Week 35, Theme: #GenerationRestoration to Heal Our Planet & Game-Changing Giants: Spotlight on EY’s Entrepreneur Of The Year

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Content Highlights

1. Week's Theme: Becoming #GenerationRestoration, How Ecosystem Restoration Can Save Our Planet
2. Touring Switzerland: Brissago Island, A Gateway to Tranquil Beauty and Swiss Serenity
3. Top Shared News: Nanichi Atabey celebrates biodiversity & innovation at CLOUDS Zurich
4. Post from my Network: Stanford psychologist Jamil Zaki urges us for “hopeful skepticism”
5. Building Cyber-Bullying Resilience: Consider a Cyber-Insurance
6. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year? Switzerland, ft. 2021 Winner in Entertainment/IT: GIANTS Software

Note: The text in this newsletter was generated using various GenAI applications, including Microsoft Copilot & ChatGPT. The author recommends verifying the information provided to ensure correctness.

1. Week's Theme: Becoming #GenerationRestoration, How Ecosystem Restoration Can Save Our Planet

To combat climate change, preserve biodiversity, and ensure future well-being, urgent ecosystem restoration is essential. Current goals demand halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, which cannot be achieved without restoring ecosystems and their carbon stores. Ecosystem degradation must be halted to prevent the extinction of 1 million species, as restoring just 15% of priority areas could cut extinctions by 60% and enhance habitats. Ecosystem restoration also provides vital benefits such as food, water, and health, crucial for a growing global population.

The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration highlights the need for action across eight critical ecosystems—forests, oceans and coasts, urban areas, freshwater, peatlands, farmlands, mountains, and grasslands. By addressing these areas, significant climate mitigation, adaptation, economic benefits, and improvements in food security, water supplies, and health can be achieved. For example, restoring coastal wetlands could prevent $18 billion in storm damage by 2030, while forest restoration could cut water pollution for 81% of global cities.

The UN Decade is a global initiative calling for collaborative efforts to restore ecosystems. This challenge requires collective action, resources, and patience, with the promise of substantial environmental and societal benefits if successfully implemented.

Source: UN Environment Programme

1.1 DeepTech & Sustainability Input

Deep technologies—such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and advanced materials—can significantly aid ecosystem restoration and address related challenges in several ways:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning:

- Monitoring and Assessment: AI can analyze satellite and drone imagery to assess ecosystem health, track changes over time, and detect illegal activities such as deforestation or poaching. Machine learning algorithms can predict how ecosystems respond to different restoration strategies, optimizing interventions.

- Predictive Modeling: AI models can simulate various scenarios of ecosystem recovery, helping to identify the most effective restoration techniques and anticipate potential outcomes, such as changes in biodiversity or carbon sequestration rates.

2. Blockchain Technology:

- Transparency and Accountability: Blockchain can provide a transparent and immutable record of restoration projects, ensuring that funds are used appropriately and progress is accurately reported. This is particularly useful for tracking the provenance of materials and verifying that restoration practices meet standards.

- Supply Chain Management: Blockchain can enhance the traceability of sustainable products, such as certified timber or restoration materials, reducing the risk of illegal or unsustainable practices.

3. Advanced Materials and Biotechnology:

- Innovative Restoration Tools: Advanced materials, such as biodegradable mats and engineered seeds, can improve restoration efficiency. For example, materials that enhance soil health or retain moisture can boost the success of reforestation efforts.

- Biotechnology: Genetic engineering can help develop plant species that are more resilient to environmental stressors or better suited for specific restoration projects. Techniques like CRISPR can be used to enhance the genetic diversity of restored ecosystems.

4. Remote Sensing and Geospatial Technologies:

- Real-Time Monitoring: Remote sensing technologies, including satellites and drones, provide real-time data on ecosystem conditions, enabling timely interventions and adjustments to restoration plans.

- Geospatial Analysis: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can map and analyze land use, habitat distribution, and restoration progress, facilitating better planning and management of restoration projects.

5. Data Analytics and Big Data:

- Insights and Trends: Big data analytics can process vast amounts of environmental data to uncover trends and correlations that inform restoration strategies. This includes analyzing climate data, species distribution, and land use patterns.

- Decision Support Systems: Data-driven tools can support decision-making by integrating various data sources, such as environmental conditions, restoration outcomes, and socio-economic factors.

By leveraging these deep technologies, we can enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and scalability of ecosystem restoration efforts, ultimately contributing to the health of our planet and the well-being of future generations.

1.2 Innovative Business Models Merging DeepTech & Sustainability

Innovative business models leveraging deep technologies in ecosystem restoration and environmental management are reshaping the industry by combining technological advancements with new approaches to value creation. Here are some notable business models and their relevant clients:

1. Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) for Environmental Monitoring

• Model: Companies provide real-time environmental data through satellite imagery, remote sensing, and AI analytics. This model allows clients to monitor ecosystems, track changes, and make data-driven decisions.
• Clients: Governments, environmental NGOs, agricultural businesses, urban planners, and research institutions.
• Examples: Planet Labs, Descartes Labs.

2. Blockchain-Based Carbon Offset Platforms

• Model: Platforms use blockchain to offer transparent and traceable carbon offsets from verified reforestation and conservation projects. This model ensures that carbon credits are legitimate and traceable.
• Clients: Corporations seeking to offset their carbon footprints, financial institutions, and environmental organizations.
• Examples: Ecologi, Verra, Pachama.

3. Drone and AI-Enabled Reforestation Services

• Model: Drones equipped with AI are used to plant trees, monitor growth, and analyze land restoration efforts. This model provides scalable and efficient reforestation solutions.
• Clients: Governments, large-scale agricultural companies, NGOs, and private landowners.
• Examples: BioCarbon Engineering, DroneSeed.

4. Ecosystem Restoration as a Service (ERaaS)

• Model: Companies offer end-to-end ecosystem restoration services, including project planning, execution, and monitoring, often using a subscription or service contract model.
• Clients: Corporations with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals, government agencies, and large landholders.
• Examples: Restor, Terraformation.

5. AI-Driven Conservation Analytics

• Model: AI and machine learning algorithms analyze vast amounts of environmental data to provide actionable insights for conservation efforts, such as predicting biodiversity hotspots or identifying threats.
• Clients: Conservation organizations, researchers, and policy makers.
• Examples: Wildlife Protection Solutions, Conservation Metrics.

6. Genetic Engineering for Enhanced Restoration

• Model: Genetic engineering and synthetic biology are used to develop plant species with improved resilience and growth rates, facilitating more effective ecosystem restoration.
• Clients: Reforestation projects, agricultural companies, and research institutions.
• Examples: NexGen Trees, Ceres Imaging.

7. Sustainable Supply Chain Management Platforms

• Model: Platforms use deep technologies to ensure the sustainability and traceability of natural resources throughout the supply chain, helping to prevent illegal logging and supporting sustainable practices.
• Clients: Retailers, manufacturers, and supply chain managers.
• Examples: Trace Labs, SupplyShift.

8. AI-Enhanced Environmental Compliance Monitoring

• Model: AI systems monitor industrial activities and ensure compliance with environmental regulations, reducing pollution and improving environmental performance.
• Clients: Industrial firms, regulatory agencies, and environmental consultancies.
• Examples: Mapistry, Envirosuite.

These innovative business models leverage deep technologies to provide scalable, efficient, and transparent solutions for environmental challenges, catering to a diverse range of clients from governmental bodies to private corporations and NGOs.

1.3 Related Articles & Initiatives

• 2023 European Deep Tech Report
• Dendra Systems snaps nearly $16M for AI-based ecosystem restoration tools
• Workshop "Leveraging the Deep Tech Green Transition and Digital Solutions to Transform EU Industrial Ecosystems"
• Everybody is looking into the future: a technology foresight perspective
• Digital Sustainability Strategies: Digitally Enabled and Digital-First Innovation for Net Zero
• Invention to Innovation: How Scientists Can Drive Our Economy
• Hello Tomorrow: Building a collaborative ecosystem that leverages the power of deep technologies to tackle world challenges
• Post: Biodiversity and ecosystem restoration gaining the spotlight at Hello Tomorrow's deep tech conference ??

2. Touring Switzerland

Switzerland has beautiful landscapes and I am delighted to explore & share them with you. Enjoy this week's selection!

Brissago Island: A Gateway to Tranquil Beauty and Swiss Serenity

Destination Brissago / Isole di Brissago

Brissago Island, nestled in the stunning Lago Maggiore, Switzerland, offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. With a unique microclimate that nurtures exotic subtropical plants, the island's Botanical Gardens showcase over 1,700 species from Asia, Africa, and beyond. The region's mild winters and the protective Alps create a rare haven for flora like lotus blossoms and giant sequoias.

Visitors can explore the picturesque 2.5-hectare park, enjoy scenic trails, and discover the island's rich botanical heritage. The serene environment, cultural richness, and breathtaking landscapes make Brissago Island a must-visit destination for nature lovers and explorers alike.

Source: MySwitzerland.com

3. Partner Content

3.1 DeepTech & Sustainability Ventures ????????????

This think tank is dedicated to driving innovation and fostering entrepreneurship at the intersection of DeepTech & sustainability. Phase 1, Ongoing: We harness the power of artificial intelligence and review investment news as well as scientific publications to identify impactful business cases within this domain.

Visit LinkedIn Page

3.2 Investment Opportunity & Call for Founding Members

?? Nanichi Atabey is a pioneering play-to-earn-and-conserve VR game that leverages Web3 customer loyalty programs for worldwide nature conservation and carbon offsetting initiatives.

?? We’re thrilled to announce Helvetia’s Guardians, our newest VR adventure game concept that combines thrill and conservation!???

With half of Swiss ecosystems and a third of species at risk, Helvetia’s Guardians empowers you to make a real difference. Explore, strategize, and collaborate to safeguard this precious environment while earning rewards that contribute to local & global conservation efforts. ??

Join us on this thrilling journey to protect Switzerland’s natural wonders, while experiencing cutting-edge Web3 technology and immersive gameplay. Together, we can safeguard the future of our planet. ??

Review startup for investment here. For further details, please contact Dr. Johanny A. Pestalozzi, Founder & CEO.

?? Play. Protect. Preserve.???

4. Shared News

• Nanichi Atabey:????Incredibly excited to invite you to an exclusive fundraiser event that will take our mission for biodiversity and nature conservation (literally) to the CLOUDS!?? — View Post

• Miro: Join Miro's Agile City Tour in Switzerland from September 10-12 and connect with fellow agile enthusiasts, Scrum wizards, and innovation gurus. Speakers: Peter Parkes, Rory Keddie, and Julius Vogt — View Post

• economiesuisse: The latest European survey by Interpharma shows a consistently high level of approval of the Bilateral Agreements III. As our survey last November showed, the population continues to see bilateral agreements as the best option for relations with the EU. — View Post

• Dr. Johanny A. Pestalozzi: ?? Celebrating 16 years on LinkedIn! ??Thank you for being part of my journey! — View Post

5. Posts from my Network

• Zürcher Handelskammer: Deficit budget 2025 for the Canton of Zurich. — View Newsletter

The Zurich government's draft budget for 2025 provides for an excess of expenses of 37 million francs. In addition, net debt is expected to rise from 4.9 billion francs in 2024 to 6.4 billion francs in the 2028 planning year. The canton is therefore increasingly financing its expenditure through new debt. The number of employees has increased by 1,143 positions, which further increases the financial burden. The government has announced that it will prioritize investments from 2027 onwards. However, the canton's financial situation remains tense.

• Zürich Tourism: We celebrated the premiere of the "Zurich Experience - Summit for Urban Tourism".?More than 350 participants made Switzerland's first city tourism congress an exciting experience. A big thank you to everyone who was there! ?? The study "Rethinking Tourism" is now available online The age of the visitor economy has begun! About the study: https://lnkd.in/dar_5H-u. — View Post

• European Women in VC:??Join us for the discussion of the main insights from our latest report “Beyond Returns: Venture and Growth Investing Fuelling Sustainability & Societal Change”. Featuring: Carolyn Dawson, Founders Forum Group | Emma Wheeler, UBS | ??Kinga Stanislawska, European Women in VC | Kevin R., bp ventures. — View Post

• UC Berkeley Extension: Hunter Woodhall is a Paralympian and track and field athlete. Born with fibular hemimelia, he had both legs amputated below the knee at a young age. Despite this, Woodhall became a world-class sprinter, earning three medals across the 2016 and 2020 Paralympic Games. He is also a social media influencer and advocate for athletes with disabilities, inspiring others with his determination and positive outlook. #OlympicMotivation — View Post

• McKinsey & Company: Many CEOs see their role as a career highlight, but even top leaders face moments of doubt. Here’s how leaders navigate competing priorities to stay focused and effective. — View Post

• IBM iX DACH: Our colleague Marko Thorhauer recently joined Patricia Reiners‘ Future of UX Podcast to explore the pivotal role of design in today’s tech-driven world. He delves into ?? The changing role of design in AI ?? Critical skills designers need to thrive in the rapidly evolving AI era ?? Why design thinking is essential for the next generation of designers. — View Post

• Smart City Hub Switzerland:?? DigitalBarometer 2024: Results revealed! ?? Who is keeping pace with digitization and how is artificial intelligence used and perceived? The fifth edition of the DigitalBarometer provides exciting insights. Here are some of the key findings. — View Post

• European Commission: Our toolkit on ‘how to spot and fight disinformation’ is the perfect handbook to equip your students with essential online navigation skills, including: ?? Understanding what disinformation is ?? Recognizing how it spreads ?? Learning how to respond to it Our toolkit also includes useful real-life examples and group exercises! — View Post
• NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration: Can you see our name in these satellite photos of Earth? Spell yours in images from the NASA & USGS Landsat program, which has observed our home planet for over 50 years. — View Post

• Reuters: A U.S. start-up is hoping to help solve the burgeoning issue of space junk with an artificial intelligence-driven tracking system that warns satellite operators before a collision that can create even more debris. — View Post

• Financial Times: Pavel Durov has been indicted on multiple charges as part of an investigation into Telegram's alleged failure to address criminality on the app, including enabling money laundering, drug trafficking, and the distribution of child sexual abuse content, prosecutors said. — View Post

• The Culture Workshop: Rietberg Piazza, A musical art project for everyone! 25 August – 5 October 2024 "Rietberg Piazza" is a summer format of the Museum Rietberg. For six weeks, the forecourt of the museum will become an open art workshop and rehearsal stage. How does sound become an image? What traces does a melody leave on paper? And how does the exhilarating feeling of a gripping rhythm become a vibrating color surface? — View Post

• Stanford University: A new book by Stanford psychologist Jamil Zaki urges us to trade cynicism for “hopeful skepticism.”

“By never trusting, cynics never lose,” writes Zaki. “They also never win. Refusing to trust anyone is like playing poker by folding every hand before it begins. Cynicism protects us from predators but also shuts down opportunities for collaboration, love, and community, all of which require trust. And though we forever remember people who hurt us, it’s harder to notice the friends we could have made if we’d been more open.” — View Post

• Zurich Schweiz: Classical music with a twist: free, compact, casual. ?? Free 40-minute events at the KKL Luzern – for everyone, without a dress code and no prior knowledge needed. From August 19 to September 12, 2024. Get your free tickets 5 days before each event.?? Made possible by Zurich together with the Lucerne Festival. — View Post

??6. Standing-Up Against Cyber-Bullying??

After being a victim of cyberbullying, I would like to help raise awareness on the topic and provide information to prevent and successfully manage these cases.

6.1 Cyber insurance

Cyberbullying is increasingly prevalent, affecting both children and adults as nearly everyone now has online access. It involves repeated harassment via the internet or mobile phones, including spreading false information, sharing embarrassing content, and creating offensive profiles. Causes often relate to power imbalances and social dynamics. Although Swiss law lacks specific statutes against cyberbullying, various criminal offenses cover it, such as defamation and extortion. Victims should report incidents, seek advice from advisory bodies, and consider cyber insurance for protection. For support, consult resources like the National Cyber Security Centre and Swiss Internet Security Alliance.

Cyber insurance provides essential protection and peace of mind for individuals and businesses facing online risks. It offers professional assistance and financial support in cases of fraud, cybercrime, and data loss. Coverage typically includes legal fees, recovery of lost data, and remediation of security breaches. By securing cyber insurance, you can mitigate the financial impact of online threats and gain access to expert help in managing and resolving cyber incidents. For comprehensive protection, consider policies that also cover risks such as identity theft and cyber extortion, ensuring robust support in today’s digital landscape.

In Switzerland, several providers offer cyber insurance to help protect against online risks such as fraud, cybercrime, and data loss. Here are some notable providers:

1. Allianz Suisse: Offers comprehensive cyber insurance solutions for both individuals and businesses, covering various cyber risks and providing expert support for incident management.

2. AXA Switzerland: Provides tailored cyber insurance policies with coverage for data breaches, cyber extortion, and business interruption, along with access to a network of cybersecurity professionals.

3. Zurich Insurance Group: Offers cyber risk insurance for companies, covering financial losses, legal expenses, and costs related to data breaches and cyberattacks.

4. Generali Switzerland: Provides cyber insurance with coverage for cybercrime, data loss, and liability, along with access to legal and technical support.

5. Swiss Re: Specializes in reinsurance but also offers cyber insurance solutions for businesses, focusing on risk management and coverage for cyber incidents.

6. Helvetia: Offers various cyber insurance products for businesses, including coverage for data breaches, financial losses, and liability.

7. Baloise Insurance: Provides cyber insurance with protection against cyber threats, including financial losses and technical support for businesses.

8. La Mobilière: Offers cyber insurance for individuals and companies, covering risks like data breaches and cyberattacks, with support services for handling incidents.

For more details on coverage options and to find a policy that fits your needs, it’s advisable to contact these providers directly or consult with insurance brokers specializing in cyber risk.

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If you need help, please contact Victim Support Switzerland. Non-Liability Statement: The content provided herein is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for independently assessing the relevance and accuracy of the advice provided to manage their specific situations. The provider of this information assumes no liability for any decisions or actions taken based on the content presented.

6.2 A message of resilience

"Even in the darkest corners of the digital world, remember that your strength is a light that can't be dimmed. Every challenge you face today is shaping the resilient, empowered individual you'll become tomorrow. Keep moving forward with courage and self-belief—your journey is a testament to your inner strength and unbreakable spirit." ??

7. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year? Switzerland

The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year program, established in 1986 in the US, is now a global benchmark for entrepreneurial excellence, recognized in over 60 countries. This prestigious award honors exceptional entrepreneurs and their achievements, fostering a worldwide network of 50,000 entrepreneurs. Each year, the program receives around 5,000 nominations and selects 1,200 finalists globally. In Switzerland, the program has been celebrating entrepreneurial success since 1998, with up to 50 entrepreneurs applying annually. The jury shortlists three finalists per category and selects one winner. Joining this program offers access to a vast network and unparalleled recognition.

On August 27, 2024, EY revealed the finalists for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2024 competition in Switzerland. Twelve companies from Bern, Geneva, Graubünden, Lucerne, Thurgau, Vaud, Zug, and Zurich have made it to the finals, with Lucerne and Vaud each having three finalists. The winners in four categories—Industry, High-Tech & Life Sciences; Service & Trade; Family Business; and Emerging Entrepreneur—will be announced on October 4. The finalists include Thomas Failer from Data Migration International AG (Thurgau), Silvia Scherer from APTISSEN SA (Geneva), and Adrian Steiner from Thermoplan AG (Lucerne) among others. EY’s Frédéric Tissot highlighted Lucerne and Vaud for their strong representation.

Source: punt4info / Visit EY awards

7.1 2021 Winner in Entertainment/IT: Giants Software GmbH

Giants Software GmbH is a prominent video game development company in Zurich, Switzerland. Established in 2004, the company is renowned for creating high-quality simulation games, focusing on farming simulation. Its flagship title, Farming Simulator, has gained international acclaim for its realistic gameplay and attention to detail, making it a leading name in the simulation genre. Giants Software is celebrated for its innovation and commitment to delivering immersive gaming experiences, consistently expanding its game series, and enhancing user engagement through regular updates and community-driven content. The company's success reflects its dedication to advancing the entertainment and IT industries through cutting-edge game development.

Christian Ammann, a leading figure in the global video game industry, is renowned for his pivotal role at Giants Software GmbH. Based in Zurich, Giants Software is celebrated for its innovative contributions to the entertainment and IT sectors. Under Ammann's leadership, the company has achieved significant success, becoming a major player in video game development. In 2021, his impact was recognized as part of the elite group of entrepreneurs shaping the future of digital entertainment. Ammann's vision and expertise have solidified Giants Software’s reputation, making him a key figure in the evolution of interactive entertainment worldwide.

GIANTS Software’s games, particularly the Farming Simulator series, have achieved significant success due to several key factors:

1. Realistic Simulation: The games offer a highly detailed and realistic farming experience, capturing the complexities of agricultural life with accuracy. This attention to detail appeals to players looking for immersive and authentic simulation experiences.

2. Community Engagement: Giants Software actively engages with its community, incorporating player feedback into updates and new features. This responsiveness helps maintain player interest and loyalty.

3. Regular Updates and Expansions: The company frequently releases updates, expansions, and new content, keeping the gameplay fresh and expanding the game's universe. These updates often include new equipment, vehicles, and farming techniques.

4. Modding Support: Giants Software supports and encourages modding, allowing players to create and share their content. This extends the game's longevity and adds to its replayability by constantly providing new content.

5. High-Quality Graphics and Sound: The games feature high-quality graphics and realistic sound design, which enhance the overall immersive experience and make the gameplay more engaging.

6. Broad Appeal: By catering to both casual gamers and dedicated simulation enthusiasts, Giants Software reaches a wide audience. The game's accessibility and depth appeal to various player demographics.

7. Educational Value: The games often serve an educational purpose, offering insights into farming and agriculture. This aspect attracts not only gamers but also educational institutions and enthusiasts of agricultural technology.

These elements combined have established Giants Software as a leading developer in the simulation genre, driving the success of their games.

Website

"Recharge your energy by embracing moments of stillness and reflection. Let go of past burdens and focus on your passions. Every new day brings fresh opportunities. Move forward with renewed purpose and optimism—your best chapters are yet to be written. Keep striving, and let your journey inspire you." ??

Thank you to my network for sharing valuable content with all of us! And, THANK YOU, for reading this newsletter feed!

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Wishing you a great weekend! ??

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