Available now, businesses can sign up to Mastercard’s Inclusion Hub which features 25 practical measures for venues to adapt, including Sensory Notes, which was piloted at this year’s Australian Open and continues to be activated with Melbourne’s The Mulberry Group

SYDNEY, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — One in 40 Australians are autisticⁱ, yet many everyday spaces aren’t designed with their needs in mind. Sensory overload, unpredictable environments, and lack of clarity can make routine activities inaccessible, limiting where autistic Australians and their caregivers feel comfortable participating in community.

That’s why, Mastercard has launched Inclusion Matters, an initiative designed to rally businesses to create calmer more welcoming spaces for autistic people and sensory differences. At its centre is the Inclusion Hub which features 25 measures that venues could adopt to create more inclusive environments for various needs. Available now, businesses can register, explore practical changes from quiet hours to staff training, and build their own action plans with guidance to embed these practices into daily operations.

Mastercard co-designed the Inclusion Hub with Autism CRC, Australia’s independent national source of evidence for best practice. Autism CRC works directly with autistic people, families, and professionals to develop practical tools and improve equity and opportunity to support across every stage of life.

Piloting dining innovation  

As part of the initiative’s launch, Mastercard is piloting Sensory Notes, a new kind of restaurant menu designed to describe dishes in sensory detail, giving autistic people and those with sensory sensitivities more confidence when dining. 

Unlike traditional menus that simply list a dish and its ingredients, Sensory Notes unpack the appearance, preparation, arrangement, and taste – useful details that can help autistic people and those with sensory differences understand more about the components of a dish. The framework also outlines tiered ways hospitality venues can integrate and operationalise Sensory Notes based on their size and offering.

Sensory Notes was piloted at this year’s Australian Open Wonder Pies and Peach Melbourne venues, and continues to be piloted at The Mulberry Group’s Hazel Melbourne.

Kerry Tavrou, Head of Inclusion & Diversity at Tennis Australia, said: “We’re committed to making the Australian Open the benchmark of sporting inclusivity. By featuring Sensory Notes on our Accessible page, introducing QR signage at Wonder Pies and Peach Melbourne, and promoting them within the BallPark sensory room, we gave neurodiverse fans the tools they need to feel informed and supported throughout their AO experience.” 

To ensure Sensory Notes feels integrated into the dining experience, an icon has been created to sit alongside existing dietary symbols like Gluten Free, Vegan, and Pescatarian, providing a subtle signal that additional information about that dish is available.

Guided by its mission to create a digital economy where everyone can participate, Mastercard identified dining as a meaningful opportunity to drive practical change. Inclusion Matters has been developed to demonstrate the empathy and understanding essential to building welcoming environments for all.

Julie Nestor, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Asia Pacific, Mastercard said: “As a global leader in digital-first innovation and inclusion by design, Mastercard set out to introduce practices that go beyond what’s already available. Through the Inclusion Matters initiative, we’re making it easier for businesses to build environments where everyone feels considered and welcome. We look forward to refining the hub with ongoing feedback, because a world designed for everyone is priceless.”

Crafting Sensory Notes 

Working alongside leading chefs and autistic Australians, Mastercard defined how this could work operationally and create meaningful impact. Based on this work, Mastercard created a tool to help businesses craft their very-own Sensory Notes, which is available to restaurants as part of the Inclusion Hub.

MasterChef Australia judge and leading culinary chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli contributed to the framework’s development: “Through my experiences dining out with my son Valentino, I’ve come to understand just how complex and overwhelming restaurant experiences can be for autistic individuals and their caregivers. Dining should be a moment of joy, comfort, and connection, yet uncertainty around food often creates unnecessary barriers. Sensory Notes offers clarity and confidence so everyone can enjoy what should be a simple pleasure of sharing a meal together.”

Dr Olivia Gatfield, Autism CRC’s Research and Community Engagement Manager, said: “Our role is to listen to and learn from the autistic community, working together through research and co-design. We have focused on what truly matters to them and hope these new innovations are beneficial and can continue to be refined with community feedback.”

As the initiative scales, participating businesses will be made discoverable through a consumer directory, making it easier for families to find welcoming venues in their area.

Australian businesses are invited to explore the Hub here.

The 25 practical measures included in the Inclusion Hub: 

1. Sensory environment 

• Adjust visual and lighting environment
• Adjust sound and noise
• Reduce smells
• Adjust temperature
• Respecting touch, time and space
• Implement quiet hours
• Offer sensory-friendly sessions
• Create low sensory zones

2. Information and communication 

• Provide accessibility information online
• Provide clear signage
• Provide accessible menu information
• Include sensory notes in your menu
• Improve store navigation
• Communicate appointment information
• Provide event information

3. Predictability, choice and control 

• Manage timing, changes and wait times
• Enable pre-visit communication
• Provide seating options and flexibility
• Offer alternative service options
• Provide alternative checkout options
• Support customer service preferences

4. Staff training and culture 

• Deliver autism inclusion training
• Train staff to recognise support identification tools
• Improve hiring practices
• Support your autistic staff

About Mastercard  

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realise their greatest potential. 

www.mastercard.com 

GURUGRAM, India, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Varaha is launching the Varaha Industrial Partners Program (VIPP), a global initiative that enables biomass processing facilities with access to sustainable biomass feedstocks to generate high-integrity carbon removal credits using Varaha’s digital MRV and commercialization platforms. As the first VIPP launch partnership, Varaha will work with Revata Carbon and Valency International to develop an industrial biochar carbon removal project in Côte d’Ivoire.

Under construction biochar facility in Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire is a major hub in the global cashew economy. As the cashew industry continues to grow, processing byproducts like cashew shells has become an environmental challenge. These residues have few viable or high-value end uses and instead are a persistent waste management and disposal challenge, with much of the material ultimately being burned. The VIPP Côte d’Ivoire project will convert cashew shells into high-quality biochar through controlled gasification. The resulting biochar will be directed to eligible end uses as a soil amendment, supporting long-term carbon storage and improving soil fertility for farmers.

Through VIPP, Varaha will lead measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) and manage carbon credit commercialization, including structuring and executing sales to corporate and institutional buyers, with credits issued in partnership with Puro.earth under its biochar methodology. Revata Carbon will lead in-country origination and development, building the feedstock ecosystem, coordinating local stakeholders, and operating the conversion of cashew shells and other residues into high-quality biochar via controlled gasification. Valency International, a British International Investment (BII)-backed global agribusiness and major cashew processor, will supply feedstock and provide supply chain expertise to scale the project as part of its effort to decarbonise agricultural value chains and drive sustainable development and employment through targeted investment in West Africa.

Madhur Jain, CEO of Varaha, said: “We’re excited to welcome Valency International and Revata Carbon as VIPP launch partners. Valency and Revata’s on-the-ground development leadership, combined with industrial delivery and Varaha’s rigorous MRV and commercialization, creates a strong foundation to scale durable carbon removal in West Africa and beyond.”

Vaibav Jain, Founder and CEO at Revata Carbon, said: “Revata Carbon is glad to be joining forces with Valency International and Varaha (VIPP) to help deliver high quality carbon credits with our biochar assets and agri-waste management expertise. It is an important opportunity for us to showcase Africa’s capabilities in being a responsible geography for biochar projects. This partnership signifies a big step in achieving our goal of helping integrate agricultural waste as an asset while supporting local communities and industries.”

Sumit Jain, Group CEO at Valency International, said: “Our partnership with Revata Carbon reflects Valency’s intent to actively decarbonise our value chains, starting with cashew, where we have large processing operations and generate significant by-products. Working with Revata allows us to convert these residues into a scalable, climate-positive solution embedded directly within our operations. We are also pleased to work with Varaha as our carbon credit marketing partner, bringing robust MRV and market access to the project. Together, this collaboration demonstrates how industrial agribusiness platforms can move from ambition to execution in delivering durable carbon removal.”

Industrial operators interested in joining VIPP are invited to contact Varaha at: vipp@varahaag.com.

About Varaha

Varaha is Asia’s largest developer of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects, with a mission of scaling smallholder farmer-led climate solutions to remove carbon from the atmosphere and strengthen rural livelihoods. Specializing in regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, biochar, and enhanced rock weathering projects across South Asia, Varaha has pioneered a technology- and science-driven approach to carbon project development since its founding in 2022. Varaha is headquartered in Gurgaon, India, and operates over 20 carbon projects across India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and the Ivory Coast.

YIWU, China, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from Yiwu Media Convergence Center: 

When Jackie Chan and Lionel Richie joined hands on the 2026 Spring Festival Gala stage to sing “We are the World”, the melody crossed mountains and seas, landing in the vibrant land of Yiwu. The eight-minute presentation at the Yiwu sub-venue not only became a highlight of the Year of the Horse Gala but also brought the image of “World’s Yiwu” into the global spotlight.

Behind the Global Attention Lies Solid Development Foundation

Data shows that in 2025, Yiwu’s total import and export volume exceeded 836.5 billion yuan, with cross-border e-commerce imports surpassing 100 million orders. Over 30,000 foreign businessmen are active in Yiwu daily, with more than 11,000 registered foreign-invested business entities. The number of “Yiwu” China-Europe Railway Express trips continues to rise. The Global Digital Trade Centre was officially inaugurated, and the transaction volume of digital trade platforms reached new heights, continuously improving the efficiency of “buying globally, selling globally”.

The World’s Market Hub: “Finding Dreams in Yiwu”

“Why did you come to Yiwu?” When posing this question to international friends in Yiwu, the most common answer received is “to find my dream in Yiwu”.

Ali, a young man from Dubai, has been rooted in Yiwu for over a decade. Starting from a small stall, he now owns his own foreign trade company and supply factories. Ammar, a Yemeni national, came to China at 18. After earning his doctorate, he moved to Yiwu to work as a doctor, responsible for international clinic services and explaining the details of medical insurance policies to expatriates in multiple languages. His social media feed is filled with news about Yiwu, making him a “spokesperson” for the city.

The Beauty of Cultural Integration: From “Learn About Me” to “I Understand You”

In Yiwu, many foreign friends can work and live smoothly even without speaking Chinese. Meanwhile, Yiwu market vendors, mostly women, have formed “language corners”, regularly learning English, Arabic, and other languages, with many becoming proficient in five or six languages.

In Jinningshan Community which is known as the “UN Community”, nearly 1,400 expatriate residents from 74 countries and regions live harmoniously. Every Wednesday evening, members of the “Foreign Night Patrol” volunteer service team conduct fire safety inspections in fluent Chinese and English. The community also has a mediation team of over 30 “International Mediators” who have successfully resolved more than 330 various disputes.

Broadness of the Open Pattern: “Paying Attention to Yiwu Means Paying Attention to the Future”

Why is Yiwu attracting increasing overseas attention? Alex, a Finnish businessman who has lived in Yiwu for over ten years, answers: “Yiwu represents the future. You might have thought it only sold small commodities before, but now its own brands are going global.”

Here, small commodities harbor vast global business opportunities. Today’s Yiwu is writing, in its unique way, a new expression of how Chinese cities connect with the world.

• LOTTE rent-a-car recommends Gangwon-do spring drive courses—just 1-2 hours from Seoul
• Seoul Station branch operates 24/7, 365 days a year for anytime pickup and return
• Incheon Airport branch offers immediate pickup at airport parking upon arrival—luggage cart support available
• Convenient booking via official website and global partners—fully maintained vehicles with comprehensive insurance

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LOTTE rent-a-car, Korea’s No.1 car rental brand, proposes scenic drive routes for travelers visiting Korea during the late winter and early spring season.

LOTTE rent-a-car holds the top market share in Korea’s rental car industry and recently received the ‘Best Partner Award’ from global travel platform Klook as the sole Korean rental car company, reaffirming its service competitiveness for international customers. The number of foreign customers using LOTTE rent-a-car continues to grow annually, with foreign customers accounting for 25% of total short-term rental car sales in 2025.

This season’s recommended destination is Gangwon-do. With serene mountain landscapes and crisp fresh air, these drive courses showcase Korea’s distinctive natural scenery. Reachable within 1-2 hours from Seoul, they’re perfect even for travelers with tight schedules.

Wonju offers majestic natural views around Mount Chiaksan alongside Guryongsa Temple, a historic sanctuary with 1,500 years of history, making it a popular destination even among Koreans. Cheorwon is famous for the breathtaking Hantangang River Columnar Jointing Trail, designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark. If time permits, we recommend visiting the DMZ, the world’s only remaining division site.

For those planning a rental car journey, we recommend using LOTTE rent-a-car’s Seoul Station or Incheon Airport branches. Both locations offer excellent accessibility immediately upon arrival and are staffed with personnel specialized in serving foreign customers, ensuring smooth communication.

LOTTE rent-a-car Seoul Station Branch is directly connected to the Incheon International Airport Railroad, resulting in exceptionally high usage by foreign tourists. Located just a 3-minute walk from Seoul Station Exit 15, it operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year—the only branch in the area to do so—allowing vehicle rental and return anytime regardless of flight schedules. A diverse lineup of globally familiar models including Toyota and Tesla Model Y is available. The branch also offers luggage storage service for up to 24 hours, enabling travelers to enjoy Korea “hands-free” without heavy bags.

Incheon Airport Branch provides even more attentive service for travelers weary from long flights. Customers who complete online payment in advance and submit their IDP beforehand can pick up their vehicle immediately at the airport parking lot without visiting the counter. Service desks are located inside both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, saving time without the need for separate shuttle buses or transfers. Upon departure, staff escort customers directly from the parking lot to the departure gate, and luggage cart service is available when needed, providing seamless care from arrival to departure.

LOTTE rent-a-car has professional staff capable of foreign language consultation and specialized customer service manuals for international clients. The official website (www.lotterentacar.net) operates in 9 languages including English, Chinese, and Japanese, creating a global environment where international customers can smoothly complete the entire process from vehicle reservation to contract management and consultation. Reservations are also available through global partner platforms including Hertz, Booking.com, Klook, Trip.com, DiscoverCars, and KKday.

When renting from LOTTE rent-a-car, various convenient services can be added for an even more comfortable journey. English GPS navigation is provided free of charge, and car seat rental service is available for customers traveling with infants. For cases where pickup and return locations differ, one-way rental service can be selected to efficiently manage travel routes.

All LOTTE rent-a-car vehicles are maintained at all times by 100% nationally certified professional mechanics. The company also provides peace of mind through its nationwide network offering immediate emergency response systems in case of accidents or breakdowns. Additionally, comprehensive insurance coverage and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) services operate to ensure customer safety and protection. Depending on the program enrolled, a zero-deductible policy applies, allowing travelers to focus on their journey without accident concerns.

A LOTTE rent-a-car representative stated, “Unlike package tours that move according to fixed schedules, rental car travel offers the advantage of moving freely at desired times and routes. We hope travelers will venture beyond Seoul and Jeju to explore various regions such as Gangwon-do and experience Korea’s hidden charms firsthand.”

LOTTE rent-a-car, as Korea’s leading rental car brand, provides comprehensive mobility services to domestic and international customers through approximately 300 branches nationwide and a global partnership network.

About LOTTE rental

LOTTE rental, the only comprehensive rental company in Korea, provides better value with various business portfolios, including auto mobility services that encompass car life, business solution services that support more effi­cient businesses.

LOTTE rent-a-car is creating an innovative car life as the No.1 car rental brand. LOTTE rent-a-car G car, Korea’s ‑first car-sharing brand, is drawing a better mobility service.

LOTTE rental is moving forward as a mobility leader that connects customers’ precious lives.

For more information about LOTTE rental, please visit: https://www.lotterental.com/

• Delivering stable UV measurement in extreme environments up to 250°C with GaN-based technology
• Strengthening its industrial UV measurement portfolio for global smart factory markets

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Genicom Co., Ltd. (CEO Jung-hwan Son), a specialist in ultraviolet (UV) detection and measurement technologies, announced its participation in AFPE 2026 (Asia Film & Flexible Packaging Expo), to be held in Shanghai, China, from June 24 to 26, 2026. At the event, Genicom will showcase the MG-12 Monitor / LO Probe Series, engineered to deliver reliable and stable UV measurement performance even in extreme industrial heat environments.

GaN-Based Technology for High-Temperature Resilience

The MG-12 Monitor / LO Probe Series incorporates Genicom’s proprietary InAlGaN (Indium Aluminum Gallium Nitride)-based GaN sensor technology, enabling precise UV measurement in environments reaching temperatures of up to 250°C.

As thermal degradation is a common challenge in high-heat industrial processes, Genicom engineered this series with enhanced resilience in mind—from advanced sensor material selection to robust structural design.

Key Features of the MG-12 Series

• Dual Monitoring Display: Simultaneously presents Absolute Power (AP) and Relative Power (RP) for intuitive, real-time UV output tracking.
• Versatile Signal Output: Supports DC voltage (1–5 VDC), current (4–20 mA), and digital (0/5 VDC) outputs, ensuring seamless integration with diverse equipment control systems.
• Industrial Adaptability: A compact probe form factor allows installation in confined spaces within complex industrial machinery.
• Broad Application Spectrum: Optimized for UV lamp monitoring, water sterilization, air purification, and high-precision UV curing operations.

Proven Global Expertise in UV Technology

This showcase follows Genicom’s participation in C-TOUCH & DISPLAY SHENZHEN 2025, where the company introduced its high-temperature UV measurement capabilities to more than 150,000 industry visitors. Through AFPE 2026, Genicom aims to further strengthen its position in the global industrial UV sensor market.

A company representative stated,

“For over 25 years, we have addressed the evolving needs of industrial environments through advanced InAlGaN-based UV detection and measurement technologies. At AFPE 2026, we look forward to demonstrating how stable sensor solutions can expand the scope of industrial UV measurement applications worldwide.”

Detailed information on Genicom’s full UV technology lineup, including its professional UV brand GenUV, is available on the official website.

Website: http://www.geni-uv.com