fully recyclable PCB substrate designed to challenge the industry standard, FR-4, during his postgraduate studies at the Royal College of Art, while pursuing a Masters in Design Products.

Herring went on to establish Jiva Materials in 2017 and has since played a pivotal role in the company’s success.

“While studying, I was given a brief by my tutor; to choose a waste stream and optimise it. I chose electronic waste – the fastest growing waste stream in the world. One common part of the products that contribute to the e-waste stream is the printed circuit board, or PCB.”

I decided to re-engineer the material that made PCBs so difficult to recycle – the printed circuit board substrate.

Alternative materials and innovative design approaches were the solution. Herring continues: “The primary ingredients in PCBs are fibreglass and epoxy resin. Currently, the most efficient method for recycling the material involves shredding and incinerating it.

“I decided to re-engineer the material that made PCBs so difficult to recycle – the printed circuit board substrate. I wanted to make my version recyclable, non-toxic, and fully biodegradable.”

The organic structure of Soluboard® enables its non-toxic components to delaminate when exposed to hot water. This innovation allows the plant-based fibres to be composted, the remaining solution to be safely disposed of through standard wastewater systems and the recovery of the electronic components for recycling. Moreover, users of Soluboard® can achieve an impressive 67% reduction in embodied carbon content.

Interest in Soluboard® has already been confirmed by a range of blue-chip electronics manufacturers, including EU domestic appliance and white goods producers, which face tightening regulations that place the responsibility for recycling squarely on manufacturers.

The investment opportunity

The total available market (TAM) for PCBs is projected to grow significantly. According to Jiva Materials, the global PCB market, including single-sided, double-sided and multilayer PCBs, was valued at $67.9B in 2023 and is expected to reach $92.4B by 2039, with a CAGR of 5.4%.

Low Carbon Innovation Fund 2 (LCIF2), managed by Turquoise International, is an investor in Jiva. Reducing the carbon footprint and improving the recyclability of printed circuit boards remains a key challenge for the electronics industry, and Jiva offers a unique solution.

Commenting on a recently-completed investment round, a spokesperson for the business, said: “All of us at Jiva are very thankful for the support from our shareholders and we look forward to bringing Soluboard® to market by working with key players in the world of electronics. It’s time for us to take responsibility for our products and the impacts that they have on the planet.”

It’s time for us to take responsibility for our products and the impacts that they have on the planet.

This year, the company has raised almost £250,000 through an oversubscribed online crowdfunding campaign to support Soluboard®’s development. In late 2024, Jiva officially secured UL Recognition, a prestigious certification awarded by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a global leader in safety science.

This achievement underscores Soluboard®’s compliance with strict performance and environmental standards, providing industry stakeholders with confidence in its quality and reliability.

In addition, Jiva has recently earned ISO 9000:2015 accreditation following a rigorous audit. Jiva’s CEO Steve Driver attributes this achievement to “our team’s relentless commitment to quality, innovation, and operational excellence.”

To accelerate Soluboard®’s commercialisation further, Jiva is now collaborating with the University of Portsmouth, supported by a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).

A sustainable beginning

By replacing traditional, difficult-to-recycle PCB substrates with a biodegradable, non-toxic alternative, Jiva is setting a new industry standard that aligns with both environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance.

The company’s growing industry partnerships, investor confidence and recent accreditations highlight its momentum in transforming the way PCBs are designed, used, and disposed of.

With global e-waste projected to rise exponentially in the coming years, solutions like Soluboard® will play a critical role in reducing waste, recovering valuable materials and lowering the electronics industry’s carbon footprint.

As Jiva continues to expand its reach and drive innovation, its mission is clear: to make sustainable PCB recycling the norm rather than the exception. The success of Soluboard® could mark the beginning of a fundamental shift in electronic manufacturing, proving that performance and sustainability can go hand in hand.

The post Solving the PCB problem: How Jiva Materials is revolutionising e-waste appeared first on Circular Online.

What is the role of net zero in reducing construction waste?

net zero construction

Warren Fothergill, Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Manager at offsite manufacturer Premier Modular, explains the role of net zero in reducing construction waste.

The construction industry contributes 21% of the total global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the UN Environment Programme’s Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction, making it one of the most significant industry contributors.

Waste and emissions reduction must be at the forefront of construction strategies to align with Net Zero targets, but achieving this goal is a complex challenge requiring systemic shifts.

While lean manufacturing, circular economy principles, offsite construction, and high-performance materials provide potential solutions, their implementation can be hindered by financial constraints, resistance to change and gaps in policy enforcement.

To tackle waste, developers are increasingly adopting lean manufacturing principles and circular economy strategies.

Lean manufacturing

Lean manufacturing aims to streamline production processes, eliminating inefficiencies and reducing material waste through precision design and controlled fabrication environments.

In theory, this benefits both the environment and profitability. However, traditional construction, unlike industries such as automotive or electronics, deals with highly variable and site-specific conditions, making standardisation more challenging.

Circular economy principles

A circular economy approach, which prioritises recycling, reusing and designing buildings with end-of-life sustainability in mind, is a critical strategy.

In reality, many construction materials are still not designed for disassembly or reuse, and infrastructure for material recovery remains inadequate.

While some companies are leading the way by repurposing demolition waste and implementing take-back schemes for materials, such as steel and plasterboard, widespread adoption is slow.

Expanding circular waste initiatives beyond single material recovery, such as plasterboard, to encompass a broader range of materials could improve industry-wide progress.

Offsite manufacturing

Offsite manufacturing and modular construction have gained attention for their ability to reduce waste and improve efficiency.

By shifting production to controlled factory settings, companies can reduce material offcuts, improve precision and limit the impact of human error. This approach also allows for better quality control, reducing the likelihood of rework, which is a major source of waste in traditional construction.

Additionally, by streamlining production assembly, project timelines are accelerated, reducing the amount of energy used during construction.

High-performance materials

The construction industry has seen promising advancements in high-performance and sustainable building materials, from low-carbon concrete to bio-based insulation. These materials offer improved durability and energy efficiency, but their uptake remains inconsistent due to cost considerations and supply chain limitations.

Using high-performance materials can significantly enhance energy efficiency, as demonstrated in zero carbon operational buildings, which use technology to reduce long term emissions.

While innovation in materials is advancing rapidly, without stronger regulations and incentives, traditional materials and construction methods will continue to dominate due to their familiarity and lower upfront costs.

How to reduce the environmental impact of construction

Construction waste net zero

Traditional construction sites generate vast amounts of waste due to inefficient planning, over-ordering of materials and poor waste management practices. Digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) have proven effective in minimising this waste by enabling more precise material estimation and logistics planning.

Reducing site disruption and emissions from onsite activities through better logistics planning, digital coordination or alternative construction methods will also contribute to a lower environmental impact.

Yet, adoption rates remain inconsistent across the sector, particularly among smaller companies that lack the resources to implement digital solutions.

Beyond digitalisation, addressing onsite waste also requires cultural and behavioural shifts, such as segregating waste streams, composting biodegradable materials and implementing closed-loop water systems, however, these aren’t universally applied.

Many still see waste management as an operational afterthought rather than a fundamental part of the process.

What does the future look like?

ConstructionThe path towards a waste free construction industry is far from straightforward. While policy changes, technological advancements and industry collaboration will play a crucial role, significant challenges remain.

Stricter regulations on material circularity, incentives for waste reduction and expanded infrastructure for recycling and reuse will be necessary to drive change.

Ultimately, achieving a world beyond waste in construction requires a shift in mindset across the industry, whether that’s in traditional construction or by using alternative methods of building.

While many companies are making strides towards sustainability, without systemic changes, waste will continue to be a problem. It’s time for the industry to take proactive action rather than relying on government mandates and penalties to drive change.

The next decade is pivotal to transition to a circular, low-waste model and achieve important net zero goals.

The post What is the role of net zero in reducing construction waste? appeared first on Circular Online.

Birmingham bin strikes explained: What is the dispute about?

Birmingham bin strikes

Mountains of waste piled up on streets and reports of rats the size of kittens as an all-out strike in Birmingham continues. What is the reason for the industrial action and when will it end?

Currently over 17,000 tonnes of waste is uncollected across Birmingham because of workers participating in strike action throughout 2025.

Birmingham City Council declared a major incident over the backlog of waste last week and West Midlands Fire Service have urged residents to take extra care when storing and disposing waste.

Are you confused about the Birmingham bin strikes? A lot of people are. Having to sort through the array of claims and counter claims is not only hard work but makes finding out the facts much more difficult.

With fears the industrial action could continue into the summer, Circular Online has put together an explainer on the situation in Birmingham.

What is the dispute about?

Birmingham bin strikes
The dispute is over the council’s decision to remove Waste Recycling and Collection Officer roles.

Unite the Union and Birmingham City Council have been in dispute since last summer, with strike action beginning in January 2025.

The dispute is over the council’s decision to remove Waste Recycling and Collection Officer (WRCO) roles.

Unite said staff performing the “safety-critical” WRCO role will lose around £8,000 a year under the plans.

This figure is disputed by the authority with an official in the council telling Circular Online that claims that 150 people could lose £8,000 a year in pay are “incorrect”.

The official said that the number of staff who could lose the maximum amount, which they said is just over £6,000, is 17 people and they will have “pay protection” for six months in line with council policy.

Why did the dispute escalate last week?

An increasingly bitter war of words between the council and Unite escalated last week after the council declared a major incident in response to the backlog of waste.

Unite called the decision an attempt to “crush any opposition to attacks on jobs, pay and conditions that are set to extend to other workers across the council”.

Throughout the industrial action, residents have been relying on two mobile household waste centres, which visit ten different locations across the city each week, to dispose of their waste.

The contingency allows 90 vehicles to be deployed per day which the council says should make 360,000 collections per week.

Usually, 200 vehicles are deployed to collect waste daily over 8-hour shifts, which would make over 500,000 collections per week.

The council also said its decision to declare a major incident was partly because of picket lines blocking access to waste depots, saying they can only get one vehicle out per hour.

Throughout the dispute, Unite has said the council has “smeared” the behaviour of workers on picket lines.

Has the government got involved?

parliament
A Downing Street spokesman said Unite need to “focus on negotiating in good faith”.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner met council leaders in Birmingham on Saturday to discuss ways to clear the waste backlog.

The Deputy PM’s visit came after a letter from Unite general secretary Sharon Graham was leaked to the BBC.

According to the BBC’s report, Graham told Rayner the government can no longer say the strike is “nothing to do with us” and claimed “false narratives” have been used in government statements on the dispute.

A Downing Street spokesman also said Unite need to “focus on negotiating in good faith, drop their opposition to changes needed to resolve long-standing equal pay issues and get round the table with the council to bring this strike to an end.”

Graham responded by saying workers and communities are paying the price for government inaction.

“It is not surprising that many workers in Britain question the Labour government’s commitment to working people when it issues a statement clearly blaming bin workers in a dispute not of their making,” Graham said.

When will the dispute end?

Lichfield District Council has said it will help clear the mountains of waste piled up across the city’s streets. The service will be provided at a commercial rate, which means Birmingham taxpayers will foot the bill.

While this may offer residents some respite from the waste piling up outside their homes, there is little indication there has been progress in bringing the dispute to an end.

Unfortunately for the city’s residents, there appears to have been little progress made in talks between Unite and Birmingham City Council so far.

Hopefully, an agreement can be reached soon so the people of Birmingham no longer have to cope with a city drowning in waste.

The post Birmingham bin strikes explained: What is the dispute about? appeared first on Circular Online.

Unlocking the untapped potential of repair cafés

Repair cafe

CIWM Early Careers Ambassador Dr Nadine Leder explains how a recent research project showcases the untapped potential of repair cafés.

As part of the Hodge Foundation Public Value Research Internship, Cardiff Business School student Yasmine Digby conducted a small-scale study on the role of repair cafés in communities and the challenges they face.

Supervised by myself and Professor Jin Hooi Chan at Greenwich Business School, the research involved interviews with repair café organisers across Wales and England.

The project was supported by Cardiff Business School’s RemakerSpace and repair café Wales.

What were the findings?

Repair cafe

Findings revealed that repair cafés provide more than just repair services within a circular economy. They are inclusive, community-centred spaces that bring together people from diverse backgrounds to share skills and form lasting connections.

As a result, repair cafés support intergenerational learning, help building a community and reduce social isolation.

At the heart of these initiatives are facilitating organisations, such as repair café Wales, volunteers, local organisers, and repairers who sustain them. As repair initiatives continue to grow, there are opportunities to further strengthen their impact.

However, overcoming key challenges such as volunteer engagement, financial sustainability, and digitalisation will be essential for their continued growth.

Findings align with the ongoing conversation around the skills gap. Repair cafés continue to benefit from dedicated volunteers, many of whom are retired.

However, attracting a broader demographic, particularly younger generations, could not only strengthen long-term resilience but also support the behaviour change needed to achieve a circular economy.

By strengthening partnerships with local organisations and businesses, valuable learning and training opportunities can be generated, which help developing the capabilities of local repair café teams.

These partnerships could also serve as an incentive for younger people to get involved by allowing them to develop a diverse skill set and gain confidence through hands-on experience.

The impact of product design

Repair cafe

Beyond volunteer management, product design also presents a key challenge. In some cases, volunteers are unable to repair products because they are not designed for repairability.

In others, repairers may have concerns about voiding warranties or facing safety and insurance issues. This highlights the need for more policies to support right to repair initiatives, ensuring that repair remains a viable and accessible option.

Financial sustainability is another key factor. Many cafés have already found effective ways to manage their funding. Some benefit from rent-free spaces, while others successfully rely on donations, grants, and local fundraising.

Exploring a range of funding streams could help ensure long-term financial sustainability and support continued growth.

Operational considerations

Repair cafe

Repair cafés in Wales contribute to a digital repair data archive. However, given the fast pace of technological development, digitalisation across cafés could further be strengthened.

Occasionally, limited Wi-Fi access in venues can lead to challenges with repair record-keeping when needing to convert to paper-based documentation.

This can make visitor management and repair tracking more complex, highlighting the need for improved digital solutions, such as apps.

Managing visitor flow, especially during busy sessions is another operational consideration linked to digitalisation. Some cafés face difficulties in predicting demand without electronic booking systems, occasionally leading to longer wait times.

Different queue management approaches, such as pre-booking options via an electronic app can help cafés to manage busier periods while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.

From a logistical perspective, storage and transportation of tools pose challenges, especially for cafés operating across multiple locations.

A more structured approach to tool storage, such as a shared system or a “library of things”, could improve access to equipment and reduce reliance on individual volunteers.

The future of repair cafés

Repair cafés make a meaningful contribution to sustainability and community wellbeing, but their long-term impact relies on addressing key challenges such as volunteer engagement, financial resilience and digitalisation.

Umbrella organisations, such as repair café Wales, play a vital role in supporting these initiatives by providing coordination, administrative support, and a framework for financial sustainability.

With this kind of collective infrastructure, repair cafés can continue to grow, empowering communities and strengthening the transition toward a more circular, repair-focused society.

If you’re interested in learning more about the work of repair cafés or exploring opportunities in this field, you can reach out to Repair Café Wales, or contact the authors, Dr Nadine Leder, Prof Jin Hooi Chan, and Yasmine Digby. The team will continue research into repair cafés, following the recent award of funding from the British Academy.

The post Unlocking the untapped potential of repair cafés appeared first on Circular Online.

Herefordshire Council launches kerbside WEEE collections

weee collections

Herefordshire Council has launched kerbside collections of batteries and small waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) items this week.

Residents must remove batteries from broken small electrical items, put them in a plastic bag and place them on top of their bin.

On either recycling or waste collection day, the bin collection crew will then put them in a separate cage on the collection vehicle and take them for recycling.

Electrical items and batteries should never be put into household rubbish or recycling bins as they can cause contamination or fire.

Data from the Global E-Waste Monitor 2024 showed that 14 million tonnes of electronic waste is improperly thrown out with regular household waste globally every year.

There were over 1,200 battery fires in bin lorries and at waste sites in the UK in 2023, an increase of 71% from 700 in 2022, according to research by Material Focus.

Commenting on the new collection system, Councillor Elissa Swinglehurst, Cabinet Member for Environment said: “I am delighted that we are able to provide this enhanced service to all residents across the county.

“Small electric items and batteries present a huge challenge if they are placed in household bins as they cause contamination and increase the risk of fire in collection vehicles or at waste sites.

“I hope all residents get behind this new service to ensure that even more of our waste is recycled in the right way.”

The post Herefordshire Council launches kerbside WEEE collections appeared first on Circular Online.

How Stablecoins Are Revolutionizing Global Payments?

The need for global payments is increasing daily. A key innovation that has simplified global payments is stablecoins. The emergence of various stablecoins is redefining the global payment system. With the help of stablecoins, individuals, businesses, and other entities can make seamless global payments. 

The traditional financial system has several gaps that create challenges for businesses in cross-border payments. Some common challenges include settlement delays, high fees, and other inefficiencies. However, the rise of stablecoins has significantly improved global payments. Let’s explore how stablecoins are revolutionizing global payments. 

An Insight into Stablecoins

Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency whose value is pegged to another asset, such as gold or fiat currency. The purpose is to maintain a stable value. Stablecoins first emerged in 2014, and since then, their popularity has grown significantly worldwide. 

In the cryptocurrency space, the creation of stablecoins has been transformational. This is because these digital assets combine the benefits of blockchain technology along with high stability. As a result, the users of stablecoins can leverage the benefits of blockchain without having to worry about the volatility that comes with it. 

Are you wondering ‘Are stablecoins used for payments?’ The answer to the question is yes. In fact, individuals as well as business entities have been leveraging stablecoins for the purpose of making payments, including global payments. Stablecoins have established themselves as transformative tools that have the potential to redefine the path of cross-border payments in the 21st century.

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Top Features of Stablecoins

Stablecoins have a number of distinctive features that make them unique. In order to understand how they are bringing about a change in the global payment arena, you need to familiarize yourself with the core features of stablecoins. The main features of stablecoins are: 

  • Stability in price

One of the chief features of stablecoin revolves around price stability. Since these cryptocurrencies are mostly tied 1:1 to fiat currencies, they are highly stable. This makes them different from other cryptocurrencies, which may be volatile in nature. The consistency in their value makes it useful for diverse users. 

  • Based on Blockchain technology

Since Blockchain technology serves as the foundation of stablecoins, they are transparent as well as secure. Furthermore, they serve as highly versatile tools to bridge the gap between the conventional finance landscape and cryptocurrencies. 

  • Global accessibility

Since stablecoins operate within decentralized networks, it is accessible to anyone, regardless of their location. You just need to have a proper internet connection to use stablecoins as a financial tool. In fact, today the popularity of stablecoins for global payments is increasing like never before.

  • Maintenance of reserves

The stability of stablecoins is ensured through the maintenance of reserves. Reserves may be maintained either by keeping aside collaterals or by using algorithmic formulas for controlling supply. 

  • Tools to generate passive income

Currently users of stablecoins have the option to use these digital assets to generate passive incomes. By using Defi platforms, users can generate stablecoins passive income. Thus they can generate regular returns with the help of stablecoins.

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The Revolutionary Nature of Stablecoins

Currently, stablecoins are undoubtedly bringing about a revolutionary change in the global payment arena. By using these novel digital currencies, users have become able to overcome the hurdles relating to conventional financial instruments. Some of the unique ways in which stablecoins are transforming global payments include: 

  • Faster transactions

By making use of stablecoins, it is possible to engage in faster or quicker transactions. This is because of the absence of any kind of intermediaries. Individuals or businesses do not have to rely on third parties such as correspondent banks, and transactions can be completed within a few minutes. When using conventional financial mechanisms while making cross-border payments, it may take a few days. However, by using stablecoins, it is possible to settle global transactions in an efficient and timely manner. 

  • Low fees

A serious concern one has to face while making global payments revolves around cost. This is because traditional cross-border payments involve substantial costs. However, that is not the case when it comes to stablecoins. Stablecoins undoubtedly serve as a highly affordable and reasonable option while making global payments. Due to the direct nature of these transactions, users do not have to incur additional costs or fees. 

  • High transparency

The application of blockchain technology in stablecoins ensures top-notch transparency while engaging in cross-border payments. Due to the presence of an immutable ledger that is visible to each and every participant of the blockchain network, a solid trust is fostered. Moreover, it also curbs the chances of fraud or manipulation. 

  • High stability

A distinguishing feature of stablecoins revolves around the stability factor. It undoubtedly helps in mitigating the volatility associated with other cryptocurrencies. The high consistency in terms of value ensures users can use stablecoins as a highly reliable medium of exchange in the global context. 

  • Better accessibility

In comparison to traditional banks and financial institutions, stablecoins can be accessed at all times. This feature promotes financial inclusion, and businesses can utilize stablecoins for making cross-border payments even during weekends or on holidays. Thus, the accessibility relating to global business transactions gets significantly enhanced. 

  • Improved global reach

The emergence of stablecoins has certainly enhanced the global reach for diverse businesses.  It serves as a highly effective payment tool when no other payment options are available. In regions with a low number of banks or financial institutions, users can make use of stablecoins to engage in cross-border payments. Thus, they can do business in spite of the presence of limited banks. 

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Challenges Relating to Stablecoins 

In spite of the fact, stablecoins hold significant potential while making global payments, numerous obstacles and challenges exist. If you wish to get a holistic insight into stablecoins and their applicability in the global payment context, you need to take into account the associated challenges. Some of the main challenges are: 

  • Complex nature

One of the major obstacles arises when it comes to stablecoin payments revolves around its complex nature. Many users, including businesses, may find stablecoin arrangements to be highly complex and complicated. Thus, they may not show an interest in adopting stablecoins for making global payments or cross-border payments. It is a serious bottleneck one cannot ignore while discussing stablecoins for making global payments.

  • Regulatory concerns

The regulatory landscape relating to stablecoins has not been entirely developed. It undoubtedly increases the level of uncertainty for individuals as well as businesses for using stablecoins for making global payments. The lack of clarity relating to regulations and laws serves as a deterrent in the path of stablecoins. A well-developed regulatory ecosystem has to be in place to facilitate higher adoption of stablecoins for making cross-border payments. 

  • Presence of digital divide

The presence of the digital divide is a serious issue that one cannot ignore in the present world. While there are certain nations advancing in the technological landscape, there are several other nations that are lagging. As a result, the use of stablecoins to make global payments may not be a feasible option for every nation across the globe. The lack of proper understanding of stablecoins may hinder nations from using them for payment purposes in a practical setting. 

Bright Future of Stablecoins

It is true that there exist a number of challenges and concerns relating to stablecoins and their application in the context of global payment. In spite of these elements, the future of stablecoins for cross-border payments is full of promise. Regardless of the fact, stablecoins are fairly new, they have shown high potential. By using stablecoins, users can overcome several obstacles that they encounter while using conventional payment options. The fact stablecoins combine the benefits of blockchain along with price stability enhances their relevance for users.

In the current era, when technology is advancing at a rapid pace, the capabilities of stablecoins may reach new heights. As a result, individuals as well as business entities may be able to derive higher value from these novel cryptocurrencies. Today these digital assets are undoubtedly playing a major role to simplify cross-border payments. 

The adoption of stablecoins to make global payments is most likely to gain momentum. This is because these types of cryptocurrencies have been successful to not only reduce settlement time but also streamline financial transactions across borders. The future of stablecoins definitely seems quite bright and prosperous. However, it is essential to address the concerns and challenges so that the potential of stablecoins can be maximized further. 

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Conclusion

In the present times, stablecoins have shown they have the power to transform the global payment landscape. These digital currencies are gradually transforming cross-border payments by facilitating transparency, transparency, security as well as stability. The emergence of stablecoins has certainly been a breath of fresh air for users such as businesses and individuals who engage in global payment transactions.

Stablecoins have been acting as revolutionary tools in the global payment realm by allowing faster transactions, lowering fees, improving accessibility, and ensuring stability. However, certain challenges such as the complex nature, regulatory concerns as well as digital divide exist. It is essential to consider the challenges along with the positive aspects of stablecoins to understand their true potential in the global payment arena.

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*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

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Two men ordered to pay £313,000 for running illegal tyre waste site

waste tyres

Two men have been ordered to pay over £313,000 as part of a proceeds of crime judgement for their role in an illegal tyre waste site in Daventry.

At Northampton Crown Court last week, Nimesh Patel, 52, and Andrew Eyre, 55, were ordered to pay £313,382.45 during a confiscation hearing.

Patel was ordered to pay £175,013.93 and a £122 surcharge, while Eyre received an order for £138,368.52 and £140 surcharge. Both men were given three months to pay the costs or face three and two years in prison respectively.

The pair were prosecuted for their part in running a waste tyre site, Synergy Tyres (Midland), at Broad March Industrial Estate in Daventry.

In September 2024, Eyre, a director of the company, received an 18-week prison sentence that was suspended for 12 months on condition that he completed 30 days of rehabilitation activities.

Patel, who had been operations manager, was sentenced to 14 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months on condition that he perform 80 hours of unpaid work.

Waste crime can have a serious environmental impact that puts communities at risk and undermines legitimate business…

The Daventry site operated without an environmental permit and tyres were stored in an unsafe manner, which created a significant fire-risk.

The Environment Agency said officers inspected the site multiple times in 2020 and each time found the amount of tyres being stored exceeded the legal limit.

The investigation found that the 40-tonne weekly limit for the storage or treatment of waste tyres was exceeded in 52 out of the 59 weeks analysed.

The investigation came after Eyre was convicted of a similar offence in January 2020. For this offence, Eyre received a suspended 12-month sentence, suspended for 24 months, on condition that he performed 150 hours of unpaid work.

Peter Stark, enforcement leader for the Environment Agency in Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, commented: “The case shows that we’re not just content to prosecute those who run illegal waste sites, we’ll also come after them to get back the profits they made from their illegal activities and to recoup taxpayers’ money spent on pursuing them.

“Waste crime can have a serious environmental impact that puts communities at risk and undermines legitimate business and the investment and economic growth that go with it.”

The post Two men ordered to pay £313,000 for running illegal tyre waste site appeared first on Circular Online.

Understanding On-Chain Cryptocurrency Transactions

In the dynamic blockchain environment, having a clear understanding of on-chain cryptocurrency transactions is essential. These transactions are integral to the functionality and security of blockchain technology. On-chain transactions refer to cryptocurrency transactions recorded directly on the blockchain ledger.

What makes these transactions unique is their permanence in the immutable ledger. Once these transactions are validated and confirmed, they become a part of the main blockchain network. Let’s explore on-chain cryptocurrency transactions in greater detail.

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Mechanism of On-Chain Cryptocurrency Transactions

On-chain cryptocurrency transactions represent the process of transferring digital currencies directly within blockchain networks. A particular mechanism is followed in these transactions, ensuring that they are recorded and verified in a secure way. Below are the key steps involved in on-chain cryptocurrency transactions:

  • Transaction initiation

The basic step involves the initiation of a transaction. This occurs when a user intends to send cryptocurrency to another user. The transaction is initiated via their digital wallet.

On-chain transactions may contain important details, including the sender’s and receiver’s wallet addresses and the amount being sent. It must also contain a digital signature to verify the identity of the sender.

  • Transaction broadcasting

After the initiation of the transaction, it is broadcasted to all nodes in the network. This means that the information about the transaction is sent to all nodes within the blockchain network.

Each node plays a crucial role at this stage. Each node is responsible for maintaining a copy of the blockchain. Moreover, it must take part in the validation process of the transaction.

  • Validation and Consensus 

After a transaction is broadcast, it becomes a part of the mempool. A mempool is a temporary queue containing unconfirmed transactions. Nodes use a consensus mechanism to validate transactions.

The two common methods of the consensus mechanism are proof of work (PoW) and proof of stake (PoS). The PoW method involves miners solving complex mathematical puzzles. It ensures transaction legitimacy and prevents double-spending. In the PoS method, validators can create new blocks based on the cryptocurrency amount they hold and the amount they wish to stake as collateral.  

  • Addition in a Block 

After the validation process comes to an end, a transaction is put along with other transactions into a block. Every block has a number of transactions, a reference to the former block, along with a distinctive cryptographic hash. The existence of such linking ensures the creation of an immutable and safe chain.

  • Confirmation and Finalization process

It involves the addition of the new block to the blockchain network. This process is called confirmation. It makes the particular transaction permanent in nature. As a result, no one can alter it in any manner.

The total number of confirmations received by a transaction impacts its level of security. Typically, a higher number of confirmations implies a higher security level of the specific transaction.

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Advantages of On-Chain Transactions

On-chain crypto transactions have several advantages. You need to know these advantages to understand why these transactions are called the backbone of blockchain technology. The major strengths of these transactions, which contribute to their rising popularity in the crypto community, are:

  • High security

One of the main advantages of on-chain transactions revolves around their top-quality security. They are highly secure since they cannot be changed or altered after being recorded within the blockchain network. Due to this feature, it is nearly impossible to manipulate or tamper with transactions. A highly popular example of an on-chain transaction with a high level of security is Bitcoin.

  • Better transparency

Another important advantage of on-chain cryptocurrency transactions is related to their transparent nature. Since all the transactions are recorded in a public manner it is possible for everyone to check them. There exists a high level of transparency as all details are visible to everyone. Thus, such transparency creates trust among users within the blockchain network.

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  • Eliminated need for central authority

The concept on which on-chain transactions are based undoubtedly eliminates the need for a central authority. As all the data and details are stored within the network, an environment of trust is built. Such decentralization makes sure that no single authority has the power to control the system. Therefore, on-chain transactions enhance the overall integrity of the blockchain system.

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Disadvantages of On-Chain Transactions 

It is important to bear in mind that on-chain transactions come with certain disadvantages, which users must understand. By understanding these drawbacks, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of on-chain transactions. Some of the key disadvantages of these transactions include

  • Concerns regarding scalability

One of the main disadvantages is related to scalability. Since these transactions require a consensus mechanism at the network-wide level, the transaction speed may decline. Moreover, as the chain expands, the need for resources to maintain and validate the transactions may increase substantially. Hence the network may ultimately become inefficient owing to the scalability challenges.

  • High level of cost

Another major disadvantage of on-chain transactions centers around high cost. Users who wish to engage in such cryptocurrency transactions generally have to incur certain fees. Furthermore, the fees may be high for users if they choose blockchain networks with a high congestion level. For small-scale users the high cost relating to on-chain transactions may act as a barrier. Similarly, if individuals wish to conduct transactions of small value, the high cost may act as a major hurdle for them.

  • Privacy Issue

The high transparency in on-chain cryptocurrency transactions has the potential to give rise to privacy concerns for users. This is because all the transaction details are directly available for everyone to see within the blockchain network. The absence of privacy is a drawback for users who are looking for confidentiality within the network.

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What makes On-Chain Transactions different from Off-Chain Transactions?

While on-chain transactions take place within the main blockchain, off-chain transactions occur outside it. As a result, off-chain transactions are not recorded immediately on the network. Due to this feature, these transactions are not only faster but also cheaper than on-chain cryptocurrency transactions.

Users of cryptocurrencies need to know the difference between these two types of crypto transactions to make the appropriate selection. Some of the main differences between on-chain and off-chain transactions include:

  • High speed of transaction 

One of the chief points of difference between on-chain and off-chain cryptocurrency transactions is related to transaction speed. The speed of on-chain cryptocurrency transactions is low, whereas the speed of off-chain transactions is high. While on-chain transactions need to wait for validation and confirmation, off-chain transactions do not have to wait for the same. Thus, the processing of off-chain crypto transactions is almost instant.

  • Cost factor

Another thing which gives rise to the difference between on-chain transactions and off-chain transactions is related to the cost factor. Off-chain transactions are undoubtedly a much more affordable option for users. These transactions typically involve no fees for users. On the other hand, users who wish to engage in on-chain cryptocurrency transactions have to incur high fees for the same.

  • Level of risk 

The risk involved in on-chain transactions is much lower than the risk in off-chain transactions. One of the main concerns users of off-chain transactions have to face revolves around a low level of transparency. Since the recording of the transactions is not immediate, concerns regarding transparency arise. Similarly, off-chain transactions may have higher vulnerability when it comes to fraud. This risk may arise due to the presence of limited security features in the case of on-chain transactions.

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When to Choose On-Chain Transactions

Since you have familiarized yourself with on-chain transactions, you may be wondering when to choose them. If so, you need to keep in mind the following points. They will definitely help you derive the most value from on-chain cryptocurrency transactions.

If you wish to engage in high-value transactions, you must choose on-chain transactions over off-chain transactions. On-chain crypto transactions are ideal in these scenarios thanks to their high security and transparency. There is no need to worry about fraud, as their top-notch security makes them an ideal choice for users.

However, if users wish to engage in regular or day-to-day transactions on the blockchain, they can opt for off-chain cryptocurrency transactions. Since these transactions are fast and affordable, they are the perfect option for such transactions. If you want to make payments of small value, you can certainly choose off-chain transactions. Thus, these two types of crypto transactions are ideal for different scenarios and situations. You need to carefully choose them depending on the type of transaction you wish to do.

Conclusion

Within the blockchain network, on-chain cryptocurrency transactions play a major role for users. These transactions ensure top security and transparency while removing the reliance on a centralized authority. A proper understanding of the underlying Mechanism of On-Chain Cryptocurrency Transactions is essential for every crypto user. The working of these crypto transactions involves a series of processes, including initiation of a transaction, broadcasting of transaction, validation and consensus, addition in a block and confirmation and finalization process.

In order to understand on-chain cryptocurrency transactions at a holistic level, you must consider their advantages and disadvantages. As a crypto user, you need to take these aspects into account when choosing transactions. Furthermore, you must also carefully consider the core features of on-chain and off-chain cryptocurrency transactions so that you can choose the suitable transaction type to meet your specific needs.

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*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

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NLWA launches “UK’s first” electrical repair voucher scheme

repair

Repair businesses in three London boroughs are offering 50% off professional repairs as part of the “UK’s first” electrical repair voucher scheme.

Local businesses in Hackney, Haringey and Waltham Forest will accept discount vouchers from 1 April, which are being funded by North London Waste Authority (NLWA) and delivered in partnership with The Restart Project, ReLondon and FixFirst.

North London residents can apply for a voucher online and will receive a QR code to use at participating high street repair businesses.

Customers receive their discount of 50% (up to £50) at payment and the businesses claim back the cost.

Fiona Dear, Co-Director at The Restart Project said: “Repair is hugely popular, but cost is one of the main reasons that people don’t fix their electricals, so we’re delighted to be trialling the first electrical repair voucher scheme in the UK.

“The trial will directly reduce repair costs for Londoners, encourage more people to try out repair, and support north London’s repair businesses.”

The trial will directly reduce repair costs for Londoners, encourage more people to try out repair, and support north London’s repair businesses.

The voucher scheme officially launched with an opening event taking place at Neil Electrics in Wood Green, attended by Mete Coban MBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy and Chair of ReLondon, and Fiona Dear, Co-Director of the Restart Project, among others.

Councillor Clyde Loakes MBE, Chair of North London Waste Authority said: “Offering people discount vouchers is a fantastic way to make repair affordable and attractive and support the move towards a circular economy.

“This initiative has great potential – not only to normalise getting everyday items fixed instead of replaced, but also to give us the evidence we need on whether discounted repair services can keep things in use for longer.”

The post NLWA launches “UK’s first” electrical repair voucher scheme appeared first on Circular Online.