Throughout my more than two-decade tenure as an executive coach and vice president in corporate America, I have seen millions of dollars senselessly lost due to ineffective communication.

The Internet of Everything, cloud computing/big data and 3D printing are three of the technologies most likely to transform the world during the next five years, according to IHS Technology.

Anyone who has read even a few of my previous columns knows I have a cynical streak. I could blame it on my 30 years spent in Washington, D.C., but I suspect I’ve always been a “glass half empty” sort of guy. However, I have now seen that miracles can happen and I have to believe what took place in the Senate with the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) reform bill just before year’s end qualifies.

This weekly roundup highlights the adhesives, sealants and coatings news stories that garnered the most attention during the previous week on our website, as well as our eNewsletter and social media platforms.

Doing business in the Asia-Pacific region today is not the same as it was 50 years ago. Around the region, countries are pushing for greater connectivity through initiatives like China’s Belt and Road Initiative (B&R) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations(ASEAN) efforts to integrate and harmonize regulatory regimes.

In today’s world of rapid innovation, manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to gain a competitive edge. H.B. Fuller intends to put its latest acquisition to work to fast-track engineering adhesives innovation in markets such as automotive; electronics; solar; wind; maintenance, repair and operations (MRO); appliance; and heavy machinery.

Berry Plastics Group Inc. has selected Ecova, an energy and sustainability management company, to provide services that will assist in reducing its waste generation and consumption of electricity, natural gas, and water.

The beginning of a new year has long been time to reflect on the past year and make plans for a fresh start. For me, that fresh start came a bit early, as my computer’s hard drive decided to fail during the production of this issue.