In last month’s edition of Holography News®, we explored how bio-inspired security threads, showcased at the Global Currency Forum in Oman, are translating the visual complexity of butterflies, chameleons, oceans, and meadows into security print features. From Louisenthal’s micro-mirror innovations to Kurz’s meadow-inspired threads, industry leaders demonstrated how themes from nature are creating new opportunities in optical security.

Taiwan, once known as ‘Garbage Island’, is now leading the example for many countries as a recycling leader. In 1993, from a collection rate for trash of just 70%, it now has an impressive recycling rate of 55% and recycles 73% of its plastic, thanks to its various policy measures. This article highlights a few from an industry perspective.

In Pakistan, interest in holography is gaining momentum, fuelled by advances in digital technology, expanding internet accessibility, and a growing recognition of its potential for innovation across various sectors. The article explores a few recent developments.

In response to the alarming rise in counterfeiting incidents in India and the pressing need to bridge the gap between academic research and the anticounterfeiting industry, the International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA) joined hands with Reinforce Intellectual Property Association (RIPA) for an awareness program.

As part of Malaysia’s pilot initiative to implement standardised national number plates, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and the Road Transport Department (Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan – JPJ) have officially launched the JPJePlate system. The rollout begins with electric vehicles (EVs), and the system is expected to expand to other vehicle categories.

Following the new (EU) Regulation 2023/2055, which took effect on 17 October 2023, bioglitter might become the only sparkling powder available in Europe. The regulation restricts the sale of products containing intentionally added microplastics, including non-biodegradable plastic glitter; however, it allows exceptions for biodegradable, soluble, or natural glitter. This opens the door for eco-friendly alternatives like cellulose-based or mineralbased glitters and holographic biodegradable glitters.

Researchers at Bilkent University in Turkey have advanced the field of nanotechnology through the application of holographic techniques to fabricate nanostructures deep inside silicon wafers.

XRD Nano (XRD), a technology company based in the UK, is driving breakthrough innovations in the world of UV replication, focusing on nano and microstructures. Its solutions are being recognised globally, particularly in holographic packaging, transfer films, brand protection labels, shrink sleeves, security documents, and functional films. This article explores the key innovations from XRD that are transforming these industries.

The emergence of AI has marked the dawn of a new chapter in human history, enabling the generation of text, images, and videos from simple text prompts without requiring prior artistic or technical skills. Recent research shows that holographic technologies can also benefit from advances in AI.

In recent years, quantum physics has revolutionised various fields, from computing to cryptography. Now, holography is entering the quantum world, introducing the concept of quantum holograms that not only allow secure communication but could also improve medical imaging.