Connect with us

Technology

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Improved Forest Management Project Launched

Published

2 years ago

on

SASKATOON, SK, May 28, 2024 /CNW/ – Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) of Saskatchewan is excited to announce the execution of a series of land-use carbon projects launching in 2024 named sakahk papakititamo (Forest Breathes). Located in the River Delta region of Central and Northern Saskatchewan, these carbon projects include Improved Forest Management (IFM) techniques that have been peer-reviewed and have been listed under the internationally known VERRA Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program, the most widely used greenhouse gas (GHG) crediting program in the world.

PBCN has engaged Saskatchewan-based Climate Smart Services Inc. (CSS) and its affiliates through an agreement to provide ecosystem management expertise as the project developer. CSS has worked in partnership with PBCN since 2018 after the First Nation’s Band Council’s approval to evaluate the establishment of the IFM project. This partnership has since initiated several other projects that support regional economic development plans for the next several generations of PBCN members.

“This project and partnership demonstrates our indigenous ways of knowing are being understood and valued. We have ecosystem partners who can help us lead the way through Improved Forest Management and mâmawi (together) we will protect the forest that not only provides us with the essentials we need for survival, but gives us the hope of what preserving, protecting, and managing this resource will do for all,” says PBCN Sandy Bay Councilor Nora Bear.

sakahk papakititamo covers three areas within several of Canada’s First Nations treaty agreements with initial work being conducted specifically in the PBCN communities of Denare Beach (Amisk Lake), Sturgeon Landing, Sandy Bay and Pelican Narrows. The Project utilizes IFM practices that reduce net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by converting logged forests to protected forests. It includes forest health monitoring, and low levels of timber harvest for forest health maintenance or improved forest productivity if required. In addition to increased carbon sequestration, the co-benefits of the project activities include sustainable improvements in forest habitat and ecosystem resilience, support of culturally sensitive land management practices, and ongoing employment opportunities for local contractors and members of participating communities.

 “This project provides a Saskatchewan supply of the resources the world needs while creating local net positive benefits. Saskatchewan will benefit from the host of environmental commodities created by the project to support the growth of our thriving mining, agriculture, and forestry sectors, while driving innovation in the blooming green economy.” says CSS co-founder Aaron Kuchirka.

sakahk papakititamo (Forest Breathes) is an excellent example of projects underway supporting Saskatchewan’s Investment Attraction Strategy; accelerating sustainable growth that includes and benefits all people in Saskatchewan. The environmental commodities developed by this project will be used by Saskatchewan Industry to drive local growth and sustainable investment in our resource and energy sectors, providing a local supply and beneficial alternative to current carbon management policy.

The Andersons Inc., a multi-national, diversified company rooted in agriculture that conducts business in the commodity merchandising, renewables, nutrient and industrial sectors has come on as a project investor. They have partnered with CSS to market the carbon offsets and environmental attributes generated across the natural assets under contracts within the project’s development plan.

“We are a company based on a deep commitment to service. sakahk papakititamo allows us to collaborate with PBCN, and not just be an investor,” says The Andersons Chief Operating Officer Bill Krueger. “It is an opportunity to build enduring relationships that will benefit both our valued customers and the world we all share.”

“We know we are not alone in this challenge; our world is changing,” says Pelican Narrows Councilor Thomas Linklater Jr. “we are doing what we can to build the resilience in our forests and in our communities to combat the impacts of developments within our territory. This project allows investment in the plan and the tools and resources needed to improve our environments, grow our communities, and encourage economic growth.” 

Website: https://pbcn-ifm.climatesmartservices.ca/

Verra Listing: https://registry.verra.org/app/projectDetail/VCS/5058

SOURCE Climate Smart Development Corp

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Trimble Links SketchUp with Anthropic’s Claude, Bringing New Conversational AI-powered Capabilities to 3D Modeling

Published

28 minutes ago

on

April 29, 2026

By

Trusted, intuitive AI enhances design workflows, making it easier to move from creative concepts to 3D models

WESTMINSTER, Colo., April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB) today announced a specialized integration with Claude, the large language model and AI assistant from Anthropic, that makes it easier for Trimble® SketchUp® software users to create 3D models directly from conversational text or speech prompts.

The powerful new capabilities are enabled by a SketchUp Connector model context protocol (MCP) service that allows Claude to interact directly with SketchUp (.skp) files. The connectivity enhances existing design workflows and expands access to 3D modeling for people at any skill level.

Trimble SketchUp is a professional-grade 3D modeling software used widely in architecture, design, construction and other fields. This is the first Connector created by Trimble that connects the SketchUp design environment with other tools via the MCP framework.

Conversational 3D modeling
The SketchUp Connector integration with Claude lets users create 3D geometry, such as building massing models, landscapes or furniture by simply describing what they want. Plain-language inputs alongside reference images, sketches, photos, floor plans and dimensions that users upload can give Claude the context needed to understand the design goal. Claude builds the geometry in a cloud SketchUp session, verifying dimensions iteratively.

“The learning curve and time it takes for professionals to transfer a vision to a digital model has traditionally been the biggest barrier to 3D modeling,” said Chris Cronin, vice president and general manager of architecture and design solutions at Trimble. “Natural language prompts and the power of AI make it easy for anyone to get started and excel, including inexperienced and non-traditional 3D design users, bringing us closer to our ‘3D for everyone’ goal.”

The specialized Claude integration for SketchUp is consistent with Trimble-wide initiatives to democratize advanced technology and make them available and accessible to a wider range of users, according to Cronin.

Additional 3D modeling advantages
In addition to allowing natural language prompts, the SketchUp Claude Connector tracks version history within a single chat, enabling users to rapidly navigate, troubleshoot and refine their 3D models. If a design is not quite accurate, users can describe necessary changes or paste screenshots from SketchUp directly into the chat to point out specific angles, proportions or elements that need adjustment.

When a model is completed, the Connector creates a 2D preview thumbnail and provides a direct download link to the .skp file. Users can instantly download, open and edit the file in any SketchUp modeler.

Users can also design and train Claude on core skills and unique workflows to complete repetitive tasks more quickly and efficiently.

Availability
Users can get started today by enabling Trimble SketchUp in Claude’s MCP directory connector settings. Accessing the Connector requires a Claude account and a Trimble ID for authentication. Users receive a free SketchUp entitlement that allows them to save up to 30 SketchUp models; after that, a paid entitlement is required. Resulting files can be opened in SketchUp for Web, Desktop, iPad or iPhone.

About Trimble
Trimble is a global technology company that connects the physical and digital worlds, transforming the ways work gets done. With relentless innovation in precise positioning, modeling and data analytics, Trimble enables essential industries including construction, geospatial and transportation. Whether it’s helping customers build and maintain infrastructure, design and construct buildings, optimize global supply chains or map the world, Trimble is at the forefront, driving productivity and progress. For more information about Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB), visit: www.trimble.com.

FTRMB

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/trimble-links-sketchup-with-anthropics-claude-bringing-new-conversational-ai-powered-capabilities-to-3d-modeling-302756403.html

SOURCE Trimble

Continue Reading

Technology

Topaz Labs announces its largest single release of AI models in company history with “Next-Gen” launch

Published

1 hour ago

on

April 28, 2026

By

DALLAS, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Topaz Labs, the AI image and video enhancement company, has announced four new image enhancement models and two video enhancement models across five applications. The collection of “Next-Gen” models offer powerful sharpening, denoising, and upscaling results to visual content. Image models included are Wonder 3, Denoise Max, Super Focus 3, and High Fidelity 3. For video, Starlight Precise 2.5 and Astra 2 were announced.

The collection of models offers powerful sharpening, denoising, and upscaling results to visual content.

“This is both the largest and most technically advanced set of models we’ve released in the company’s history,” says Eric Yang, CEO, Topaz Labs. “We launched Topaz NeuroStream earlier this year with the goal of enabling local rendering of complex models for more users. Without such technology, the complex, heavyweight AI models in today’s release would have been limited to cloud-only rendering, forcing users to pay per use and be reliant on internet connection. We believe local use is crucial to the future of AI in both professional and consumer use cases, and today’s release is a huge step.” 

Topaz NeuroStream is proprietary technology that reduces VRAM usage by up to 95% and allows exponentially more users on consumer-grade hardware to use AI models locally. A total of six Topaz models are now powered by NeuroStream.

Next-Gen Release Image Models 

Wonder 3: A magical, one-click sharpen, upscale, and denoise model for images.
Denoise Max: New standard for removing noise and grain in images.
Super Focus 3: Next-level sharpening model that brings subjects back from the blur.
High Fidelity 3: The newest model for upscaling high-res inputs like smartphone photos and RAW images.

All image models in this release are available in Topaz Photo desktop application and via API. Wonder 3 and Denoise Max are also available in Express, a web-based tool.

Next-Gen Release Video Models

Starlight Precise 2.5 (Local): Groundbreaking video model that brings out natural visual details with stunning results, with local availability in Topaz Video

Astra 2: The next generation of creative video upscaling that enhances clarity, richness, and visual complexity of videos by adding new detail.

Both highlighted video models are available via cloud rendering in Astra and API. Starlight Precise 2.5 (Local) can be found in the Topaz Video desktop application.

About Topaz Labs
Founded in 2005, Topaz Labs is a leader in AI-powered image and video enhancement. Its technology is used by 1.5 million customers, including 20 of the world’s top 50 companies. Known for industry-leading products like Topaz Photo, Topaz Video, Topaz Gigapixel, Astra and Bloom, the company continues to invest heavily in research and development, advancing the frontiers of imaging technology in collaboration with academic and industry partners.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/topaz-labs-announces-its-largest-single-release-of-ai-models-in-company-history-with-next-gen-launch-302756375.html

SOURCE Topaz Labs

Continue Reading

Technology

Dreame Technology Launches the L60 Series, Led by the Flagship L60 Pro Ultra

Published

1 hour ago

on

April 28, 2026

By

New lineup brings industry-leading intelligence and full-home automation to a new generation of robot vacuums

SAN FRANCISCO, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dreame Technology, a leader in smart home innovation, today announced the L60 Series, a new lineup of four robot vacuums engineered for the full range of modern home environments. Built on a shared foundation of premium cleaning performance, intelligent navigation, and hands-free automation, the L60 Series is designed to meet the needs of every kind of household, from compact apartments to multi-story homes, and from single-surface layouts to complex mixed-flooring environments.

“The L60 Series represents exactly what Dreame stands for: powerful, intelligent cleaning that adapts to how people actually live,” said Ana Wang, CEO of Dreame Technology North America. “Whether you have a multi-story home, pets, mixed flooring, or low furniture, there’s an L60 built for your needs. Every model in the lineup delivers the core cleaning experience our customers expect from Dreame.”

Meet the L60 Series

The L60 Series is built around four distinct models, each tailored to a different home profile and cleaning priority:

L60 Pro Ultra — The Ultimate All-in-One. The flagship vacuum is purpose-built for large floor plans, multi-surface transitions, and complex terrain. Features the 3.46-inch ProLeap™ System, 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, Dual Omni-Scrub Mopping with Hot Water, and an industry-leading 6,400mAh PowerCore™ Battery.L60 Ultra — Precision Whole-Home Coverage. A balanced high-performer built around Dreame’s latest 2026 sensor technology and a 3.23in (82mm) ultra-thin design for precise navigation in low-light spaces and flawless cleaning under low-profile furniture. Includes AI-Enhanced 3D ToF Vision, 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush 2.0, SmartDirt™ Detection, Pet-Friendly Care 5.0, and Matter, Apple Watch, and Home Screen Shortcut support.L60 Ultra PE (Performance Edition) — The Intelligent Step-Up. An upgraded everyday performer for homes that need an extra boost on hair pickup, with 30,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, the HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush, 3DAdapt™ Obstacle Avoidance, and Smart Pathfinder Technology with 220 object type recognition.L60 Ultra FE (Fine Edition) — The Essential Automated Choice. An entry-level powerhouse delivering the core promise of maintenance-free floor care, with 30,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, TriCut Brush 3.0, Dual Flex Arm Technology, and the full PowerDock™ automation experience.

A Shared Foundation of Premium Performance

Every model in the L60 Series shares a core set of capabilities that set a new baseline for modern robot vacuums, including:

212°F (100°C) ThermoHub™ Mop Self-Cleaning for hygienically clean mop pads after every cycle30,000–35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction across the lineup for powerful pickup on every surfaceDual Flex Arm Technology for adaptive side-brush and mop coverage in corners and along edgesMop Lifting for seamless transitions between hard floors and carpetAutomatic Solution Dispensing for consistent cleaning chemistry without manual refillsThe 8-in-1 PowerDock™ base station, which handles auto-empty, mop washing, hot-air drying, and solution management for truly hands-free operation

L60 Pro Ultra: The Flagship Experience, Redefined for Complex Homes

Leading the lineup is the L60 Pro Ultra, featuring select top-tier specifications optimized for large-scale layouts and complex terrains. It pairs the series’ most capable hardware with Dreame’s most advanced intelligence to deliver a seamless, one-stop cleaning experience that effortlessly tackles stubborn stains across expansive and complex home layouts.

At the heart of the Pro Ultra’s navigation advantage is the 3.46-inch ProLeap™ System, the lineup’s most capable obstacle-crossing system, paired with VersaLift Navigation for cleaning under low-clearance furniture. It is equipped with dual-laser 3D structured light, an AI RGB camera, and LED illumination, enabling it to recognize over 280 types of obstacles — for precise, real-time avoidance in any lighting condition.

The Pro Ultra delivers 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction alongside the HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush, together extracting embedded debris, pet hair, and fine particles from every floor type without tangles or jams. Its Dual Omni-Scrub Mopping with Hot Water system pairs rotating mop pads with a Thermal Mop Pad and ThermoHub™ 212°F (100°C) Mop Self-Cleaning, while the AceClean™ DryBoard minimizes residue — eliminating grease, bacteria, and moisture that cold-water systems simply can’t address. An industry-leading 6,400mAh PowerCore™ Battery provides whole-home coverage on a single charge.

The Pro Ultra’s OmniDirt™ Detection Technology identifies high-soil areas and automatically triggers Mop Rewashing and Floor Remopping for a truly thorough result. Pet-Friendly Care 4.0 adds pet-aware detection and navigation, while Upgraded Intelligent Carpet Cleaning optimizes suction and mop behavior for mixed-flooring homes. Direct Voice Control and app control round out the experience for effortless day-to-day use.

Pricing and Availability

The Dreame L60 Series is available now through the Dreame website and Amazon (L60 Pro Ultra, L60 Ultra, L60 Ultra PE, L60 Ultra FE), with launch-offer pricing through the official website. Customers who purchase on dreametech.com receive a free accessory kit with their order.

L60 Pro Ultra — MSRP $1,399.99 | Launch Offer $1,259.99L60 Ultra — MSRP $1,299.99 | Launch Offer $1,169.99L60 Ultra PE — MSRP $1,099.99 | Launch Offer $879.99L60 Ultra FE — MSRP $999.99 | Launch Offer $749.99

For more information about the L60 Series, visit dreametech.com/pages/l60-series-robot-vacuum.

About Dreame Technology

Established in 2017, Dreame Technology is an innovative consumer product company focused on smart home cleaning appliances with the vision to empower lives through technology. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. For more information, please visit https://www.dreametech.com/.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dreame-technology-launches-the-l60-series-led-by-the-flagship-l60-pro-ultra-302756382.html

SOURCE Dreame Technology

Continue Reading

Trending