Too many things to read, but never enough time. Your author faces the same problem as every other reader, how to manage an overflowing email inbox. Part of the joy, however, of investing in future trends is that reading and research on a multi-thematic basis is almost mandatory. This week’s Blog comprises a curation of topic that readers may have missed but will hopefully intrigue them.

We have been learning more recently about bioacoustics. When combined with generative AI, its future potential could be significant. Think of the discipline as a crossover of biology and acoustics whose purpose is to gain insights from sounds produced by both humans and animals. One use case recently developed by Google helps diagnose tuberculosis. Its model was trained on 300m pieces of audio from around the world – a lot of coughs. With 30,000 people falling ill from tuberculosis daily, early detection via subtle changes in breathing patterns could be a life saver. Even if some doctors may be initially reluctant to embrace the new, expect the technology to develop further from here.

On a different note, we all love chocolate, but what if we could make it both healthier and more sustainable? Scientists at Zurich’s Federal Institute of Technology have now developed a solution. Rather than just use the beans of the cocoa fruit, if the fruit pulp, juice and husk are included, then there is no need to add in refined sugar. Further, there is limited wastage and the potential for chocolate to be made closer to the origin of its base substance. Your author has sadly yet to taste this iteration, but other reports are highly positive. Production costs will, however, need to fall before the product starts appearing widely on supermarket shelves.

Finally, a shout-out to South Korea. The country is celebrating the 20th anniversary since the launch of its nationwide system for food waste management. Back in the early 2000s, 98% of its food waste was thrown away. Since the introduction of a mandatory composting scheme, the figure has shrunk to zero. Leftovers from homes and restaurants now find new lives as animal feed, compost and energy. We have made the case for better waste management for some time. Other countries should follow South Korea’s lead.  

5 September 2024

The above does not constitute investment advice and is the sole opinion of the author at the time of publication. Past performance is no guide to future performance and the value of investments and income from them can fall as well as rise.

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Alex Gunz, Fund Manager

Disclaimers

The document is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or any recommendation to buy, or sell or otherwise transact in any investments. The document is not intended to be construed as investment research. The contents of this document are based upon sources of information which Heptagon Capital LLP believes to be reliable. However, except to the extent required by applicable law or regulations, no guarantee, warranty or representation (express or implied) is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this document or its contents and, Heptagon Capital LLP, its affiliate companies and its members, officers, employees, agents and advisors do not accept any liability or responsibility in respect of the information or any views expressed herein. Opinions expressed whether in general or in both on the performance of individual investments and in a wider economic context represent the views of the contributor at the time of preparation. Where this document provides forward-looking statements which are based on relevant reports, current opinions, expectations and projections, actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. All opinions and estimates included in the document are subject to change without notice and Heptagon Capital LLP is under no obligation to update or revise information contained in the document. Furthermore, Heptagon Capital LLP disclaims any liability for any loss, damage, costs or expenses (including direct, indirect, special and consequential) howsoever arising which any person may suffer or incur as a result of viewing or utilising any information included in this document. 

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