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Thomas McCarthy industry principal- life sciences AVEVA. (Image source: AVEVA)

Connected ecosystems are informed by nature’s penchant for collaboration and adaptation. By optimising for efficiency and sustainability, they pave the way for transformative advancements in the sector, says Thomas McCarthy, industry principal – Life Sciences, AVEVA

Natural ecosystems are one of life’s wonders. They show us how interconnectedness builds resilience and efficiency while spurring growth and innovation. It’s something that should inspire the life sciences industry as it tackles growing challenges around operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Individual trees, plants and animals cannot operate in isolation within a forest. Likewise, industrial enterprises cannot afford to have their stakeholders working in silos. Collaborative thinking, by contrast, generates benefits across ecosystems, in this case the life sciences industry.

When license holders, contract manufacturers, equipment vendors, and regulatory agencies partner across company lines, they can drive collective value and support industrial sustainability. Within a connected ecosystem supported by robust data management, standardised formats, and proactive regulatory communication, these organisations can break down barriers, enhance efficiency, and ensure seamless compliance throughout the value chain.

Digitising drug discovery to speed time to market

Taking a data-centric approach to operations enabled Pfizer and its partner, BioNTech, to develop the world’s first MRNA vaccine for Covid-19 in record time. With so much at stake during the pandemic, the global pharmaceutical leader needed to ramp up the complex process of discovering, developing, and manufacturing a new drug—while decreasing time to market. The company used advanced technologies, including a data management system in the cloud, to collect, manage, standardise and contextualise process information from across its worldwide plant network into a single, comprehensive source of truth.

Digitizing the drug discovery process gave Pfizer’s stakeholders information from different areas of the vaccine value chain anytime and anywhere. Not only has the new software made it easier to collaborate remotely, but transferring knowledge and technology between sites is simplified. For example, storage data from freezer farms enables quality checks on cold-chain integrity. Similarly, machine learning analytics can predict mRNA concentrations. And production cycle times are faster with real-time scheduling.

This shared digital ecosystem has improved healthcare outcomes at scale. As of 2022, approximately 79,000 Pfizer colleagues from around the world had come together in 125 countries, with 15 sites and 45 assets connected. More than 1.4 billion patients were treated with Pfizer products, and pandemic-linked vaccine delivery alone increased 5x. The company is now applying the successful new process to 104 research and development projects.

Eliminating silos, elevating data and supporting compliance

Pfizer’s experience shows how Pharma 4.0 technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing are transforming the entire pharmaceutical supply chain.

By enabling cooperation between internal and external stakeholders, these sophisticated technologies are helping to create a stronger, more closely connected value chain. As a result of this stronger collaboration, information silos are eliminated, data management becomes more robust, and it is easier to support compliance with evolving regulations.

Life sciences executives report that ecosystem models can provide significant advantages over traditional business approaches. The majority (59%) of all life sciences C-suite executives polled in EY’s 2023 Ecosystem Survey say these models increase efficiency and reducing costs.

Likewise, more than half (54%) said they lead to the creation of new, joint products, while a similar number (55%) said the joined-up approach promotes improvements in creativity and innovation.

Ecosystem oversight on demand for better decisions

A connected ecosystem supports holistic end-to-end visibility of the entire industrial value chain. It pulls together data from different entities and puts it into context, creating a digital source of truth akin to the central nervous system in the human body. Because teams at every connected organisation have oversight of all industrial processes on demand, they can make better and faster decisions supported by empirical data and insights.

Experience from a global manufacturer of biologic medicines shows how such cross-company connectivity helps bring health care to more people around the world. Creating new drugs involves a dizzying and intricate array of equipment, often at different facilities around the world. Each unit must therefore necessarily work in silos, and exchange drug development information in laborious, time-consuming ways.

To speed up research, development and roll-out, the company pulled all this disparate information into a virtual cloud-based model at its laboratory. This solution, known as a digital twin, becomes a single point of truth. Real-time and historical data from across the network can be contextualised and analysed in one place, enabling the company and its partners to model different drug combinations and processes at a fraction of the cost.

Not only did the solution reduce the costs of running experiments at full scale, but efficiency improvements have been measured at up to 70%. In fact, pharmaceutical executives see the innovative process as the basis for a future of “lights out” continuous end-to-end processing, where the cost of production could decrease by a factor of 10 in the next decade.

A golden data thread for transformative benefits

Much like a natural ecosystem where every element works together harmoniously, the flow of data within a connected ecosystem democratises superior decision-making, enhancing collaboration and operational efficiency. Such an integrated industrial ecosystem offers similarly transformative outcomes for life sciences.

With the transparency and accessibility of a single golden data thread, everyone—from license holders to regulatory agencies—comes together on the same page, aligned around common goals. There are fewer errors because everyone works from the same source of accurate information. Processes are streamlined. And the need for rework drops.

With smoother collaboration and decision-making, productivity increases and teams can adhere to project timelines. Consistent and reliable outcomes improve customer satisfaction. And profitability rises as processes become more efficient and fewer resources are used.

Just like in nature, seamless integration leads to faster problem-solving in business, enabling industry-wide partners to tackle future challenges adroitly and confidently.

Emad Fahmy, director of systems engineering at NETSCOUT. (Image source: NETSCOUT)

As energy providers in the Middle East accelerate their digital transformation efforts, the need for a real-time, data-driven approach to network visibility has never been more critical. Utilities are undergoing a fundamental shift, driven by national strategies such as the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, DEWA’s Smart Grid Strategy 2035, and ADNOC’s Digital Transformation Plan.

These initiatives aim to enhance efficiency, improve service reliability, and support the region’s transition toward a more sustainable energy landscape. However, as networks become more interconnected, maintaining operational excellence requires a new level of observability and security.

The integration of IT and OT systems is a fundamental shift for energy providers. Traditionally, OT systems—such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) platforms—operated in isolation. Today, they must seamlessly connect with IT infrastructure to support intelligent automation, predictive maintenance, and real-time decision-making.

As seen with ADNOC's Digital Transformation Plan, energy providers are leveraging AI, ML, and big data analytics to improve efficiency. However, the more interconnected these networks become, the greater the need for complete visibility across IT and OT environments.

For modern utilities, achieving full visibility across IT and OT environments is essential for sustaining reliability and performance. By adopting advanced observability solutions, energy providers can:

• Enhance security: With the rising sophistication of cyber threats, protecting critical infrastructure is a top priority. Deep packet inspection and AI-driven analytics can help detect threats early, reducing the risk of major disruptions.

• Prevent service Outages: Predictive monitoring enables providers to identify anomalies before they lead to downtime. DEWA’s Smart Grid Strategy 2035 with an investment of AED 7 billion, is a prime example of how proactive monitoring enhances automation and service reliability.

• Optimise grid performance: Advanced data analytics allow energy companies to streamline operations, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. This aligns with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to increase efficiency by 40% and expand clean energy contributions to 50% by 2050.

By leveraging real-time insights, utility providers can improve grid stability and meet the demands of a digital-first energy sector.

Ensuring reliable network performance

The shift to intelligent energy networks depends on secure and uninterrupted data flows. Smart meters, IoT sensors, and connected grid infrastructure generate vast amounts of information that must be processed and analysed in real time. Without the right observability framework, delays in data transmission between substations and control centres can lead to inefficiencies and service disruptions.

This is particularly relevant as ADNOC integrates AI-powered analytics across its operations to optimise asset performance, reduce costs and enhance energy efficiency.

For utilities and energy providers alike, having robust network visibility is essential to maximising the benefits of digital transformation.

As energy infrastructure becomes more interconnected, the risk of cyberattacks grows. Legacy systems running alongside modern digital applications create a complex environment where security gaps can easily be exploited. In recent years, the frequency of (DDoS) attacks on utilities has increased significantly, highlighting the need for enhanced cybersecurity strategies.

A proactive approach is essential. Advanced network monitoring solutions can Help identify potential breaches before they cause damage.

To fully leverage digital transformation, utility providers must bridge the gap between IT, OT, and security teams. Traditionally, these departments have operated in silos, leading to fragmented data insights and delayed response times. A unified observability approach ensures that all teams have access to real-time intelligence, improving collaboration and accelerating issue resolution.

Future-proofing energy infrastructure

As the Middle East continues to push forward with ambitious energy transformation initiatives, end-to-end visibility will be a critical factor in ensuring long-term success. With digitalisation reshaping the industry, maintaining a strong observability strategy is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.

By adopting intelligent monitoring solutions, energy providers can safeguard critical infrastructure, improve service reliability, and enhance cybersecurity resilience. Whether supporting grid modernisation, optimising performance, or mitigating risks, a proactive observability approach ensures that utilities remain agile in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

This piece was penned by Emad Fahmy, director of systems engineering at NETSCOUT. It has been slightly modified for brevity. 

This marks Pure’s first facility in the UAE. (Image source: JLL)

JLL has been selected by Pure Data Centres Group, a leading hyperscale data centre provider, to deliver integrated facilities management services at its state-of-the-art Yas Island data centre in Abu Dhabi.

This marks Pure’s first facility in the UAE, which began live operations in late February and will offer 45MW of capacity once fully completed.

The appointment strengthens JLL’s position as a top consultant and operator for hyperscale data centres across the EMEA region.

Under the agreement, JLL will provide hard FM and engineering services, including maintenance and support for the facility’s low-voltage and high-voltage electrical systems, uninterruptible power supplies, switchgear, and HVO-powered generators.

The firm will also manage hybrid air and liquid cooling systems, network and ICT infrastructure, and front-of-house FM services such as cleaning and landscaping.

This partnership comes as JLL expands its data centre services in response to a 742MW hyperscale construction boom in the EMEA region. The company has recently bolstered its team with three senior hires, reflecting the sector’s rapid growth and potential.

A digital future 

“We are delighted to have been appointed by Pure DC on the management and operation of Yas Island after working collaboratively with them to ensure that we align our service delivery model with their expectations,” said Jonathan Kinsey, EMEA lead and global chair, data centre solutions, JLL. “Our team’s relentless focus on innovation and performance ensures that we are well-equipped to meet Pure DC’s needs and it is a testament to the growth of our offering that we have been trusted to take this flagship campus on and manage it.”

Dame Dawn Childs, CEO at Pure Data Centres Group, commented, “The opening of our Abu Dhabi campus is a very important moment in the growth of Pure DC and also for our customers in the UAE. We have appointed JLL to provide facilities management at Yas Island because it is a company which shares our values, approach and attitude – to always meet the required highest standards. This new partnership with such a global supplier is something we hope to grow and develop in the future. Together with our partners, Pure DC continues to grow its presence and influence in the data centre sector to meet the soaring demand for AI-driven and cloud-based services.”

Kinsey added that data centre activity continued to swell as the world moves toward a more digital future. He concluded, “This rapidly rising demand for stable and efficient digital infrastructure has also highlighted the need for data centre efficiency and greener solutions which will play a bigger role in the evolution of data centre operations.”

Also read: Vertiv expands global liquid cooling services

Fuelre4m’s product range, re4mx, is completely organic. (Image source: Fuelre4m)

Emirates Transport’s partnership with Fuelre4m is now entering phase two testing of Re4mx across its fleet, demonstrating that fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and cost savings can go hand in hand.

Fuelre4m’s product range, re4mx, is a completely organic, fossil fuel reforming nano-biotechnology that enhances the combustion process in engines.

By breaking down impurities and complex hydrocarbons in liquid fossil fuels, the technology ensures a more efficient and cleaner burn, resulting in increased power output, lower fuel consumption, and a significant reduction in harmful emissions.

Data-driven results

Pilot testing has already shown a verified 17-23% improvement in fuel efficiency and up to 80% reduction in emissions.

The journey to this landmark rollout began with rigorous testing in 2023.

Emirates Transport and Fuelre4m conducted detailed assessments under real-world conditions, including idle fuel consumption analysis using OBD readers and the Torque Pro app, emissions measurement at idle with a gas flue analyser, drive testing over controlled routes to record fuel consumption and engine torque data, and accelerated testing to validate fuel performance improvements.

These tests confirmed the potential for significant fuel savings and emissions reductions, paving the way for the current phase two testing.

The second phase involves testing Re4mx on a pool of 18 buses, using advanced CANedge ECU monitoring technology to capture real-time performance data.

The process includes baseline testing to measure pre-Re4mx fuel consumption and emissions, live data tracking to monitor improvements in fuel efficiency and engine performance, performance benchmarking to analyse power output increases and fuel waste reductions, and control vehicles to ensure accurate, unbiased results.

Re4mx delivers immediate benefits, including up to 15-20% fuel savings, reducing operational costs for large fleets, up to 80% lower emissions, helping businesses meet sustainability goals, and enhanced engine performance, improving operational efficiency.

A call to action

As testing progresses, Emirates Transport and Fuelre4m will share real-time updates on performance gains, emissions reductions, and the broader impact of this transformative initiative.

“At Emirates Transport, we are dedicated to pioneering sustainable fleet solutions that drive measurable impact,” said Dominic Hagerty, chief transportation officer at Emirates Transport. “Our partnership with Fuelre4m marks a significant step in advancing innovative technologies that reduce fuel consumption and emissions without compromising operational excellence.”

“We’ve all seen sustainability claims that go nowhere,” said Rob Mortimer, managing director of Fuelre4m. “This isn’t one of them. This is about tangible, proven change that fleets can implement today.”

Fuelre4m is a Dubai-based company. It aims to serve industries that heavily rely on fossil fuels, including ports, maritime and shipping, power generation, rail, and public transport.

The company has said that using its products can help customers, who can witness “A massive 40% to 80% reduction in NO, NO2, NOx, CO, SO, SO2, and particulates translates into a cleaner and healthier environment, aligning with global efforts to combat air pollution.”

Rockwell will showcase automation for tire industry. (Image source: Rockwell Automation)

Rockwell Automation, Inc., the world’s largest company specialising in industrial automation and digital transformation, is set to showcase its cutting-edge digital tools, advanced software, and connected technologies for the automotive sector at Tire Technology Expo 2025

The event will take place in Hannover, Germany, from 4-6 March.

Tire manufacturers and machine builders can engage with Rockwell’s industry consultants to explore solutions that drive operational excellence. Key topics include modernising production through advanced technologies, optimising uptime with artificial intelligence (AI), enhancing quality via digital threads and traceability, and improving logistics with autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Rockwell’s flagship solutions also cover manufacturing execution systems (MES) and digital transformation strategies tailored to the tyre industry.

Driving tyre innovation

“Through our deep domain expertise paired with our extensive technology portfolio, we are aiming to define and drive the tyre industry of the future. Our solutions cover the entire design, operate, and maintain lifecycle, and enable customers to keep a critical eye on sustainability, resilience, and employee empowerment,” said Dominique Scheider, industry strategy manager transportation EMEA at Rockwell Automation.

Rockwell will also showcase its collaboration with Circulor, a leading provider of traceability and digital product-passport solutions. Together, they will help attendees address major industry challenges, including compliance with Europe’s Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR) by ensuring supply chain transparency through natural rubber traceability and Digital Product Passports, as mandated by the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).

“Our collaboration with Rockwell offers advanced traceability and digital passport solutions that provide companies with comprehensive transparency into supply chains, not only to comply with global regulatory requirements but also to ensure responsible and efficient supply chains,” said Douglas Johnson-Poensgen, CEO and founder of Circular. “Our solutions, combined with Rockwell's advanced automation systems, provide organizations across multiple industries – including automotive, tyre, battery, metals, mining, and cement – with the means to gain a competitive advantage, through Rockwell Automation’s digital service arm, Kalypso.”

Kalypso specialises in digital transformation by leveraging AI, advanced data science, and enterprise technologies to optimize operations, drive innovation, and ensure seamless connectivity across industrial value chains.

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