NewzIntel.com

Category: Climate Change

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Northland News – Whangaroa Ngaiotonga Trust celebrates successes with public field day

    Source: Northland Regional Council

    Northland’s Whangaroa Ngaiotonga Trust – a finalist in an upcoming national award celebrating excellence in Māori farming and horticulture – is to hold a public field day to showcase the work it has been doing and share its journey and farming practices.
    The trust is one of just two finalists for the near century-old Ahuwhenua Trophy, which was inaugurated by Māori leader Sir Apirana Ngata and the Governor General at the time, Lord Bledisloe, in 1933. This year, the competition is for Sheep and Beef farmers.
    News of the trust’s success has been welcomed by the Northland Regional Council (NRC) which has worked closely with the trust across multiple environmental initiatives and is supporting its planned Thursday 03 April field day at Ngaiotonga Marae – 1561 Rawhiti Road, Whangaruru.
    The trust has been administering 1100 hectares of the Ngaiotonga A3 Block on behalf of 1284 beneficial owners. The coastal hill country stretches along North Whangaruru and consists of 360ha of effective farmland, 297ha of forestry, and 443ha of native forest and wetlands. (The trust also leases 40ha of a neighbouring block from the Department of Conservation, giving it a total of 400ha effective farming area.)
    The trust has worked actively with various departments within the NRC. To protect the health of the whenua and moana, the trust has been integral to eradicating sika deer in its area, helping mitigate flood risks, working to help enforce marine protection areas, and many more.
    Since regaining its farm in 2020, the trust has embarked on a major investment programme to fence off all of its native bush and wetland areas in partnership with NRC and other agencies to protect rare species including the critically endangered Matuku (Bittern) and Pāteke (Brown Teal duck).
    Council Chair Geoff Crawford says from rivers to the forest, to the coastline, to the farmlands the trust has always been proactive with working in the environmental area, collaborating with multiple council departments.
    “Council is thrilled that the trust’s work in the agricultural space is being recognised.”
    Trust Co Chair Huhana Lyndon says anyone is welcome to attend the public field day.
    “We have decided to host this day to celebrate this achievement and to give people an inside look at the work we’ve been carrying out.”
    The day is expected to have more than 250 attendees, including government ministers, local government, Northland farmers, local residents, whānau, hapū and iwi.
    A pōwhiri will begin at 9am and the farm tour will be with 4WD vehicles only.
    More information is available at: https://www.facebook.com/share/12GYMkCmdXW/
    Meanwhile, the trust’s finalist status for the Ahuwhenua Trophy is not its only success of late. It recently celebrated two wins at the Northland Ballance Farm Environment Awards in the Climate Change Resiliency and Agri Business Management categories.
    The winners of the Ahuwhenua Trophy will be announced on Friday June 06 in Papaioea, Palmerston North. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: GAZA – Oxfam: Humanitarian operations in Gaza severely hampered; famine risks increasing

    Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

    Restoring ceasefire deal vital as death toll hits 50,000 and continues to rise amid Israeli airstrikes, aid and power blockades, and renewed mass forced displacements.
    Oxfam and partners’ operations have been severely hampered as Israel’s renewed military assault and ground offensive on Gaza continues into its 7th day.
    Oxfam is calling for a renewed ceasefire and for Israel to lift its 23-day siege which is again blocking aid supplies and increasing famine risks for desperate civilians. Israel imposed a complete blockade 23 days ago and cut off electricity to Gaza a few days later.
    Israeli authorities are denying entry to trucks loaded with 63,000 metric tons of food for 1.1 million people. Operations have been forced to stop in vital areas such as food security and livelihood, as well as hygiene promotion, and essential repair work to damaged water infrastructure. 
    Bushra Khalidi, Oxfam’s OPT Policy Lead, said: “During the 42-day ceasefire families in Gaza could finally fall asleep knowing their loved ones would still be beside them when they woke up. Even though aid that entered was not enough-far from enough-it was something. The price of food stabilised. Supermarkets reopened. Bakeries began running again. Many people even went to their homes or what was left of it, and tried to repair and rebuild, however little they could.”
    Humanitarian agencies were able to mount operations that saw an average of more than 4,000 trucks per week entering Gaza despite Israeli authorities initially only partially opening the crossings and denying much of the urgently needed reconstruction materials. Oxfam reached almost 200,000 people with essential relief. 
    The Israeli government’s renewed bombardment of residential areas, including Jabalia and Khan Younis, has killed almost 700 people, including at least 200 children since March 18. Israeli authorities have issued new mass forced displacement orders, forcing around 120,000 Palestinians to flee. These orders are causing panic and chaos in the absence of anywhere safe in Gaza.
    Oxfam says humanitarian operations have been gravely hindered by the absence of guarantees of safety for aid workers moving around Gaza.
    Oxfam and its partners say their storage facilities containing food parcels are severely depleted. Israeli authorities have denied access to Oxfam shipments of six desalination units and seven trucks of water and sanitation infrastructure, up to 85% of which has been destroyed by Israel’s bombing campaign.
    “Oxfam, through its partners has been able to initiate emergency water trucking across the Gaza Strip, and are maintaining some other aid programs, such as multi-purpose cash transfers, despite the severe challenges that all humanitarian workers now face around lack of protection,” said Khalidi.
    “For the past 535 days, Israel has been systematically weaponising life-saving aid, inflicting collective punishment upon the population of Gaza. The denial of food, water, fuel and electricity is a war crime and a crime against humanity. Many within the international community are enabling this by their silence, inaction and complicity,” said Khalidi.
    Oxfam’s health partner in Gaza, Juzoor for Health and Social Development, had its center in Jabalia destroyed in an airstrike on March 18. It had been serving over 1,000 patients daily. Dr Umaiyeh Khammash, Director of Juzoor, said: “Every airstrike that hits, threatens the lives and safety of our dedicated staff and the patients they serve. This center is not just a building; it’s the heartbeat of healthcare for countless families here. Without it, many will lose access to crucial medical care.”
    In another attack yesterday (March 23), three sewage operators from the Abasan Al Kabira municipality working with Oxfam’s partner Coastal Municipalities Water Utility (CMWU) were killed while performing their duties when their clearly- marked truck was destroyed in an attack by Israeli military.
    A renewed ceasefire must be permanent and accompanied by the safe return of Israeli hostages and illegally detained Palestinian prisoners. Israel must provide unfettered aid at scale. Oxfam said governments must stop transferring arms, while the international community must enforce international law. We reiterate our call for justice and accountability for all those affected.  
    Notes:
    • Oxfam works with 19 partner organizations in the Gaza Strip. Between 20 January and 28 February 2025, Oxfam reached a total of 181,622 people across the Gaza Strip with water and sanitation services, including repair and reconstruction, protection, multipurpose cash assistance, distribution of food parcels and essential agricultural inputs for recovery, protection, health care and case management.
    • Since Israel’s breach of the ceasefire and airstrikes on Gaza on 18 March, Oxfam staff movements have been severely restricted in the absence of a notification system. This week, Oxfam’s progammes in Gaza, including those of many partners, have been severely impacted. Oxfam is still able to undertake some water trucking and multipurpose cash distribution, but under high-risk conditions
    • The fatality rate in Gaza is based on the Palestinian Ministry of Health reporting on 24 March (11AM) and the fatality rate of children is reported by UNICEF on 21 March
    • Since 2 March, Israeli authorities have re-imposed a total siege, blockading the entire Gaza Strip. It is banning the entry of any humanitarian basic supplies, including water, food, medical supplies and fuel, as well as banning any commercial supplies to enter Gaza.
    • On 10 March, Israeli authorities cut off electricity supply to the only operational large-scale desalination plant for drinking water. With the exception of that last remaining, intermittent electricity feed to the desalination plant, Gaza has been under an electricity blackout since 11 October 2023.
    • The current siege is one week longer than in 2023, when the Israeli authorities imposed a total siege that lasted from 7-21 October 2023.
    • According to the IPC Special Snapshot – September 2024 – April 2025, the risk of Famine between November 2024 and April 2025 persists as long as conflict continues, and humanitarian access is restricted
    • According to the Palestinian Water Authority, 85% of the water and sanitation infrastructure in Gaza is destroyed as a result of Israel’s bombing campaign.
    • The UN reported that during the 42-day ceasefire period, a total of 4,000 trucks per week travelled into Gaza, 600,000 people received polio vaccinations and maternity care was provided for 5,000 births.
    • Satellite images of the Gaza displacement orders, on 18 March, covers an area amounting to 37% of Gaza’s land and double the size of the original buffer zone. This has been reported by Sky News and the figures have been confirmed by the UN. The UN reported on 21 March that more than 120,000 people had fled since the evacuation orders were issued on 18 March.
    • Denial of Aid – breaches Customary IHL Rule 55; 1977 Additional Protocol II Arts 69-71 and 81; Fourth Geneva Convention 1949, Arts 23,55-63 and 108-111; Rome Statute ICC, Crime Against Humanity of Extermination, Art 7 1(b) “Extermination” includes the intentional infliction of conditions of life, inter alia the deprivation of access to food and medicine, calculated to bring about the destruction of part of a population. OCHA / WFP food insecurity data,  released every tuesday (18 Mar 2025): Most recent OCHA sitrep (18 Mar 2025):
    • Between 10 and 20 per cent of 4,500 surveyed pregnant and breastfeeding women are malnourished, a recent analysis by the Nutrition Cluster reveals.
    • To cope with shortages, the Food Security Sector (FSS) partners are drastically reducing food assistance to families, suspending flour distribution to families to prioritize supplies for bakeries, pausing the distribution of fresh produce, and scaling down hot meal preparations at some community kitchens.
    • FSS warns that over one million people risk being left without food parcels in March, and at least 80 of the 170 community kitchens may be forced to close in one to two weeks, if supplies, including cooking fuel, are not allowed into Gaza. The FSS estimates that more than 50,000 metric tons (MT) of food supplies are required monthly to assist everyone with full rations, in addition to 9,700 MT of flour needed monthly to keep the subsidized bakeries running.
    • Since the ceasefire took effect on 19 January, and as of 15 March, 4,646 children have enrolled in malnutrition treatment programmes, 672 of whom were diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition.
    • The Nutrition Cluster notes a decrease in monthly enrolments in such programmes from about 5,000 in the month prior to the ceasefire to a monthly average of 2,500 in Phase One of the ceasefire.
    • Nutrition Cluster partners observed a rising number of pregnant and breastfeeding women becoming malnourished – between 10 and 20 per cent,
    • 11 March inter-agency mission to eastern Khan Younis found that agricultural facilities had been largely destroyed, including 1,400 dunums of open land,150 greenhouses, 90 poultry farms, and dozens of livestock and dairy cattle farms. The remaining cultivated land did not exceed 70-80 dunums.
    • Market survey carried out by WFP covering key developments during the first half of March (14th Mar published):
    • WFP currently has sufficient food stocks to support active kitchens and bakeries for up to one month, as well as ready-to-eat food parcels to support 550,000 people for two weeks.
    • WFP has approximately 63,000 metric tons of food destined for Gaza, stored or in transit in the region. This is equivalent to two to three months of distributions for 1.1 million people, pending authorization to enter Gaza.
    • Traders have begun withholding goods due to uncertainty over when new supplies will arrive.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Night closures planned for State Highway 1 Johnsonville for resurfacing works

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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    People travelling on State Highway 1 near Johnsonville need to prepare for nighttime closures next week for resurfacing works.

    Contractors will be resurfacing the highway’s southbound lanes near Johnsonville.

    Weather permitting, night works are planned for the nights of Tuesday 1 April, and Wednesday 2 April, between 9pm and 4:30am. The work has been deliberately timed to happen at night when traffic volumes are lower to minimise disruption to the public.

    Local road detours will be available via Johnsonville. Drivers must follow the detour using Johnsonville southbound off-ramp and Johnsonville southbound on-ramp.

    Download larger map [PNG, 792 KB]

    Because the detour is on local roads with a lower speed limit, drivers can expect longer travel times and should allow extra time for their journeys.

    These works are weather-dependent and may be rescheduled if bad weather occurs.

    More information

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: When a 1-in-100 year flood washed through the Coorong, it made the vital microbiome of this lagoon healthier

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Keneally, Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in Environmental Microbiology, University of Adelaide

    Darcy Whittaker, CC BY

    You might know South Australia’s iconic Coorong from the famous Australian children’s book, Storm Boy, set around this coastal lagoon.

    This internationally important wetland is sacred to the Ngarrindjeri people and a haven for migratory birds. The lagoon is the final stop for the Murray River’s waters before they reach the sea. Tens of thousands of migratory waterbirds visit annually. Pelicans, plovers, terns and ibises nest, while orange-bellied parrots visit and Murray Cod swim. But there are other important inhabitants – trillions of microscopic organisms.

    You might not give much thought to the sedimentary microbes of a lagoon. But these tiny microbes in the mud are vital to river ecosystems, quietly cycling nutrients and supporting the food web. Healthy microbes make for a healthy Coorong – and this unassuming lagoon is a key indicator for the health of the entire Murray-Darling Basin.

    For decades, the Coorong has been in poor health. Low water flows have concentrated salt and an excess of nutrients. But in 2022, torrential rains on the east coast turned into a once-in-a-century flood, which swept down the Murray into the Coorong.

    In our new research, we took the pulse of the Coorong’s microbiome after this huge flood and found the surging fresh water corrected microbial imbalances. The numbers of methane producing microbes fell while beneficial nutrient-eating bacteria grew. Populations of plants, animals and invertebrates boomed.

    We can’t just wait for irregular floods – we have to find ways to ensure enough water is left in the river to cleanse the Coorong naturally.

    Under a scanning electron micrograph, the mixed community of microbes in water is visible. This image shows a seawater sample.
    Sophie Leterme/Flinders University, CC BY

    Rivers have microbiomes, just like us

    Our gut microbes can change after a heavy meal or in response to dietary changes.

    In humans, a sudden shift in diet can encourage either helpful or harmful microbes.

    In the same way, aquatic microbes respond to changes in salinity and freshwater flows. Depending on what changes are happening, some species boom and others bust.

    As water gets saltier in brackish lagoons, communities of microbes have to adapt or die. High salinity often favours microbes with anaerobic metabolisms, meaning they don’t need oxygen. But these tiny lifeforms often produce the highly potent greenhouse gas methane. The microbes in wetlands are a large natural source of the gas.

    While we know pulses of freshwater are vital for river health, they don’t happen often enough. The waters of the Murray-Darling Basin support most of Australia’s irrigated farming. Negotiations over how to ensure adequate environmental flows have been fraught – and long-running. Water buybacks have improved matters somewhat, but researchers have found the river basin’s ecosystems are not in good condition.

    Wetlands such as the Coorong are a natural source of methane. The saltier the water gets, the more environmentally harmful microbes flourish – potentially producing more methane.
    Vincent_Nguyen

    The Coorong is out of balance

    A century ago, regular pulses of fresh water from the Murray flushed nutrients and sediment out of the Coorong, helping maintain habitat for fish, waterbirds and the plants and invertebrates they eat. While other catchments discharge into the Coorong, the Murray is by far the major water source.

    Over the next decades, growth in water use for farming meant less water in the river. In the 1930s, barrages were built near the river’s mouth to control nearby lake levels and prevent high salinity moving upstream in the face of reduced river flows.

    Major droughts have added further stress. Under these low-flow conditions, salt and nutrients get more and more concentrated, reaching extreme levels due to South Australia’s high rate of evaporation.

    In response, microbial communities can trigger harmful algae blooms or create low-oxygen “dead zones”, suffocating river life.

    The big flush of 2022

    In 2022, torrential rain fell in many parts of eastern Australia. Rainfall on the inland side of the Great Dividing Range filled rivers in the Murray-Darling Basin. That year became the largest flood since 1956.

    We set about recording the changes. As the salinity fell in ultra-salty areas, local microbial communities in the sediment were reshuffled.

    The numbers of methane-producing microbes fell sharply. This means the floods would have temporarily reduced the Coorong’s greenhouse footprint.

    Christopher Keneally sampling for microbes in the Coorong in 2022.
    Tyler Dornan, CC BY

    When we talk about harmful bacteria, we’re referring to microbes that emit greenhouse gases such as methane, drive the accumulation of toxic sulfide (such as Desulfobacteraceae), or cause algae blooms (Cyanobacteria) that can sicken people, fish and wildlife.

    During the flood, beneficial microbes from groups such as Halanaerobiaceae and Beggiatoaceae grew rapidly, consuming nutrients such as nitrogen, which is extremely high in the Coorong. This is very useful to prevent algae blooms. Beggiatoaceae bacteria also remove toxic sulfide compounds.

    The floods also let plants and invertebrates bounce back, flushed out salt and supported a healthier food web.

    On balance, we found the 2022 flood was positive for the Coorong. It’s as if the Coorong switched packets of chips for carrot sticks – the flood pulse reduced harmful bacteria and encouraged beneficial ones.

    While the variety of microbes shrank in some areas, those remaining performed key functions helping keep the ecosystem in balance.

    From 2022 to 2023, consistent high flows let native fish and aquatic plants bounce back, in turn improving feeding grounds for birds and allowing black swans to thrive.

    A group of black swans cruise the Coorong’s waters.
    Darcy Whittaker, CC BY

    Floods aren’t enough

    When enough water is allowed to flow down the Murray to the Coorong, ecosystems get healthier.

    But the Coorong has been in poor health for decades. It can’t just rely on rare flood events.

    Next year, policymakers will review the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, which sets the rules for sharing water in Australia’s largest and most economically important river system.

    Balancing our needs with those of other species is tricky. But if we neglect the environment, we risk more degradation and biodiversity loss in the Coorong.

    As the climate changes and rising water demands squeeze the basin, decision-makers must keep the water flowing for wildlife.

    Christopher Keneally receives funding from the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. His research is affiliated with The University of Adelaide and the Goyder Institute for Water Research. Chris is also a committee member and former president of the Biology Society of South Australia, and a member of the Australian Freshwater Sciences Society.

    Matt Gibbs receives funding from the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

    Sophie Leterme receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC). Her research is affiliated with Flinders University, with the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research & Innovation, and with the Goyder Institute for Water Research.

    Justin Brookes does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. When a 1-in-100 year flood washed through the Coorong, it made the vital microbiome of this lagoon healthier – https://theconversation.com/when-a-1-in-100-year-flood-washed-through-the-coorong-it-made-the-vital-microbiome-of-this-lagoon-healthier-252633

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Warnock Reintroduce Bill Supporting Forest Landowners Following Natural Disasters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) reintroduced legislation to help America’s landowners recover from the loss of timber after natural disasters. The Disaster Reforestation Act amends and makes improvements to the tax code to allow forest owners to deduct the value of their timber prior to the loss caused by a natural disaster.
    “Louisianans know too well the importance of natural disaster relief,” said Dr. Cassidy. “When their lives and communities are torn apart by storms, they need a tax fix like this.”
    “Our rural communities need all the help they can get after a disaster like Hurricane Helene devastates farmland and forests. The bipartisan Disaster Reforestation Act will help lessen the burden on forest owners during a recovery process following a natural disaster,” said Senator Warnock. “The forestry industry is central to Georgia’s economy and ecology, and I’m happy to work alongside Senator Cassidy in this.”
    “Landowners currently have no tools to recover after a disaster destroys their forests,” said Scott Jones CEO of the Forest Landowners Association. “The Disaster Reforestation Act is not a handout or a subsidy—it simply corrects the casualty loss deduction so landowners can claim the true value of their damaged timber. This is a necessary step to ensure family forestry businesses can survive future disasters and keep our working forests intact.”
    “Natural disasters create havoc on forest resources but more importantly on the lives of people who manage them. Often when disasters hit it is financially overwhelming for a landowner to get back on their feet and begin the recovery process. The Disaster Reforestation Act offers a helping hand to the landowner to get their land back into production as quickly as possible. The Louisiana Forestry Association supports this effort on behalf of all forest landowners throughout Louisiana and the nation,” said C.A. “Buck” Vandersteen, Louisiana Forestry Association. 
    The Disaster Reforestation Act is supported by: Alabama Forestry Association, American Forest Foundation, Arkansas Forestry Association, Association of Consulting Foresters, California Forestry Association, Florida Forestry Association, Forest Resources Association, Forestry Association of South Carolina, Georgia Forestry Association, Hardwood Federation, Iowa Coalition For Trees and Forests, Iowa Woodland Owners, Kentucky Forest Industries Association, Louisiana Forestry Association, Massachusetts Forest Alliance, Mississippi Forestry Association, National Alliance of Forest Owners, National Association of State Foresters, National Woodlands Association, North Carolina Forestry Association, Ohio Forestry Association, Oklahoma Forestry Association, Pennsylvania Forestry Association, Society of American Foresters, Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association, Southern Group of State Foresters, Tennessee Forestry Association, Texas Forestry Association, The Carbon Fund, Trees Forever, Virginia Forestry Association, Washington Farm Forestry Association, Washington Forest Protection Association, and Wildlife Mississippi.
    “The introduction of the Disaster Reforestation Act by Senator Cassidy and Senator Warnock is a crucial step in ensuring that private forest landowners have the resources needed to recover and reforest after catastrophic events. Timber is a long-term investment, and without the certainty this legislation provides—especially as natural disasters become more frequent—the health of our forests and the stability of our wood products sector are at risk. This bipartisan bill offers a much-needed solution, recognizing the essential role private forests play in strengthening rural economies, sustaining wildlife habitats, improving air quality, and securing a reliable domestic supply of timber and wood products. We urge Congress to act swiftly on this legislation to protect these critical resources for future generations,” said Scott Jones, CEO, Forest Landowners Association.
    “All of agriculture is risky and subject to Mother Nature. Forestry and timber production are no exception. Senator Cassidy and Louisiana Farm Bureau recognize that. Our members are grateful that he and Senator Warnock are once again imploring Congress to recognize it too. The Disaster Reforestation Act would give forest landowners some sign of hope when a disaster strikes. It is only right to provide these hardworking folks some relief when they’ve been knocked down. This bill would go a long way in doing just that,” said Richard Fontenot, President, Louisiana Farm Bureau.
    Louisiana timberland play a critical role in the state’s economy, communities, and environment. There are 15 million acres of private forest in Louisiana producing enough oxygen for 148 million residents to breathe every year and sequester the emissions of 2.5 million cars annually driven on Louisiana’s roads. According to the Forest Landowners Association, they provide an impact of $13 billion on the Louisiana economy. 48,000 Louisiana jobs are supported by forestry providing $1 billion in salaries and wages and $328 million in state taxes.  
    Background
    Previous disaster relief policies and programs provide much-needed relief for agriculture crops and farmers, however, they do not provide any economic relief for farmers whose timber crops were destroyed. The Disaster Reforestation Act allows landowners to deduct the full value of timber destroyed during disaster events in the same way the tax code treats other crops.
    In the case of the loss of uncut timber from fire, storm, other casualty, or theft, the basis used for determining the amount of the deduction may not be less than the excess of (1) the appraised value of the uncut timber determined immediately before the loss was sustained, over (2) the salvage value of the timber.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reducing debt financing barriers for Community Housing Providers

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New Crown lending facilities and a loan guarantee scheme will support the growth of the Community Housing Provider (CHP) sector and put CHPs on a more level playing field with Kāinga Ora, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. 

    “This Government believes in social housing. We are working hard to deliver better housing to those who need support, including by assisting the CHP sector to expand and grow.

    “Currently, CHPs account for 16 percent of our social homes – around 13,000 houses. The government has funded an additional 1,500 social houses in Budget 2024, 1,000 of which are to be delivered by CHPs from June this year.

    “Our ambition for the social housing system is for a level playing field between CHPs and Kāinga Ora. The underlying ownership of a house – whether public or private – should be irrelevant. What matters is the provision of warm, dry homes to those who need them, along with social support if required.

    “We call this competitive neutrality. In some areas and for some people, CHPs are the answer. In other areas, Kāinga Ora will be the way to go.

    “While KO’s borrowing is done through the Crown, CHPs currently access debt from the private market at higher rates. We have further work to do to better align KO and CHP access to, and costs of, finance.

     “The Government is moving to level the playing field between Kāinga Ora and CHPs by establishing Crown lending facilities of up to $150 million for the Community Housing Funding Agency (CHFA). CHFA was launched by Community Finance in 2024 and pools financing requirements for CHPs, unlocking lower cost finance at scale to support the delivery of CHP housing.  

    “The Government is working closely with CHFA and will provide them an interim lending facility in early April to support their immediate financing needs, with the final liquidity facility up and running later this year. 

    “This will lay the foundation for CHFA to borrow hundreds of millions or billions of dollars, supporting not just the delivery of social housing, but also CHPs’ broader affordable housing portfolios.  

    “We are also exploring the appetite of banks to participate in a loan guarantee scheme for CHPs, aligned to the principles of previous initiatives like the Business Finance Guarantee Scheme, and the North Island Weather Events Loan Guarantee Scheme.  

    “A loan guarantee scheme is where the Government takes on some proportion of the loan’s default risk, meaning lenders won’t need to hold as much capital to cover the debt and can use the capital elsewhere. This will likely enable lenders to pass on reduced interest rates to borrowers.  

    “I expect that this scheme will encourage greater participation by banks in the sector and enable them to pass on meaningfully reduced interest rates and other lending accommodations to CHPs. 

    “If banks see merit in a CHP loan guarantee scheme, the Minister of Finance will finalise its design and work towards a go-live date later this year. 

    “Together, these two initiatives will increase the scale at which CHPs can access lower cost debt financing, enabling them to grow.  

    “This is a really exciting day for the CHP sector in New Zealand. The changes are complex but important and will do a lot to allow the CHP sector to grow and deliver more warm dry houses for people in need.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 65 Status Reports

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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  • MIL-OSI: TransAlta Corporation Enters into Automatic Share Purchase Plan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransAlta Corporation (“TransAlta” or the “Company”) (TSX: TA) (NYSE: TAC) announced today that it has entered into an automatic share purchase plan (“ASPP”) with its broker in order to facilitate repurchases of TransAlta’s common shares (“Common Shares”) under the Company’s previously announced normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”).

    The Company previously announced that it had received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) to purchase up to 14,000,000 of its Common Shares during the 12-month period that commenced May 31, 2024, and terminates May 30, 2025. Purchases under the NCIB may be made through open market transactions on the TSX and any alternative Canadian trading systems on which the Common Shares are traded, based on the prevailing market price. Since the beginning of the current NCIB on May 31, 2024, the Company has purchased 6,102,300 at a weighted average price per Common Share of $11.89 for an aggregate value of approximately $72.5 million.

    The Company believes that the prevailing price for the Common Shares may not, from time to time, reflect the underlying value of the Common Shares and that the purchase of Common Shares pursuant to the NCIB may be an attractive and appropriate use of available funds relative to other alternatives. The ASPP will facilitate purchases under the NCIB as it will allow for purchases of Common Shares to be made at times when the Company would ordinarily not be permitted to make purchases, whether due to regulatory restriction or customary self-imposed blackout periods. TransAlta is committed to enhancing shareholder returns through appropriate capital allocation such as a share buyback and its quarterly dividend, which are underpinned by the Company’s strong free cash flow position.

    Under the ASPP, the Company’s broker may purchase Common Shares from the effective date of the ASPP until the end of the NCIB. The ASPP will facilitate purchases of Common Shares under the NCIB by authorizing the Company’s broker to make purchases at its sole discretion based on parameters set by the Company in accordance with TSX rules, applicable law and the terms of the ASPP. Outside of periods that the Company is restricted from purchasing Common Shares pursuant to insider trading rules or its own internal trading blackout policies, Common Shares may also be purchased based on management’s discretion, in compliance with TSX rules and applicable law.

    All purchases of Common Shares made under the ASPP will be included in determining the number of Common Shares purchased under the NCIB. Any Common Shares purchased by the Company pursuant to the NCIB will be cancelled. The Company is not currently in possession of any material undisclosed information in relation to the Company.  The ASPP has been pre-cleared by the TSX and will be effective on April 1, 2025.   

    The ASPP will terminate on the earliest of the date on which: (a) the maximum purchase limits under the ASPP are reached; (b) May 8, 2025; or (c) the Company terminates the ASPP in accordance with its terms.

    About TransAlta Corporation:

    TransAlta owns, operates and develops a diverse fleet of electrical power generation assets in Canada, the United States and Australia with a focus on long-term shareholder value. TransAlta provides municipalities, medium and large industries, businesses and utility customers with affordable, energy efficient and reliable power. Today, TransAlta is one of Canada’s largest producers of wind power and Alberta’s largest producer of thermal generation and hydro-electric power. For over 113 years, TransAlta has been a responsible operator and a proud member of the communities where we operate and where our employees work and live. TransAlta aligns its corporate goals with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Future-Fit Business Benchmark, which also defines sustainable goals for businesses. Our reporting on climate change management has been guided by the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures Standard and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. TransAlta has achieved a 66 per cent reduction in GHG emissions or 21.3 million tonnes CO2e since 2015 and received an upgraded MSCI ESG rating of AA.

    For more information about TransAlta, visit its website at transalta.com.

    Note: All financial figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

    For more information:

    Investor Inquiries: Media Inquiries:
    Phone: 1-800-387-3598 in Canada and U.S. Phone: 1-855-255-9184
    Email: investor_relations@transalta.com Email: ta_media_relations@transalta.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: George rallies world leaders to accelerate efforts to achieve SDGs

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on the international community to urgently accelerate efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    “We are less than five years away from our deadline to achieving the SDGs and the end of this critical decade for climate action. Yet, we are still far from our goals and action targets,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

    The United Nations describes the SDGs as the “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all” by addressing global challenges related to poverty, inequality and climate change, among others, with the year 2030 set as the target to meet the goals.

    Addressing the Group of Twenty (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) virtually, the Minister said poverty levels are worsening, and that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions reached record highs last year. 

    “This calls for an urgent acceleration of our efforts. Our commitment to achieve these goals must not waver. That is why South Africa has placed solidarity, equality and sustainability at the centre of our G20 Presidency.

    “As the international community, together, we committed ourselves to the ambitious agenda to end poverty and hunger, to protect our planet, to achieve universal education and health coverage, and to promote decent work and sustainable economic growth by adopting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals,” George said.

    The Minister said South Africa is striving to champion and fast-track action in the pursuit of a just transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient and inclusive society, and lead by example. 

    Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa proclaimed the Climate Change Act, laying the ground for ambitious climate action domestically. 

    Earlier this month, the Minister informed the public that the President proclaimed the Climate Change Act, 2024, with the proclamation notice published in the Government Gazette on 17 March 2025, which was the commencement date of the Act.

    “The Act is intended to enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development; and to provide for matters connected therewith,” the Minister said at the time.

    The Act lays the foundation for a green economy that is resilient, inclusive and future-focused. It creates a clear framework for climate action.

    In his address on Tuesday, the Minister said South Africa’s rollout of renewable energy has materially accelerated over the past few years, driving the decarbonisation of South Africa’s energy system, while the implementation of Expanded Producer Responsibility schemes and circular economy initiatives is improving waste management.

    “The task remains immense. Poverty, unemployment, hunger, inequality, environmental degradation and climate change are but a few of the complex and interconnected issues facing the world today. 

    “…We thus reiterate the critical role of multilateralism in addressing these complexities, and South Africa’s very strong support for multilateralism,” the Minister explained.

    Priorities 

    George said the five interrelated priorities of the Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group provide an opportunity to address multiple complexities within this context, while advancing the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

    The priorities include Biodiversity and Conservation, Land Degradation, Desertification and Drought, Chemicals and Waste Management, Climate Change and Air Quality, as well as Oceans and Coasts.

    “These priorities of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group for this year are viewed as critical enablers to address poverty, create employment and meet other sustainable development goals, thereby contributing towards the global effort to respond to the triple complexities of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss, in line with the overall theme of South Africa’s G20 Presidency of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability,” the Minister said.

    As a primary outcome of the G20 Presidency this year, South Africa will explore ways that the G20 can leverage opportunities to increase the scale and flows of climate finance, critical to enabling the Just Transition, mitigation and adaptation efforts, while ensuring that the required investments reach the most vulnerable of society. 

    “It is paramount for developing economy countries to be actively supported in their efforts to achieve ‘whole of society and whole of economy’ just transitions to sustainable development on the ground, through scaled access to low-cost finance, technology and skills.

    “It is also increasingly recognised that many people across the globe are exposed to unhealthy and often deadly levels of air pollution, and that the impacts of air pollution extend beyond health – affecting climate, biodiversity, ecosystems and economic development. 

    “This is also a key issue that needs to be addressed, and to which this Working Group can contribute. There are very extensive synergies between decarbonisation and the improvement of air quality,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Ukraine, Pact for the Future, Climate & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Ukraine
    Ukraine/Security Council
    Pact for the Future
    Climate
    Renewables
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Sudan
    South Sudan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Haiti
    Biological Weapons Convention
    Clarification
    Financial Contributions

    UKRAINEThe Secretary-General welcomes the discussions and reported commitments reached in Saudi Arabia by the United States, the Russian Federation and Ukraine.Reaching an agreement on freedom of navigation in the Black Sea to ensure the protection of civilian vessels and port infrastructure, will be a crucial contribution to the global food security and supply chains, reflecting the importance of trade routes from both Ukraine and the Russian Federation to global markets.The United Nations has been working consistently, especially following the letters the Secretary-General sent to Presidents Zelenskyy, Putin and Erdogan on 7 February 2024 putting forward a proposal for the safe and free navigation in the Black Sea.The United Nations also remains closely engaged in the continued implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Russian Federation on facilitating access of Russian food and fertilizers to global markets to address global food security.The Secretary-General’s good offices remain available to support all efforts towards peace.The Secretary-General reiterates his hope that such efforts will pave the way for a durable ceasefire and contribute to achieving a just, comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine, in line with the UN Charter, international law and relevant UN resolutions and in full respect of Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.That statement is now being shared with you electronically.
    UKRAINE/SECURITY COUNCILFurther on Ukraine: Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Joyce Msuya briefed Security Council members this morning and said that since 1 March, not a day has passed without an attack harming civilians in that country. She said we are particularly appalled by the strikes countrywide on 7 March that killed 21 civilians and injured many more, making it one of the deadliest days this year.Across Ukraine, Ms. Msuya said, almost 13 million people need humanitarian assistance. More than 10 million Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes, including 3.7 million of them who are internally displaced. This displacement is disproportionately affecting women and girls, heightening their exposure to gender-based violence and hindering their access to support services, she told the members of the Security Council. She told that recent funding cuts have led to a reprioritization of Ukraine response efforts that will be announced in the coming weeks. Continued financial support will be essential to maintain our operations there.
    UKRAINE/HUMANITARIANFurther on Ukraine from the ground, our colleagues in Ukraine tell us that today, an inter-agency convoy delivered vital aid to one of the most affected communities in the Donetsk region. This is the fourth convoy to front-lines communities in the region this year.Humanitarians brought in six metric tonnes of medical, hygiene and other critical supplies, including those for older people, to help some 1,500 residents remaining in the community of Kostiantynivka.Local residents there face daily shelling. Homes and critical civilian infrastructure have been damaged and electricity, water and the gas supply have been disrupted.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=26+March+2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM1F1O1Svuo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025: Reviving Mature Fields Key to Congo’s Hydrocarbon Future

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), March 26, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Industry leaders at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025 emphasized that revitalizing the Republic of Congo’s mature oil fields is key to sustaining production and attracting new investment during the Entering The Next Era Of Oil And Gas Production In Congo session.

    The country aims to increase crude production to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) and is seeking new investment across its diverse portfolio of oil and gas assets.

    “Congo offers opportunities in both oil and gas. We are actively developing offshore and shallow-water fields in partnership with SNPC and Bomoko Oil & Gas,” stated Yachtze Luchin, President & CEO of Unite Oil & Gas – a Silver Sponsor of CEIF 2025. He added that, “Through strategic partnerships, technological innovation and a comprehensive approach, we can maximize efficiency of mature assets.”

    Echoing Luchin’s comments, Miguel Baptista, Managing Director for Central, East & Southern Africa at SLB, said, “Mature fields remain a critical component of Congo’s hydrocarbon industry. The vast majority of production comes from these fields, and maintaining output requires a collaborative perspective, knowledge-sharing, digital tools to harness data and advanced technology deployment.”

    Service providers have a key role to play in supporting the revitalization of Congo’s mature fields. According to James Richardson, Weatherford’s Europe, Africa & Caspian Sales Director, “We need to collaborate with other service providers to optimize recovery and extend field life.”  

    Meanwhile, Massimiliano Mignacca, Managing Director of Ammat Global Resources – a Platinum Sponsor of CEIF 2025 -, underscored the necessity of modernizing operations. “Many offshore fields have been in production since the late 1970s and 1980s. To sustain efficiency, we need to remove outdated infrastructure and introduce new technology while ensuring minimal environmental impact.”

    The session also highlighted Congo’s emergence as a gas exporter and the need for continued investment in onshore projects. “Projects like Wing Wah’s onshore development are providing a significant boost to hydrocarbon expansion,” Baptista noted. “The key is to ensure that production is maintained through a holistic strategy.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks to the Virtual High-Level Segment of the 16th Petersberg Climate Dialogue [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations – English

    hank you for this opportunity — and for your focus today on collective climate action and acceleration of implementation. 

    This could not be more timely. 

    There is much uncertainty and instability in our world.

    But today we meet in the wake of some good news.

    Just this morning, the International Renewable Energy Agency officially confirmed that 2024 was a record year for renewables additions to global power capacity. 

    Renewables represented more than 92 per cent of all new electricity generation capacity installed last year.
     
    The amount of renewables added represents more than the total electricity capacity of Brazil and Japan combined.

    Europe’s capacity grew by 9 per cent – with Germany contributing more than one-quarter of that growth. Africa’s capacity grew by almost 7 per cent.

    All of this is another reminder of a 21st century truth:

    Renewables are renewing economies. 

    They are powering growth, creating jobs, lowering energy bills, and cleaning our air. 
     
    And every day, they become an even smarter investment. 

    Since 2010, the average cost of wind power has plunged 60%.  Solar is 90% cheaper. 

    In 2023, clean energy sectors accounted for five per cent of economic growth in India and six in the US. It accounted for a fifth of China’s GDP growth, and a third of the EU’s.

    The economic case for – and opportunities of – climate action have become ever clearer – particularly for those who choose to lead. 

    And leadership is what we need – as today’s IRENA report shows:

    To accelerate the shift to renewables…

    And to correct the imbalances in the transition, which is still starving developing countries – outside China – of the investment needed to fully embrace clean energy. 

    Excellencies, dear friends,

    As the title of this session puts it so well: we are indeed at a turning point to the future.

    In the ten years since Paris, we have seen other important progress.

    Ninety percent of global emissions are now covered by net-zero targets. 

    A decade ago, the planet was on course for a global temperature rise of over four degrees Celsius.

    Today, countries’ national climate plans – or NDCs – if fully delivered – will take us closer to a 2.6-degree rise.

    At the same time, climate challenges are piling up.  

    It seems records are shattered at every turn — the hottest day of the hottest month of the hottest year of the hottest decade ever. 

    All of this is hitting the vulnerable hardest, and everyday people in their pockets – with higher living costs, higher insurance premiums, and higher food prices.

    Just last week, the World Meteorological Organization confirmed that 2024 was another alarming year:

    Almost every climate indicator reached new and increasingly dangerous heights – inflaming displacement and food insecurity and inflicting huge economic losses.

    And, for the first time, the annual global temperature was 1.5 degrees Celsius hotter than pre-industrial times.

    Scientists are clear – it is still possible to meet the long-term 1.5 degree limit.

    But it requires urgent action. And it requires leadership.

    Excellencies, dear friends,

    I see two critical fronts to drive action. 

    First, new national climate plans – or NDCs – due by September.

    Investors need certainty and predictability.

    These new plans are a unique opportunity to deliver – and lay out a coherent vision for a just green transition.

    They must align with the 1.5-degree limit, as agreed at COP28. And cover all emissions and the whole economy.

    Together, they must reduce global emissions 60% by 2035 – compared to 2019…

    And contribute to the COP28 global energy transition goals.

    All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in the light of national circumstances but everybody, everybody must do more.

    The G20 – the largest emitters and economies – must lead.

    Every country must step up and play their part.

    The United Nations is with you all.

    President Lula and I are working to secure the highest ambition from the largest economies.

    The United Nations Climate Promise is supporting a hundred countries to prepare their new climate plans.

    And we will convene a special event in September to take stock of the plans of all countries, push for action to keep 1.5 within reach, and deliver climate justice.

    Second, we must drive finance to developing countries.

    The COP29 finance agreement must be implemented in full.

    I count on the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year by 2035.

    We need new and innovative sources of financing, and credible carbon pricing.

    Developed countries must honour their promise to double adaptation finance to at least $40 billion a year, by this year.

    And we need serious contributions to the fund for responding to Loss and Damage, and to get it up and running.
    Excellencies,

    We can only meet these goals with stronger collaboration – between governments, and across society and sectors.

    Those that will lag behind need to be not a reason for us to be discouraged but an increase in our commitment to move forward.

    The rewards are there for the taking, for all those ready and willing to lead the world through these troubled times.

    We are at a turning point.  I urge you to seize this moment; and seize the prize.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Support for Wildfire Survivors Tops $2 Billion

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Support for Wildfire Survivors Tops $2 Billion

    Federal Support for Wildfire Survivors Tops $2 Billion

    LOS ANGELES – As of March 25, just over two months since the Los Angeles County wildfires were declared a major disaster by the president, FEMA and its federal partners have made more than $2 billion available to disaster survivors

    Federal assistance to eligible homeowners, renters, and businesses, in the form of FEMA grants and low-interest SBA Disaster Loans, has topped $2 billion

    That number includes:$101 million in FEMA housing and other needs assistance

    $2 billion in home and business loan offers from the SBA, the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for homeowners, renters, businesses, and certain nonprofits

    31,941 household have been approved for FEMA funds, including: $24,316,400 in housing assistance for short-term rental assistance and home repair costs$76,431,025 in other essential disaster-related needs, such as expenses related to medical, dental, and lost personal possessions

    Two Disaster Recovery Centers remain open at UCLA Research Park and Altadena Recovery Center

    In total, the centers have logged 32,511 survivor visits

    At the centers, residents may speak in person to representatives from federal and state programs, the American Red Cross and various nongovernmental nonprofits and community groups

    In partnership with the State of California, Los Angeles County, and local officials, FEMA will continue helping California’s individuals and families get back on their feet and jumpstart their recovery

    The deadline to apply for both FEMA and SBA disaster assistance is March 31, 2025

    How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance:Online at DisasterAssistance

    gov

    On the FEMA App

    By calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, give FEMA your number for that service

    Assistance is available in multiple languages

    Lines are open Sunday–Saturday, from 4 a

    m

    – 10 p

    m

    Pacific Time

    At a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)

    To locate a DRC near you, visit the DRC Locator

    For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster AssistanceApply for SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loans:Online at sba

    gov/disaster By calling SBA’s Customer Service Center hotline at 800-659-2955

     People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability may dial 711 to access relay services

    By emailingDisasterCustomerService@sba

    govAt a Disaster Recovery Center or Business Recovery Center, where you can submit a completed application or SBA representatives can help you apply

    To find a BRC near you, go to Appointment

    sba

    gov

    Applications for disaster loans may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending

    sba

    gov or other locally announced locations

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

    California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process

    Visit CA

    gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance

    alberto

    pillot
    Wed, 03/26/2025 – 17:29

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: How Can I See the Northern Lights? We Asked a NASA Expert: Episode 54

    Source: NASA

    [embedded content]

    How can I see the northern lights?
    To see the northern lights, you need to be in the right place at the right time.
    Auroras are the result of charged particles and magnetism from the Sun called space weather dancing with the Earth’s magnetic field. And they happen far above the clouds. So you need clear skies, good space weather at your latitude and the higher, more polar you can be, the better. You need a lot of patience and some luck is always helpful.
    A smartphone can also really help confirm whether you saw a little bit of kind of dim aurora, because cameras are more sensitive than our eyes.
    The best months to see aurorae, statistically, are March and September. The best times to be looking are around midnight, but sometimes when the Sun is super active, it can happen any time from sunset to sunrise.
    You can also increase your chances by learning more about space weather data and a great place to do that is at the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.
    You can also check out my project, Aurorasaurus.org, where we have free alerts that are based on your location and we offer information about how to interpret the data. And you can also report and tell us if you were able to see aurora or not and that helps others.
    One last tip is finding a safe, dark sky viewing location with a great view of the northern horizon that’s near you.
    [END VIDEO TRANSCRIPT]
    Full Episode List
    Full YouTube Playlist

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSTA Hyperwall Schedule

    Source: NASA

    NASA Science at Commodity Classic Hyperwall Schedule, March 26-29, 2025
    Join NASA in the Exhibit Hall (Booth #779) for Hyperwall Storytelling by NASA experts. Full Hyperwall Agenda below.

    THURSDAY, MARCH 27

    11:00 – 11:15 AM —— Do NASA Science in Your Classroom —— Marc Kuchner
    11:15 – 11:30 AM —— My NASA Data Satellite Data for All —— Angie Rizzi
    11:30 – 11:45 AM —— Lunar and Meteorite Sample Disk Program —— Suzanne Foxworth
    11:45 – 12:00 PM —— DIY Digital Tools: Creating Smart Assets —— Jessica Swann
    1:00 – 1:15 PM —— DIY: Immersive Virtual Field Trips —— Jessica Swann
    1:15 – 1:30 PM —— Kahoot- Weather Terms —— Erin McKinley
    1:30 – 1:45 PM —— Digital Plug and Play Lessons for Your Middle or High School Classroom —— Jessica Swann
    1:45 – 2:00 PM —— Soar to New Heights with the NASA TechRise Student Challenge —— Marisa Cleghorn
    2:00 – 2:15 PM —— GLOBE Clouds: Connecting Satellite Data to Your Classroom —— Jessica Taylor
    2:15 – 2:30 PM —— Step Up to Remote Sensing with STELLA (Science and Technology Education for Land/Life Assessment) —— Mike Taylor
    2:30 – 2:45 PM —— My NASA Data’s New Earth System Data Explorer —— Angie Rizzi
    2:45 – 3:00 PM —— Apollo to Artemis: Sample Collection and Curation —— Kim Willis
    3:30 – 3:45 PM —— Interactive Ways for Learners to Explore NASA Content & Assets —— Astro Materials Docent
    4:00 – 4:15 PM —— Soar to New Heights with the NASA TechRise Student Challenge —— Marisa Cleghorn
    4:15 – 4:30 PM —— Lunar and Meteorite Sample Disk Program —— Suzanne Foxworth
    4:30 – 4:45 PM —— Step Up to Remote Sensing with STELLA (Science and Technology Education for Land/Life Assessment) —— Mike Taylor

    FRIDAY, MARCH 28

    9:15 – 9:30 AM —— Soar to New Heights with the NASA TechRise Student Challenge —— Marisa Cleghorn
    9:45 – 10:00 AM —— Interactive Ways for Learners to Explore NASA Content & Assets —— Astro Materials Docent
    10:00 – 10:15 AM —— Digital Plug and Play Lessons for Your Middle or High School Classroom —— Jessica Swann
    10:15 – 10:30 AM —— GLOBE Clouds: Connecting Satellite Data to Your Classroom —— Jessica Taylor
    10:30 – 10:45 AM —— Do NASA Science in Your Classroom —— Marc Kuchner
    10:45 – 11:00 AM —— DIY: Immersive Virtual Field Trips —— Jessica Swann
    11:00 – 11:15 AM —— Apollo to Artemis: Sample Collection and Curation —— Kim Willis
    11:15 – 11:30 AM —— My NASA Data’s New Earth System Data Explorer —— Angie Rizzi
    11:30 – 11:45 AM —— Step Up to Remote Sensing with STELLA —— Mike Taylor
    11:45 – 12:00 PM —— DIY Digital Tools: Creating Smart Assets —— Jessica Swann
    1:00 – 1:15 PM —— Lunar and Meteorite Sample Disk Program —— Suzanne Foxworth
    1:15 – 1:30 PM —— Soar to New Heights with the NASA TechRise Student Challenge —— Marisa Cleghorn
    1:30 – 1:45 PM —— Kahoot
    1:45 – 2:00 PM —— Apollo to Artemis: Sample Collection and Curation —— Kim Willis
    2:00 – 2:15 PM —— Step Up to Remote Sensing with STELLA —— Mike Taylor
    2:15 – 2:30 PM —— SpacePhys Lab: A Heliophysics VR Experience for Education and Outreach —— Stephen Zaffke
    2:30 – 2:45 PM —— Do NASA Science in Your Classroom —— Marc Kuchner
    2:45 – 3:00 PM —— GLOBE Clouds: Connecting Satellite Data to Your Classroom —— Jessica Talyor
    3:30 – 3:45 PM —— Interactive Ways for Learners to Explore NASA Content & Assets —— Astro Materials Docent
    3:45 – 4:00 PM —— Lunar and Meteorite Sample Disk Program —— Suzanne Foxworth
    4:00 – 4:15 PM —— My NASA Data Satellite Data for All —— Angie Rizzi
    4:15 – 4:30 PM —— Kahoot

    SATURDAY, MARCH 29

    9:15 – 9:30 AM —— Apollo to Artemis: Sample Collection and Curation —— Kim Willis
    9:45 – 10:00 AM —— DIY: Immersive Virtual Field Trips —— Jessica Swann
    10:00 – 10:15 AM —— Lunar and Meteorite Sample Disk Program —— Suzanne Foxworth
    10:15 – 10:30 AM —— Do NASA Science in Your Classroom —— Marc Kuchner
    10:30 – 10:45 AM —— Digital Plug and Play Lessons for Your Middle or High School Classroom —— Jessica Swann
    10:45 – 11:00 AM —— Step Up to Remote Sensing with STELLA (Science and Technology Education for Land/Life Assessment) —— Mike Taylor
    11:15 – 11:30 AM —— DIY Digital Tools: Creating Smart Assets —— Jessica Swann
    11:30 – 11:45 AM —— Kahoot
    11:45 – 12:00 PM —— My NASA Data’s New Earth System Data Explorer —— Angie Rizzi

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ABC South East Breakfast with Eddie Williams

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    EDDIE WILLIAMS: Well, tax cuts for all workers. Energy Bill Relief. But Budget deficits as far as the eye can see. They are some of the takeaways from the Federal Budget, with a closer look at what it might mean closer to home. Kristy McBain is the Member for Eden-Monaro and the Minister for Regional Development and Local Government. Good morning. 

    KRISTY MCBAIN: Good morning, Eddie. 

    WILLIAMS: What practical difference will this Budget make in the South East? 

    MCBAIN: As you said, there are two new rounds of tax cuts. They’re modest tax cuts, but when they’re combined with the tax cuts that are already in the system, on average by 2026-27, Eden-Monaro taxpayers will be getting an average tax cut of $2,169. Modest changes for the next two years as those two rounds come in, but when we look at the cumulative total, that is good news for workers right across our communities. Obviously, the new round of Urgent Care Clinics, another 50 to the 87 that are already out there in our communities. One of those areas is going to be in the Bega Valley.

    WILLIAMS: Whether it’s health or whether it’s housing, the challenges that regional and rural Australia face play out a bit differently to those in the city. The National Rural Health Alliance says there’s a lack of a targeted strategy to address those unique health challenges in rural communities. Is the Government taking any specific steps to address those specific issues in regional Australia? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve obviously made an announcement about $8.5 billion to strengthen Medicare. There’s a huge amount of money in there, which is all about the health workforce. $662.6 million, which is about growing our health workforce. There’ll be hundreds more GP and rural generalist training places. There are 100 more Commonwealth supported university places for medical students from next year. There are hundreds of scholarships for nurses and midwives to continue to grow their skill set. There are more incentives for our doctors to work in regional and rural Australia, and that builds on our previous announcement to wipe HECS for doctors and nurse practitioners to work in rural and remote Australia. We know it’s really important to deal with the health workforce side of things. It’s not a quick fix to grow our doctor numbers and make sure that they’re trained up and ready to go in our regions, which is why we’re investing really heavily in it. It’s something that should have been happening for decades and unfortunately wasn’t. We’ve seen the freezing of Medicare rebates, which has significantly hampered GP numbers, but we are seeing more students go through and enter our GP training courses now than we have seen in a number of years. 

    WILLIAMS: The Budget is forecast to remain in structural deficit for the next decade. Net debt is rising. Is the Government making any effort at all to pay down Australia’s debt? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve made some significant inroads into that. We’ve reduced the overall national debt by over $170 billion. It will mean that as taxpayers, we’re paying $70 billion less in interest on that debt. Even in this Budget, there’s been $2 billion worth of savings found. Over the four budgets we’ve done there’s been $90 billion of savings made through cutting wastage and rorts, and making sure our departments are working efficiently and effectively. We’ve seen the fruits of that labour by making sure we’ve got Government departments working well. During Cyclone Alfred, where NEMA did such a fantastic job of coordinating response and recovery efforts. Where Services Australia were out on the ground making sure payments were rolled out to people directly impacted. The national emergency stockpile delivering out sandbags, pre-placing generators, and making sure we had a heavy lift helicopters pre-placed in Queensland and New South Wales. You can see the fruits of better, more effective coordination when it comes to those real time disasters. 

    WILLIAMS: 7:15 on ABC South East. If you want to have your say on the Budget, you can call or text 0467 902 684. Joe raises the issue of Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred, and she says she’s disappointed that the Budget doesn’t seem to have anything new on climate adaptation or emissions reduction. Is that an area where the Government’s dropped the ball? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve been the only Government to really take forward climate action for decades. A legislated emissions reduction target. There’s been significant work on pre-preparing places by having the National Emergency Management Agency set up, which came into effect after we took Government. We’ve had the Disaster Ready fund, which is all about resilience and mitigation in our communities. Something that local governments and insurance companies were calling for to make sure our infrastructure was ready to go. We’ve seen that with the Watergums Bridge in Womboin, a significant investment by the three levels of government to ensure that a community doesn’t get cut off every time it rains and there is a flood. So there’s been some heavy work in that space and that will continue. 

    WILLIAMS: Phil at Bombala asks why Australia can’t build manufacturing again to survive a changing world. The Government’s spoken a lot about its Future Made in Australia policies. How realistic is a manufacturing industry future in Australia? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve said from day one that we need to invest heavily in a Future Made in Australia, and in our last Budget we committed $22 billion towards that very thing. We’ve seen with our National Reconstruction Fund, equity stakes taken in manufacturing mining equipment in Toowoomba, working with some of our defence primes to manufacture more things in this country. There is a significant commitment to making sure we manufacture more in Australia, including the stake that we’ve taken now in South Australian steel manufacturing. It is really important as a country that is a little bit further away from the rest of the world, that we do learn the lessons of COVID, that we are more self-sustainable, and we’re a Government that’s committed to that and putting money into it. 

    WILLIAMS: Will you match the funding commitment that the coalition has made to help upgrade the bigger pool? 

    MCBAIN: I’ll have more to say in the coming days and weeks on my election commitments for the Bega Valley and for Eden-Monaro as a whole, but I’m incredibly proud to have secured tens of millions of dollars in funding for local roads, for community infrastructure, and for other critical projects to date. The way I work is working with our local communities to make sure projects that are funded are key priorities. 

    WILLIAMS: Kristy McBain, appreciate your time this morning. Thank you. 

    MCBAIN: Good to be with you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace responds to delay of North West Shelf decision

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Following a move by DCCEEW to push back the approval decision on Woodside’s application of its North West Shelf (NWS) project by two months, Greenpeace Australia Pacific has urged decisionmakers to use the additional time to thoroughly assess all available evidence, including very recent evidence about the project’s impact on Scott Reef.

    The following lines are attributable to Joe Rafalowicz, Head of Climate and Energy, Greenpeace Australia Pacific. 

    “Recently, Greenpeace Australia Pacific submitted a reconsideration request to the department, calling on the Environment Minister to assess Woodside’s NWS extension with all of the facts in front of her—including new evidence showing this project could devastate our environment, particularly Scott Reef.

    “Contrary to the attempts to downplay the scale and complexity of this decision by Woodside and the fossil fuel lobby, the North West Shelf extension project is an incredibly significant environmental decision, which will have impacts over 50 years. 

    “Woodside’s plans to extend the life of the North West Shelf gas processing facility are directly linked to its proposed Browse project, which entails drilling up to 50 gas wells near Scott Reef. These plans endanger threatened species like Green Sea Turtles and Pygmy Blue Whales, while also jeopardising fragile coral reef habitats with noise, light pollution, and the potential for oil spills.

    “If approved, the NWS extension is also expected to produce nearly 4.4 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases, equivalent to over 11 times Australia’s annual emissions. This will worsen climate change, which is already having devastating impacts on WA’s reefs, forests, and communities. 

    “Rigorous assessment and due process are critical for a project like NWS and the other components of Woodside’s Burrup Hub, given their potential for serious and irreversible harm to the environment.”

    —ENDS—

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Week 2 of “Dirty Dems” campaign exposes Mike Gipson

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    GARDENA, CA — (March 25, 2025) — As part of the ongoing “Dirty Dems” campaign, Greenpeace USA, in collaboration with the California Working Families Party and Courage California, continues to hold California State legislators accountable for their damaging connections to the oil and gas industry and their track record of voting against critical climate, economic justice, and other progressive priorities.

    This week, the spotlight is on Assemblymember Mike Gipson, who represents the 65th District of Los Angeles’ South Bay, including Gardena, Compton, and Wilmington. Serving in the California State Legislature since 2014, Gipson has amassed an alarming $260,000 in campaign contributions from the oil and gas industry, the most of any of the Dirty Dems. This overwhelming influence is juxtaposed to his voting record and his failure to take decisive action to protect the health of his constituents.

    Amy Moas, Ph.D., Greenpeace USA Senior Climate Campaigner, said: “Mike Gipson is a prime example of a ‘Dirty Dem’ who has chosen corporate donors over the people he is supposed to represent. His repeated failures to vote on critical environmental, economic, and social justice issues are an affront to his constituents and a betrayal of the values we need in our leaders.”

    Assemblymember Gipson has a disturbing pattern of abstaining from votes on key progressive legislation, earning a series of failing grades from environmental groups like the Sierra Club and California Environmental Voters. In both 2023 and 2024, he received these failing grades, mostly due to his repeated absences on critical bills aimed at fighting climate change and protecting the health and safety of his community.

    Mike Gipson represents a district that is over 80% people of color, many of whom live in close proximity to oil refineries and one of the largest ports in the United States. The devastating impact of these industries, such as high rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses, is felt daily by his constituents. Yet, Gipson has failed to take action on key legislation designed to protect his community from harmful pollutants and hold the oil industry accountable. In 2024, he scored an F from the California Environmental Justice Alliance for his lack of action on environmental and climate justice.

    The “Dirty Dems” campaign will continue to expose the harmful practices of legislators who prioritize corporate donations over their duty to their constituents. 

    Contact: Gigi Singh, Communications Manager at Greenpeace USA
    (+1)  631-404-9977, [email protected]  

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Clean Energy Investments That Fueling Economic Growth

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced economic development awards to 14 firms that will spur nearly $200 million in capital investments and support 1,833 jobs in New York State. The awards, approved by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) Board of Trustees today, included statewide ReCharge NY power allocations to 11 companies, including electric school bus company Micro Bird and two Western New York hydropower allocations to Big Heart Pet Brands and Rosina Food Products in Erie County. Additionally, the NYPA trustees approved a hydropower allocation to the Village of Marathon in Cortland County to support Square Deal Machining’s expansion project.

    “New York’s clean energy investments are fueling economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening communities across the state,” Governor Hochul said. “By leveraging NYPA’s low-cost hydropower and ReCharge NY, we are driving nearly $200 million in private investment and ensuring that businesses – including Plattsburgh-based electric bus manufacturer Micro Bird – can expand, compete, and thrive right here in New York.”

    ReCharge NY
    The Board of Trustees approved allocations of nearly 5.2 megawatts (MW) of low-cost power under the Power Authority’s ReCharge NY program that will be directed to 11 companies in the Finger Lakes, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, Hudson Valley, New York City, North Country and Western New York.

    Included among the awards is a low-cost power allocation to Micro Bird, the largest manufacturer of small school buses in North America. The firm builds both electric and non-electric small and mid-sized school and commercial buses. The manufacturer was awarded a 640-kilowatt (kW) ReCharge NY power allocation to expand manufacturing at its Plattsburgh site and double its current production capacity.

    In November 2024, Governor Hochul announced Micro Bird acquired a Plattsburgh production facility from Nova Bus, providing employees with the opportunity to transition to similar employment positions at Micro Bird. The NYPA economic development award to Nova Bus builds on Governor Hochul’s commitment to grow manufacturing and continue investments that support the transportation and green economy sectors.

    NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “The expansion of Micro Bird bus company in the North Country, supported by a low-cost ReCharge NY power allocation, is a prime example of NYPA’s commitment to help keep and create jobs in New York State. NYPA’s low-cost hydropower is an economic driver in communities across the state, providing the resources needed for businesses to grow and succeed, and today’s awards will build on that work, creating jobs from Plattsburgh to Buffalo.”

    ReCharge NY has strengthened New York State’s economy by encouraging companies to retain and create jobs, while sparking capital investment throughout the state. ReCharge NY offers power contracts with terms up to seven years. Half of the power—455 MW—is from NYPA’s Niagara and St. Lawrence-Franklin D. Roosevelt hydroelectric power plants. The remaining 455 MW is lower-cost power bought by NYPA on the wholesale market.

    A full list of today’s ReCharge NY power allocations and economic development awards is available.

    Western New York Hydropower
    At today’s meeting, the NYPA board approved low-cost Niagara hydropower allocations for Big Heart Pet Brands and Rosina Food Products.

    Big Heart, a Buffalo-based manufacturer and distributor of pet food products—including Milk-Bone, Meow Mix, Pup-Peroni, Canine Carry Outs, and Milo’s Kitchen—was awarded 700 kW of Niagara hydropower to support a nearly $53 million expansion that will create 17 jobs. The project includes the relocation of the firm’s Soft & Chewy dog treat brand to a larger space within its facility and the addition of processing equipment to support a new production line. Subsequently, the current location of the Soft & Chewy processing equipment would be used to produce other dog biscuits. The expansion—which includes the construction of a nearly 900 square-foot meat storage freezer and purchase of new machinery and equipment—will significantly expand the Soft & Chewy product line while adding approximately 20,000 tons of additional dog biscuit capacity.

    Rosina Food Products, a Buffalo-based manufacturer of Italian-style frozen food products, was awarded 4,500 kW of Niagara hydropower for expansions at its West Seneca facilities. Rosina’s project includes a 30,000 square-foot expansion of its frozen meatball production plant and the associated purchase of grinders, mixers, meatball formers, ovens, freezers, and packaging equipment to increase capacity. Additionally, Rosina plans to increase the capacity of its tortellini and ravioli manufacturing. Rosina will construct a new, 30,000 square-foot addition for pasta production equipped with new mixers, extruders, tortellini and ravioli formers, blanchers, freezers, and packaging and boxing machines. In total, Rosina’s expansion will total $50 million and lead to the creation of 95 jobs.

    NYPA Chairman John R. Koelmel said, “The approval of Niagara hydropower allocations for Big Heart Pet Brands and Rosina Food Products highlight the critical role that NYPA plays in bolstering the economic landscape of Western New York. These allocations support significant investments in our communities and create meaningful job opportunities for our residents. NYPA’s economic development efforts continue to contribute to the prosperity and development of our local communities and strengthen the business environment across New York.”

    Low-cost Niagara hydropower is available for eligible companies located within a 30-mile radius of the Power Authority’s Niagara Power Project and in Chautauqua County.

    Industrial Economic Development Program
    Also at today’s meeting, the NYPA board approved a 350-kilowatt low-cost hydropower allocation to the Village of Marathon in Cortland County under the Power Authority’s Industrial Economic Development program (IEDP).

    Square Deal Machining, a Marathon-based machine shop that offers comprehensive metal fabrication, machining and welding services, is planning to construct a 30,000 square-foot addition at their current facility. As part of their expansion, the firm will install four robotic weld cells, six hand weld cell areas, overhead cranes, shipping racks, and purchase additional fork trucks and materials. As a result of the $3.5 million project, Square Deal will create 24 jobs. Square Deal is an existing IEDP customer, employing 165 people in the region.

    IEDP comprises 54 MW of the more than 768 MW of hydropower allocated to the 51 municipal and rural electric cooperative systems around New York State. Power under the program is allocated to individual municipal systems to meet the increased electric load resulting from eligible new or expanding businesses in their service area.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “With ESD and NYPA support, we are proud to see multiple projects moving forward. In addition to today’s NYPA award, ESD has previously provided incentives to Rosina Foods and looks forward to supporting the growth of Big Heart Pet Brands in Buffalo. Both of these well-known companies are proven job creators in their communities. These strategic investments will support their expansion and solidify their future business in Western New York.”

    State Senator Patrick M. Gallivan said, “The expansion of Rosina’s West Seneca facility is testament to the company’s ongoing commitment to Western New York and the strength of the local workforce. NYPA’s support of this project and others sends a positive message about the role of manufacturing in our region and the important relationship between the public and private sector when it comes to economic development and helping businesses succeed.”

    State Senator April Baskin said, “It is always welcome news to learn about job expansions and capital investments in my district and throughout our state. Thanks to NYPA support, considered under its diversity, equity, and inclusion plan, Big Heart is able to expand not only their manufacturing capabilities but also the company’s work force. This innovative collaborative effort results in companies becoming even stronger and the customer base better served.”

    Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “The New York Power Authority’s support of a firm based in the 141st Assembly District, through its D.E.I. evaluation plan is a big deal. The hydropower supports the expansion of facilities and capacity and, in a big picture sense, supports economic development on Buffalo’s east side.”

    Assemblymember Patrick Burke said, “I’m pleased to see continued growth in our region, thanks to smart investments like the one from Rosina Food Products. Their expansion in West Seneca, supported by low-cost Niagara hydro-power, will create new jobs and provide a boost to our local economy. This is exactly the kind of growth we need to strengthen our community and provide more opportunities for Western New Yorkers. The availability of affordable, renewable, and clean hydro-power is a key asset for businesses here, helping them expand, stay competitive, and invest in our workforce. This allocation demonstrates how the power of Niagara Falls is not only an economic engine for New York State but also a vital resource for driving growth and job creation in our region, all while supporting sustainable energy solutions.”

    Assemblymember Didi Barrett said, “It is critical that we provide support and resources to help our small businesses decarbonize as we work to reach our climate goals. I am very pleased to see these affordable energy investments reaching across the state, including for small businesses in my Hudson Valley district.”

    New York State’s Nation-Leading Climate Plan
    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

    About NYPA
    NYPA is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit  www.nypa.gov  and follow us on  Twitter,  Facebook, Instagram,  Tumblr  and  LinkedIn.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: River Hills Man Sentenced to 21 Months’ Imprisonment for Paying Health Care Kickbacks

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that, on March 21, 2025, Justin Drew Hanson was sentenced to 21 months’ incarceration for paying healthcare kickbacks in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute.  Hanson was also ordered to pay over $2.2 million in restitution to Medicaid and Medicare as well as a $75,000 fine.

    According to court records, Hanson and his co-defendant, Mohammed Kazim Ali, owned a Milwaukee-area clinical laboratory called Noah Associates.  Beginning in 2017, Ali and Hanson engaged in a three-year-long scheme to pay kickbacks to the owner of a Milwaukee substance use treatment clinic in exchange for referrals of Medicaid and Medicare patients for urine drug testing performed by Noah Associates.  Hanson and Ali procured sham agreements that further concealed their fraud, ultimately paying over $400,000 in kickbacks to procure the tests.  The tests, however, were not ordered by any physician and were not medically necessary for the treatment of patients.  As a result of the scheme, Medicaid and Medicare paid Noah Associates over $2.2 million for the unnecessary tests.  Hanson personally received hundreds of thousands of dollars from Noah Associates during the scheme. 

    At sentencing, United States District Judge J.P. Stadtmueller emphasized the seriousness of Hanson’s crime, including Hanson’s manipulation and breach of trust of the Medicaid and Medicare programs to receive millions of dollars that were not truly earned.  Judge Stadtmueller further noted that Hanson’s criminal conduct was significant and detrimental because he stole “from every taxpayer citizen in the United States.”  In addition to his sentence, Hanson will also be excluded from participation in the Medicaid and Medicare programs and has shut down Noah Associates.  His co-defendant, Ali, also pleaded guilty for paying healthcare kickbacks and was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment earlier this year.

    “Mr. Hanson’s kickbacks resulted in Medicaid and Medicare – and taxpayers – repeatedly paying for unnecessary services,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Frohling.  “Rather than bill the government for tests that patients truly needed, Hanson abused the Medicaid and Medicare programs for his own benefit.  The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to working with its law enforcement partners to hold individuals who engage in these schemes accountable for their actions.”

    “The FBI will relentlessly pursue individuals like Mr. Hanson whose actions defrauded the American people and wasted taxpayer money,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle of the FBI Milwaukee Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to ensure those responsible for schemes to defraud the American people are brought to justice.”

    “HHS-OIG is dedicated to protecting the integrity of Medicare and Medicaid and to ensure taxpayer money is used as intended to serve vulnerable populations,” said Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).  “The kickback scheme in this case undermined the public’s trust in our nation’s health care system and can interfere with impartial medical decision-making. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who manipulate taxpayer-funded health programs to boost their profits.” 

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Inspector General, Department of Health and Human Services investigated the case.  Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Carter and Julie Stewart handled the prosecution.     

    ###

    For further information contact:

    Public Information Officer

    Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov

    (414) 297-1700

    Follow us on Twitter

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Electric cars are going mainstream – Elon Musk won’t change that

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jack Marley, Environment + Energy Editor, UK edition

    “When you ride Tesla, you ride with Hitler” according to a reworked second world war propaganda poster that was discovered in Oakland, California last month.

    When did an electric car brand supposedly become associated with the far right? Perhaps when its CEO, Elon Musk, embraced Donald Trump and the Maga movement that propelled him to a second term as US president. Tesla dealerships have been targets for protests and vandalism, while the company’s sales and stock price have fallen recently.

    “But those same political controversies may ironically help broaden the mass market appeal of electric vehicles,” says Hannah Budnitz, a research associate at the Transport Studies Unit of Oxford University.

    “This is an industry that needs to go beyond the early adopter tech bros – and now might be the moment.”

    This roundup of The Conversation’s climate coverage comes from our award-winning weekly climate action newsletter. 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.

    But first, a disclaimer

    Around a fifth of the greenhouse gas emissions heating Earth can be traced to a vehicle exhaust pipe. The more combustion engines that can be replaced with electric batteries, the less getting from A to B will exacerbate climate change.

    However, electric cars, like those sold by Tesla, are an imperfect solution to the climate crisis.

    “Huge amounts of land which could otherwise be used to house people or be dedicated to nature are still reserved for roads and car parks,” says Vera O’Riordan, an energy policy researcher at University College Cork.



    Read more:
    Electric cars aren’t enough to hit climate targets: we need to develop better public transport too

    And while driving an EV doesn’t emit CO₂, it does emit stuff you wouldn’t want to breathe in. Electric cars, which contain heavy batteries, wear down their tyres faster than conventional cars and generate more microplastic particles in the process, according to Henry Obanya, an ecotoxicologist at the University of Portsmouth.

    Obanya estimates that as much as a quarter of all microplastics in the environment could have come from car tyres.



    Read more:
    Car tyres shed a quarter of all microplastics in the environment – urgent action is needed

    So, the strategy of putting an EV in every garage has its limits (not least the fact that not everyone has a garage, or the space to charge an electric car).

    A more efficient way to decarbonise the second-largest emission source by sector (power generation is first) would be to follow the advice of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The IPCC, which is made up of scientists and other experts convened by the UN, recommends that countries plan their transport systems according to the maxim “avoid, shift, improve”.

    This involves, O’Riordan explains, avoiding unnecessary journeys by designing towns and cities with amenities in walking distance, shifting passengers onto higher-occupancy vehicles like buses by expanding public transport and improving all travel options by switching from fossil fuels to electric propulsion.

    Let’s assume that decades of car-first urban planning have boxed us in and we don’t have time to undo it before the climate is cooked. How can more motorists be persuaded to turn in their gas-guzzler for a battery-powered model?

    It’s the price, stupid

    Back to Budnitz – and the waning influence of the EV industry’s tech-bro boosters.

    “In 2010, when Tesla became the first American carmaker to go public since Ford in 1956, fully electric cars were still a niche technology,” she says.



    Read more:
    Why the Tesla backlash could help electric cars finally go mainstream

    Back then, Tesla adverts targeted the customers it thought would be early adopters: overwhelmingly, wealthy men like Musk. It worked. Survey after survey in North America and Europe showed that EV ownership in the early 2010s was skewed towards men and those on higher incomes.

    This is in stark contrast to electric car marketing at the dawn of motoring. In 1900, petroleum-powered cars were in the minority (22% of all cars) and were widely considered temperamental “adventure machines” that were prone to breaking down. Electric cars were pitched as a safer, cleaner alternative that was perfect for city travel.



    Read more:
    Electric cars were once marketed as ‘women’s cars’. Did this hold back their development over the next century?

    Perfect, in fact, for wealthy women. During the 1910s, when Victorian attitudes towards gender roles reigned and women were presumed to have limited mobility needs (no need to worry about your battery running flat if you’re not going far), 77% of EVs directly appealed to female consumers.

    “In the short term, this was a successful strategy: car manufacturers that advertised to female consumers survived much longer,” says economic historian Josef Taalbi (Lund University). The only major electric car producer in the US to survive into the 1920s advertised to women, he adds.

    In 2013, there were still less than 60,000 EVs on the road globally. A decade later, almost the same number are sold every day.

    “The transition to electric personal mobility is well underway around the world,” says Budnitz. “Tesla’s troubles won’t stop this – but they can give the car industry an opportunity to make the messaging around electric vehicles more diverse, equitable and inclusive for the mass market.”

    EV manufacturers can make their case to all drivers because they now offer a mass-market product, Budnitz argues. Nowhere is this more true than in Norway, which may become the first country to sell only zero-emission vehicles this year (88.9% of all vehicles sold in Norway in 2024 were fully-electric).

    What’s Norway’s secret?

    “Generous, comprehensive subsidies”, say Agnieszka Stefaniec and Keyvan Hosseini, transport researchers at the University of Southampton.



    Read more:
    How smaller, more affordable electric cars can accelerate the green transition

    “Our recent research shows that affordability is a tool to get everyone on board. When lower-income households face affordability barriers, it’s not just their problem – it’s the missing link to achieving 100%. Smaller, more affordable electric cars could be the game changer needed to bridge this gap.”

    – ref. Electric cars are going mainstream – Elon Musk won’t change that – https://theconversation.com/electric-cars-are-going-mainstream-elon-musk-wont-change-that-253060

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fire Alerts issued for Georgia, North and South Carolina

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Fire Alerts issued for Georgia, North and South Carolina

    Gages affected by Table Rock Reservoir Fire

    Dry conditions persist throughout Western Carolinas and North Georgia where downed trees from Hurricane Helene has increased fuel for wildfires. 

    Wildfires continue to burn in Georgia, North and South Carolina, with most occurring in the mountainous area of the three states. Two stream gages were damaged in the Table Rock Fire. Gage 021622847 and 021622845 are no longer recording data.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Declaration Requested for Farms Impacted by Storms

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State is requesting a United States Department of Agriculture Secretarial Disaster Designation for Oneida County and the contiguous counties of Lewis, Herkimer, Oswego and Madison. Many farms in these counties sustained loss of livestock and structural barn and equipment damage when extreme winter weather impacted the area in January and February 2025. A Disaster Designation would allow for affected farms to apply for United States Department of Agriculture low-interest emergency loans.

    “Severe weather earlier this year wreaked nearly unprecedented damage on farms across Northern and Central New York, and I’m requesting a USDA disaster declaration to help bring relief to our agricultural communities,” Governor Hochul said. “This damage has upended the futures of farms as they face tens of millions of dollars in economic impact. I urge the USDA to take swift action to declare these counties a disaster area and help our farmers get the assistance they need to move forward.”

    According to the National Weather Service, from January 6 to February 25, 2025, northern and central New York State experienced extreme winter weather events that brought heavy winds, ice and more than 180 inches of snow to both regions. In addition, temperatures remained below freezing and there was no thaw to reduce snow accumulation, resulting in sustained heavy snow and ice loads on agricultural buildings. These heavy loads caused structural damage and collapse, loss of livestock, damage to feedstocks and equipment and the destruction of agricultural equipment storage facilities. Based on consultation with the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Oneida County’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Cornell Cooperative Extension offices, more than 60 agricultural locations sustained an estimated $15 to $20 million in damage.

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Shortly after the last round of heavy snow and ice, I was able to visit a number of farms in Oneida County and see firsthand the damage that these farms sustained. Typically, we are concerned about crop loss when we face severe weather, but this winter storm impacted infrastructure and livestock that will make it extremely difficult to look toward this year’s planting season. I am thankful to the Governor for this request and appreciate the USDA’s consideration to move ahead with a disaster declaration to provide some financial relief to area farmers.”

    Commissioner Ball visited several farms impacted by the extreme weather in Oneida County on March 7. Many diverse agricultural operations were impacted by these extreme weather events, including dairy farms, beef farms, hay operations, nursery and greenhouse businesses and crop farms. These events and the resulting damage have had a significant impact on the local farm economy.

    A disaster designation makes farm operators in primary counties and those counties contiguous eligible to be considered for emergency loans from the FSA, provided eligibility requirements are met. Farmers in eligible counties have eight months from the date of the disaster declaration to apply for relief programs.

    In addition, the Governor is requesting any disaster assistance appropriated by Congress be made available to assist the impacted farmers and encourages USDA to highlight additional assistance programs that these farmers may opt to use.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Renewables are renewing economies’, UN chief tells top climate forum

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    Ministers from 40 countries met on Wednesday at the first major climate forum of 2025 to discuss progress in renewable energy generation and the rising toll of inaction over rising temperatures. 

    2025 marks a milestone: the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the deadline for countries to submit their updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), designed to keep the global goal alive of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

    Addressing the 16th Petersberg Climate Dialogue (PCD) in Berlin – the first official gathering on climate since last year’s COP29 summit in Baku – the UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a strong call for decisive climate action.

    He said the year had begun against a backdrop of geopolitical instability and widespread cuts to overseas aid budgets.

    “There is much uncertainty and instability in our world,” which is why “every country must step up and play their part,” he emphasised.

    Renewables: A bright spot

    Despite global tensions, Mr. Guterres pointed to a promising development: 2024 was officially a record year for global renewable energy production, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

    Renewables made up over 92 per cent of all new electricity capacity installed last year – equivalent to the total electricity capacity of Brazil and Japan combined.

    Europe’s capacity rose by nine per cent, with Germany contributing over a quarter of that growth. Meanwhile, Africa’s grew by nearly seven per cent.

    “All of this is another reminder of a 21st century truth: Renewables are renewing economies,” Mr. Guterres said. They are “powering growth, creating jobs, lowering energy bills, and cleaning our air.”

    Wind power has dropped in cost by 60 per cent since 2010; solar is now 90 per cent cheaper.

    Clean energy contributed significantly to economic growth in 2023 – accounting for five per cent of India’s GDP growth, six per cent of the US’, and one-third of the EU’s.

    The rising toll of inaction

    Nevertheless, climate challenges are piling up, the UN chief continued.

    “It seems records are shattered at every turn – the hottest day of the hottest month of the hottest year of the hottest decade ever,” Mr. Guterres said.

    Those suffering most are the world’s most vulnerable – grappling with rising food and insurance costs, displacement and growing insecurity.

    The World Meteorological Organization confirmed in late December that 2024 was another year of alarming climate records. For the first time, global temperatures were 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels during a calendar year.

    “Scientists are clear – it is still possible to meet the long-term 1.5 degree limit,” the Secretary-General stressed. “But it requires urgent action. And it requires leadership.”

    Call for ambition

    New NDCs are due by September 2025. These plans must align with the 1.5°C target and collectively cut emissions by 60 per cent by 2035, compared with 2019 levels.

    “These new plans are a unique opportunity to deliver – and lay out a coherent vision for a just green transition,” Mr. Guterres said.

    He reiterated that efforts must be made according to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities but added: “Everybody must do more.”

    The G20 most industralised nations – responsible for most global emissions – must lead the way.

    The UN Climate Promise is already supporting 100 countries in preparing their next plans. A high-level event in September will take stock of progress and push for greater action.

    Financing action

    Implementation of the COP29 finance agreement is crucial to support developing countries.

    “I count on the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilise $1.3 trillion a year by 2035,” said the Secretary-General.

    He also called for doubling adaptation finance to at least $40 billion annually by the end of this year and for serious contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.

    To get there, stronger collaboration – across governments, societies, and sectors – is vital.

    Looking ahead

    As the Petersberg Dialogue sets the tone for the year ahead, Mr. Guterres issued a final rallying cry:

    “Those who lag behind must not discourage us but rather strengthen our resolve. The rewards are there for the taking, for all those ready and willing to lead the world through these troubled times.”

    “We are at a turning point.  I urge you to seize this moment; and seize the prize,” he concluded. 

    Soundcloud

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Significant milestone for Sustainable Household Scheme

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Many Canberrans have accessed the Sustainable Household Scheme to add solar panels to their homes.

    The Sustainable Household Scheme has had another big year supporting Canberrans.

    Over 20,000 Canberra households have now applied to participate in the Scheme to make their homes more energy efficient.

    The Sustainable Household Scheme has approved $200 million in loans and supported the installation of almost 17,000 sustainable upgrades since it commenced in July 2021.

    This has saved households money on their energy bills and reduced the ACT’s carbon footprint.

    Through the Scheme, Canberrans have access to zero-interest loans and rebates for a range of energy-saving upgrades.

    These include efficient heating and cooling, cooktop and hot water systems, solar panels, battery storage, electric vehicles and ceiling insulation.

    The Sustainable Household Scheme forms a key part of the ACT Government’s strategy for achieving net zero emissions by 2045.

    To celebrate this milestone and showcase the Canberrans’ efforts, the ACT Government has launched a new Sustainable Household Scheme Dashboard.

    This interactive tool allows users to explore the impact of the Scheme across the ACT, including:

    • Which suburbs are leading the charge in sustainability
    • What’s the most popular upgrade in your neighbourhood
    • The number and types of upgrades being installed.

    This new dashboard will help us track Canberra’s progress in transitioning to a cleaner future, and share community success stories.

    Suburb spotlight

    The dashboard also includes a spotlight on which Canberra suburbs have accessed finance across each category as of 13 December 2023.

    • Highest overall uptake

    Kambah – $9,048,318 in zero-interest loans accessed.

    • Singing in the shower

    Dickson – 13 per cent of installs in Dickson are hot water heat pumps.

    • Driving into the future

    Campbell – 34 per cent of products in Campbell are electric vehicles.

    • Staying warm and keeping cool

    Kingston – 39 per cent of installs in Kingston are reverse cycle air conditioners.

    • Comfort in the home

    Rivett – 4.6 per cent of installs in Rivett are for insulation.

    • Most solar uptake

    Whitlam – 98 per cent of installs in Whitlam include solar systems.

    More information about the Sustainable Household Scheme is available on the Climate Choices website.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy Celebrates Final Passage of Legislation to Combat Absenteeism

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (March 26, 2025) — Yesterday, the Georgia House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 123 with strong, bipartisan support. Authored by Senate President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy (R–Macon), SB 123 takes meaningful steps to address the growing chronic absenteeism crisis in Georgia schools by ensuring students cannot be expelled solely for missing school. The bill also mandates a more localized and individualized approach to reviewing chronic absenteeism cases., requiring local boards of education to adopt policies that identify and support students who are chronically absent.

    “The final passage of Senate Bill 123 is a major victory for students across our state,” said Sen. Kennedy. “Last year alone, nearly 360,000 students missed 10% or more of the school year, missing out on critical opportunities to reach their full potential because they were not in the classroom. Once SB 123 is signed into law, school systems will be better equipped to understand the root causes of absenteeism, intervene earlier, and build a stronger system for recognizing and addressing warning signs. Our goal is to respond to absenteeism fairly and constructively, not punitively, and this legislation is a positive step toward real reform in Georgia’s education system for the benefit of our children.”

    With passage in both chambers, SB 123 now heads to Governor Kemp’s desk. The bill will require School Climate Committees to develop a comprehensive framework to improve student attendance if signed into law. Additionally, it will create local attendance review teams who will assess individual student attendance cases. The School Climate Committees must report their progress to the Georgia General Assembly, ensuring accountability and continued focus on this critical issue.

    For more information about the legislation, click here.

    # # # #

    Sen. John F. Kennedy serves as the President Pro Tempore of the Georgia State Senate. He represents the 18th Senate District, which includes Crawford, Monroe, Peach and Upson counties, as well as portions of Bibb and Houston counties. He may be reached at (404) 656-6578 or by email at John.Kennedy@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Urges Developed Countries to Double Annual Climate Adaptation Finance to $40 Billion

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the virtual high-level segment of the Sixteenth Petersberg Climate Dialogue, held in New York today:

    Thank you for this opportunity — and for your focus today on collective climate action and acceleration of implementation.  This could not be more timely.  There is much uncertainty and instability in our world. But, today, we meet in the wake of some good news.

    Just this morning, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) officially confirmed that 2024 was a record year for renewables additions to global power capacity.  Renewables represented more than 92 per cent of all new electricity-generation capacity installed last year.

    The amount of renewables added represents more than the total electricity capacity of Brazil and Japan combined.  Europe’s capacity grew by 9 per cent — with Germany contributing more than one quarter of that growth.  Africa’s capacity grew by almost 7 per cent.

    All of this is another reminder of a twenty-first century truth:  Renewables are renewing economies.  They are powering growth, creating jobs, lowering energy bills and cleaning our air. And every day, they become an even smarter investment.

    Since 2010, the average cost of wind power has plunged 60 per cent.  Solar is 90 per cent cheaper.  In 2023, clean energy sectors accounted for 5 per cent of economic growth in India and 6 [per cent] in the United States.  It accounted for a fifth of China’s GDP [gross domestic product] growth, and a third of the European Union’s.

    The economic case for — and opportunities of — climate action have become ever clearer — particularly for those who choose to lead. And leadership is what we need — as today’s IRENA report shows:

    To accelerate the shift to renewables and to correct the imbalances in the transition, which is still starving developing countries — outside China — of the investment needed to fully embrace clean energy.

    As the title of this session puts it so well:  we are indeed at a turning point to the future. In the 10 years since Paris, we have seen other important progress.  Ninety per cent of global emissions are now covered by net-zero targets.

    A decade ago, the planet was on course for a global temperature rise of over 4°C.  Today, countries’ national climate plans — or NDCs [nationally determined contributions] — if fully delivered — will take us closer to a 2.6°C rise.

    At the same time, climate challenges are piling up.  It seems records are shattered at every turn — the hottest day of the hottest month of the hottest year of the hottest decade ever.

    All of this is hitting the vulnerable hardest, and everyday people in their pockets — with higher living costs, higher insurance premiums and higher food prices.  Just last week, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) confirmed that 2024 was another alarming year.

    Almost every climate indicator reached new and increasingly dangerous heights — inflaming displacement and food insecurity and inflicting huge economic losses.  And for the first time, the annual global temperature was 1.5°C hotter than pre-industrial times.

    Scientists are clear:  it is still possible to meet the long-term 1.5°C limit.  But, it requires urgent action.  And it requires leadership. I see two critical fronts to drive action.

    First, new national climate plans — or NDCs — due by September.  Investors need certainty and predictability.  These new plans are a unique opportunity to deliver and lay out a coherent vision for a just green transition.  They must align with the 1.5°C limit, as agreed at COP28 [twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change].  And cover all emissions and the whole economy.

    Together, they must reduce global emissions 60 per cent by 2035 compared to 2019 and contribute to the COP28 global energy transition goals.

    All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in the light of national circumstances but everybody, everybody must do more.  The Group of 20 (G20) — the largest emitters and economies — must lead.

    Every country must step up and play their part.  The United Nations is with you all.  President Lula and I are working to secure the highest ambition from the largest economies.

    The United Nations Climate Promise is supporting 100 countries to prepare their new climate plans.  And we will convene a special event in September to take stock of the plans of all countries, push for action to keep 1.5°C within reach, and deliver climate justice.

    Second, we must drive finance to developing countries.  The COP29 finance agreement must be implemented in full.  I count on the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 presidencies to deliver a credible road map to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year by 2035.

    We need new and innovative sources of financing, and credible carbon pricing.  Developed countries must honour their promise to double adaptation finance to at least $40 billion a year, by this year.

    And we need serious contributions to the fund for responding to loss and damage, and to get it up and running.

    We can only meet these goals with stronger collaboration between Governments, and across society and sectors.  Those that will lag behind need to be not a reason for us to be discouraged, but an increase in our commitment to move forward.

    The rewards are there for the taking, for all those ready and willing to lead the world through these troubled times.  We are at a turning point.  I urge you to seize this moment; and seize the prize.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Digicel and Caban Energy Combat Climate Change With Solar Rollout

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KINGSTON, Jamaica, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a powerful statement of its commitment to environmental responsibility and combatting climate change, Digicel today announced a partnership with Caban Energy (Caban) which will diversify its energy source using solar technology and reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while significantly reducing operational costs.

    This partnership in renewable energy infrastructure will support the Caribbean region in achieving its sustainability goals as outlined in the Paris Agreement. As a leader in renewable energy, Caban is working to deploy solar energy and storage solutions on cell towers across Jamaica for Digicel, both in collaboration with Phoenix Tower International (PTI) and independently.

    Providing a reliable, sustainable and cost-effective alternative power source for cell tower, data centers and other critical infrastructure locations, solar energy and storage solutions enhance network reliability, energy security and communications resilience. By integrating renewable energy into its network once fully deployed, Digicel will reduce GHG emissions by over 38,674 tons of CO2e per year or 580,109 tons of CO2e for the life of the project.

    Commenting on the partnership, Digicel Group CEO, Marcelo Cataldo, said; “As a meaningful expression of our Connecting. Empowering mission, our commitment to ESG is fundamental to who we are as a business. With robust social and governance programmes in place, we’re now making tangible progress in our environmental agenda as we drive multiple benefits through the deployment of sustainable, renewable and cost-effective energy solutions. Jamaica is our first market with Caban and is the shape of things to come with the expectation that more of our 25 markets will come on stream in the coming months.”

    Stephen Murad, Digicel Jamaica CEO, elaborates; “In the wake of Hurricane Beryl in July 2024 which caused significant damage to the south coast of Jamaica, and in particular to the power supplies that we rely on to run our telecoms infrastructure, we made a commitment to the Prime Minister of Jamaica that we would invest in renewable energy. We’re proud that just eight months later, we’re honouring that commitment and actively stepping up to help combat climate change.”

    Alexandra Rasch, CEO of Caban, commented; “This is about building a sustainable future for all. With Caribbean countries at the forefront of the negative effects of climate change, the region’s energy landscape is evolving. Mindful of its ESG commitments, Digicel is partnering with us to harness renewable energy sources to benefit those same countries and enable their progress towards achieving national and global climate targets. It makes for an exciting future.”

    About Digicel

    Enabling customers to live, work, play and flourish in a connected world, Digicel’s world class LTE and fibre networks deliver state-of-the-art mobile, home and business solutions.

    Serving nine million consumer and business customers in 25 markets in the Caribbean and Central America, our investments of over US$5 billion and a commitment to our communities through our Digicel Foundations in Haiti, Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago have contributed to positive outcomes for over two million people to date.

    With our Connecting. Empowering vision at the heart of everything we do – supported by our DIGI values of Diversity, Integrity, Growth and Innovation – our 5,000 employees worldwide work together to make that a powerful reality for customers, communities and countries day in, day out. Visit www.digicelgroup.com for more.

    About Caban

    Caban, founded in 2018, set out to tackle the challenge of decarbonizing the most fossil fuel-dependent industries. Initially focused on providing alternative energy solutions for the telecommunications industry in the Americas, the company has since grown and demonstrated success in supplying energy to several of the world’s largest telecom operators. Building on this momentum, Caban has scaled globally and expanded its reach to support clean energy needs across critical infrastructure sectors worldwide.

    Caban uniquely combines service, hardware, software, and finance to deliver reliable, clean power and boosts your bottom line. This turnkey approach allows you to work directly with one trusted ESG partner to achieve decarbonization across your operations. Visit www.cabanenergy.com for more.

    Contact:
    Antonia Graham
    Head of Group Communications
    +1876 564 1708
    antonia.graham@digicelgroup.com

    Jacqueline Castillo
    info@cabanenergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: To address the environmental polycrisis, the first step is to demand more honesty

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Mike Berners-Lee, Professor of Sustainability, Lancaster University

    Minerva Studio/Shutterstock

    Climate breakdown is major threat to life as we know it, but it is just one element of a much wider environmental polycrisis that includes biodiversity loss, energy and pollution, food security, population growth and disease outbreaks. That can feel overwhelming and make people feel helpless, especially when we see that global emissions are higher than ever – even after three decades of UN climate summits.

    The good news is that, despite our failure so far, it is possible for us to do better. And the sticking point has not been lack of technology. To look for the point of maximum leverage that all of us can have, we need to look deeply into the reasons behind our frustrating lack of progress to date.

    In my new book, A Climate of Truth, I argue that society radically needs to become more honest. In politics, media and business. The worst failure in our attempts to tackle the world’s environmental and societal problems have deceit at their core.

    By holding power to account, insisting on transparency and shining a light on any greenwash, we can start to build the conditions under which the quality of decision-making and action that we so desperately need can become possible at last.

    Dishonesty, to be clear, isn’t just about clearcut lies. These are just the tip of the iceberg. Just as dangerous are such techniques as subtle twists, misdirections of attention, biased selection of evidence, using loopholes and failing to call out deceitful colleagues.

    Bullshit, as defined by American professor of philosophy Harry Frankfurt, is a blend of fact and fiction concocted to persuade. The craft of misleading the public has been refined over decades by corporate interests, advertising executives, media moguls and the worst politicians for their own financial gain, social standing or power.

    Many people in the west have become careless in their requirement for this basic standard from their leaders. We have allowed a growing a false narrative, propagated by the most dishonest among us, that lies are a normal and inevitable part of everyday life. And the results of our post-truth experiment are now starting to come in, with, sadly, plenty more consequences yet to come.

    It is now high time not just for a reset on honesty, but to raise the bar beyond anything the global community has ever known. Why do we need a higher standard than ever? Because deceit throws a spanner into any decision-making process and our complex, urgent polycrisis demands the highest quality, wisest decision-making that we can possibly attain.

    How can we achieve a culture of basic honesty when that very complexity makes deceit easier than ever? The answer is to create a high enough price for being caught. We need to treat deliberate deception as a form of abuse.

    Just one incident tells us that a politician does not have our best interests at heart and is unfit for office – although we might have to vote for the least un-fit politician to gradually raise the bar – plus that their colleagues who stayed quiet in the knowledge of their deceit are also unfit for office. The same goes for businesses and media. This is something we can collectively and consistently insist upon.

    The push for integrity

    In practice, the starting point is to ask the most careful and discerning questions that we can. We need to look at the track record of people, and the ownership and track records of media empires and companies.

    We need to switch wherever we can to the most honest alternatives. We can achieve that by disowning unfit politicians, starving out bad media, supporting the best media that we find, and spending our money on companies that act with integrity for a better world. We need to challenge those around us who are not so discerning and initiate conversations with friends, relatives and colleagues to encourage the quest for more truthful leadership.

    These actions are so simple yet so important because we cannot even begin to make progress without raising this standard. Whichever aspect of environmental or social change you care about most, this is your point of maximum leverage – and your route to maximum agency.

    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.

    Mike Berners-Lee does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. To address the environmental polycrisis, the first step is to demand more honesty – https://theconversation.com/to-address-the-environmental-polycrisis-the-first-step-is-to-demand-more-honesty-251742

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improved bus service to leave residents Mickle-over the moon

    Source: City of Derby

    Mickleover residents will soon see improvements to a local bus service thanks to a collaboration between Derby City Council and trentbarton.

    trentbarton’s mickleover service will see its frequency increased to every 7-8 minutes Monday to Saturday. On Sundays the timetable will begin earlier, giving travellers more flexibility.

    The Council is carrying out an ongoing review of the city’s bus network as it works to make Derby a better connected, sustainable city, and enhance links to key destinations such as the Royal Derby Hospital.

    This work follows improvements to trentbarton’s Ilkeston flyer service through Spondon, which saw its frequency increased in 2024.

    These enhancements have been funded by the National Bus Strategy: Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), which calls for Local Transport Authorities to deliver better bus services and implement measures to improve public transport. Derby’s BSIP can be viewed on the Derby City Council website.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport, and Sustainability, said:

    As cabinet member I am committed to listening to our communities who say they want a greener, better-connected Derby. 

    We know we need to reduce our carbon emissions across the city. For this we need quality, reliable bus services, an essential and greener mode of transport, for our communities.

    Our vision is to provide a reliable, accessible and simple bus network that will deliver much-improved connectivity for residents and visitors alike.

    These improvements are only possible through collaboration with our partners and I’m glad that we’ve once again been able to work with trentbarton to deliver the services our city needs.

    Tom Morgan, trentbarton managing director, said: 

    It’s always exciting to be boosting a service and the Mickleover is getting a range of enhancements to improve the customer experience. This follows a £1.3m investment made in the last 12 months bringing brand new vehicles with the highest of specification and customer comforts.

    “We believe the positive changes will provide extra reasons for people to choose to travel by bus, the greenest public transport choice.

    Work to improve bus services sits alongside a wider programme around the city as the Council continues to invest in local transport and build a network to be proud of. This includes upgrades to traffic signalling and active and sustainable travel infrastructure such as cycle lanes and EV charging points.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –