Press Release
Sharjah International Conservation Forum for Arabian Biodiversity (SICFAB) Discusses Seabird Rescue and the Risks of Invasive Species
Sharjah, UAE, 6th February 2026, The 25th edition of the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity (SICFAB), organized by the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) held at Sharjah Safari and running until 5 February, continues to tackle priority environmental issues in the Arabian Peninsula. The forum brings together around 180 experts, researchers, and veterinarians from Arab countries, alongside international scientific and research institutions.

Seabird Rescue at the Forefront of Discussions
Forum sessions highlighted the health challenges associated with rescuing and rehabilitating seabirds. Specialists presented field experiences in handling cases involving cormorants and seagulls during a session titled “Clinical, Therapeutic, and Pathological Insights from Rehabilitated Cormorants”, delivered by Dr. Miceala Shocklee and Dr. Daniela Dink. The session emphasized that emaciation is a major health issue that impairs birds’ ability to forage, increasing their susceptibility to injuries and predation. It also noted that the impact of internal parasites is exacerbated when combined with poor body condition.
Discussions also addressed common injuries caused by human activities, such as the ingestion of fishing hooks, soft tissue injuries, and external parasites. Experts stressed the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic intervention to ensure successful recovery and safe release back into their natural habitats.
Necropsy as a Scientific Tool for Understanding Seabird Mortality
A session titled “Pathological Insights from Rescued Seagulls”, presented by Dr. Sara Zavala, Dr. Shamma AlEissaee, and Dr. Nina Gianelli, discussed the pathological dimensions of seabird mortality cases. The session emphasized the importance of necropsy as a fundamental scientific tool for understanding the causes of death, both direct and underlying. Findings revealed that kidney diseases are among the most prominent health issues and, in some cases, may lead to severe neurological complications.
Initial Assessment and Rehabilitation Key to Successful Releases
Translating this science into effective practice was the focus of a major panel discussion titled “Triage, Stabilisation, Rehabilitation, Post Release, Outcomes/Monitoring”, featuring Dr. Tres Clarke and Dr. David Roberts. The discussion addressed operational challenges facing seabird rescue centers. These included the high costs of long-term care, the need for precise criteria to determine birds’ readiness for release, and the importance of post-release monitoring using appropriate tracking methods.
EICAT Assessments and Red Lists for Biodiversity Conservation
A workshop on “Conducting EICAT Assessments to Determine the Environmental Impact of Invasive Species” highlighted the importance of unified scientific methodologies for classifying the impacts of invasive species and strengthening environmental databases to help guide decision-makers in prioritizing control measures.
Separately, discussions on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species underscored the pivotal role of scientific classification and Red Lists in documenting biodiversity, assessing extinction risks, and supporting the establishment of protected areas and environmental rehabilitation programs.
Strategic Planning to Combat Biological Invasions
Applying this science to effective practice was highlighted as the next critical step. A workshop titled “Facilitating Strategic Planning for Decision-Makers” explored measuring invasive species’ impacts and classifying them into defined environmental categories, which contributes to more effective resource allocation and the restoration of ecological balance in affected ecosystems.
Invasive Ants as a Threat to Native Species
The specific menace of invasive ants was unpacked by Dr. Mustafa Sharaf, a researcher in entomology at the Sharjah Desert Park Wildlife Museum. He outlined their high capacity for biological invasion due to human activities. Invasive ants can threaten native and endemic species, disrupt populations, and, in worst-case scenarios, lead to extinctions. Some species may also act as indirect transmitters for pathogens, particularly in sensitive environments such as hospitals and homes. Presenters shared global examples of invasive ants causing economic losses worth hundreds of billions of dollars due to impacts on agriculture and ecosystems. Experts also highlighted the red palm weevil as one of the most dangerous invasive species in the Arab region, causing significant economic and environmental damage.
Regional and International Cooperation for Biodiversity Protection
In the forum’s closing discussions, participants emphasized the need to strengthen regional and international cooperation, exchange scientific expertise, and engage local communities and volunteers in early reporting of environmental cases. They highlighted the development of unified scientific databases as a fundamental pillar for protecting coastal and terrestrial ecosystems, supporting the Sustainable Development Goals, and conserving the natural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Press Release
Xepeng Presents Conversion-First Approach for Digital Asset Use in Indonesia
Conversion models enable merchants to support global digital preferences while maintaining Rupiah-based operations and regulatory compliance.
Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, 6th Feb 2026 — Cryptocurrencies are often discussed as the future of payments, but for many Indonesian merchants, direct crypto payments introduce more complexity than benefit. The challenge lies not in demand, but in how digital assets fit within existing legal and operational frameworks.

Merchants in Indonesia operate within systems designed around Rupiah, from pricing and invoicing to tax reporting and bank settlement. Accepting crypto directly requires businesses to manage asset custody, monitor volatility, and reconcile transactions across separate systems, adding significant operational complexity. Direct cryptocurrency use as payment encounters regulatory restrictions in Indonesia, where Rupiah serves as the legal tender. Practical challenges include volatility exposure and operational complexities for merchants.
Regulatory considerations further complicate direct crypto acceptance. As Rupiah is the sole legal tender for domestic transactions, crypto-as-payment models raise concerns over compliance and consumer protection
A conversion-first model addresses these concerns by separating the customer’s source of value from the merchant’s settlement currency. Digital assets can be converted into Rupiah before funds reach the merchant, allowing businesses to maintain familiar workflows while expanding payment accessibility for international customers.

Penke Pancapuri, CEO of Xepeng, stated, “Conversion models provide a practical bridge between global digital preferences and local regulatory realities. Platforms like Xepeng facilitate this process, allowing merchants to capture international opportunities while operating fully within Rupiah-based systems.”
For tourism-heavy markets such as Bali, the model is particularly relevant. International visitors who hold digital assets can complete a simple, guided flow; merchants receive a clean Rupiah settlement accompanied by reconciliation details for accounting and audits. The result: tourists use the instruments they prefer, while merchants keep familiar, Rupiah-native operations.
By keeping settlements in Rupiah, merchants avoid handling digital assets altogether. Accounting remains straightforward, tax obligations are clearer, and operational risk is reduced. For many businesses, this approach offers a practical path to supporting cross-border payments without disrupting existing processes.
With the rise of digital asset adoption, platforms such as Xepeng facilitate the use of preferred digital instruments for international visitors while ensuring merchants receive compliant Rupiah settlements.
International travellers planning a trip to Bali who hold digital assets and want to know how they can use them locally can learn more at https://www.xepeng.com or contact hello@xepeng.com for more details.
About Xepeng
Xepeng develops a conversion platform tailored for Indonesian merchants, focusing on enabling Rupiah settlement for the merchants while maintaining compliance and operational simplicity. The system integrates sector-specific tools, backend processing, and compliance measures to support efficient and trustworthy operations.
Media Contact
Organization: Xepeng
Contact Person: Budi Satrya
Website: https://xepeng.com/
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +6287862024247
Address:Jl. Cut Nyak Dien No.1, Renon
Address 2: Denpasar Selatan, Bali
City: Denpasar
State: Bali
Country:Indonesia
Release id:41086
The post Xepeng Presents Conversion-First Approach for Digital Asset Use in Indonesia appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Press Release
NYC Wheelchair Transportations Expands Reliable Wheelchair Transportation Services Across New York City
United States, 6th Feb 2026 – NYC Wheelchair Transportations, a trusted provider of wheelchair and mobility transportation services, proudly announces the expansion of its comprehensive wheelchair transportation solutions throughout New York City. Serving Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, the company continues its mission to deliver safe, comfortable, and respectful transportation for individuals with mobility challenges.
Specializing in wheelchair taxi services, handicap transportation, ambulette services, stretcher transportation, and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), NYC Wheelchair Transportations is dedicated to ensuring that every passenger experiences dependable, stress-free travel regardless of destination or mobility needs.
“Transportation should never be a barrier to healthcare, independence, or quality of life,” said Michael, spokesperson for NYC Wheelchair Transportations. “Our goal is to provide reliable wheelchair transportation in New York City that prioritizes dignity, safety, and personalized care for every rider.”
Comprehensive Wheelchair Transportation in NYC
NYC Wheelchair Transportations operates a modern fleet of ADA-compliant vehicles designed specifically for wheelchair accessibility. Each vehicle is equipped with ramps or lifts, secure tie-down systems, spacious interiors, and climate control to ensure a comfortable ride. All drivers are professionally trained, CPR-certified, and experienced in assisting passengers with mobility limitations.
The company supports transportation needs for a wide range of destinations, including:
- Hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers
- Dialysis and therapy appointments
- Hospital discharge transfers
- Family gatherings and community events
- Shopping, errands, and daily activities
- Airports including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark
With door-to-door assistance, passengers receive help from their pickup location through arrival at their destination, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience.
Ambulette and Stretcher Transportation Services
For individuals who need additional support but do not require emergency medical care, NYC Wheelchair Transportations offers professional ambulette services in New York City. These services are ideal for non-emergency hospital visits, nursing home transfers, rehabilitation appointments, and senior transportation. Healthcare facilities across NYC rely on the company for punctual, professional NEMT solutions.
The company also provides stretcher transportation services in NYC for passengers who must remain in a lying position during transit. Each stretcher transport is handled by two trained attendants who coordinate closely with hospitals, discharge planners, and family members to ensure gentle, secure, and well-organized transfers between locations.
Wheelchair Accessible Taxi and Airport Transportation
NYC Wheelchair Transportations operates dependable wheelchair accessible taxis in NYC, offering a convenient solution for everyday city travel. These vehicles meet ADA standards and include secure wheelchair locking systems and comfortable seating for caregivers or family members traveling alongside passengers.
In addition, the company provides reliable airport wheelchair transportation to and from JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports. Services include assistance with luggage, terminal coordination, and timely pickups and drop-offs to ensure smooth airport transfers.
Handicap and Senior Transportation Solutions
Through its handicap transportation services in NYC, the company empowers passengers to maintain independence and mobility. NYC Wheelchair Transportations also assists with stairs and challenging building access, ensuring safe navigation in older or less accessible New York properties.
Group transportation options are available for senior centers, assisted-living facilities, and community organizations, allowing passengers to travel together comfortably and safely.
For more information visit https://nyctransportations.com/ .
About NYC Wheelchair Transportations
NYC Wheelchair Transportations is a New York-based mobility transportation provider offering wheelchair-accessible taxis, ambulette services, stretcher transportation, non-emergency medical transportation, and handicap transportation across all five boroughs of New York City. The company is committed to providing safe, affordable, and compassionate transportation services that enhance independence and peace of mind for passengers and their families.
Media Contact
Organization: NYC Wheelchair Transportations
Contact Person: Michael
Website: https://nyctransportations.com/
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +17182070511
Address:Manhattan, New York, USA
Country:United States
Release id:41078
The post NYC Wheelchair Transportations Expands Reliable Wheelchair Transportation Services Across New York City appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Press Release
Torch-RWA to Debut TRCH-Powered RWA Marketplace with $3.8 Billion Forge Atlanta as First Listing
Torch, LLC is preparing to launch Torch-RWA, a regulated digital marketplace for tokenized real-world assets. The exchange will debut with the $3.8B Forge Atlanta, offering compliant token issuance, automated revenue distribution, and identity-verified trading. TRCH token holders gain unique ecosystem access, including a 10% reward for Forge participation.
“The tokenized real-world asset market has grown roughly 380% in three years to about $24 billion, and analysts project tokenized assets could reach around $2 trillion by 2030.” (1)
“Tokenized real-world assets have already crossed the $20 billion mark, and major incumbents like the NYSE’s parent company are now building 24/7 platforms for blockchain-based securities.” (2)

Atlanta, GA – February 4, 2026 – Torch, LLC announces a digital infrastructure exchange, Torch-RWA (https://torch-rwa.com/), to support the issuance and lifecycle management of tokenized real-world assets (“RWAs”), a regulated, TRCH-powered institutional-grade marketplace anchored by Forge Atlanta, a $3.8 billion multi-phase mixed-use development in downtown Atlanta sponsored by Webstar Technology Group (https://webstartechgroupinc.com/) (OTCPK: WBSR). Upon launch, the Torch-RWA marketplace is expected to enable eligible, KYC/AML-verified investors to gain fractional, on-chain exposure to a defined portion of Forge Atlanta’s future distributable cash flows through regulated security tokens, while the TRCH utility token is designed to power access, fee, and rewards functionality across the exchange. The Forge Atlanta tokenization listing is the latest example of digital capital markets evolving beyond traditional finance and development structures, enabling direct investor participation in projects once limited and inaccessible to most investors.
Torch-RWA will be a regulated digital infrastructure for the compliant tokenization of Forge Atlanta’s development, and other RWAs and does not act as a developer, owner, or financial sponsor of the underlying real estate project. Positioned as a compliant crypto-economic infrastructure, Torch-RWA integrates security token standards, automated compliance enforcement, and programmable revenue distribution, enabling real-world assets to operate within a legally enforceable blockchain framework.
Institutional-Grade Blockchain Infrastructure for Real-World Assets

Torch-RWA is built on Ethereum using ERC-3643 security token standards, embedding investor identity, jurisdictional eligibility, and transfer restrictions directly into smart contracts. This design enables full regulatory alignment across issuance, custody, settlement, and secondary trading.
Core infrastructure layers include:
- On-chain identity verification (ERC-734/735)
- Automated KYC/AML enforcement via Identity Registries
- Modular compliance and jurisdictional rule engines
- Third-party custodial wallets and escrow-based settlement, as applicable
- Automated on-chain revenue distribution
- Regulated peer-to-peer secondary marketplace
This architecture enables programmable ownership, auditable cash flows, and legally enforceable asset settlement within a single unified system.
“Torch-RWA is being deployed as regulated digital asset infrastructure—not as an experimental marketplace,” said Eric McClendon, CEO of Torch, LLC. “Our goal is to provide a compliant, auditable framework where real-world assets can transition onto public blockchains without compromising legal integrity, investor protection, or institutional standards.”
“Launching with a multi-billion-dollar institutional-scale tokenized real estate development like Forge Atlanta demonstrates the scale of real-world value this platform is designed to support,” the CEO added.
Forge Atlanta – Torch-RWAs First Flagship Institutional-Scale Asset
The exchange’s inaugural listing will be Forge Atlanta, a multi-phase downtown mixed-use Mega-Asset backed by Webstar Technology Group and designed by Nelson Worldwide. Forge Atlanta is being advanced by Webstar Technology Group and its subsidiary Forge Atlanta Asset Management within a multi-pronged capital structure that includes traditional institutional financing, a $223.7 million bond inducement approved by the Development Authority of Fulton County (3), and future project-level debt and equity. Torch-RWA is intended to sit alongside this conventional capital stack as a digital infrastructure layer that brings fractional access and programmable distributions to compliant investors.
Within the Torch-RWA framework:
- RWA Tokens Receiving 30% Net Earnings will be represented via regulated on-chain security tokens (These security tokens do not represent equity or ownership in any land, buildings, or real property associated with the development)
- Bi-annual revenue distributions will be executed through audited smart contracts (Payouts to token holders occur automatically according to pre-programmed rules, providing transparency and reducing administrative overhead)
- Tokens will be tradable exclusively between verified, compliant investors
- All ownership transfers and payouts will be immutably recorded on-chain
Public projections associated with the development estimate:
- $7.3 billion in total economic impact
- 900+ permanent full-time jobs
- Long-term regional tax base expansion
Additionally, the Forge Atlanta tokenization structure includes net token proceeds allocation to a professionally managed portfolio of investment-grade fixed-income instruments, subject to market conditions and final documentation. This reserve framework is intended to provide an additional financial buffer to support project obligations and future phases of development.
Core Platform Modules Available at Initial Deployment
At launch, Torch-RWA will activate the following production modules:
- Primary Issuance Engine – Regulated security token issuance with immutable token supply and pricing, designed to integrate with registered broker-dealers, ATSs, and centralized exchanges, subject to regulatory approvals
- Secondary P2P Trading Layer – Infrastructure for compliant, escrow-backed investor-to-investor settlement and connectivity to regulated secondary trading venues
- Governance and Oversight – Torch-RWA is being built with regulated intermediaries, and institutional-grade audit and reporting processes to support issuer and investor protection
- Automated Revenue Distribution Engine – Smart-contract–controlled income payouts
- Staking and DAO Governance Framework – TRCH-powered voting and ecosystem governance
- Institutional, Retail, and Administrator Control Panels – Role-segregated operational dashboards
- Integrated Compliance & Audit Layer – Continuous synchronization between on-chain and off-chain records
Future roadmap phases include multi-chain expansion, RWA-backed lending, and cross-jurisdictional governance frameworks.
TRCH Utility Token and Forge Allocation Mechanism
Torch-RWA is powered by TRCH, an ERC-20 utility token used for:
- Marketplace settlement
- Governance participation
- Staking and yield incentives
- Platform-native asset access
Forge Investment Advantage: Investors who use TRCH to acquire Forge RWA security tokens receive a single, integrated 10% token reward, available exclusively within the Torch ecosystem and subject to compliance eligibility. (This reward is provided in TRCH utility tokens within the Torch ecosystem and does not constitute yield, an interest rate, or a guaranteed return).
Referral Reward Program Supporting Ecosystem Adoption
As part of its launch strategy, Torch-RWA will introduce a structured referral reward program for the TRCH utility token initial coin offering, which will subsequently be extended to the Forge RWA security token launch, designed to support responsible token distribution and platform adoption.
The referral program enables KYC-verified and compliance-approved users to invite new eligible participants to the Torch-RWA ecosystem. When referred users’ complete identity verification and engage in approved activities—such as TRCH acquisition or participation in Forge RWA offerings—referrers may receive token-based rewards, subject to predefined program terms and regulatory requirements.
The referral framework operates entirely within Torch-RWA’s compliance architecture and is intended to:
- Encourage verified user onboarding
- Support organic network growth
- Increase distribution efficiency of platform-native tokens
- Strengthen long-term ecosystem engagement
All referral rewards are issued in TRCH utility tokens and do not constitute yield, interest, profit-sharing, or guaranteed returns. Participation is subject to jurisdictional eligibility, platform policies, and ongoing compliance review.
Launch Timeline and Network Expansion
Torch-RWA is currently in its final pre-launch phase, with:
- Initial deployment on Ethereum
- Progressive rollout of primary issuance, secondary trading, staking, and governance
- Planned expansion to Ethereum Layer-2s, Polygon, and Solana
Private access phases will precede full public activation (Private phases will be limited to identity-verified institutional and accredited investors, with broader access introduced as regulatory requirements are satisfied).
(**All security token offerings and marketplace functions are subject to applicable regulatory approvals and ongoing compliance requirements.**)
About Torch-RWA
Torch-RWA, operated by Torch, LLC, is a blockchain-based marketplace for the compliant issuance, trading, and revenue automation of real-world assets. The exchange integrates regulated security token standards, automated compliance enforcement, decentralized governance, and programmable finance to enable scalable, global access to institutional-grade real-world investments.
For more information, visit their website – https://torch-rwa.com/
Contact them via
Email: Jason@jmfcommunications.com
Visit Torch-RWA through
X (Twitter): https://x.com/Torchrwa
Telegram: https://t.me/torch_rwa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torch_rwa/
Media Contact
Organization: Torch-RWA
Contact Person: Jason Feldman
Forge Atlanta
Media & Communications
Website: https://torch-rwa.com/
Email: Jason@jmfcommunications.com
1100 Peachtree Street Northeast STE 200
Atlanta
State: Georgia, USA
Corporate Office
Torch, LLC
1050 Crown Pointe Parkway
Suite 500
Atlanta, GA 30338
United States
Disclaimer(s)
This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, tokens, or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Any future offering of securities or digital assets will be made only by means of applicable offering documents, and only to investors who meet all eligibility and regulatory requirements.
TRCH is a platform utility token that does not represent an ownership interest in Forge Atlanta or any other underlying asset; economic exposure to Forge Atlanta’s cash flows will be offered, if at all, only through separately issued, regulated security tokens.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially due to risks and uncertainties including regulatory approvals, financing conditions, construction timelines, and market adoption of emerging technologies.
References
(2) https://www.marketsmedia.com/tokenized-real-world-assets-cross-20bn/
(3) https://www.developfultoncounty.com/about-us-news.php
Media Contact
Organization: Torch, LLC
Contact Person: Jason Feldman
Website: https://torch-rwa.com/
Email: Send Email
Address:1050 Crown Pointe Parkway
Address 2: Suite 500
City: Atlanta, GA 30338
State: Georgia
Country:United States
Release id:41038
The post Torch-RWA to Debut TRCH-Powered RWA Marketplace with $3.8 Billion Forge Atlanta as First Listing appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
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