NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI: Inter&Co Inc. Reports Highest Ever Net Income of R$973M in 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Inter&Co Inc. (NASDAQ: INTR | B3: INBR32), the leading financial super app providing financial and digital commerce services to over 36 million customers, today reported financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024.

    2024 Highlights:

    • Record Net Income of R$ 973 million in 2024, 3 times greater than 2023.
    • Total Net Revenue of R$ 6.4 billion, up 35% YoY, while Total Gross Revenues surpassed the mark of R$ 10 billion in 2024.
    • Net Interest Margin of 9.7% in 4Q24, up from 9.0% in the same period of 2023.
    • Net fee revenues of over R$ 2.0 billion, a 31% YoY growth, representing the strength of the platform effect.
    • Total clients grew to 36 million, with 20.6 million active clients and an activation rate of 57%.

    João Vitor Menin, Global CEO of Inter&Co commented:

    “Our story has been about innovation, delivering a superior financial super app with low-cost products, disrupting a traditional and inefficient industry. As a result, we have acquired over 36 million clients that are simplifying their financial lives by using our platform.”

    “In 2024, engagement continued to rise as we attracted a record 4.2 million active clients to our platform. This increased engagement fosters cross-selling among our seven verticals, generating a powerful network effect and enabling us to achieve remarkable results across all of them.”

    “As a result, we delivered a growing ROE of 11.7% in 2024 and finished the year with R$973 million in net income, greater than our entire historical profitability combined.”

    He added, “We entered 2025 with a strong balance sheet, one of the lowest costs of funding in the industry, a diversified credit portfolio, and asset quality metrics that continue to improve despite a more challenging scenario. I’m confident that our platform is exceptionally well positioned to continue succeeding in the years ahead.”

    Conference Call
    Inter&Co will discuss its 4Q2024 financial results on February 6th, 2024, at 11 a.m. ET (1 p.m. BRT). The webcast details, along with the earnings materials can be accessed on the company’s Investor Relations website at https://investors.inter.co/en/.

    About Inter&Co
    Inter&Co (NASDAQ: INTR) is the pioneer financial super app serving over 36 million consumers across the Americas. The Inter&Co ecosystem offers a broad array of services, including banking, investments, mortgages, credit, gift cards, and cross-border tools. The super app also boasts a dynamic marketplace, linking consumers with shopping discounts, cashback rewards, and exclusive access to marquee events across the globe. The company is expanding rapidly in the United States, as evidenced by its naming rights sponsorship of the Inter&Co Stadium that hosts soccer teams “Orlando City” and “Orlando Pride”. Focused on innovation and captivating member experiences, Inter&Co delivers comprehensive financial and lifestyle solutions to meet the evolving needs of modern consumers. For more information, visit: https://inter.co/en/us/.

    Investor Relations:
    Rafaela de Oliveira Vitória
    ir@inter.co

    Media Relations:
    Kaio Philipe
    kaio.philipe@inter.co

    Chemistry Agency
    interco@chemistryagency.com

    Disclaimer
    This report may contain forward-looking statements regarding Inter, anticipated synergies, growth plans, projected results and future strategies. While these forward-looking statements reflect our Management’s good faith beliefs, they involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s results or accrued results to differ materially from those anticipated and discussed herein. These statements are not guarantees of future performance. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, our ability to realize the number of projected synergies and the projected schedule, in addition to economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors affecting Inter, the markets, products and prices and other factors. In addition, this presentation contains managerial figures that may differ from those presented in our financial statements. The calculation methodology for these managerial numbers is presented in Inter’s quarterly earnings release. Statements contained in this report that are not facts or historical information may be forward looking statements under the terms of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements may, among other things, beliefs related to the creation of value and any other statements regarding Inter. In some cases, terms such as “estimate”, “project”, “predict”, “plan”, “believe”, “can”, “expectation”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “aimed”, “potential”, “may”, “will/shall” and similar terms, or the negative of these expressions, may identify forward looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements are based on Inter’s expectations and beliefs about future events and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current ones. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this document is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether because of new information, future developments or otherwise. The definition of each such operational metric is included in the earnings release available on our Investor Relations website.

    For additional information that about factors that may lead to results that are different from our estimates, please refer to sections “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” of Inter&Co Annual Report on Form 20-F. The numbers for our key metrics (Unit Economics), which include, among other, active clients and average revenue per active client (ARPAC), are calculated using Inter’s internal data. Although we believe these metrics are based on reasonable estimates, there are challenges inherent in measuring the use of our business. In addition, we continually seek to improve our estimates, which may change due to improvements or changes in methodology, in processes for calculating these metrics and, from time to time, we may discover inaccuracies and adjust to improve accuracy, including adjustments that may result in recalculating our historical metrics.

    About Non-IFRS Financial Measures
    To supplement the financial measures presented in this press release and related conference call, presentation, or webcast in accordance with IFRS, Inter&Co also presents non-IFRS measures of financial performance, as highlighted throughout the documents. The non-IFRS Financial Measures include, among others: Adjusted Net Income, Cost of Funding, Efficiency Ratio, Cost of Risk, Cards+PIX TPV, Gross ARPAC, Global Clients, Total Gross Revenues, and Return on average equity (ROE).

    A “non-IFRS financial measure” refers to a numerical measure of Inter&Co’s historical or financial position that either excludes or includes amounts that are not normally excluded or included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with IFRS in Inter&Co’s financial statements. Inter&Co provides certain non-IFRS measures as additional information relating to its operating results as a complement to results provided in accordance with IFRS. The non-IFRS financial information presented herein should be considered together with, and not as a substitute for or superior to, the financial information presented in accordance with IFRS. There are significant limitations associated with the use of non-IFRS financial measures. Further, these measures may differ from the non-IFRS information, even where similarly titled, used by other companies and therefore should not be used to compare Inter&Co’s performance to that of other companies.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4443-4444: Four Fours for February

    Source: NASA

    Earth planning date: Monday, Feb. 3, 2025
    Another successful weekend plan left us about 23 meters (about 75 feet) farther down our Mount Sharp Ascent Route (MSAR), with all our science data downlinked to Earth and the planet clocks aligned once more. We only have until 18:26 Pacific time to get this Monday’s plan uplinked (due to the Soliday over the weekend), and two full days of science to plan! 
    Our first sol science block starts at 12:06 local Gale Crater time, including a ChemCam long-distance RMI mosaic and a five-shot laser on bedrock. After ChemCam is done, Mastcam is planning 42 images, including ChemCam’s LIBS spots, some meteorite fragments, sand troughs between bedrock blocks, and interesting vein structures in our surrounding terrain. Navcam is planning to finish out that science block with a large dust devil survey. After our remote science wraps up, we’ve committed the hours between about 15:00 and 22:45 to our full contact science suite. Luckily, SRAP passed yet again and we took the opportunity to plan two targets — “San Rafael Hills” as our DRT target and “Allison Mine” as a potential meteorite target. 
    After a nice, long sleep our rover will wake up at 09:53 local Gale time and start another round of remote science to start the sol. This time ChemCam will shoot their laser at the potential meteorite and contact target Allison Mine, with Mastcam following up to document the spots. After one last 20-minute sweep of Texoli butte through Mastcam, it’s time to pack up and head back down the MSAR. Hopefully our drive goes well again and we’ll find ourselves about 36 meters (about 118 feet) away on Wednesday!
    Written by Natalie Moore, Mission Operations Specialist at Malin Space Science Systems

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Greene County Awarded $6.2 Million to Replace Poplar Springs Bridge

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Greene County Awarded $6.2 Million to Replace Poplar Springs Bridge

    Greene County Awarded $6.2 Million to Replace Poplar Springs Bridge

    The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $6.2 million to replace Greene County’s Poplar Bridge, which spans the Nolichucky River and was destroyed and submerged in the river when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September.The nearly 10,000 square foot bridge, also known as Easterly Bridge, will be demolished and restored with funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Work to be completed includes architectural and engineering design services that use best construction practices and applicable codes and standards.FEMA’s share for this project is $4,656,288; the nonfederal share is $1,552,096.The cost estimate was generated using FEMA’s Rapid Assessment with Public Infrastructure Data, which uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as available Federal Highway Administration and State Department of Transportation data. The scope of work will be updated when the method of repair, surveys and assessments are completed. Property insurance coverage for road, road rights-of-way, embankment erosion, bridges or culvert damage represented on this project are not insured or insurable.Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of the eligible costs of repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.
    kwei.nwaogu
    Thu, 02/06/2025 – 03:46

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter County Awarded $10.77 Million for Bridges Destroyed by Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Carter County Awarded $10.77 Million for Bridges Destroyed by Helene

    Carter County Awarded $10.77 Million for Bridges Destroyed by Helene

    The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $10.77 million for emergency measures and the restoration of two Carter County bridges that cross the Elk River in Elizabethton. Both were destroyed when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September. The two-lane bridges, both built in 1957, are each 230-foot-long and located about a mile apart along the winding Elk River. Known as the Poga Bridge, they were washed away by Helene’s floodwaters and will be restored with funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program. The bridge replacement projects will follow best construction practices and meet applicable codes and standards.FEMA’s estimated share for each bridge replacement project is $3,504,046; the nonfederal share for each project is estimated at $1,168,015. Both Poga Bridges were also approved for an additional $1.07 million from FEMA for emergency protective measures taken during the response to Helene. The nonfederal share for that Category B Public Assistance funding was estimated at $358,427. Cost estimates were generated using FEMA’s Rapid Assessment with Public Infrastructure Data, which uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as available Federal Highway Administration and State Department of Transportation data. Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of the eligible costs of repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.
    kwei.nwaogu
    Thu, 02/06/2025 – 03:50

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State, FEMA Approve $9.77 Million to Replace Chestoa Pike Road Bridge

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: State, FEMA Approve $9.77 Million to Replace Chestoa Pike Road Bridge

    State, FEMA Approve $9.77 Million to Replace Chestoa Pike Road Bridge

    The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $9.77 million to replace Unicoi County’s Chestoa Pike Road Bridge which straddles the Nolichucky River and was destroyed when floodwaters from Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September.Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program covers eligible costs to replace 13,451 square feet of the two-lane concrete bridge built in 1991, using best construction practices, modern means and methods, and Codes and Standards set by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.FEMA’s share for this project is $7,334,310; the nonfederal share is $2,444,770.The federal funding approved for the Chestoa Pike Road Bridge, which has four spans, is based on estimates derived from FEMA’s Rapid Assessment of Public Infrastructure Data. That process uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as assessor information to develop an estimated cost for public infrastructure that was destroyed or damaged in a disaster. Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of the eligible costs of repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds. The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.
    kwei.nwaogu
    Thu, 02/06/2025 – 03:41

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rainy, Stormy Days in Queensland

    Source: NASA

    Starting in late January 2025, a slow-moving summer storm dropped copious rain along the northeastern coast of Queensland, Australia. A week later, rainfall totals totaled more than 100 centimeters (39 inches) in some areas, according to Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BoM).
    The rainfall was especially intense for several days along several hundred kilometers of the coast between Cairns and Ayr. The map above shows rainfall accumulation in a period of just over four days ending on February 4, 2025. The reddest areas are where rainfall totals during this period were the highest.
    These data are remotely sensed estimates that come from IMERG (the Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for GPM), a product of the GPM (Global Precipitation Measurement) mission, and may differ from ground-based measurements. For instance, IMERG data are averaged across each pixel, meaning that rain-gauge measurements within a given pixel can be significantly higher or lower than the average.
    Ground-based measurements indicate that the city of Townsville saw the equivalent of six months of rain in just three days, according to BoM Queensland. The largest weekly rainfall total was measured at a gauge in the Cardwell Range, southwest of Tully, where almost 170 centimeters (67 inches) fell.
    Thousands of people evacuated as flooding threatened the region, according to news reports. The deluge isolated some communities, caused rivers and reservoirs to spill over their banks, and destroyed parts of a main highway. As of the morning of February 6, a major flood warning persisted along the Herbert River, meaning large areas were inundated. Watches and warnings remained in effect for more than a dozen other rivers.
    Tropical lows are common in northern Australia in February, during the region’s wet season. But this storm was especially slow and productive in terms of rain, with many areas breaking records for daily or multi-day totals.
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Michala Garrison, using IMERG data from the Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) at NASA/GSFC. Story by Kathryn Hansen.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reminder: Rental Requirement Begins March 1st for Direct Housing Participants

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Reminder: Rental Requirement Begins March 1st for Direct Housing Participants

    Reminder: Rental Requirement Begins March 1st for Direct Housing Participants

    LAHAINA, Maui – Wildfire survivors currently in FEMA’s Direct Housing Program will be required to begin paying rent on March 1, 2025. The rental requirement will be in effect for the remainder of FEMA’s housing assistance program, which has been extended through Feb. 10, 2026.  Participants in the program have received their 90-day, 60-day and 30-day notification letters regarding upcoming rent collection.The rental rate is based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2025 Fair Market Rent on Maui along with the household’s ability to pay. HUD Portal: FY 2025 Final Fair Market Rents Documentation System — Select GeographyHouseholds are encouraged to remain in touch with their recertification advisor who will work with them to determine a feasible rental rate. Occupants can appeal FEMA’s decision on their ability to pay rent. Although occupants have 60 days to appeal for rent reduction from the date they received the hand delivered 30-day notice of the rental requirement, it is highly encouraged to submit their appeal and supporting documents as soon as possible.FEMA strongly suggests that households submit their appeal as soon as possible in order to process the request prior to the March 1 start date. A delay in submitting appeal paperwork may prolong the rental decision process. In this case, households awaiting a final decision on their rental rate would be required to pay the full amount in rent until a decision is made. Once the decision has been made FEMA would refund the difference. FEMA remains committed to the continued recovery on Maui and will support wildfire survivors as they work towards their permanent housing solution.For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires – YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. 
    shannon.carley
    Wed, 02/05/2025 – 20:43

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Brings Space to New Jersey Classroom with Astronaut Q&A

    Source: NASA

    Students from the Thomas Edison EnergySmart Charter School in Somerset, New Jersey, will have the chance to connect with NASA astronaut Nick Hague as he answers prerecorded science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related questions from aboard the International Space Station.
    Watch the 20-minute space-to-Earth call at 11:10 a.m. EST on Tuesday, Feb. 11, on NASA+ and learn how to watch NASA content on various platforms, including social media.
    Media interested in covering the event must RSVP by 5 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 6, to Jeanette Allison at: oyildiz@energysmartschool.org or 732-412-7643.
    For more than 24 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked aboard the space station, testing technologies, performing science, and developing skills needed to explore farther from Earth. Astronauts aboard the orbiting laboratory communicate with NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston 24 hours a day through SCaN’s (Space Communications and Navigation) Near Space Network.
    Important research and technology investigations taking place aboard the space station benefit people on Earth and lay the groundwork for other agency missions. As part of NASA’s Artemis campaign, the agency will send astronauts to the Moon to prepare for future human exploration of Mars; inspiring Artemis Generation explorers and ensuring the United States continues to lead in space exploration and discovery.
    See videos and lesson plans highlighting space station research at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation
    -end-
    Abbey DonaldsonHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600Abbey.a.donaldson@nasa.gov
    Sandra Jones Johnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Invites Media to Learn about Spacecraft Autonomous Tech Firsts

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley invites media to learn more about Distributed Spacecraft Autonomy (DSA), a technology that allows individual spacecraft to make independent decisions while collaborating with each other to achieve common goals – without human input. The DSA team achieved multiple firsts during tests of such swarm technology as part of the agency’s project. 
    DSA develops software tools critical for future autonomous, distributed, and intelligent spacecraft that will need to interact with each other to achieve complex mission objectives. Testing onboard the agency’s Starling mission resulted in accomplishments including the first fully distributed autonomous operation of multiple spacecraft, the first use of space-to-space communications to autonomously share status information between multiple spacecraft, and more. 
    DSA’s accomplishments mark a significant milestone in advancing autonomous systems that will make new types of science and exploration possible. 
    Caleb Adams, DSA project manager, is available for interview on Wednesday, Feb. 5 and Thursday, Feb. 6. To request an interview, media can contact the Ames Office of Communications by email at arc-dl-newsroom@nasa.gov or by phone at 650-604-4789.  
    Learn more about NASA Ames’ world-class research and development in aeronautics, science, and exploration technology at: 
    https://www.nasa.gov/ames
    -end- 
    Tiffany BlakeAmes Research Center, Silicon Valley 650-604-4789 tiffany.n.blake@nasa.gov  
    To receive local NASA Ames news, email local-reporters-request@lists.arc.nasa.gov with “subscribe” in the subject line. To unsubscribe, email the same address with “unsubscribe” in the subject line.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wind Over Its Wing: NASA’s X-66 Model Tests Airflow

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD) project recently concluded wind tunnel tests of its X-66 semi-span model in partnership with Boeing. The model, designed to represent half the aircraft, allows the research team to generate high-quality data about the aerodynamic forces that would affect the actual X-66.
    Test results will help researchers identify areas where they can refine the X-66 design – potentially reducing drag, enhancing fuel efficiency, or adjusting the vehicle shape for better flying qualities.
    Tests on the Boeing-built X-66 semi-span model were completed at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley in its 11-Foot Transonic Unitary Plan Facility. The model underwent tests representing expected flight conditions so the team could obtain engineering information to influence the design of the aircraft’s wing and provide data for flight simulators.

    Semi-span tests take advantage of symmetry. The forces and behaviors on a model of half an aircraft mirror those on the other half. By using a larger half of the model, engineers increase the number of surface pressure measurements. Various sensors were placed on the wing to measure forces and movements to calculate lift, drag, stability, and other important characteristics.
    The semi-span tests follow earlier wind tunnel work at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, using a smaller model of the entire aircraft. Engineers will study the data from all of the X-66 wind tunnel tests to determine any design changes that should be made before fabrication begins on the wing that will be used on the X-66 itself.
    The SFD project is NASA’s effort to develop more efficient aircraft configurations as the nation moves toward aviation that’s more economically, societally, and environmentally sustainable. The project seeks to provide information to inform the next generation of single-aisle airliners, the most common aircraft in commercial aviation fleets around the world.  Boeing and NASA are partnering to develop the X-66 experimental demonstrator aircraft.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom meets with President Trump and members of Congress from both sides of the aisle on disaster relief for LA firestorm survivors

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 5, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their homes and livelihoods have the support they need to rebuild and recover.

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Donald Trump, Republican and Democratic members of the California Delegation along with members of the U.S. Senate. The Governor was joined by Wade Crowfoot, the Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency, who oversees key water and fire policy across the state.

    “As we approach one month since the devastating wildfires across Southern California, we continue to cut red tape to speed up recovery and clean up efforts as well as ensure rebuilding efforts are swift. We’re working across the aisle, as we always have, to ensure survivors have the resources and support they need. Thank you President Trump for coming to our communities to see this first hand and meeting with me today to continue our joint efforts to support people impacted.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    On Capitol Hill, Governor Newsom met with members of the California Delegation to discuss the importance of obtaining federal disaster relief for the survivors of last month’s LA firestorms, including Representatives Doug LaMalfa, Ken Calvert, Judy Chu, Brad Sherman, and George Whitesides.

    Afterward, Governor Newsom met with key Senate leaders: New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Georgia Senator Rev. Raphael Warnock, and Washington Senator Patty Murray, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, who was joined by California Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff.

    Building on meetings on Capitol Hill, Governor Newsom had a very productive meeting with President Trump at the White House to further discuss the critical need for unconditional disaster aid for survivors. This comes after the Governor met the President on the tarmac of LAX when President Trump toured the devastation as part of his first trip as President.

    During the meeting, the Governor raised the critical need for federal assistance to support recovery efforts and help impacted families rebuild, emphasizing the strong partnership between local, state and federal agencies all working together on the ground on response and recovery efforts. The Governor expressed his appreciation for the Trump Administration’s early collaboration and specifically thanked EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for his agency’s swift action, including over 1,000 personnel on the ground focused on debris removal.

    The Governor continues to take action to support the survivors across Southern California – cutting red tape, providing key relief, and ensuring bolstered support for those in need. 

    Stay up to date on the Governor’s actions here.

    More details on next step here

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom has taken unprecedented action to cut red tape and remove regulatory barriers to help Los Angeles recover and rebuild quickly – including by suspending CEQA and Coastal Act permitting requirements. LOS ANGELES — In response…

    Feb 4, 2025

    News What you need to know: People impacted by the recent fires in Los Angeles may be eligible for new food benefits. A family of four with a monthly income up to $3,529 per month may be eligible to receive $975. Los Angeles, California – As part of California’s…

    Feb 4, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Mark Tollefson, of Rancho Cordova, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the California High-Speed Rail Authority. Tollefson has been Undersecretary of the California State…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS RELEASE – Proof-of-Concept Study Report Completed on Proposed New Oʻahu Community Correctional Center

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    NEWS RELEASE – Proof-of-Concept Study Report Completed on Proposed New Oʻahu Community Correctional Center

    Posted on Feb 5, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION

         KA ‘OIHANA HOʻOMALU KALAIMA A HOʻOPONOPONO OLA

         JOSH GREEN, M.D.

         GOVERNOR

         KE KIAʻĀINA

         TOMMY JOHNSON

         DIRECTOR

         KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

    PROOF-OF-CONCEPT STUDY REPORT COMPLETED ON PROPOSED

    NEW OʻAHU COMMUNITY CORRECTIONAL CENTER

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    February 5, 2025

    HONOLULU — The University of Hawaiʻi Community Design Center (UHCDC) has completed its final proof-of-concept study report, “Breaking Cycles: Alternative Models for Rehabilitation and Restorative Justice on Oʻahu,” on the proposed new Oʻahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC).

    The report presents community visions and aspirations for the new jail and provides recommendations to improve the criminal justice system. The concepts are based on

    a multilayered collaboration with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR), the Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission, Office of the Governor, residents, multiple community organizations and stakeholders.

    The DCR had contracted UHCDC to conduct wide-reaching independent research, community engagement and a design study on the proposed new jail.

    Built in 1916, the OCCC is the state’s largest jail. The jail in Kalihi is outdated and is not designed to provide programs. The facility is deteriorating, as parts of the jail are 111 years old.

    The planning process for a new jail started in 2016. The property where the existing animal quarantine station is situated in Hālawa is the proposed site for the new OCCC.

    Over a two-year period, UHCDC hosted numerous in-person and virtual community engagement events that include symposia, talk-story sessions, listening and co-design workshops. The group also attended ʻAiea Neighborhood Board and ʻAiea Community Association meetings, hosted listening workshops at Hālawa Correctional Facilty and participated in prison reform hui meetings.

    The 268-page report is an in-depth study that includes key concepts on system reform, facility planning and design elements for the new jail. Part of UHCDC’s extensive research included connecting with various counties in Arizona, California and Florida to gain insight into their reform processes to rehabilitate individuals, reduce recidivism, provide a continuum of care, inside and outside of corrections.

    UHCDC stated the report “outlines aspirations and visions that are crucial for inspiring and enabling transformation. We present this work as a contribution to that change, with gratitude, hope, and a firm belief that such transformation is not only possible but essential to our collective well-being.”

    Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Director Tommy Johnson said, “We express our sincere gratitude to UHCDC for its excellent work on this report. The report will be an effective tool to help DCR complete the planning and design for the new OCCC, develop request for proposals and select a contractor to design the proposed new jail.”

    The DCR envisions the new jail to have multipurpose rooms for programs, use of natural light, outdoor recreation yard, wall murals and space for treatment rooms to support rehabilitative services for inmates. A new facility to include a gym, courtyard, dining room and lounge for staff to promote health and wellness is also part of that vision.

    DCR will be engaging with the feedback in the report to further guide the rehabilitation aims of the new facility.

    Cathi Ho Schar, director of the University of Hawaiʻi Community Design Center, said, “We thank the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for sponsoring this work and inviting us to lead this effort. We also offer our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who linked elbows with us and who shared their time and manaʻo with our team.”

    UHCDC’s work is an independent addition to the planning and design of the new OCCC. The purpose of the report is to help DCR with the development of the Request for Proposals (RFP) and to select a team to design and construct the new jail. UHCDC is not responsible for the development of the RFP.

    Please click on the following link to access the report: https://www.breaking-cycles-symposium.org.

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    Media Contacts:

    Rosemarie Bernardo

    Public Information Officer

    Hawai‘i Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

    Office: 808-587-1358

    Cell: 808-683-5507

    Email: [email protected]

    Website: https://dcr.hawaii.gov

     

     

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025-15 AG NEWS RELEASE – ATTORNEY GENERAL LOPEZ AND 13 OTHER ATTORNEYS GENERAL ISSUE JOINT STATEMENT ON PROTECTING ACCESS TO GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2025-15 AG NEWS RELEASE – ATTORNEY GENERAL LOPEZ AND 13 OTHER ATTORNEYS GENERAL ISSUE JOINT STATEMENT ON PROTECTING ACCESS TO GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE

    Posted on Feb 5, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
     GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

     

     

    ATTORNEY GENERAL LOPEZ AND 13 OTHER ATTORNEYS GENERAL ISSUE JOINT STATEMENT ON PROTECTING ACCESS TO GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE

     

    News Release 2025-15

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                       

    February 4, 2025

     

    HONOLULU –Attorney General Anne Lopez today joined a coalition of 14 attorneys general to reaffirm their commitment to protecting access to gender-affirming care in the face of the Trump Administration’s recent Executive Order. The coalition released the following statement: 

     

    “As state attorneys general, we stand firmly in support of healthcare policies that respect the dignity and rights of all people. Health care decisions should be made by patients, families and doctors, not by a politician trying to restrict freedoms. Gender-affirming care is essential, lifesaving medical treatment that supports individuals in living as their authentic selves.

     

    The Trump Administration’s recent Executive Order is wrong on the science and the law. Despite what the Trump Administration has suggested, there is no connection between “female genital mutilation” and gender-affirming care, and no federal law makes gender-affirming care unlawful. President Trump cannot change that by Executive Order.  

     

    Last week, attorneys general secured a critical win from a federal court that directed the federal government to resume funding that had been frozen by the Trump Administration. In response to the court’s order, the Department of Justice has sent a notice stating that “federal agencies cannot pause, freeze, impede, block, cancel, or terminate any awards or obligations on the basis of the OMB memo, or on the basis of the President’s recently issued Executive Orders.” This means that federal funding to institutions that provide gender-affirming care continues to be available, irrespective of President Trump’s recent Executive Order. If the federal administration takes additional action to impede this critical funding, we will not hesitate to take further legal action. 

     

    State attorneys general will continue to enforce state laws that provide access to gender-affirming care, in states where such enforcement authority exists, and we will challenge any unlawful effort by the Trump Administration to restrict access to it in our jurisdictions.” 

     

    Joining Attorney General Lopez in issuing this statement are the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin.

     

    # # #

     

    Media contacts:

    Dave Day

    Special Assistant to the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1284                                                  

    Email: [email protected]        

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

     

    Toni Schwartz
    Public Information Officer
     Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
    Office:     808-586-1252
    Cell: 808-379-9249
    Email:     [email protected] 

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – HAWAI‘I WILDLIFE CONSERVATION/GAME BIRD STAMP CONTEST OPENS, Feb. 5, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – HAWAI‘I WILDLIFE CONSERVATION/GAME BIRD STAMP CONTEST OPENS, Feb. 5, 2025

    Posted on Feb 5, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
     GOVERNOR

     

    DAWN CHANG
     CHAIRPERSON

     

    HAWAI‘I WILDLIFE CONSERVATION/GAME BIRD STAMP CONTEST OPENS

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Feb. 5, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – Artists are invited to submit entries to the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) for the 2025-26 Hawaiʻi Wildlife Conservation and Game Bird Stamp annual art contest. The wildlife conservation stamp is a requirement for Hawai‘i state hunting licenses and the game bird stamp is required for anyone intending to hunt game birds. Both stamps will also be available to stamp collectors.

    Game Bird Stamp – Erckel’s Francolin (Pternistis erckelii). Native to Ethiopia and Sudan, the Erckel’s spurfowl was introduced to Hawaiʻi in 1957 as a game bird. At about 16 inches long, they are brown with white streaky spots and distinct chestnut-colored feathers on the top of their heads, with white throats. Often in upland dry grasslands, they scare easily and hide from view and prefer running away rather than flushing. Listen for their loud laughing cackle, especially in the morning. They are located on the islands of Hawaiʻi, Lānaʻi, Oʻahu, and Kaua‘i.

    Wildlife Conservation Stamp – Manu-o-Kū (White “Fairy” Tern) (Gygis alba), a Hawaiian urban-community forest bird. 2025 is the Year of Our Community Forests, collections of trees in the wao kanaka, or inland region where people  live, learn and play. Community forests include trees in our neighborhoods, yards, parks, schools and along our streets. They give us gathering places, shade, air to breathe, food to eat, wood for carving, leaves for weaving and flowers for lei.

    The Manu-o-Kū is a perfect representation of our native wildlife that utilizes the urban-community forests for habitat, breeding, nesting and rearing their young. Manu-o-Kū breed on oceanic islands, both on low-lying coralline sand islands and high volcanic islands. They do not build nests; eggs are laid on whatever suitable depression is found. Nest sites include volcanic pinnacles, cliffs, rocky slopes, large bushes or trees, as well as man-made structures.

    ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

     

    SETTING: Hawai‘i habitat

     

    SIZE: Completed painting with a maximum of 24” by 36” and unframed (to be reduced to 1” X 1.5” stamp)

     

    MEDIUM: Oil or acrylic preferred

     

    ENTRY: Completed oil or acrylic painting or an 8.5” X 11” photo/print/photocopy of a completed painting.

     

    DEADLINE: All entries must be received by April 05, 2025. Notification of the winner will be made later in April.

     

    SHIPPING FEE: All paintings sent must be accompanied by a $35.00 fee to cover the cost of returning the artwork. You must visit the Administration office to pick up your artwork if a check is not included. Checks are to be made payable to the DLNR. Otherwise, a photo, print, or photocopy of an original painting may be sent without fee (see application form).

    PAYMENTS: The winner will receive a maximum award of $1,000.

    Funds from Hawai‘i Wildlife Conservation Stamp sales go into the state Wildlife Revolving Fund to support wildlife populations and habitats and to manage the state’s hunting and non-game programs.

    Last year, revenues from both stamps were used to cover some of the costs of maintaining hunting units and to add game bird and game mammal hunting opportunities where possible. Proceeds from the sale of wildlife conservation stamps will also provide funds for salaries, the annual lease rental of the Lānaʻi Cooperative Game Management Area, and support wildlife diversity programs.

    # # #

     

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

     

    HD video – Small Game Birds Put and Take, web feature (Nov. 24, 2021):

    https://vimeo.com/650077788?share=copy

     

    HD video – Small game birds put and take, media clips (Nov. 24, 2021):

    https://vimeo.com/649777485?share=copy

    Photographs – Small game bird releases Kuaokala Game Management Area (Nov. 24, 2021):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/i5naci5zakhg1r8rw6acd/h?rlkey=7psw5565bo4oib3pgve1yrwqo&dl=0

    Information on the contest and application forms:

    DOFAW, 1151 Punchbowl St., Room 325, Honolulu, HI 96813 or at:

    https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/files/2025/01/FY25-26-Artist-Application.pdf

    Contest contacts:

    [email protected], 808-226-7757.

    [email protected], 808-347-6869.

     

    2025: Year of Our Community Forests

    https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/trees/

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    Communications Office: 808-587-0396

    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Descartes Showcases Global Trade Intelligence Technology Innovations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Descartes Systems Group (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, is scheduled to showcase numerous technology innovations to its global trade intelligence software suite at Descartes’ Innovation Forum event, which takes place in Washington, DC from February 11-12, 2025. Innovations to Descartes’ solution suite help companies in diverse industries manage the cross-border trade of merchandise, commodities and services more securely and efficiently in the face of expanding compliance requirements, geopolitical volatility, and evolving tariffs and trade barriers.

    “The current environment of ever-changing and complex trade regulations is challenging to manage. Our solutions and trade data help simplify how our customers’ teams conduct business while helping them mitigate risk,” said Brian Hodgson, General Manager, Trade Intelligence at Descartes. “Our technology innovations are focused on helping companies build more agile, intelligent and resilient supply chain networks that allow them to keep pace with frequent and complex tariff and regulatory changes, secure better sources of supply, and acquire high quality competitive intelligence.”

    Descartes’ global trade intelligence innovation and enhancements include:

    • Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled screening and classification to scale compliance operations. AI-driven screening for restricted, sanctioned and denied parties quarantines low-quality false positives and identifies when additional due diligence is required. AI-driven import/export classification accelerates product lookup capabilities in combination with other features such as regulations cross-referencing and landed cost calculations. Both innovations help companies more efficiently access and manage high volume, repetitive tasks without overloading existing compliance resources or adding new staff.
    • AI-based agent to speed complex global trade intelligence queries. Converse in multiple languages with an AI-based agent to answer common questions; quickly identify historical trade patterns, emerging trends, or specific data needs (e.g., commodities, companies, products); and receive text- and/or graph-based responses. This helps users define searches more precisely, ensuring they extract the most relevant global trade data and that it’s presented effectively. It makes global trade data content more accessible and actionable, while minimizing the training time required to build proficiency in developing optimal queries.
    • Expanded global trade content offerings to simplify more wholistic risk assessments. Combining traditional Harmonized System (HS)-based trade data content with both optional experience-based content, such as previously classified products, and timely innovative-based content, such as legislation and/or regulations, provides companies with a broader content ecosystem to facilitate efficient and effective risk assessment associated with product, party or shipment compliance.
    • Enhanced analytics to generate insights and inform strategic, evidence-based decision making. Advanced Microsoft Power BI-based analytics aggregates data from screening applications and other sources (e.g., visitor management, license management, other operational systems) to provide a single reporting view. Companies no longer need to rely on complicated integrations between applications to access sophisticated analytics that provide useful insight into their compliance activities, particularly in large enterprises.
    • Expanded capabilities to manage increasing export controls and complexities around export license management. Expanded set of East Asian countries for compliance checks and license determinations, in addition to enhanced workflows and data sharing capabilities for very complex controlled goods businesses (e.g., aerospace and defense), which help companies better manage compliance with local laws, international agreements and security protocols.

    Learn more about Descartes’ Global Trade Intelligence solutions.

    Descartes’ Innovation Forum events offer a unique opportunity for Descartes customers and United by Design partners worldwide to connect with the Descartes team. These forums aim to share best practices in using Descartes’ technologies, explore ways to enhance operations with Descartes’ expanding solutions, and gather valuable feedback on product development. More information on the Global Trade Intelligence event is available here.

    About Descartes

    Descartes (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG) is the global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, security and sustainability of logistics-intensive businesses. Customers use our modular, software-as-a-service solutions to route, track and help improve the safety, performance and compliance of delivery resources; plan, allocate and execute shipments; rate, audit and pay transportation invoices; access global trade data; file customs and security documents for imports and exports; and complete numerous other logistics processes by participating in the world’s largest, collaborative multimodal logistics community. Our headquarters are in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and we have offices and partners around the world. Learn more at www.descartes.com, and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    Global Media Contact
    Cara Strohack                                                                     
    Tel: 226-750-8050                                 
    cstrohack@descartes.com  

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (“forward-looking statements”) that relate to Descartes’ global trade intelligence solution offerings and potential benefits derived therefrom; and other matters. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the factors and assumptions discussed in the section entitled, “Certain Factors That May Affect Future Results” in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Ontario Securities Commission and other securities commissions across Canada including Descartes’ most recently filed management’s discussion and analysis. If any such risks actually occur, they could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In that case, the trading price of our common shares could decline, perhaps materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purposes of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. We do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sylogist Declares Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sylogist Ltd. (TSX:SYZ) (“Sylogist” or the “Company”), a leading public sector SaaS company, is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has declared a dividend of $0.01 per share on Sylogist’s common shares to shareholders of record on February 28th, 2025, payable on March 12th, 2025.

    All dividends paid by Sylogist to holders of common shares in the capital of the Company will be treated as eligible dividends pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada).

    About Sylogist
    Sylogist provides mission-critical SaaS solutions to over 2,000 public sector customers globally across the government, nonprofit, and education verticals. The Company’s stock is traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SYZ. Information about Sylogist, inclusive of full financial statements together with Management’s Discussion and Analysis, can be found at www.sylogist.com or at www.sedarplus.ca.

    For further information contact:

    Sujeet Kini, Chief Financial Officer
    Sylogist Ltd.

    (416) 491-8004
    ir@sylogist.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Reducing air pollution could increase methane emissions from wetlands – here’s what needs to be done

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Vincent Gauci, Professorial Fellow, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Science, University of Birmingham

    Sampling in a Pantanal lake, Brazil. Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    What if well-meaning policies that reduce one atmospheric pollutant could also increase natural emissions of powerful greenhouse gases?

    Our findings, just published in the journal Science Advances, advance an earlier discovery of one such unfortunate interaction. This means that we need to work much harder than we thought to stay within the safe climate limits of the Paris agreement.

    The atmospheric pollutant in question is sulphur. Its current and projected decline from clean air policies aimed at reducing acid rain and fine particles, coupled with direct effects of increasing atmospheric CO₂ and warming, will lead to larger natural wetland methane emissions than expected.

    This is because sulphur has a very specific effect in natural wetlands that reduces methane emissions. On the other hand, CO₂ boosts methane production by increasing growth in plants that make the food for methane-producing microbes.

    Put simply, sulphur provides the conditions for one set of bacteria to outmuscle another set of microbes that produce methane over limited available food in wetlands. Under the conditions of acid rain sulphur pollution during the past century, this was enough to reduce wetland methane emissions by up to 8%.

    If we lift this sulphur “lid” on wetland methane production and increase CO₂, we have a double whammy effect that pushes wetland emissions much higher.

    We first discovered this effect in the early 2000s with field experiments that simulated acid rain sulphur pollution in the peatlands of North America, Scotland and Scandinavia. Further similar experiments took place on methane-emitting rice.

    Now, more than 20 years on, we have better modelling approaches that allow us to use improved estimates of the future of sulphur pollution and CO₂ for a range of scenarios. This allows us to link these back to methane emissions.

    A water hyacinth meadow in the Pantanal, Brazil.
    Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    The effect is substantial and we estimate that these different factors, in combination, will mean that policy instruments like the global methane pledge, which addresses anthropogenic emissions of methane, may need to work much harder.

    More than 150 nations signed up to the global methane pledge at the UN climate summit, Cop26, in Glasgow. The pledge seeks to reduce emissions of anthropogenic methane by 30% on a 2020 baseline by 2030.

    If successful, the climate benefit can be substantial (methane is around 30-80 times more potent than CO₂ as a greenhouse gas) and fast-acting. This is because methane only lasts in the atmosphere for around 10 years, leading to a rapid 0.2°C climate dividend by 2050.



    Read more:
    Methane is pitched as a climate villain – could changing how we think about it make it a saviour?

    However, our findings show that between 8% and 15% of the allowable space for these human-made emissions is disappearing. This is due to the climate, CO₂ fertilisation, and sulphur unmasking effects. So, larger cuts are needed to achieve the same Paris climate targets.

    This isn’t the first time that the loss of an apparent broad climate-cooling action of atmospheric sulphur has been implicated in driving warming at a faster rate than anticipated.

    Drainage canal in the Kampar peat swamp forest, Sumatra, Indonesia.
    Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    In 2020, shipping pollution controls were introduced globally to reduce emissions of sulphur dioxide and fine particles that are harmful to human health. This reduction in atmospheric sulphur over the oceans has been implicated in larger warming effects than expected in what has come to be known as “termination shock”.

    Part of the warming effect of emitted CO₂ is effectively masked by cooling sulphate particles in the atmosphere. If the source of the sulphate is stopped, the remaining sulphur in the atmosphere drops out rapidly, unmasking the warming effect of the CO₂ which lasts over 100 years in the atmosphere. For natural wetlands the unmasking effect on methane emissions can take a little longer, more a “termination rebound” than shock – but it soon catches up.

    Intentional interventions?

    So what can be done? In another paper recently published in Global Change Biology, scientists propose direct intervention in natural wetland methane emissions through adding sulphate to these ecosystems, essentially – and this time deliberately – replacing the sulphate lid on the wetland methane source. This raises questions about what a natural wetland actually is.

    Acacia plantation on former peat swamp forest after harvest, Sumatra, Indonesia.
    Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    What are the environmental ethics of deliberately intervening in this manner for ecosystems that are only just recovering from past incidental pollution effects? In emitting methane, they are, ultimately, just performing their natural function and should be protected for the vast carbon stores they contain and the valuable biodiversity that makes these ecosystems their home.

    So, we need to go back to the framework set up by the global methane pledge which is prompting much innovation to reduce human emissions from fossil fuel industries, waste and agriculture. We need to work harder on emissions first and foremost while also considering technologies to actively remove methane from the atmosphere.

    Atmospheric methane removal technologies are a new and under-investigated approach to managing atmospheric methane and they could be as simple as growing more trees.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Vincent Gauci receives funding from or has received funding from the Natural Environment Research Council, The Royal Society, Spark Climate Solutions, Axa Research Fund, Defra.

    Lu Shen receives funding from National Natural Science Foundation of China.

    – ref. Reducing air pollution could increase methane emissions from wetlands – here’s what needs to be done – https://theconversation.com/reducing-air-pollution-could-increase-methane-emissions-from-wetlands-heres-what-needs-to-be-done-246723

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to Copernicus data reporting that January 2025 was the warmest on record globally

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on data published by Copernicus that shows January 2025 was the warmest on record globally.

    Dr Joel Hirschi, Associate Head of Marine Systems Modelling, UK’s National Oceanography Centre (NOC), said:

    “One should not infer too much out of one month temperature data, as temperature anomalies can vary a lot.  The global temperatures for 2024 and now early 2025 have been tracking the record temperatures we saw in 2023 (and 2024) quite closely.  The last few months of 2024 were slightly cooler than in 2023 and January 2025 is now just warmer than January 2024.

    “Despite La Niña conditions having developed in the tropical Pacific, global temperatures remain very high.  This pattern is similar to what we observed after the El Niño events of 2015/16 and 2019/20 when global temperatures remained close to record warm levels even after the onset of La Niña conditions.

    “Global sea surface temperatures are a bit lower than in 2024 and will likely remain lower as we move further into 2025.”

    Prof Richard Allan, Professor of Climate Science, University of Reading, said:

    “Human caused warming of the ocean is accelerating and this is dominating to an ever greater extent over the natural year to year fluctuations in climate.  Although the swing from moderate El Niño to a weak La Niña during 2024 had a small cooling effect on the surface of the ocean, heat continues to flood into the climate system as atmospheric greenhouse gases continue to rise and the reflective haze of aerosol particle pollution diminishes in some regions following clean air regulation.  Aside from a cooler than average equatorial band in the eastern Pacific due to the weak La Niña conditions, much of the rest of the global sea surface remains remarkably warm in early 2025, primarily a result of human-caused warming of climate.

    “Changing weather patterns from week to week can rapidly alter temperatures over continental regions, which warm up and cool down more quickly than the oceans.  Based upon the most up to date, state of the art Copernicus data, large areas of Europe, Canada and Siberia experienced less cold weather than is normal for January but parts of South America, Africa, Australia and Antarctica also experienced above average temperatures which contributed along with the balmy oceans to the unexpected record global temperatures at the beginning of 2025.  As industrial activity continues to spew greenhouse gases into the air, this growing heating effect is tipping the balance toward record warmth and worsening hot, dry and wet extremes.”

    Prof Bill McGuire, Emeritus Professor of Geophysical & Climate Hazards, UCL, said:

    “The fact that the latest robust Copernicus data reveals the January just gone was the hottest on record – despite an emerging La Nina, which typically has a cooling effect – is both astonishing and, frankly terrifying.  Having crashed through the 1.5C limit in 2024, the climate is showing no signs of wanting to dip under it again, reflected by the fact that this is the 18th of the last 19 months to see the global temperature rise since pre-industrial times top 1.5C.  On the basis of the Valencia floods and apocalyptic LA wildfires, I don’t think there can be any doubt that dangerous, all-pervasive, climate breakdown has arrived.  Yet emissions continue to rise, while fossil fuel corporations seek to expand operations. Grim doesn’t even begin to describe our prospects.”

    Dr Friederike Otto, Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Environmental Policy and co-lead of World Weather Attribution, Imperial College London, said: 

    “This January is the hottest on record because countries are still burning huge amounts of oil, gas and coal.

    “Sure, El Niño and La Niña add or take off a tiny bit of warming, but the reason we’ve broken another record is the continued burning of fossil fuels.

    “The LA wildfires were a stark reminder that we have already reached an incredibly dangerous level of warming.  We’ll see many more unprecedented extreme weather events in 2025.

    “If politicians really care about people’s lives and their children’s futures, transitioning away from fossil fuels would need to be top of their agenda, to make the world safer and fairer.

    “This data shows very clearly what hundreds of other high-quality analyses have shown in recent decades – more burning of fossil fuels leads to more emissions that lead to more warming.”

    Declared interests

    Dr Joel Hirschi: “No conflicts of interest.”

    Prof Richard Allan: “No conflicting interests.”

    Dr Friederike Otto: “No DOIs.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Cron sched pub test

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Access Campaign

    We set up the MSF Access Campaign in 1999 to push for access to, and the development of, life-saving and life-prolonging medicines, diagnostic tests and vaccines for people in our programmes and beyond.

    GO TO SITE

    CRASH

    Based in Paris, CRASH conducts and directs studies and analysis of MSF actions. They participate in internal training sessions and assessment missions in the field.

    GO TO SITE

    UREPH

    Based in Geneva, UREPH (or Research Unit) aims to improve the way MSF projects are implemented in the field and to participate in critical thinking on humanitarian and medical action.

    GO TO SITE

    ARHP

    Based in Barcelona, ARHP documents and reflects on the operational challenges and dilemmas faced by the MSF field teams.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Analysis

    Based in Brussels, MSF Analysis intends to stimulate reflection and debate on humanitarian topics organised around the themes of migration, refugees, aid access, health policy and the environment in which aid operates.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Supply

    This logistical and supply centre in Brussels provides storage of and delivers medical equipment, logistics and drugs for international purchases for MSF missions.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Logistique

    This supply and logistics centre in Bordeaux, France, provides warehousing and delivery of medical equipment, logistics and drugs for international purchases for MSF missions.

    GO TO SITE

    Amsterdam Procurement Unit

    This logistical centre in Amsterdam purchases, tests, and stores equipment including vehicles, communications material, power supplies, water-processing facilities and nutritional supplements.

    GO TO SITE

    Brazilian Medical Unit

    BRAMU specialises in neglected tropical diseases, such as dengue and Chagas, and other infectious diseases. This medical unit is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Medical Guidelines

    Our medical guidelines are based on scientific data collected from MSF’s experiences, the World Health Organization (WHO), other renowned international medical institutions, and medical and scientific journals.

    GO TO SITE

    Epicentre

    Providing epidemiological expertise to underpin our operations, conducting research and training to support our goal of providing medical aid in areas where people are affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or excluded from health care.

    GO TO SITE

    Evaluation Units

    Evaluation Units have been established in Vienna, Stockholm, and Paris, assessing the potential and limitations of medical humanitarian action, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of our medical humanitarian work.

    GO TO SITE

    LGBTQI+ Inclusion in Health Settings

    MSF works with LGBTQI+ populations in many settings over the last 25-30 years. LGBTQI+ people face healthcare disparities with limited access to care and higher disease rates than the general population.

    GO TO SITE

    LUXOR

    The Luxembourg Operational Research (LuxOR) unit coordinates field research projects and operational research training, and provides support for documentation activities and routine data collection.

    GO TO SITE

    Intersectional Benchmarking Unit

    The Intersectional Benchmarking Unit collects and analyses data about local labour markets in all locations where MSF employs people.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Academy for Healthcare

    To upskill and provide training to locally-hired MSF staff in several countries, MSF has created the MSF Academy for Healthcare.

    GO TO SITE

    Humanitarian Law

    This Guide explains the terms, concepts, and rules of humanitarian law in accessible and reader-friendly alphabetical entries.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Paediatric Days

    The MSF Paediatric Days is an event for paediatric field staff, policy makers and academia to exchange ideas, align efforts, inspire and share frontline research to advance urgent paediatric issues of direct concern for the humanitarian field.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Foundation

    The MSF Foundation aims to create a fertile arena for logistics and medical knowledge-sharing to meet the needs of MSF and the humanitarian sector as a whole.

    GO TO SITE

    DNDi

    A collaborative, patients’ needs-driven, non-profit drug research and development organisation that is developing new treatments for neglected diseases, founded in 2003 by seven organisations from around the world.

    GO TO SITE

    MSF Science Portal

    Our digital portal dedicated to sharing the latest medical evidence from our humanitarian activities around the globe.

    GO TO SITE

    Noma

    Noma is a preventable and treatable neglected disease, but 90 per cent of people will die within the first two weeks of infection if they do not receive treatment.

    GO TO SITE

    TIC

    The TIC is aiming to change how MSF works to better meet the evolving needs of our patients.

    GO TO SITE

    Telemedicine

    MSF’s telemedicine hub aims to overcome geographic barriers for equitable, accessible, and quality patient care.

    GO TO SITE

    Sweden Innovation Unit

    Launched in 2012, the MSF Sweden Innovation Unit deploys a human-centered approach for promoting a culture of innovation within MSF.

    GO TO SITE

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Super Bowl LIX Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Press Conference | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in coordination with the National Football League (NFL) and the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination (IPR) Center announce the latest results of seizures of counterfeit game-related merchandise and tickets at a press conference ahead of Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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    #cbp
    #security
    #superbowl
    #superbowllix

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8wOK9pFSKU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: EPA Phase 1 – Private Property Debris Removal PSA

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    The Environmental Protection Agency explains the measures they are taking to protect public health while conducting phase one of the PPDR (Private Property Debris Removal) mission. This is a crucial first step in the two phase operation to ensure properties are cleared of hazardous household material and common household items that must be removed properly. Once this phase is complete, the Army Corps of Engineers can begin removing ash from properties so homeowners can begin the process of rebuilding.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OLzL7ue_xM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Ne Zha 2’ smashes China box office records, becomes top-grossing film

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    “Ne Zha 2” shattered Chinese box office records on Thursday, becoming the highest-grossing domestic film ever just nine days after its release.

    A new poster marks “Ne Zha 2’s” record as the highest-grossing film in Chinese cinema history. [Image courtesy of Coloroom Pictures]

    The animated feature, directed by Yang Yu, better known as Jiaozi, earned 5.8 billion yuan ($796 million) by Feb. 6, surpassing the previous record holder “The Battle at Lake Changjin,” which earned 5.78 billion yuan, according to Maoyan Pro, a top box office tracking platform. “Ne Zha 2” achieved this milestone in eight days and five hours, setting over 70 box office records and becoming 2025’s top-grossing film worldwide.

    The sequel to 2019’s “Ne Zha,” which earned 5 billion yuan, continues to explore stories from the Ming dynasty novel “Investiture of the Gods.” It follows Ne Zha and Ao Bing, who return in lotus-formed bodies after a catastrophe. The plot involves threats from dragon kings and their armies, while a powerful god schemes to maintain control over immortals, demons and other beings.

    Wang Changtian, president of Enlight Media, described the film as a comedic and visually stunning animated feature crafted for the big screen. Developed over five years with over 4,000 Chinese animation professionals, it features new characters, battle sequences and 1,900 visual effects shots.

    “This film must go to the extreme,” director Jiaozi said in a video released by IMAX China. “We spared no effort right up to the last day when some scenes were finally completed. I believe the super-level scenes are worthy of being presented on IMAX screens.” IMAX China reported “Ne Zha 2” led the Spring Festival season with $36 million in IMAX format earnings.

    The film’s climactic battle features 200 million characters, a scale that presented unprecedented challenges for the production team. “The super-level shots are something nobody has ever seen before,” Jiaozi said. “We had to push every boundary to achieve what we envisioned.” He added that the sequel’s theme evolved during its five-year development to reflect societal changes while maintaining sincerity, which he said resonates most profoundly with audiences.

    A combination image shows congratulatory posters from filmmakers behind the top-grossing Chinese blockbusters — “The Battle at Lake Changjin,” “Wolf Warrior 2,” “Hi, Mom,” “The Wandering Earth,” “Full River Red” and “Detective Chinatown 3” — after “Ne Zha 2” surpassed their films. [Image provided to China.org.cn]

    Maoyan Pro analyst Lai Li stated that the exceptional performance of the film has energized Chinese cinema, the animation sector and creators. “Both the booming Spring Festival period and rising box office ceiling demonstrate the strong resilience and enormous growth potential of the Chinese film market,” he said.

    Rao Shuguang, president of the China Film Critics Association, called “Ne Zha 2” a significant milestone for the Chinese film industry. “The box office trajectory of ‘Ne Zha 2’ indeed exceeded prior estimates, primarily because it draws from Chinese mythology while incorporating more modern expressions, satisfying the emotional and psychological needs of contemporary audiences,” he told Chia.org.cn. “Its success primarily stems from compelling storytelling and sets new standards in animation, special effects, and audiovisual quality in Chinese cinema. Beyond narrative strength, it delivers imaginative storytelling and unique character development while conveying healthy, positive modern values.”

    Analysts project the film could reach 9.5 billion yuan ($1.3 billion), which would surpass the single-market record of $937 million set by “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” in North America. “Ne Zha 2” begins its global rollout on Feb. 13 through distributor CMC Pictures in Australia and New Zealand, followed by North America (U.S. and Canada) on Feb. 14. Other international territories will be handled by separate foreign or overseas Chinese distributors.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada invests in port infrastructure for Atlantic Canada

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Today, the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, the Honourable Anita Anand, announced an investment of up to $25 million for the Halifax Port Authority. This investment bolsters both environmental sustainability and supply chain efficiency, while actively supporting decarbonization efforts in the transportation sector and strengthening infrastructure resiliency.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Remarks by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance on new action to lower the cost of housing for Canadians

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    I’d like to start by talking about the good news on inflation. Inflation was two per cent in October. That means for the past 10 months inflation in Canada has been within the Bank of Canada’s target range.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Remarks by the Deputy Prime Minister announcing $1.2 billion for Toronto, enabling purchase of new Line 2 subway cars

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    I would like to start by pointing out that we have some good news regarding the economy. Now in October, inflation was at two per cent. For 10 months inflation was within the Bank of Canada’s target range. This is good news for all Canadians, for all the people who live in Toronto. Because of this, it is now possible for interest rates to come down.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Vicky Eatrides to the Public Interest Advocacy Centre

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    That is why we are taking action to empower Canadians when it comes to Internet and cellphone services. Because ensuring that Canadians have the ability to make informed choices goes a long way to helping ensure a healthy, vibrant and competitive communications system.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal Provincial Territorial Health Ministers’ Meeting

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    The annual meeting of Canada’s Federal, Provincial and Territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health was held in Halifax, Nova Scotia from January 29 to 30, 2025. Ministers discussed shared priorities within the health sector, including the health workforce, digital health and health data, mental health and substance use, public health, and pharmaceuticals.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada supports women-led organizations in southern Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, the Honourable Ruby Sahota, Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), along with the Honourable Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament for Ottawa–Vanier, announced a combined investment of nearly $4.2 million to support five women-led organizations to scale-up, modernize their ventures, and grow.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Biography – Marie-Josée Houle

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Ms. Houle was appointed as Canada’s first Federal Housing Advocate in 2022, marking a new chapter in a career defined by her work in the affordable housing and homelessness sector. Ms. Houle is an experienced leader who is recognized for her community activism, expertise in human rights, and extensive knowledge of the housing and homelessness system.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Drugs for Rare Diseases – Ontario Agreement

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, the Governments of Canada and the province of Ontario signed the National Strategy for Drugs for Rare Disease (DRD) agreement to invest over $535 million over three years to improve access to new drugs for rare diseases for Ontario residents and to support enhanced access to existing drugs, early diagnosis, and screening for rare diseases.

    MIL OSI Canada News –