Science City Guwahati SDAArchitects Vision Takes Shape

Guwahati, Assam

SDAArchitect is proud to announce that construction has officially commenced on the much-anticipated Science City Guwahati, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to science education, innovation, and public engagement. This milestone follows SDAArchitect’s success in winning the prestigious design competition for the project in 2015, after which the firm has been leading the meticulous design development phase to bring this visionary endeavor to fruition.

Science City Guwahati, spearheaded by the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) and the Assam Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC), represents a significant investment in the region’s scientific literacy and infrastructure. Funded by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Assam, this project is set to become a landmark institution, fostering curiosity, innovation, and interactive learning for visitors of all ages.

Nestled within a 30-acre site in Tapesia, Sonapur Circle, approximately 22 kilometers from Guwahati’s city center, the project boasts a unique topographical setting comprising rolling hills, plateaus, and open plains. SDAArchitect’s design seamlessly integrates with the natural terrain, embodying an organic architectural approach that fosters a dynamic interplay between built spaces and the landscape.

SDAArchitect’s approach to Science City Guwahati is rooted in context-sensitive design, ensuring that the architecture complements the site’s natural features while providing an engaging, immersive experience for visitors. The spatial planning is biophilic in nature, with built forms interwoven into the landscape to create an environment that enhances learning and discovery.

The architectural language of the Science City is a fusion of contemporary design principles and vernacular influences, resulting in a built environment that is both aesthetically compelling and functionally efficient. Passive design strategies such as natural ventilation, daylight optimization, and thermal massing are employed to enhance energy efficiency and create comfortable interior environments.

Among the major architectural and functional components of Science City Guwahati are:

Thematic Science Galleries – Showcasing interactive exhibits on subjects ranging from astrophysics to sustainable technology.

Innovation Hub – A state-of-the-art research and learning center encouraging hands-on scientific exploration.

Science Park – An outdoor experiential space featuring scaled models, interactive installations, and open-air exhibits.

Digital Planetarium – Equipped with cutting-edge projection technology to offer immersive astronomical experiences.

Amphitheater and Exhibition Halls – Multi-use spaces for science fairs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events.

With sustainability at the core of its design philosophy, Science City Guwahati incorporates eco-sensitive planning that minimizes environmental impact while enhancing energy efficiency. Rainwater harvesting, solar power generation, and green roofing techniques are integrated into the project to align with net-zero energy principles. The landscape design employs native plant species to promote biodiversity and reduce water consumption.

“SDAArchitect’s vision for Science City Guwahati is to craft a space that not only serves as an epicenter for scientific discovery but also exists in harmony with its natural surroundings,” said SunandoDasgupta, Principal Architect at SDAArchitect. “We have prioritized a design approach that is both contextual and forward-thinking, allowing for adaptability and sustainability while delivering an unparalleled visitor experience.”

As construction progresses, Science City Guwahati is set to emerge as a cultural and educational landmark, elevating the city’s profile as a center for scientific innovation and knowledge dissemination. This transformative project will serve as a dynamic educational hub, igniting curiosity and inspiring the next generation of scientists, innovators, and thinkers.

The completion of Science City Guwahati is expected to create a ripple effect in the region, fostering a deeper appreciation for science, technology, and environmental stewardship. SDAArchitect remains committed to delivering an architectural masterpiece that embodies creativity, sustainability, and educational excellence.

About SDAArchitect

SDAArchitect is an award-winning architectural firm known for its innovative and sustainable design solutions across institutional, cultural, and commercial projects. With a focus on context-driven architecture, the firm integrates cutting-edge technology, environmental consciousness, and timeless aesthetics to create spaces that inspire and endure.

For further information, updates, and visuals, please visit SDAArchitect’s Official Website: https://sdaarchitect.net

SGS Launches FSMA 204 Food Traceability Solutions

 

Geneva (March 19, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has launched comprehensive, integrated FSMA 204 Food Traceability Solutions to help food manufacturers and producers meet the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) latest Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Section 204 requirements.

 

FSMA 204 aims to enhance food safety by improving supply chain traceability. It targets high-risk foods on the Food Traceability List and mandates detailed recordkeeping, traceability plans and rapid data sharing.

 

While the compliance deadline is January 20, 2026, many retailers are already seeking early adoption by suppliers

 

Naghmeh Raiyat, Global Head of Food Assurance at SGS, said: “Today’s launch reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that address the industry’s growing need for enhanced food safety and traceability.

 

“As the compliance deadline for FSMA 204 approaches, businesses face mounting pressure to enhance their traceability systems. Thanks to our extensive knowledge of FSMA requirements, we have developed a solution that will empower businesses with the tools and confidence to not only achieve compliance but also build more resilient and transparent supply chains. Ultimately, this marks another welcome step forward in strengthening consumer trust in food safety.”

 

Designed to address the increasingly complex compliance needs of stakeholders in the food industry, FSMA 204 Food Traceability Solutions combine FSMA 204 audits, training and the TRAKKEY digital traceability platform:
- FSMA 204 audits: ensures that organizations meet the FDA’s rigorous traceability requirements. These audits focus on verifying the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of Key Data Elements (KDEs) and Critical Tracking Events (CTEs). By assessing the readiness of traceability systems, the audits support the swift identification and removal of contaminated food products to safeguard public health
- FSMA 204 training: provides food businesses with the knowledge and skills to implement robust traceability plans. Available online and in person, these courses cover critical aspects of FSMA 204, including traceability rules, KDEs and CTEs, enabling organizations to navigate FDA inspections and meet regulatory demands confidently
- TRAKKEY digital traceability platform: ensures real-time supply chain-wide visibility. Validated by billions of annual transactions, TRAKKEY integrates effortlessly into existing IT systems and workflows, offering a scalable and powerful tool to:
Enhance outbreak investigations: quickly identify contamination sources to enable faster responses
Reduce recalls: pinpoint contaminated products to minimize financial losses
Improve product information: insights into the origin, processing and distribution of food items
Streamline data sharing: efficient communication between trading partners

 

For more information about the FSMA 204 Food Traceability Solutions.

 

About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

 

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

 

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

New Chinese Footwear National Standard for Green Product Evaluation Released

Geneva (March 19, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 038.25, highlighting the release of GB/T 44867-2024, a new national standard for evaluating the green attributes of footwear products in China.

Issued on November 28, 2024, by the State Administration for Market Regulation and the Standardization Administration of the People’s Republic of China, the new standard will come into effect on June 1, 2025. It focuses on assessing the green characteristics of various footwear products.

 

SGS experts regularly publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 038.25 includes a helpful table which gives an overview of the key assessment requirements in GB/T 44867-2024.

 

Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 038.25 for more details.

 

SGS softlines services
SGS has a worldwide network of over 40 state-of-the-art laboratories, including 10 in China, specializing in the testing of apparel, footwear, and home textiles. Their committed team is drawn from multi-disciplinary backgrounds, allowing them to conduct a comprehensive range of physical, chemical, and functional testing services for components, materials and finished products. SGS helps companies ensure quality, performance, and compliance with international, industrial, and regulatory standards worldwide. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s softlines services.

 

SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full China Releases National Standard for Green Product Evaluation of Footwear Products – GB/T 44867-2024 SafeGuardS.

 

Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox.

 

For further information contact:

 

Dr. Min Zhu
Senior Director, Technical Services and Operations
Softlines, US and Canada
Tel: +1 (97) 346-11230
Website: http://www.sgs.com/softlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products

 

About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

 

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

 

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

SGS gains SCDF accreditation to accelerate Singaporean market entry in fire safety enterprises

Geneva (March 20, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has been officially recognized by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) as an accredited Certification Body. This groundbreaking achievement allows SGS to issue SCDF-certified Certificates of Conformity (CoC) for fire safety products exported to Singapore, removing regulatory barriers and accelerating market entry for enterprises expanding into Singapore and Southeast Asia.

Singapore, a critical hub for Southeast Asian markets, enforced some of the most stringent quality and safety standards in the region for critical fire safety products, including fire-resistant building materials and advanced fire protection components. The SCDF, a key regulatory body under the Singapore Ministry of Home Affairs, oversees fire safety design approval and compliance for construction projects. SGS’s SCDF accreditation cements its role as a leading compliance partner, empowering businesses to navigate Singapore’s challenging certification landscape and seamlessly expand into major regional markets, like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

As Singapore accelerates its ‘Net Zero by 2050’ vision, demand for fire safety solutions in renewable energy, energy storage and sustainable infrastructure is surging. At the same time, Southeast Asian nations are implementing transformative digital policies, fueling unprecedented investments in data infrastructure and clean energy projects. SGS’s SCDF certification services provide clients with tailored, future-ready fire safety compliance solutions, giving them a distinct competitive edge in these rapidly growing sectors.

SGS has established a best-in-class, end-to-end certification framework that integrates localized testing in China with fast-tracked certification issuance in Singapore. This highly efficient approach reduces certification timelines and costs, allowing enterprises – particularly those in renewable energy and energy storage – to achieve compliance and seize market opportunities with confidence and agility.

Through its global network of state-of-the-art testing facilities, SGS helps clients to have a better understanding SCDF compliance requirements, optimizing efficiency across R&D, manufacturing and quality control processes.

Besides SCDF accreditation, SGS holds other prestigious certifications from top-tier regulatory bodies, including those in North America, the EU and Hong Kong (HOKLAS), providing compliance solutions for internationally recognized standards such as EN and BS across critical industries like building materials, renewable energy and transportation.

For further information, please contact: 

Alex Mao
Country Manager, Fire Technology Service
Connectivity & Products
Tel: +86 186 0179 5270

About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

France Issues Ban on PFAS in Consumer Products

 

Geneva (March 20, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 040.25, highlighting France’s prohibition of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetics, textiles and ski waxes.

 

PFAS are widely used for their water, grease and oil-resistant properties, but many have been found to cause health and environmental concerns due to their toxicity and  bioaccumulative characteristics.

 

Law No. 2025-188 (1) was enacted on February 27, 2025, making France the second European country after Denmark to ban PFAS in certain goods. The production, import, export and market placement of them will be prohibited from January 2026.

 

Certain exceptions to the ban for some industrial textiles and products considered essential for critical applications are allowed for in Law 2025-188 (1), ahead of a ban in PFAS in all textile products, unless they are necessary for essential uses, by 2030.

 

PFAS monitoring in drinking water and financial penalties on industrial polluters are also strengthened in the new law, as part of France’s broader effort to reduce the negative impact of PFAS on health and the environment.

 

SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 040.25 includes further information on the scope of the new legislation and its effective timeline, as well as its significance under the wider context of proposed EU-wide PFAS restrictions.

 

Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 040.25 for more details.

 

SGS consumer product services
SGS provides news about the development of regulations affecting consumer products as a complimentary service. With an unrivaled global network of laboratories, they offer physical/mechanical testing, analytical testing and consultancy work for technical and non-technical parameters applicable to a comprehensive range of consumer products. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s consumer product services.

 

SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full France Bans PFAS on Consumer Products SafeGuardS.

 

Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox.

 

For further information contact:

 

Dr. Min Zhu
Senior Director, Technical Services and Operations
Softlines, US and Canada
Tel: +1 (97) 346-11230
Website: http://www.sgs.com/softlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products

 

About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

 

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

 

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker s