Intel plans a $20 billion semiconductor factory in Europe
US chip manufacturer Intel has indicated that investment in its planned European $20 billion semiconductor factory could be spread across several EU member states. The EU is aiming to double the production of chips to increase its global share to 20%.
Much of the world is currently dependent on Taiwan to supply chips. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton is putting together a multibillion Euro plan for the semiconductor industry. Intel is reportedly seeking at least $9.7 billion in public subsidies toward building a semiconductor factory in Europe.
Intel is looking for a site with at least 1,000 acres of land which can support up to eight chip fabrication facilities. Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands are said to be candidate countries for a foundry.
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Hershey and Land O’Lakes partner on sustainability initiative in dairy supply chain
Candy maker Hershey Company and dairy provider Land O’Lakes are partnering on a new initiative that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions on Pennsylvania dairy farms and improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The Sustainable Dairy PA initiative will support agricultural conservation practices at 119 Land O’Lakes member dairy farms that ship at least half of their milk to Hershey.
Hershey will provide $300,000 in initial funding. As funding increases, participating Land O’Lakes farms could grow to more than 400. The partnership between the two highlights the need to tackle the growing environmental footprint of food production by focusing on the dairy ingredient supply chain.
According to the World Wildlife Fund, the dairy industry contributes 2% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and it takes 144 gallons of water to produce 1 gallon of milk. As the demand for candy and snacks grow and the U.S. emerges from the pandemic, more supply chain focused efforts like this collaboration will be necessary to help the company tackle its emissions goal and reduce its overall environmental footprint.
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Australian government awards $4M in grants to two blockchain startups
Australia’s Minister for Industry, Science and Technology announced $4.2 million (5.6 million Australian dollars) in grants to two blockchain-focused businesses which includes traceability firm Everledge and technology consulting startup Convergence.tech.
The investment aims to explore blockchain’s capability to expand the competitiveness of Australia’s critical minerals and food & beverage industries. Minister Christian Porter said that the projects will accelerate the pace of blockchain adoption in Australia as well as assist businesses in solving real-world challenges.
“The Blockchain Pilot Grants will demonstrate the potential for blockchain to help businesses to save money and cut red tape by improving processes such as tracking products throughout the supply chain and transferring customer information,” Porter noted.
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