Apparel industry redefines sustainability: From climate action to community impact

Sri Lanka’s apparel sector continues to establish itself as a global benchmark for sustainability, with leading manufacturers Brandix, Teejay Lanka, Hirdaramani, Hayleys Fabric and MAS Holdings publishing their latest reports that showcase progress across climate action, circularity, ethical practices, and community empowerment.

Climate action and net zero leadership

From Net Zero certified factories to science-based targets, Sri Lanka’s manufacturers are at the forefront of climate ambition. Brandix has cut emissions by 84% and achieved Net Zero certification across five facilities, while Hirdaramani became the country’s first company to secure SBTi approval for Net Zero targets. MAS Holdings reported a 24.04% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from a 2019 baseline and that 39% of the company’s energy came from renewable sources, while Teejay Lanka has steadily expanded its renewable energy footprint to 14% of total consumption. As Hayleys Fabric PLC notes in it’s the GreenCatalyst – ESG Roadmap 2030, ‘Our journey is not just about mitigating impact, but about becoming a catalyst for positive change across the value chain. ‘Brandix aim to become Net Zero across all its global locations by 2030, and is the first Sri Lankan apparel manufacturer to declare such a target.

Circular economy and resource efficiency

Collectively, the four companies are redefining how apparel production can minimise environmental impact. MAS diverted 99% of its waste from landfills, Teejay reused or recycled 3,900 tonnes of material, and Brandix has reached a 90% recycling and recovery rate. Hirdaramani’s is investing in the future of sustainable textiles through ‘Mihila Tex’ a state-of-the-art sustainable textile mill. Together, these initiatives point towards a future where apparel production is rooted in circularity and efficiency.

Teejay Lanka PLC has appointed as the patron company for the Sustainable Supply Chain Working Group organised by the UN Global Compact (UNGC) Sri Lanka, to promote material circularity.

Empowering people and communities

Beyond the factory floor, the industry’s social impact continues to scale. Brandix awarded over 1,000 scholarships, while its employees donated 47,000 pints of blood and supported 140 eye camps. MAS created 2.1 million opportunities through community initiatives in 2024 and increased women’s participation in management positions to 26%. Hirdaramani celebrated 10 years of its Wonders of Well-being (WOW) program that is integrated into its culture to make a difference its 55,000+ global workforce. It has gained global recognition for its success and case studies from Harvard University’s T. H, Chan School of Public Health. Teejay also grew its workforce to 3,465 while investing heavily in training and CSR initiatives.

Transparency and governance

All four groups reported strong governance practices, underpinned by independent assurance and adherence to global standards. Teejay’s integrated reporting follows GRI and IFRS S1 and S2, uses a double materiality approach with SSROs, SASB, and TCFD reports. Scope 1-3 emissions disclosed under ISO 14064-1:2018, and ensures chemical compliance through ZDHC and Bluesign standards.

MAS has also aligned its impact reporting to GRI standards, while also reporting on the Carbon Disclosure Project and aligning to global standards set by SBTi, ZDHC, Bluesign, and other global accreditations and certifications. Brandix reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on corruption and wage violations. Hirdaramani has obtained independent assurance with both Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions verified in accordance with ISO 14064-1.

Innovation and global recognition

Sustainability is not only about compliance but also innovation. Teejay approved 410 new products in FY 2024/25, focusing on sustainable fabrics. MAS saw 40% of revenue from sustainable products, while Hirdaramani secured a Silver Award in the ‘New Business Models for Green and Sustainable Chemistry’ category at the Global Chemical Leasing Award 2024 – organised by UNIDO, the Austrian Federal Ministry for Climate Action (BMK) in recognition for its innovation of a natural detergent using soapberries. Each company was recognised nationally and internationally for their sustainability achievements, strengthening Sri Lanka’s reputation as a responsible sourcing destination.

Unified industry voice

Together, these milestones illustrate how Sri Lanka’s apparel industry is shaping a future where fashion and responsibility go hand in hand.

‘Sustainability is not an option, it is our shared responsibility. As Sri Lankan apparel manufacturers, we are committed to leading by example – proving that world-class apparel can be made in ways that protect the planet, empower people, and create long-term value for all,’ the companies said in a joint statement.

Art of Bhavana: Cultivation of mind and body

Venerable Professor Rahula, a Buddhist scholar, in his provocative best, cuts through centuries of mistranslation. Bhavana is not ‘meditation’ in the sense of escaping the world, sitting in a corner, or pursuing mystical powers. It means something much more vivid: cultivation.

Why ‘cultivation’? Because the Buddha did not speak in abstractions. There are a plethora of suttas, where he spoke in the language of the soil, of seeds, of fields that could be tilled, nourished, and renewed. ‘Development’ feels dreary, bureaucratic, and lifeless. In my view, ‘cultivation’ carries with it the earthy vitality of growth, patience, and continuous tending.

Etymology of Bhavana

Root: vbhu – ‘to be, to become.’

bhavayati – ‘to cause to be, to bring into being, to cultivate.’

bhavana – ‘the act of cultivation, mental culture, bringing into being.’

The Genius of the Buddha was to take this everyday farming word and apply it to the mind.

The Buddha with Farmer: Kasibharadvaja Sutta (Linked Discourses Sanyutta Nikaya 7.11)

In this discourse, while seeking for dana (almsfood), the Buddha encountered the brahmin farmer Kasibharadvaja, who mocked him for not working the land:

‘I plough and sow, ascetic, and then I eat.

‘aham kho, samana, kasami ca vapami ca, kasitva ca vapitva ca bhuñjami.

You too should plough and sow, then you may eat.’

Tvampi, samana, kasassu ca vapassu ca, kasitva ca vapitva ca bhuñjassu’ti.

Then the Buddha gave this remarkable, immediate riposte:

‘I too plough and sow, brahmin, and then I eat.”

‘ahampi kho, brahmana, kasami ca vapami ca, kasitva ca vapitva ca bhuñjami”ti.

The Buddha continued:

‘Trust is my seed, austerity the rain,

Wisdom is my yoke and plough,

Shame is the pole, mind the rein,

Mindfulness my ploughshare and goad.’

Saddha bijam, tapa o khettam,

pañña me yuganangalam,

hiri isa mano yottam,

sati me phalapacanam.

This is not ‘development’ in the dry sense. It is the living, breathing cultivation of the mind – earthy, demanding, transformative.

The fourfold Bhavana

The Buddha used bhavana in many contexts – not limited to seated meditation, but as a comprehensive art of cultivating life:

Cittabhavana – cultivation of the mind (Long Discourses 33

Digha Nikaya 33)

Mettabhavana – cultivation of loving-kindness (So It Was Said 27

Itivuttaka 27)

Kayabhavana – cultivation of the body (Long Discourses 33

Digha Nikaya 33)

Paññabhavana – cultivation of wisdom (Long Discourses 33

Digha Nikaya 33)

Comments

Bhavana is not retreat or ritual. It is not drab ‘development.’ Or meditation. It is the art of active cultivation – tending the soil of the mind so that calmness, clarity, insight, and equanimity may grow.

Just as even the most barren field can, with care, yield a nourishing harvest, the Buddha showed that our minds too can be endlessly enriched, restored, and cultivated – until they shine with wisdom and freedom.

Relevance of forests for biodiversity education

This is a proposal to include biodiversity education in schools and universities. This list of recommendations is based on our current coverage/s of Sinharaja rainforest. We will be focusing in our future writings on the interlink between sustainability, tourism and national revenue making through the significance of this rainforest. This current set of recommendations is for the education sector in Sri Lanka to include nature/bio diversity/ecosystem education by including actual visits to rainforests/forests. The options of linking with the private sector to enable this can be explored.

Rainforests are the gifts of nature to man. They are crafted entirely by the hands of sky and earth without any help from humans. They are therefore marvels in how this earth can teach us to live – and let live. We have today some attempts at educating adults on sustainability especially in sectors such as tourism. However there is little focus on sustainability education for children and youth through observing biodiversity. Our education sector is far removed from the natural world. We teach about nature, as part of science or social science, from classrooms. What is direly needed is for students to get to the natural world and learn not bits and pieces of nature but the whole realm. The best course is that nature teaches it herself.

Below are the recommendations:

1.For all schools of Sri Lanka, from primary classes onwards to commence forest visits at least thrice a year and for the Presidential Secretariat to support these visits if possible from its funds while exploring a national drive where the private sector involves itself in this endeavour.

There are many companies out there who can well afford to sponsor half if not all schools to engage in an initiative as this.

2.For the education system to be changed to facilitate children spending more time on their own in nature and for their homework to be nature oriented and to include visual education such as through painting and photography. The students can be encouraged to draw nature and to write corelating analysis on the sustainability aspects of trees, forests and water and the consequences as observed in real life, as to what occurs when these resources are vandalised and abused. It could be worked out that the children write their essays while in the forests itself engaging in discussions from those well versed in the vicissitudes of nature (to discourage resorting to copying from the internet).

3.For students to be encouraged the practice of mindfulness meditation in locations such as rainforests and draw from differing spiritual traditions that teach about the sacredness of the natural world. This will encourage the Dharma to be woven into actual real life practice where after such meditation practice the children and youth can be encouraged to write analysis on the link between the Dharma, natural resources and their safeguarding. contd. on page 09

Relevance…

Aspects of sustainability in Buddhism as taught by the Buddha where forest dwelling monks were taught the sustainability of a Buddhist robe. Without allowing the attire of monks to go to waste after they wear it for a long time, they were advised to use the torn material as covering from the cold at night, as doormats and as material that can clean up spaces and finally when that too is used up to wedge it between brick or clay when constructing a premises for meditation.

4.Children and youth can be made to make lists of trees that are currently in areas such as Sinharaja and research about their uses. They could then be instructed to research on the trees that existed in Sinharaja 50 years ago and make a list of any extinct trees. They can then analyse the value of those trees and what the loss means to the ecosystem.

5.Today’s children and youth grow up without learning to appreciate biodiversity that is around us. Through this initiative – by closing the gap between students and rainforests they can learn how nature evolves. Using art as a learning therapy every student can be asked to draw and paint an insect or bird they see in the wild. They can then be asked to write analytical essays on sustainability in real life and what it means to supporting the long life of these creatures.

6.In today’s education system what is noticed is the lack of innovative thinking being encouraged with the pressure merely being towards passing exams by memorisation. As a bid to change this and thereby transform the future of the country children can be asked – after they visit the rainforests to start their own unique initiative towards sustainability and the protection of biodiversity and forests.

7.As above they can be encouraged to meet forest guides and others who have close affinity to the wild who can advise on many inventions that could be created that will replace non bio degradable products. Each child can write an essay on their own choice and how they hope it would change their lives and that of others. This could be one way that we lay the foundation of innovation in young minds.

8.As linked to above school children and youth could join in a systematic and purposeful manner the goal of cleaning Sri Lanka of trash and themselves adopt sustainable ways or recycling and disposing of trash.

Stay curious, adopt a scholar’s mind

Sometime ago, a grumpy lady senator was reported to have been visibly irked and did not mince her words when she found out a huge part of the DA’s National Corn Program would be allocated for research: ‘Baliw na baliw kayo sa research. Aanhin niyo ba yung research?’ Then for good measure she added: ‘ I’m a smart person but I don’t understand your research, what more of the farmers. Does a farmer want research?’

Someone who had spent almost her entire life in doing research in obscurity could have told her: ‘Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help shall all be saved.’

That someone was Jane Goodall, who quietly passed away recently, aged 91. She is widely recognized as one of the world’s most renowned primatologists and animal behavioral scientists.

More than 25 years ago in the United Kingdom, when she was in her early 20s, Jane Goodall made a life-changing decision to pursue her interest in animal behavior. She packed up her bags and booked a passage to Tanzania to begin studying a community of chimpanzees by living among them in a remote place called Gombe.

She lacked scientific training. She had no degree. Driven by passion and courage, by dint of sheer hard work and struggle, virtually alone in wilds of East Africa, she persisted unwaveringly in her work until her death. Thanks to her decades-long groundbreaking study of the chimpanzees, the world has now a better understanding of the natural behavior of our closest animal relative and ultimately a greater knowledge of our own species.

The late Stephen Jay Gould, the American paleontologist, evolutionary biologist, and historian of science hailed Jane Goodall as ‘one of the intellectual heroes of this century.’ Her contributions to biology, natural history, anthropology, and the humanities from her work in Tanzania are now part of our collective knowledge. It is all because of her ‘research’ activities.

A kindred spirit of Goodall’s was a Frenchman named Jean Henri Fabre who devoted himself fully to studies of insects, a lifelong interest he had cultivated since adolescence. His ‘research’ activities involved patient, long hours of observation, meticulously noting the details of their behavior. Considered by many to be the father of modern entomology, Fabre is unknown by many. Yet because of him and his dedication, we now know more about insects and their micro world.

Goodall and Fabre belong to a rare breed of human beings who dedicated themselves to solitary intellectual pursuits, not for fame or money, but for acquiring knowledge to share with the rest of humankind. What they did was painstaking, arduous, tedious, and unrewarding. What they had was an intense passion, bordering on obsession, combined with an immense amount of patience, a deep sense of humility, and great empathy for the subjects they were studying.

In the Philippines, I can cite the late Dr. Felipe Landa Jocano who remains as one of our country’s foremost anthropologists. His field studies on Philippine folklore, pre-history, and cultural communities have enriched the field of Philippine Anthropology. I use his books as reference when I write about Filipino culture.

Goodall, Fabre and Jocano are what someone hailed as society’s ‘intellectual heroes.’

They gathered knowledge through direct experience. For this, I believe they were ‘scholars’ in the true meaning of the word.

Before they became famous, Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, Louis Pasteur were ‘scholars’ in the real sense of the word. Today, like them, there are obscure scholars toiling in unknown parts of the world, secluded from the outside world in their rooms, laboratories, basements, doggedly pursuing their ideas, making false starts, experimenting through countless trials and errors, patiently and diligently observing, taking copious notes, analyzing, continuously making and revising tentative conclusions.

Others like Jane Goodall are out there in the field, jungle, poverty-stricken slums, dusty ancient ruins, or immersed in the lives of people, conversing, observing, noting, collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, speculating.

That to me is what true scholarship is really all about and not the common layman’s understanding of it as a form of financial aid awarded to students for further education.

Oddly, in reference books I have scanned, there are few clear definitions of the term ‘scholar.’ The Oxford English Dictionary offers this: specialist in a particular study, a distinguished academic.

To me the best definition of a scholar is an individual who has a clear commitment to enrich the lives of others in the wider world through mastery of a discipline by accumulation of knowledge.

By this definition, a scholar is not necessarily an academic ‘egghead’ sitting at a wooden table cluttered with stacks of books, flickering candles, in a dimly lit room immersed in studying ancient texts. Surrounded by towering bookshelves and a vintage globe, he is creating a scene of intellectual pursuit and timeless wisdom.

Many scholars are actually outside of laboratories doing their work in the open air. He could be a young meteorologist out there in the field measuring wind speeds, amount of rainfall, a geologist sorting through layers of rock and soil under the heat of the sun, an ethnologist up there living among a mountain tribe to learn their ways, and so on.

But more significantly, he could also be you and me. Yes, we can all be scholars, at whatever age in life. For it is never too early nor too late to go on an intellectual pursuit to gain knowledge that we can share with others in our limited circle or wider society at large.

As for me, I have adopted a scholarly mind or attitude a long time ago. Just like Goodall when she started, I have no scientific training. I have no degree in any of the sciences. I am not being funded by any organization. All I have is a boundless curiosity about everything. My mantras are: Why so? What if? Why not? What then?

I too like go watch and observe and take notes and make sense of what I see and hear.

When my wife and I go out to a mall, I prefer to sit on a bench to watch and observe people around me unobtrusively.

But it’s not just people. I observe the cats in our backyard. I note their individual meowing sounds, which distinguish them from each other. I cross check their behavioral patterns with the books I have on domesticated cats. Does this make me an amateur ethologist, a scholar of animal behavior?

In short, the world is my laboratory or petri dish. My pursuits are driven by endless curiosity and boundless sense of wonder.

And what I like most about being a ‘scholar’ is I’m not pressured by deadlines or the pressure to produce, as with the case of scholars/scientists funded by research grants. For true learning thrives in freedom.

The history of innovation shows that freedom for researchers to pursue their creative ideas, without strings attached, has been vital for countless discoveries, many of which have led to breakthrough technologies with enormous benefits for society.

It is noteworthy that the Greek root word for scholar is ‘scholastes’, which is translated as ‘spare time, leisure’, or ‘conversations and the knowledge gained through them during free time.’

In my case, doing casual research and discovering unknown tidbits of information is a joyful experience. It’s giving a natural boost to my feel-good hormones, eliciting a sense of happiness and pleasure. I delight in surprising my friends with esoteric facts in conversations. I love to put down my findings in think pieces such as this so more people can benefit from them and spread it.

This is what’s keeping me feeling up and ‘alive’ in my twilight time.

So, to my fellow seniors, don’t waste the third act of your life.

Be mentally active and stay curious about the world around you. It’s not too late to adopt the mentality of a scholar. It’s fundamental-FUN and MENTALLY healthy.

SM Cares enhances support for senior citizens during Elderly Filipino Week

Leading the Elderly Filipino Week 2025 celebration at SM Mall of Asia, SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) honored the pivotal role of Filipino seniors in nation-building, while advocating for their continued inclusion and empowerment.

With the theme ‘Embracing Age: Living a Life with Dignity and Purpose,’ the event gathered hundreds of senior citizens and partner organizations for a day filled with wellness activities, recreation, and meaningful engagement. The program featured a Eucharistic celebration, a Walk for Life, uplifting messages from senior citizen advocates, and a lively Zumba session that highlighted the energy and vitality of the elderly community.

Wellness booths offering free services -including medical consultations, massage and acupuncture, eye care, and e-government ID registration – were set up around the venue, providing participants with access to programs that promote health, inclusion, and continuous learning.

‘Our seniors have given so much to their families and communities. Through Elderly Filipino Week, SM Cares reaffirms its commitment to championing the welfare of our elderly, making sure they feel celebrated, supported, and empowered,’ said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Senior Citizens.

‘We are deeply grateful to SM Cares for walking hand in hand with us in celebrating and empowering our senior citizens through meaningful activities like this,’ shared Ana Marie C. Calapit, Acting Executive Director of the National Commission of Senior Citizens.

This year’s celebration once again reinforced SM Supermalls’ commitment to inclusivity by fostering spaces where generations can meaningfully connect. It also highlighted the importance of building supportive communities for seniors – both within the mall and in the broader society.

For years, SM Cares has been at the forefront of programs for senior citizens, from barrier-free mall facilities, emergency preparedness forums to social development initiatives. Through Elderly Filipino Week 2025, SM Cares continues to highlight the invaluable contributions of seniors while promoting wellness, dignity, and purpose at every stage of life.

Celebrating 40 super years

SM Supermalls-one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines – marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.

Academy Press Plc eyes future growth, innovation as it celebrates 60yrs

Academy Press Plc., one of Nigeria’s foremost printing and publishing companies, is set to celebrate its 60 years of printing, eyeing future growth and innovation.

The Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, themed ‘Celebrating the Past, Envisioning Tomorrow,’ will take place on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel.

The event will honour their legacy, recognise stakeholder contributions, and look forward to future growth and innovation.

Speaking on the milestone, Olugbenga Ladipo, Managing Director of Academy Press Plc., said: ‘This Diamond Jubilee is not only a celebration of our past achievements but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to innovation, excellence, and service.

‘We are proud of our heritage, grateful to our stakeholders, and excited about the future we are building together.’

The celebration will host government dignitaries, corporate leaders, industry stakeholders, alumni, employees, and international partners. It will also feature a red carpet reception, goodwill messages, keynote addresses, and engaging moments that connect the past, present, and future of Academy Press Plc.

With a legacy built on quality, precision, and trust, Academy Press Plc. remains committed to delivering world-class printing solutions and creating value for stakeholders in the years ahead.

6 ways to unlock your skin’s natural, brilliant glow

Lack of sleep, poor diet and environmental aggressors can all take their toll, leaving you with skin that looks as lacklustre as you probably feel. Achieving a natural, brilliant glow is simpler than you think. You don’t need a complex 10-step regimen or expensive treatments to get your best skin.

With these six easy ways, you can unlock your skin’s true radiance and let your inner light shine through.

Rest

Stress can negatively impact your skin tone, so finding ways to manage it can help improve your skin’s glow. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep to support skin regeneration and prevent dullness.You can also sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase, which is gentler on your skin and can reduce friction.

Hydrate from inside out

A well-hydrated skin looks plump, smooth, and naturally dewy. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush toxins and keep your cells functioning optimally.Incorporate hydrating foods into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and berries.

Exfoliates regularly to reveal fresh skin

A buildup of dead skin cells is often the main culprit behind a dull complexion. By gently exfoliating, you sweep away the tired, outer layer to reveal the fresher, brighter skin underneath.

Wear sunscreen

Protect yourself from sun exposure by applying a good sunscreen daily to prevent tanning, dark spots, and premature aging caused by sun damage.

Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Consume fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins like berries, leafy greens, and nuts are packed with skin-loving nutrients aimed to nourish your skin health and cell turnover.

Power up with antioxidants

Your skin is constantly fighting off environmental stressors like pollution, UV rays, and stress, which can lead to dullness and uneven tone. Antioxidants help fight this damage. Add a vitamin C serum to your daily routine. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and boost collagen production.

Over 40? Why fitness expert says your exercises should end after one hour

At 49, Collins Omondi’s body still bears the sculpted lines of his competitive bodybuilding days, a testament to three decades of iron discipline. His chest, shoulders, and arms carry the story of a life shaped by weights and willpower. Yet, he laughs at the idea that he is still the powerhouse he was in his 20s.

‘I’m not as strong as I used to be,’ he says. ‘But the more I lift, the better I feel. I sleep better. I move better. I plan to keep lifting until I’m 80.’

Collins’s fitness story began in his teenage years, sparked by a neighbour who had an imposing physique.

“People used to talk about him, and I thought to myself, I also want to build that kind of physique,” he recalls. By 17, he was exercising. By 19, he was competing.

The 1990s were a golden era for bodybuilding in Kenya. Gyms, in those days, were crude and ill-equipped. Many gyms were located in makeshift spaces where dumbbells were fashioned from concrete and paint tins, iron bars were unpolished, and young men pushed their bodies to extremes.

‘We didn’t have fancy equipment; it was hardcore. You had to learn to balance your sessions, otherwise your body would end up looking unbalanced,’.

Collins thrived in this hardcore environment, finishing second at Mr Kenya in 1996. He won his middleweight category in 1997 and represented Kenya at Mr Universe competitions in the Czech Republic and Turkey.

After retiring from competitive bodybuilding in 2003, Collins turned to fitness consulting, first in Botswana, then spent over a decade in Southern Africa, where he discovered that fitness consulting could be lucrative for those who knew their craft.

He returned to Kenya with specialised knowledge and a claim to fame. He vaunts without proof that he was one of the first instructors to introduce spinning classes in the country.

“I learned of spinning while I was competing abroad, so in 1999 I started the programme at Arena Gym in Nairobi. This was the first gym to introduce spinning in Kenya,” he says.

What was then a niche cardio option has now become a full-blown craze, Collins observes.

‘Spinning has become trendy in Nairobi. The music, the energy, the fun. make workouts addictive, which is good. But it is also the easiest workout to overdo,’ he notes.

Research supports spinning’s benefits. Better leg strength, lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol. For people over 40, spinning can be a lifesaver since it is low-impact and easy on the joints. But Collins watches Kenya’s current spinning fever with growing concern.

What was meant to be an accessible, moderate workout has morphed into something potentially dangerous. He warns that many Kenyans are now pushing their bodies beyond safe limits on spin bikes.

‘A 30 to 45-minute spin is okay. But when people push past an hour, it can lead to muscle breakdown. Remember, your glutes and quads are some of the largest muscles in the body; you burn massive energy using them. Overdo it, and the body pays the price. That can lead to a lot of muscle breakdown, which is not healthy because having muscles is very fundamental to the body’s functionality,’ he says.

Because the muscles engaged in spinning are among the body’s largest, demanding enormous energy, for beginners or those unaccustomed to vigorous lower-body exercise, the risk of overexertion is real and potentially severe.

Collins’ beliefs are echoed in global studies. An American Journal of Medicine study documented cases of rhabdomyolysis in spinning beginners.

This is a disorder where severe muscle breakdown releases proteins that can poison the kidneys. Symptoms include swollen legs and difficulty walking.

“Spinning wasn’t meant to be an everyday workout. You have to allow the body to recover. When spinning becomes a daily habit, the cumulative intensity can lead to fatigue and declining performance rather than fitness gains. Even if you become a spinning pro, daily sessions may still be too much,” Collins argues.

He claims the trendy nature of spinning has created a market flooded with undertrained instructors who prioritise entertainment over safety.

‘If you decide to dabble in spinning, it is best to do it gradually and ensure you are under a certified spinning coach, someone who understands the basic principles of spinning.’

Since returning home due to a severe case of homesickness after spending 12 years in South Africa, Collins has found his calling by working with clients over 40.

He believes this demographic is severely neglected by Kenya’s youth-focused fitness industry. He has now dedicated his career to helping clients over 40 rethink their approach.

“I realised it is one age group that is highly neglected, and as you age, your body changes. I know how difficult it is to fix your body past 40.’

For women, calcium loss from menstruation becomes critical after 40. For men, testosterone levels drop significantly. Without strength training, consequences arrive swiftly. Bones begin to thin, muscle mass decreases, and complications multiply.

He observes that many in this age bracket avoid gyms, preferring golf or other recreational activities. While not inherently bad, these activities take longer to deliver fitness benefits. Meanwhile, the need for structured exercise has never been greater.

“Nowadays, we need to work out more than ever because of the food that we eat. Most of the food we eat now is processed. When you lift weights, your bones become dense, so it actually reverses that process of osteoporosis,” Collins explains.

His own training approach has evolved with his body. Where he once trained six days weekly, he now works out three times, allowing more recovery time. His weight loads have decreased, but his repetitions have increased.

“I know I can lift as heavy as an 80kg dumbbell, but I don’t dare,” he says. Instead, he sticks to 30-40kg for chest work, 25 -30kg for shoulder presses.

The reasoning is simple.

“When you are at my age, you become susceptible to injuries. The moment I get an injury, it takes a bit of time to heal.”

He says his inspiration to keep lifting into his 80s is an 84-year-old Japanese man he met during his time in Botswana.

‘The man’s posture was impeccable. He could stand upright, had steady hands, agile movement and a lean physique that could pass for a 50-year-old. He told me he had been weightlifting consistently since he was 20. Those are the things that actually motivate me.’

From his more than two decades of experience, he believes one shouldn’t spend more than an hour weightlifting.

“Working out should be at least 45 minutes and a maximum of an hour. You should not train beyond that because after one hour of workout, your body plateaus and anything else you do is counterproductive.”

Fueling your body with the right foods is also key to aging well.

‘I eat lots of sweet potatoes, boiled eggs, rice or ugali with fish or beef and vegetables, lean protein with vegetables at dinner, and I only eat when I am hungry. As you grow older, your body fat percentage rises because your metabolic rate drops. My body fat at the moment stands at 16 percent.’

Trump threatens to impose new 100% tariff on Chinese imports

United States President Donald Trump on Friday threatened to impose an additional 100% tariff on imports from China and hinted at calling off an upcoming meeting with its leader Xi Jinping after Beijing this week announced export controls on rare earth elements essential for high-tech manufacturing.

Trump said on social media that the United States will introduce the tariff starting Nov 1 or sooner, depending on any further actions taken by China, potentially reigniting a trade war between the world’s two largest economies.

In addition to increasing the prospects of a return to triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, Trump said his administration plans to also impose export controls on all critical software products beginning on the same date.

“It is impossible to believe that China would have taken such an action, but they have, and the rest is History,” he wrote.

During an event later at the White House, Trump, however, said he still intends to visit South Korea and hold talks with Xi.

“I don’t know that we’re going to have it, but I’m going to be there regardless. So, I would assume we might have it,” he said, when asked by a reporter to confirm he had decided to cancel the meeting.

He suggested that there may still be an opportunity for the two countries to change course, saying, “That’s why I made it November 1. We’ll see what happens.”

“I have a very good relationship with President Xi, and they did that. This is not something that I instigated,” Trump added.

“This was a real surprise,” Trump said earlier in a separate social media post, referring to China’s plan to tighten some restrictions on items related to rare earths beginning Nov. 8, two days before another extension of a 90-day trade truce between Washington and Beijing is set to expire.

He said that “now there seems to be no reason” to meet with the Chinese president in South Korea later this month, calling China’s latest action “sinister and hostile” toward not only the United States but also the rest of the world. Trump’s initial social media post warning of “massive” tariffs on China caused consternation on Wall Street, leading the tech-focused Nasdaq index to plunge 3.6% and the S and P 500 to recede 2.7% before the closing bell.

China on Thursday announced a set of new export controls, adding holmium and four other types of rare earths to the list in addition to the seven it announced in April.

China dominates the global supply of rare earths and other minerals vital for various modern technologies, from electric vehicles (EVs) to weapons systems.

The restrictions also require export licenses for technologies used in rare earth mining, smelting, magnetic material manufacturing and recycling.

China said the new steps are needed to prevent other countries from endangering its “national security and interests.”

Following a phone call with Xi in September, Trump said the two agreed to meet in person when both travel to South Korea for an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit set to begin at the end of this month.

Trump has yet to either travel to Asia or meet face-to-face with Xi since returning to the White House in January for a non-consecutive second term. The two most recently held in-person talks in 2019 on the margins of a Group of 20 (G20) summit in Osaka, Japan.

Until Friday’s social media posts, Trump had been softening his rhetoric on China in tandem with easing trade tensions and expressing hope for progress on key issues during the forthcoming talks.

Last week, Trump said China’s halting of its American soybean purchases would top the agenda of their meeting.

The United States and China paused their trade war in May, temporarily dropping the triple-digit retaliatory tariff rates on each other’s goods.

As of late September, the average US tariff on Chinese imports was 57.6%, while China’s on goods from the United States was 32.6%, according to data from the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

Senior US and Chinese officials have been in regular contact in recent months, with foreign policy experts viewing the Trump-Xi meeting as part of efforts by both sides to lay the groundwork for them to engage more deeply with each other in 2026.

During the phone conversation with Xi, Trump also said he had agreed to visit China early next year, and that the Chinese president would reciprocate with a US visit at “an appropriate time.”

Longstanding ADB-Azerbaijan partnership powers economic diversification

Azerbaijan’s resolute intention to diversify its economy away from hydrocarbons and foster sustainable growth is receiving robust support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), reflecting a long-standing and trusted partnership between the two. For decades, ADB has been a vital ally in Azerbaijan’s economic development, and today, its efforts align closely with the country’s strategic priorities – particularly in promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and advancing the green economy.

At the heart of Azerbaijan’s national agenda is the vision outlined in the ‘Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development,’ which positions SMEs as a key driver of inclusive growth and employment diversification. This vision mirrors ADB’s commitment to nurturing SMEs as essential pillars of resilient economies throughout Asia.

These initiatives are particularly important for fostering balanced regional development beyond the capital, unlocking untapped potential across Azerbaijan.

The focus on SMEs is strategic and forward-looking. Globally, SMEs represent over 90% of businesses and are the largest source of employment. In Azerbaijan, empowering these enterprises within the green economy not only supports climate commitments but also enhances competitiveness by encouraging resource efficiency, access to green finance, and compliance with international standards.

However, SMEs often face barriers such as limited access to technology and capital, and gaps in knowledge regarding environmental regulations. ADB’s comprehensive support model – integrating finance, capacity building, and policy engagement – effectively addresses these challenges, maximizing the impact of interventions.

The trust built over years between Azerbaijan and ADB ensures that these initiatives are well-tailored to the country’s unique socio-economic landscape, promising sustainable outcomes that extend beyond short-term gains.

As Azerbaijan accelerates its economic diversification and green transition, the synergy between national priorities and ADB’s support creates a powerful foundation for sustainable growth. By empowering SMEs and fostering innovation, Azerbaijan is charting a resilient and inclusive economic future, while contributing to global environmental goals. This enduring partnership signals confidence in Azerbaijan’s potential as a regional leader in sustainable development.

A trusted partnership driving green growth – Sunniya Durrani-Jamal, Director of ADB’s Azerbaijan office, highlighted this synergy during her address at the ‘Halal Business Forum.’ ‘Our collaboration with the Azerbaijani government, especially the Ministry of Economy and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMBDA), focuses on expanding the private sector and supporting SMEs, which we see as fundamental to both economic vitality and environmental sustainability,’ she explained.

With a dedicated local team and a strategic approach that goes beyond financing, ADB is investing in building business capacity, promoting sustainable practices, and facilitating innovation. This holistic strategy is designed to empower SMEs to thrive, generate employment, and foster long-term community well-being.

SMEs in Azerbaijan are increasingly recognized as drivers of the country’s green transition. The Baku Climate Coalition, initiated under the framework of COP29 with ADB’s active involvement, underlines the importance of SMEs in adopting environmentally sustainable business models. The coalition’s declaration prioritizes strengthening SME capabilities and stimulating demand for green solutions, signaling a new phase in Azerbaijan’s climate action.

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMBDA) plays a crucial role by championing alternative energy projects and supporting businesses engaged in recycling and circular economy practices. By promoting SME participation in local and international platforms, SMBDA helps unlock new growth opportunities and markets for these enterprises.

ADB’s country partnership strategy for 2025-2029 further reinforces Azerbaijan’s economic diversification goals by channeling investments toward non-oil sectors such as agriculture, services, and SMEs. This approach aims to build economic resilience, stimulate new job creation, and enhance innovation through digital transformation and skill development.