As 2024 comes to a close, everyone at AGS is filled with gratitude for the opportunities, challenges, and milestones that have defined this remarkable year. Reflecting on some of our key achievements only excites us more for what is to come.

AGS Consulting Services expanded significantly across South Asia, providing valuable concept development, garment innovation, technical guidance, marketing, supply chain, and other services to our clients. These efforts have forged strong partnerships across the region’s textile ecosystem and beyond. By empowering our clients to penetrate markets effectively, we have strengthened AGS’s position as a trusted partner across the global value chain.

BIOPURE HS5 (HydroSoft) made its debut with tremendous success. This innovative, coconut oil-based hydrophilic softener has set a high standard for performance with superior moisture wicking for all fiber-types and equivalence to silicone softeners in penetrating softness. Early adopters have reported outstanding results, reaffirming AGS’s commitment to delivering innovative, plant-based technologies that are not just a sustainability story, but provide premium performance and durability at a price that competes with existing silicone softeners.

This year also marked AGS joining the World Castor Sustainability Forum (WCSF). as a founding member. This initiative unites global leaders to promote Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), sustainable supply chains, and collaboration among farmers, industry stakeholders, NGOs, and government entities. By championing sustainable and regenerative farming practices, WCSF empowers farmers to improve yields, reduce environmental impact, and enhance their livelihoods. Our membership reflects AGS’s unwavering dedication to regenerative agriculture, localized sourcing, and community well-being while ensuring our products are sustainable, traceable, transparent, and backed by a resilient supply chain.

AGS conducted research on hemp, cotton, and raw material selection for international material organizations, further supporting the advancement and comprehension of market conditions and dynamics.

Finally, where it all began for AGS, we continue to work closely with customers to create sustainable garment concepts that minimize environmental impact without compromising on quality or performance, delivering tailored solutions that meet the technical and unique needs of each customer.

As we look ahead to 2025, AGS remains committed to providing innovative solutions and unparalleled consulting services that empower our clients and partners to achieve their sustainability goals. We extend our deepest thanks to everyone for their trust and collaboration. Together, we are not just imagining innovative sustainable products—we are making them a reality.

We wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

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The textile industry is in a period of transformation where businesses face unique challenges and growing demands for sustainability, innovative materials, and efficient operations that require more than conventional solutions. At AGS, our consulting services continue to attract and provide the necessary solutions to these changes that empower companies across the textile value chain to navigate these complexities and seize upon new opportunities.

From raw material suppliers to global brands, every player in the textile value chain plays a critical role in shaping the industry’s future and should not be ignored. At AGS, we work alongside all key stakeholders to address their most pressing needs.

Our team’s extensive and hands-on experience spans material innovation, sourcing, marketing, business development, process optimization, concept creation, and turnkey conversion. Whether it’s helping a manufacturer transition to circular and plant-based technologies or supporting a brand in meeting new market demands, our consulting services ensure practical solutions with measurable impact. We facilitate and keep our clients at the forefront of integrating responsible materials into their supply chains. The result is a seamless balance between sustainability, performance, profitability, and future-proofing their business.

Sustainability is more than a trend—it’s a necessity, but no longer how it was previously perceived. The industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining product quality and cost-efficiency which we are also experiencing. Our clients feel the pressures already and the emphasis has become focused on advancing circular and plant-based initiatives at break-neck speed, which can quickly become overwhelming.

But sustainability doesn’t stop at materials. We assist our clients in designing closed-loop systems, improving water and energy efficiency in production, and optimizing logistics to reduce emissions. These strategies ensure that businesses not only meet today’s standards but also prepare for a future driven by environmental stewardship.

The textile industry is as global as it gets, and so are the challenges it faces. Our consulting services offer region-specific expertise, enabling clients to adapt to diverse market dynamics. This localized approach ensures that every project is tailored to the unique needs of the region, delivering results that resonate both globally and locally.

Current industry dynamics and challenges are complex but also presents the opportunity for businesses to innovate, grow, and become market leaders. At AGS, our services are designed to turn these opportunities into tangible outcomes, helping businesses navigate the evolving landscape with confidence. By combining our expertise and hands-on approach with new innovations and an emphasis on sustainability, we’re proud to help shape the future of textiles.

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We are thrilled to announce an exciting and significant update to BIOPURE HS5, our coconut oil-based hydrophilic softener. This iterative technology improvement reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and premium performance textile solutions. BIOPURE HS5 has been celebrated for its natural origin and exceptional softness, and now it delivers even more impressive results. We are proud to offer this enhanced version that brings new possibilities for mills and brands that are looking to meet the demands of today’s consumer.

One of the most exciting improvements in this update is the enhanced softness. With the new version of BIOPURE HS5, fabric softness has reached a level comparable to traditional silicone-based softeners, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a future-proof solution without sacrificing luxurious feel. This improvement aligns perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable, yet top-performing, textile solutions that meet both environmental goals and consumer expectations without breaking the bank.

In addition to softness, BIOPURE HS5 now offers improved whiteness and moisture absorbency across all fiber-types. Whether applied to cellulosic or synthetic fibers, our softener helps textiles feel breathable and dry. The moisture wicking capabilities have also been improved, particularly for polyester-rich fabrics.

Compatibility with optical brightening agents (OBAs) remains another important feature of BIOPURE HS5. Because plant-based softeners are typically slightly cationic, we advise conducting lab evaluations to validate compatibility and seamless integration into your existing treatment formulations to deliver consistent and optimal results. Whether working with delicate whites or vibrant colors, mills can confidently rely on BIOPURE HS5.

At AGS, we are dedicated to providing sustainable, innovative, top-performing solutions that are cost-effective and beat the market. The latest version of BIOPURE HS5 offers all of its enhanced benefits at the same price, ensuring it remains accessible to our valued partners. We encourage you to explore the new possibilities this updated softener brings and to share it with mills and brands seeking innovative, eco-conscious solutions. BIOPURE HS5 is a testament to AGS’s leadership in shaping the future of textile finishes.

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Our approach to sourcing coconut oil is an additional example of how we prioritize local and sustainable supply chains. By working with local suppliers, similar to our castor initiative, we support regional and local economies while ensuring that our products maintain the highest levels of quality and performance. The coconut oil used in our BIOPURE HS5 softener is a testament to this commitment. We have been impressed with the exceptional softness and wicking performance of this plant-based technology, which rivals that of traditional silicone softeners. However, unlike silicones, our softener also imparts a silky smooth surface to textiles, offering an added value that the synthetic alternatives cannot provide.

Our ever-growing involvement in our supply chain reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability, transparency, and innovation. By becoming intimately involved, we understand and care about every step of the process—from farm to finished product—allowing us to offer our customers a level of quality and responsibility that is unparalleled in the industry. As we continue to push the boundaries of plant-based chemistry, we remain dedicated to the principles that have always guided us: creating products that are not only effective, efficient, and price-friendly but minimize the impact of textiles on the world.

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When we first began developing BIOPURE MM1, we did not plan to create a portfolio of plant-based technologies. We did not expect to provide solutions that would be immediately competing so closely with synthetic chemicals in performance, durability, ease-of-use, and price. We listened to various brands and manufacturers as they would outline their areas of struggle for innovative materials and chemicals. This eventually led to creating our BIOPURE brand and a solution that features BIOPURE HS5 and BIOPURE MM1. This innovative package elevates textile performance while aligning with growing demand for regenerative, renewable, and traceable solutions.

BIOPURE HS5, our coconut oil-based hydrophilic softener, offers exceptional penetrating softness, optimal surface smoothness, and superior moisture-wicking capabilities. Complementing this is BIOPURE MM1, an advanced wicking, cooling, and drying finish derived from castor seed oil. Both technologies boast 30-wash durability, ensuring long-lasting effectiveness and sustainability.

The flash-wicking performance of this package is unparalleled, providing rapid moisture management that keeps textiles feeling dry and comfortable even in the most demanding conditions. The combination of these two technologies offers a synergistic effect that not only enhances the tactile properties of the fabric but also significantly improves its functional attributes.

One of the most compelling aspects of the BIOPURE package is its sustainability. In fact, BIOPURE MM1 is carbon negative. Both HS5 and MM1 are crafted from renewable resources—coconut oil and castor seed oil—highlighting our dedication to reducing the environmental footprint of textile production. These technologies are not just green in their composition but are also backed by rigorous transparency along with sustainability certifications. BIOPURE HS5 and MM1 are GOTS V7.0, ZDHC Level 3, and OEKO-TEX® EcoPassport certified. Additionally, they received the SEAL Sustainable Innovation Award. At AGS, we provide our customers with the assurance of responsible manufacturing processes and raw material sourcing.

Ease of application is another standout feature of the BIOPURE HS5 + MM1 package. These solutions go hand-in-hand and are designed for seamless integration into traditional textile processes such as padding and exhaust, ensuring that manufacturers can adopt them without the need for modifications to their existing setups. We understand that this ease of use is critical and enables textile manufacturers to quickly and easily transition to our plant-based options without incurring additional costs, operational disruptions, or pricing conflicts.

Cost-effective innovation is at the core of our development strategy at AGS. We understand that for sustainable technologies to gain widespread acceptance, they must be competitively priced. All of our solutions at AGS are designed with this as one of the core principles. The BIOPURE HS5 + MM1 package not only meets but often surpasses the performance of synthetic counterparts, all while being available at a cost-efficient and comparative price point. This makes it an attractive option for brands looking to enhance their sustainability credentials without compromising on performance or profitability.

The BIOPURE plant-based package represents the future of textile finishing. By combining exceptional performance with unparalleled sustainability, we continue to push boundaries in developing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of consumers and the textile industry. As more brands and manufacturers adopt plant-based technologies, we move closer to a more sustainable and responsible future.

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Every year on May 22, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Biological Diversity (IDB), a day dedicated to raising awareness about the critical importance of biodiversity and the need to protect it. This day, established by the United Nations, serves as a reminder of the intricate web of life that sustains us and the urgent need to address the threats it faces.

Understanding Biodiversity
Biodiversity, or biological diversity, refers to the variety of life on Earth in all its forms, from genes and species to ecosystems. It encompasses the sheer abundance of life forms, their interactions, and the ecosystems they create. Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem health, resilience, and the provision of ecosystem services that humans rely on, such as clean air, water, food, and medicine.

Why Biodiversity Matters

• Ecosystem Stability and Resilience: Diverse ecosystems are more resilient to environmental changes and disturbances. They can better withstand natural disasters, climate change, and human impacts.
• Human Health and Well-being: Biodiversity contributes to medical discoveries and provides a wealth of resources for traditional and modern medicine. A healthy, diverse environment also ensures access to clean water and air, promoting overall well-being.
• Economic Benefits: Biodiversity supports industries like agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and tourism. A rich variety of plant and animal life underpins these sectors, ensuring sustainability and productivity.
• Cultural Significance: Many cultures around the world are deeply connected to their natural surroundings. Biodiversity influences art, traditions, and spiritual beliefs, enriching human culture.

The Current State of Biodiversity
Despite its immense value, biodiversity is under severe threat. Human activities such as deforestation, habitat destruction, pollution, overfishing, and climate change are driving species to extinction at an alarming rate. According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), one million species are at risk of extinction within decades.

This Year’s Theme: “Be Part of the Plan”
The theme for International Day of Biological Diversity 2024 is “Be Part of the Plan.” This theme emphasizes the importance of collective action and encourages everyone to participate in efforts to protect and restore biodiversity. It highlights the need for inclusive and collaborative strategies to address biodiversity loss and promote sustainable development.

The theme for International Day of Biological Diversity 2024 is “Be Part of the Plan.”

Biodiversity and the Textile Industry
The textile industry has a significant impact on biodiversity. From the sourcing of raw materials to manufacturing processes, every step in the textile supply chain can either harm or help preserve biodiversity. Here’s how the industry can contribute:

1. Sustainable Sourcing: Using organic and sustainably sourced fibers like organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo reduces the reliance on harmful pesticides and fertilizers that degrade ecosystems.
2. Eco-friendly Dyeing and Finishing: Adopting natural and low-impact dyes, as well as non-toxic finishing processes, helps reduce water pollution and the release of harmful chemicals into the environment.
3. Circular Fashion: Promoting recycling and upcycling of textiles can significantly reduce waste and the demand for new resources, protecting natural habitats from exploitation.

Success Stories
Several brands are leading the way in integrating biodiversity-friendly practices into their operations:

• The Great Green Wall: In Africa, an ambitious project aims to combat desertification by planting trees across the Sahel region, restoring land and providing livelihoods for millions.
• Marine Protected Areas: Countries like Australia have established extensive marine protected areas, safeguarding coral reefs and marine life while promoting sustainable tourism.
• Levi’s: Levi’s has committed to sustainability through initiatives like its Water<Less® process, which significantly reduces water usage in denim production. The company also uses sustainable materials, such as organic cotton and recycled viscose, and supports better cotton farming practices through the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI).
• Stella McCartney: A pioneer in sustainable fashion, Stella McCartney’s brand avoids leather and fur, uses organic and sustainable materials, and employs eco-friendly dyeing processes. The brand actively supports biodiversity through initiatives like the CanopyStyle campaign, which protects ancient and endangered forests.
• Eileen Fisher: This brand is dedicated to sustainability and transparency in its supply chain. Eileen Fisher uses organic fibers, natural dyes, and has a robust recycling program that encourages customers to return used garments for repurposing.

How We Can Contribute

• Support Conservation Efforts: Engage with and support organizations working to protect endangered species and restore habitats. Conservation projects play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity hotspots.
• Adopt Sustainable Practices: Make environmentally conscious choices in your daily life. Reduce, reuse, and recycle to minimize waste, support sustainable products, and reduce your carbon footprint.
• Educate and Advocate: Raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity. Educate others about the threats it faces and advocate for policies that protect natural environments.
• Participate in Local Actions: Join community efforts to plant native trees, clean up natural areas, and create habitats for local wildlife. Every small action contributes to the larger goal of biodiversity preservation.
• Promote Sustainable Agriculture and Fishing: Support sustainable farming and fishing practices that protect biodiversity. Choose products that are certified as environmentally friendly and sustainably sourced.

The International Day of Biological Diversity is more than just a day of awareness; it is a call to action. As we celebrate the wonders of our planet’s biodiversity, let us commit to taking action by caring and protecting our planet for future generations to enjoy.

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In the pursuit of sustainability, the textile industry faces a critical challenge: eliminating toxic treatments that are harmful to both people and the planet. While much attention has been given to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), there are other equally concerning chemicals such as aniline and siloxane that demand our scrutiny. Addressing these substances is not just about environmental stewardship; it’s about safeguarding the health of workers, wearers, and our ecosystems.

The Hidden Dangers of Aniline and Siloxane
Aniline, a chemical used in the dyeing process, is notorious for its toxic properties. It is a known carcinogen and can cause significant harm to aquatic life. When textile products treated with aniline are washed, the chemical can leach into waterways, posing serious environmental risks.
Siloxane, often used in textile finishes to provide softness and water resistance, presents another set of challenges. Certain types of siloxanes, such as D4 and D5, are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in living organisms. These chemicals have been linked to endocrine disruption and reproductive toxicity in wildlife.

Sustainability: A Holistic Approach
Sustainability in textiles goes beyond the elimination of specific harmful substances; it encompasses the entire lifecycle of the product, from production to disposal. The values of sustainability—protecting human health, preserving ecosystems, and ensuring long-term economic viability—must be at the core of textile manufacturing. Here’s how focusing on sustainable materials benefits everyone involved:

• Protecting Workers: Textile workers are often the first to be exposed to toxic chemicals. By eliminating harmful substances like aniline and siloxane, we can significantly reduce health risks for these individuals, ensuring safer working conditions and promoting overall well-being.
• Benefiting Wearers: Consumers are increasingly aware of the health implications of the products they use. Textiles free from toxic treatments are safer for direct skin contact, reducing the risk of allergic reactions, skin irritations, and long-term health issues.
• Preserving the Environment: Sustainable textile practices help minimize pollution, reduce chemical runoff into waterways, and prevent long-term ecological damage. This is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and the health of our planet’s ecosystems.

Transitioning to sustainable textile practices requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders—manufacturers, consumers, policymakers, and certification bodies.

Certification Bodies: Accelerating the Transition
Certification bodies play a crucial role in driving the textile industry towards sustainability by setting stringent standards and ensuring compliance. Organizations like that of Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) are at the forefront of this movement.

These certification bodies not only provide guidelines and standards but also actively work with manufacturers to implement sustainable practices. By obtaining certifications from GOTS and ZDHC, companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and drive industry-wide change.

Performance Without Compromise
A common misconception is that sustainable textiles compromise on performance. However, advancements in textile technology have debunked this myth. Here are some examples:

• Natural Fibers: Materials like organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo are naturally soft, durable, and have excellent breathability. They require fewer chemical treatments compared to synthetic fibers, making them an eco-friendly choice without sacrificing comfort or functionality.
• Eco-friendly Treatments: Innovations in textile chemistry have led to the development of non-toxic, biodegradable treatments that provide water resistance, stain repellence, and durability. For instance, wax-based or plant-oil finishes offer excellent performance without harmful environmental impacts.
• Recycled Materials: Fabrics made from recycled materials, such as polyester from plastic bottles, are proving to be just as durable and functional as their virgin counterparts. However, it is crucial to ensure that these recycled materials are free from toxins like BPA (Bisphenol A), which can be present in plastics. Rigorous testing and validation processes are necessary to confirm the absence of such harmful chemicals, ensuring the safety and sustainability of recycled textiles.

The Path Forward
Transitioning to sustainable textile practices requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders—manufacturers, consumers, policymakers, and certification bodies. Here are key steps to facilitate this transition:

• Innovation and Research: Investing in research to develop and scale up sustainable textile technologies is crucial. This includes finding alternatives to harmful chemicals and improving the properties of natural and recycled fibers.
• Education and Awareness: Educating consumers about the benefits of sustainable textiles can drive demand for safer products. Transparency in labeling and certification can help consumers make informed choices.
• Regulatory Support: Governments and regulatory bodies must enforce stricter controls on the use of toxic chemicals in textiles. Policies that incentivize sustainable practices and penalize harmful ones can accelerate industry-wide change.
• Industry Collaboration: Collaboration among industry players can lead to shared best practices and innovations. Industry-wide standards for sustainability can help unify efforts and ensure consistency in textile production.

Eliminating toxic textile treatments like aniline and siloxane is not just a matter of environmental urgency; it’s a critical step towards a healthier, more sustainable future for the textile industry.

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Products should not only endure but continue to perform as expected throughout their lifecycle.

Durability is a key component of mindful product innovation. Products should be designed to withstand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements and, in turn, decreasing waste. This requires selecting materials and manufacturing processes that can withstand the rigors of everyday use.

Furthermore, functional durability is equally important. Products should not only endure but continue to perform as expected throughout their lifecycle. Whether it’s a smartphone, a piece of furniture, or a vehicle, consumers expect products to retain their utility and reliability over time. Our textiles should be no different.

Functional finishes are essential in ensuring a positive end-user experience. These finishes can enhance the functionality, durability, and practicality of products while also contributing to sustainability. For instance, the application of odor control can extend the number of times you can wear a garment before washing. This extends the product’s life and decreases the rate of fiber degradation from laundering. It further improves the level of sustainability as you will launder less frequently thereby using less water and energy. Additionally, waterproof and breathable coatings can be applied to outdoor clothing to keep wearers dry while allowing moisture to escape. Selecting the right functional finishes can significantly improve the performance and longevity of a product, resulting in greater customer satisfaction.

But we need to look further than what a functional finish can provide, by also taking into account the durability, biodegradability, and raw material aspects of the technology too.

Mindful product innovation further extends to the technical design of textile products. Design considerations should be based on the specific needs and preferences of end-users and the activities in which the product would be used. This includes factors like garment fit, ease of care, and adaptability of textiles in various end-use conditions.

By tailoring textile design to the real-world requirements of users, brands can create textiles that are not only more functional but also more user-friendly. Whether it’s designing performance sportswear or exquisite home textiles, this approach reduces product obsolescence and fosters user satisfaction.

In our ever-evolving consumer landscape, mindful product innovation is the definitive way forward. It incorporates sustainability, durability, functionality, and consumer-centric design into the development of new textile goods. By selecting materials and finishes that align with these principles, companies can not only meet the demands of today’s conscious consumers but also contribute to a more sustainable and responsible future. Mindful product innovation is not just about making products; it’s about minimizing environmental impact on the world while positively impacting the lives of those who use our products.

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In today’s eco-conscious world, sustainability has become a cornerstone of the textile industry. We are excited to announce that our plant-based moisture management finish, BIOPURE MM1, is now certified as USDA BioPreferred and confirmed to be 78% bio-based content. This pioneering technology underlines the critical importance of sustainable practices in textiles.

BIOPURE MM1 goes beyond the ordinary, seamlessly unifying sustainability and performance. Especially as sustainability is no longer a mere trend but a defining force driving consumer choices and being the north star for innovation in the industry. The textile sector is embracing this shift towards responsible production, and our plant-based finishes exemplify this commitment by using renewable materials from farms practicing regenerative agriculture combine with more than 90% renewable energy in our processing and manufacturing facilities. The USDA BioPreferred certification exemplifies transparency and a shift towards mindful responsibility. By championing this innovation, we demonstrate that sustainability can accelerate and improve product excellence.

The USDA BioPreferred certification exemplifies transparency and a shift towards mindful responsibility.

As sustainability becomes paramount, the textile industry’s transformation is undeniable. Our USDA BioPreferred certified plant-based finishes, backed by regenerative agriculture and cutting-edge technologies, represents a significant stride towards a more responsible future. By choosing this solution, we’re choosing textiles that merge innovation, performance, and environmental stewardship, steering us collectively towards a better horizon.

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This year has witnessed remarkable material innovations that hold immense potential for driving sustainability in the textile industry. Among the many notable advancements, there are three specific products that we have been fortunate enough to work with, and gain a strong familiarization. Each of these product promotes minimizing environmental impact, are scalable, and have the power to revolutionize textile products and waste. They pave the way for a more sustainable future.

 RENEWCELL, is already becoming a key player in the industry. Their innovation involves using discarded textiles, such as cotton and viscose, to create Circulose®, a high-quality pulp. Renewcell’s ground-breaking technology breaks down the used textiles into a pulp that can be turned into new fibers, offering a closed-loop solution. By recycling post-consumer garments and fabrics, Renewcell reduces the strain on natural resources and decreases waste. Their process exemplifies the transformative potential of circularity and sets a new standard for sustainable textile production.

By embracing groundbreaking materials and technologies, our industry can take substantial strides towards minimizing environmental impact and fostering positive change.

CANVALOOP, uses agricultural waste materials to make fibers such as hemp, linen, and banana. During our initial evaluations, we were impressed at the level of sustainability but also surprised by the level of material quality. The fiber had the characteristics that would be expected from their traditional counterparts. By transforming waste hemp into a high-quality fiber, Canvaloop exemplifies the principles of circular economy and waste reduction. Their innovative approach maximizes the value of discarded material and exemplifies resource optimization.

By embracing groundbreaking materials and technologies, our industry can take substantial strides towards minimizing environmental impact and fostering positive change.

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