Geneva (March 30, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 067.25 to keep stakeholders informed about an additional delay to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reporting requirements for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Under ‘Toxic Substances Control Act Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances’ (‘TSCA PFAS Reporting Rule’), signed into effect on September 28, 2023, businesses that have manufactured or imported PFAS, including PFAS containing articles, for commercial purposes between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2022, must report designated PFAS compounds to the EPA. The original submission period under the law was from November 12, 2024, to May 8, 2025, with an additional six months for small businesses. This was then pushed back by eight months on September 5, 2024.

The EPA has now announced a second delay, pushing back the reporting period to April 13, 2026 – October 13, 2026, with a date of April 13, 2027, for small manufacturers reporting exclusively as article importers.

SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that may impact their business. SafeGuardS 067.25 contains details of the reporting rule delay, including information on the reasons behind the change and an additional consultation.

Stakeholders are advised to review the original SafeGuardS 067.25 for further details.

SGS chemical testing
SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services.

SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full EPA Postpones Submission Period under TSCA PFAS Reporting Rule by Nine Months SafeGuardS.

Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox.

For further information contact:

Melanie Tamayo
Senior Technical Manager, SGS NA.
Tel: + 1 312 414 9394

Dr. Hingwo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420

Website: www.sgs.com/cp
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 CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW)

Abu Dhabi, UAE | June 02, 2025 -- In an era marked by the convergence of technological acceleration and social introspection, Aahana Bhatt, a Grade 12 Indian student from United Arab Emirates, emerges as a compelling exemplar of next-generation leadership—an individual whose journey seamlessly integrates scientific acumen, civic mindfulness, and creative vision. Her narrative is not merely one of early achievement but of purpose-driven progression, where each milestone reinforces a commitment to both personal excellence and collective advancement.

Aahana’s initiation into the world of science was neither accidental nor superficial. In Grade 5, she secured the Homi Bhabha Young Scientist Certification, one of India’s most prestigious recognitions for budding scientific minds. This formative accolade marked the genesis of an enduring fascination with STEM disciplines, serving as a catalyst for a trajectory defined by rigor, relevance, and responsibility.

Her scholastic maturity was profoundly evident by Grade 10, when she attained a perfect score of 100 in Artificial Intelligence—a metric that captured not only her mastery of algorithmic thinking but also her disciplined engagement with complex technological systems. Augmenting her academic foundation, she pursued globally recognized credentials in AI for Social Impact from the Asian Development Bank Institute and Blockchain Basics from the Blockchain Alliance, thereby acquiring the methodological frameworks and ethical lenses necessary for navigating the digital age.

Aahana’s proficiency is not confined to theoretical paradigms; it has been consistently translated into practical innovation. As a finalist in the IEEE Hackathon hosted by Symbiosis University, she collaborated on AI-driven solutions tailored to address contemporary social challenges. Her participation in the FIRST LEGO League Robotics Competition further refined her capabilities in systems thinking, collaborative engineering, and problem-solving under pressure.

Equally noteworthy is her unwavering dedication to civic and environmental stewardship. In partnership with the Indore Municipal Corporation, Aahana contributed to research initiatives focusing on smart city development and integrated waste management. Her insights informed local strategies and demonstrated the profound impact that youth-led contributions can have on urban governance and ecological sustainability.

Her local commitments found global resonance when she visited the United Nations Headquarters in New York in 2025, where she engaged with multilateral dialogues on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This encounter not only expanded her perspective but affirmed her conviction that localized innovation and global policy must coalesce to effect lasting change.

Beyond her engagements in science and governance, Aahana has also contributed to the academic discourse on adolescent mental health. In 2025, she published original research in a University Grants Commission-accredited journal, examining the influence of media portrayals on teenage psychological well-being. The study, informed by both empirical evidence and humanistic inquiry, underscores her rare ability to synthesize data with empathy.

Adding yet another dimension to her multifaceted profile, Aahana authored a science-fiction novel titled Red Planet Rising: My Journey to Mars and Beyond. The work represents more than imaginative speculation; it serves as a vehicle for conveying scientific ideas, ethical questions, and emotional landscapes through a narrative medium—thus affirming her belief that science, like art, must resonate on a human level.

Outside the realm of academics and public engagement, Aahana continues to cultivate a diverse range of creative and expressive talents. She is a practiced Zentangle artist and a vocalist of English classical and contemporary music, pursuits that enrich her cognitive flexibility and emotional depth.

“Technology isn’t just about coding—it’s about empowering people and improving lives,” she asserts, articulating a personal ethos that informs every facet of her work.

Through a portfolio that spans research, robotics, civic innovation, literary authorship, and artistic exploration, Aahana Bhatt distinguishes herself not only as a high achiever but as a thoughtful, future-facing changemaker. In a time that demands both ingenuity and integrity, she exemplifies what it means to lead with intellect, act with conscience, and imagine beyond the confines of the present.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Aahana’s story offers far more than a list of accomplishments—it serves as a blueprint for young minds seeking to navigate their own path through science, society, and self-expression. For teenagers who aspire to create impact and for young girls hesitant to enter the world of STEM, her journey delivers a resounding message: Excellence has no age, innovation knows no gender, and leadership begins with asking questions.

By embracing both her analytical mind and empathetic heart, Aahana Bhatt shows that the future belongs not only to those who build it—but to those who believe they can.

Media Contact Information:
Erica Doyle
AFTI Publications
15th Floor, Al Sarab Tower
Cloud Spaces - ADGM
Abu Dhabi, UAE
+966-503889662
https://medium.com/@afti.dubai

Miami (May 30, 2025) -  The Women’s Edge announced today that The Wellington Agency, LLC was named one of the 2025 Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Florida. On May 8^th, the honorees were recognized during a celebratory luncheon event at Le Meridien Dania Beach. The 100 organizations honored generated over $40.5 billion in total revenue in 2024, demonstrating that women leaders continue to be key drivers of the state’s economy.

“The organizations on this year’s diverse list are driving $40.5 billion of revenue into the FL economy and innovation across the country, from breakthroughs in clinical care and therapeutics to innovation in travel,” said The Women’s Edge Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth L. Hailer. “We are honored to celebrate the Top 100 women leaders and hope it inspires others to drive for success here in our region and beyond.”

This is the 4^th year that The Women’s Edge – a nonprofit organization devoted to advancing women in leadership positions — created the list through a nomination process and reviewed both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. In addition to revenue or operating budget, factors considered in the ranking included workplace and management diversity, board makeup, and innovative projects. The full list will be published in Tampa Bay Business & Wealth.

“The collective impact of Florida’s Top 100 Women-Led Businesses is nothing short of extraordinary. Together, these women are not just generating over $40 billion in revenue — they are creating jobs, driving innovation, and shaping the economic future of our state. Their leadership proves that when women rise, entire communities and industries thrive”, said The Women’s Edge Executive Director, Florida, Lindse Murphy. “It gives me great joy to elevate and celebrate these impactful leaders and their organizations.” 

About The Women’s Edge

The Women’s Edge is a non-profit organization that propels women leaders to achieve professional and personal success and deliver positive impact within their business and community. Founded in 1997, The Women’s Edge achieves this mission by collaborating and connecting extraordinary women at all stages of their careers — from next generation leaders to CEOs; continually building a pipeline of high performing women leaders; delivering relevant leadership programs, events and perspectives with actionable insights; incorporating inclusive leadership and belonging to foster equity; and leveraging technology to expand reach and amplify impact.

Visit https://thewomensedge.org/ for more information.

Geneva (May 26, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to present a complimentary webinar, ‘Acne and rosacea: cutting edge methods for product evaluation’ on June 18, 2025.

For manufacturers developing new acne and rosacea treatments, understanding testing methodologies is crucial for ensuring the safety, efficacy and regulatory compliance of their products. Choices between traditional and innovative techniques need to be informed by a thorough understanding of these methods and the data they produce.

In this webinar, presenter Dr Gunja Springmann will provide attendees with an overview of commonly used techniques, as well as focusing on high-end methods such as Raman spectroscopy, laser confocal/optical coherence tomography and Vivascope. The webinar will also highlight the assessment of skin tolerance through application studies and patch testing, a critical step in confirming product safety.

Participants will gain practical insights to help optimize product evaluation processes and drive innovation in treatment development. The webinar will also explore how emerging methods can support compliance with evolving regulatory requirements.

This webinar will be of interest to manufacturers of cosmetic and topical medicinal products.

Register now

For further information contact:

Jennifer Buckley
Senior Global Marketing Manager
SGS, Food, Cosmetics & Personal Care
Tel: +1 973 461 1498

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 CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

Geneva (May 28, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 063.25, reporting on the US state of New York’s prohibition on the use of intentionally-added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting personal protective equipment (FPPE). The ban will come into force on January 1, 2028.

Known for their flame-retardant properties, many chemicals in the PFAS family have been found to cause serious health conditions, including cancer. Their toxicity and bioaccumulation in the environment mean that restrictions on their use are becoming more widespread.

Under Section 391-U of the state’s General Business Law, ‘Restrictions on the sale and use of firefighting equipment containing PFAS chemicals’, manufacturers and retailers of FPPE must provide written notice to the buyer at the point of sale if the product contains any PFAS. In addition, they must provide a reason for its inclusion.

On May 9, 2025, the governor signed into law S3008 (Chapter 58). Part SS amends the original legislation by repealing the requirement to provide a reason for including PFAS in purchaser notifications. It also prohibits the intentional addition of PFAS in FPPE and introduces a restriction banning their presence above a threshold established by the Department of Environmental Conservation.

SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 0063.25 includes a useful table summarizing the relevant highlights of S3008, including its scope and requirements, as well as a definition of FPPE.

Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 063.25 for more details.

SGS chemical testing
SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services.

SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full New York State Bans PFAS in Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment SafeGuardS.

Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox.

For further information contact:

Dr. HingWo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420

Melanie Tamayo
Senior Technical Manager, North America
Tel: +1 (312) 414-9394

Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
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 CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).