Category: Climate Change

MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Thursday, 10 July 2025 – Strasbourg – Final edition

Source: European Parliament 2

PV-10-2025-07-10

iPlPv_Sit

Minutes
Thursday, 10 July 2025 – Strasbourg

IN THE CHAIR: Christel SCHALDEMOSE
Vice-President

1. Opening of the sitting

The sitting opened at 09:00.

2. Council positions at first reading (Rule 64)

– Position of the Council at first reading with a view to the adoption of a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2008/98/EC on waste – Adopted by the Council on 23 June 2025 (06978/2/2025 – COM(2025)0388 – C10-0139/2025 – 2023/0234(COD))
referred to committee responsible: ENVI

The three-month period available to Parliament under Article 294 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union for it to adopt its position would begin the following day, 11 July 2025.

3. Post-2027 common agricultural policy (debate)

Commission statement: Post-2027 common agricultural policy (2025/2791(RSP))

Christophe Hansen (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Herbert Dorfmann, on behalf of the PPE Group, Dario Nardella, on behalf of the S&D Group (the President reminded the speaker of the rules on conduct), Raffaele Stancanelli, on behalf of the PfE Group, Carlo Fidanza, on behalf of the ECR Group, Elsi Katainen, on behalf of the Renew Group, Thomas Waitz, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Luke Ming Flanagan, on behalf of The Left Group, Arno Bausemer, on behalf of the ESN Group, Carmen Crespo Díaz, Cristina Maestre, Mathilde Androuët, Veronika Vrecionová, Barry Cowen, Anna Strolenberg, Arash Saeidi, Sarah Knafo, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Siegfried Mureşan, André Rodrigues, Mireia Borrás Pabón, who also answered a blue-card question from Ana Miranda Paz, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Asger Christensen, Giuseppe Antoci, David Cormand, Norbert Lins, Camilla Laureti, Gilles Pennelle, Waldemar Buda, Christine Singer, who also answered a blue-card question from Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Cristina Guarda, Konstantinos Arvanitis, Daniel Buda, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Valérie Deloge, Benoit Cassart, Martin Häusling, Paulo Do Nascimento Cabral, Maria Grapini, Ton Diepeveen, Jacek Ozdoba, Ciaran Mullooly, Pär Holmgren, Péter Magyar, Marko Vešligaj, Barbara Bonte, Michal Wiezik, Jessika Van Leeuwen, Csaba Dömötör and Céline Imart.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Gabriel Mato, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Ana Miranda Paz, Maria Zacharia, Nina Carberry and Arkadiusz Mularczyk.

IN THE CHAIR: Pina PICIERNO
Vice-President

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Francisco José Millán Mon, Maria Walsh, Stefan Köhler and Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos.

The following spoke: Christophe Hansen.

The debate closed.

4. European Citizens’ Initiative ‘Cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of the regional cultures’ (debate)

European Citizens’ Initiative ‘Cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of the regional cultures’ (2025/2655(RSP)) (Rule 228(8))

Francesco Ventola and Bogdan Rzońca presented the European Citizens’ Initiative.

The following spoke: Hadja Lahbib (Member of the Commission).

The following spoke: Iuliu Winkler, on behalf of the PPE Group, Alex Agius Saliba, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Antonella Sberna, on behalf of the ECR Group, Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, on behalf of the Renew Group, Vladimir Prebilič, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Siegbert Frank Droese, on behalf of the ESN Group, Gabriella Gerzsenyi, Marcos Ros Sempere, André Rougé, who also answered a blue-card question from Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, Guillaume Peltier, Joachim Streit, Kathleen Funchion, Volker Schnurrbusch, Fidias Panayiotou, Daniel Buda, Hannes Heide, Rody Tolassy, Nora Junco García, Irmhild Boßdorf, who also answered a blue-card question from Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Rosa Estaràs Ferragut, Sabrina Repp, Alexandra Mehnert, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Loránt Vincze, Isilda Gomes, Łukasz Kohut, Sandra Gómez López, Andi Cristea and Sofie Eriksson.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Gabriel Mato, Viktória Ferenc, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Nikolina Brnjac and Sebastian Tynkkynen.

The following spoke: Hadja Lahbib.

The debate closed.

(The sitting was suspended at 11:51.)

IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA
President

5. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 12:00.

⁂

The President thanked the Members and Parliament’s staff for their work during the first year of the current parliamentary term.

6. Voting time

For detailed results of the votes, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.

6.1. Motion of censure on the Commission (vote)

Motion of censure on the Commission B10-0319/2025 (minutes of 10.7.2025, item I) (2025/2140(RSP))

(Majority of two thirds of the votes cast, constituting a majority of Parliament’s component Members)

MOTION OF CENSURE (Rule 131)

Rejected

(‘Results of votes’, item 1)

⁂

Özlem Demirel, on the admissibility of an amendment concerning one of the items in voting time (the President gave explanations).

6.2. Case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0328/2025 (minutes of 10.7.2025, item I), B10-0328/2025, B10-0333/2025, B10-0336/2025, B10-0340/2025 and B10-0341/2025 (minutes of 9.7.2025, item I) (2025/2796(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0161)

(‘Results of votes’, item 2)

6.3. Arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0327/2025 (minutes of 10.7.2025, item I), B10-0323/2025, B10-0327/2025, B10-0334/2025, B10-0339/2025 and B10-0342/2025 (minutes of 9.7.2025, item I) (2025/2797(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0162)

(Motion for a resolution B10-0323/2025 fell.)

(‘Results of votes’, item 3)

6.4. Urgent need to protect religious minorities in Syria following the recent terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0335/2025 (minutes of 10.7.2025, item I), B10-0325/2025, B10-0335/2025, B10-0338/2025, B10-0343/2025, B10-0344/2025, B10-0345/2025, B10-0346/2025 and B10-0347/2025 (minutes of 9.7.2025, item I) (2025/2798(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0163)

(Motions for resolutions B10-0325/2025, B10-0338/2025 and B10-0343/2025 fell.)

(‘Results of votes’, item 4)

6.5. Amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 as regards obligations of economic operators concerning battery due diligence policies ***I (vote)

Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 as regards obligations of economic operators concerning battery due diligence policies [COM(2025)0258 – C10-0089/2025 – 2025/0129(COD)] – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety. Rapporteur: Antonio Decaro (A10-0134/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS

Approved (P10_TA(2025)0164)

Parliament’s first reading thus closed.

(‘Results of votes’, item 5)

6.6. Future of the EU biotechnology and biomanufacturing sector: leveraging research, boosting innovation and enhancing competitiveness (vote)

Report on the future of the EU biotechnology and biomanufacturing sector: leveraging research, boosting innovation and enhancing competitiveness [2025/2008(INI)] – Committee on Industry, Research and Energy. Rapporteur: Hildegard Bentele (A10-0123/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0165)

The following had spoken:

Hildegard Bentele, before the vote, to make a statement pursuant to Rule 165(4).

(‘Results of votes’, item 6)

6.7. Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0324/2025/REV1, B10-0324/2025, B10-0326/2025, B10-0329/2025, B10-0330/2025, B10-0331/2025 and B10-0332/2025 (minutes of 10.7.2025, item I) (2025/2800(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0166)

(Motion for a resolution B10-0326/2025 fell.)

(‘Results of votes’, item 7)

(The sitting was suspended at 12:18.)

IN THE CHAIR: Younous OMARJEE
Vice-President

7. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 15:00.

8. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.

9. Composition of committees and delegations

The non-attached Members had notified the President of the following decisions changing the composition of the committees and delegations:

– FEMM Committee: Fernand Kartheiser

– Delegation to the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly: Fernand Kartheiser

The decisions took effect as of that day.

10. Endometriosis: Europe’s wake-up call on the gender health gap (debate)

Commission statement: Endometriosis: Europe’s wake-up call on the gender health gap (2025/2795(RSP))

Hadja Lahbib (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: András Tivadar Kulja, on behalf of the PPE Group, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, on behalf of the PfE Group, Chiara Gemma, on behalf of the ECR Group, Billy Kelleher, on behalf of the Renew Group, Majdouline Sbai, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Catarina Martins, on behalf of The Left Group, Tomasz Froelich, on behalf of the ESN Group, Sirpa Pietikäinen, Evelyn Regner, who also answered a blue-card question from Petras Gražulis, Marie Dauchy, Mariateresa Vivaldini, Tilly Metz, Günther Sidl and Maria Grapini.

The following spoke: Hadja Lahbib.

The debate closed.

11. Oral explanations of votes (Rule 201)

11.1. Motion of censure on the Commission (B10-0319/2025)
Cristian Terheş

11.2. Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (RC-B10-0324/2025)
Günther Sidl

12. Explanations of votes in writing (Rule 201)

Explanations of votes given in writing would appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.

13. Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted

In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the start of the next sitting.

With Parliament’s agreement, the texts adopted during the part-session would be forwarded to their respective addressees without delay.

14. Dates of the next part-session

The next part-session would be held from 8 September 2025 to 11 September 2025.

15. Closure of the sitting

The sitting closed at 15:47.

16. Adjournment of the session

The session of the European Parliament was adjourned.

Alessandro Chiocchetti	Roberta Metsola
Secretary-General	President

LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT

I. Motions for resolutions tabled

Motion of censure on the Commission

Motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 131:

MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION (2025/2140(RSP)) (B10-0319/2025)
Gheorghe Piperea, Adrian-George Axinia, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Georgiana Teodorescu, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Fidias Panayiotou, Daniel Obajtek, Ivan David, Patryk Jaki, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Fernand Kartheiser, Nikolaos Anadiotis, Volker Schnurrbusch, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Irmhild Boßdorf, Virginie Joron, Ondřej Dostál, Cristian Terheş, Christine Anderson, António Tânger Corrêa, Emmanouil Fragkos, Milan Mazurek, Alexander Jungbluth, Siegbert Frank Droese, Petar Volgin, Rada Laykova, Stanislav Stoyanov, Arno Bausemer, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Bogdan Rzońca, Milan Uhrík, Mary Khan, Tomasz Froelich, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell, René Aust, Petr Bystron, Jacek Ozdoba, Galato Alexandraki, Kosma Złotowski, Waldemar Buda, Tobiasz Bocheński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Marlena Maląg, Mariusz Kamiński, Dominik Tarczyński, Anna Zalewska, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Maciej Wąsik, Michał Dworczyk, Alvise Pérez, Luis-Vicențiu Lazarus, Erik Kaliňák, Judita Laššáková, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik, Jaak Madison, Anja Arndt, Marcin Sypniewski, Markus Buchheit, Filip Turek, Friedrich Pürner, Kateřina Konečná, Ľuboš Blaha, Thierry Mariani, Jan-Peter Warnke, Thomas Geisel, Branislav Ondruš, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Monika Beňová, Marc Jongen, Nikola Bartůšek, Grzegorz Braun, Sarah Knafo, Petras Gražulis, Piotr Müller, Gerald Hauser

Case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

on the case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai (2025/2796(RSP)) (RC-B10-0328/2025)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0328/2025, B10-0333/2025, B10-0336/2025, B10-0340/2025 and B10-0341/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Seán Kelly, Tomáš Zdechovský, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Tomas Tobé, Wouter Beke, Davor Ivo Stier, Łukasz Kohut, Mirosława Nykiel, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin
on behalf of the S&D Group
Adam Bielan, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Marlena Maląg, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
on behalf of the ECR Group
Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Engin Eroglu, Olivier Chastel, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Villy Søvndal
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

Arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

on the arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic (2025/2797(RSP)) (RC-B10-0327/2025)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0327/2025, B10-0334/2025, B10-0339/2025 and B10-0342/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Wouter Beke, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Željana Zovko, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Andrey Kovatchev, Tomas Tobé, Tomáš Zdechovský, Davor Ivo Stier, Łukasz Kohut, Liudas Mažylis, Vangelis Meimarakis, Loránt Vincze, Seán Kelly, Mirosława Nykiel, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Kathleen Van Brempt, Francisco Assis
on behalf of the S&D Group
Adam Bielan, Jaak Madison, Alexandr Vondra, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Michał Dworczyk, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Assita Kanko, Marlena Maląg, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
on behalf of the ECR Group
Hilde Vautmans, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Saskia Bricmont
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

Urgent need to protect religious minorities in Syria following the recent terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

on the urgent need to protect religious minorities in Syria following the recent terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus (2025/2798(RSP)) (RC-B10-0335/2025)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0335/2025, B10-0344/2025, B10-0345/2025, B10-0346/2025 and B10-0347/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Ingeborg Ter Laak, David McAllister, François-Xavier Bellamy, Andrzej Halicki, Wouter Beke, Željana Zovko, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Andrey Kovatchev, Tomas Tobé, Ioan-Rareş Bogdan, Tomáš Zdechovský, Davor Ivo Stier, Sander Smit, Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi, Eleonora Meleti, Vangelis Meimarakis, Georgios Aftias, Dimitris Tsiodras, Emmanouil Kefalogiannis, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Matej Tonin, Massimiliano Salini, Łukasz Kohut, Loránt Vincze, Seán Kelly, Mirosława Nykiel, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Inese Vaidere, Michalis Hadjipantela, Miriam Lexmann
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Marco Tarquinio, Hana Jalloul Muro, Evin Incir, Nikos Papandreou
on behalf of the S&D Group
Adam Bielan, Reinis Pozņaks, Alexandr Vondra, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Guillaume Peltier, Marion Maréchal, Nicolas Bay, Laurence Trochu, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Aurelijus Veryga, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Assita Kanko, Marlena Maląg, Carlo Fidanza, Alberico Gambino, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
on behalf of the ECR Group
Nathalie Loiseau, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Hannah Neumann
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
Nikolas Farantouris

Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions

Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (2025/2800(RSP)) (B10-0324/2025)
Hildegard Bentele
on behalf of the PPE Group

on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (2025/2800(RSP)) (B10-0326/2025)
Martin Schirdewan
on behalf of The Left Group

on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (2025/2800(RSP)) (B10-0329/2025)
Beata Szydło
on behalf of the ECR Group

on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (2025/2800(RSP)) (B10-0330/2025)
Bart Groothuis, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group

on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (2025/2800(RSP)) (B10-0331/2025)
Ville Niinistö, Michael Bloss, Majdouline Sbai, Maria Ohisalo, Markéta Gregorová, Sara Matthieu
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (2025/2800(RSP)) (B10-0332/2025)
Kathleen Van Brempt
on behalf of the S&D Group

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 136(2) and (4):

on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions (2025/2800(RSP)) (RC-B10-0324/2025/REV1)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0324/2025, B10-0329/2025, B10-0330/2025, B10-0331/2025 and B10-0332/2025)
Hildegard Bentele
on behalf of the PPE Group
Kathleen Van Brempt
on behalf of the S&D Group
Beata Szydło, Mariusz Kamiński
on behalf of the ECR Group
Bart Groothuis, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Engin Eroglu, Christophe Grudler, Svenja Hahn, Ľubica Karvašová, Michał Kobosko, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Ville Niinistö
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

II. Petitions

Petitions Nos 0818-25 to 1048-25 had been entered in the register on 4 July 2025 and had been forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(9) and (10).

The President had, on 4 July 2025, forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(15), petitions addressed to Parliament by natural or legal persons who were not citizens of the European Union and who did not reside, or have their registered office, in a Member State.

III. Documents received

The following documents had been received:

1) from other institutions

– Proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2014/45/EU on periodic roadworthiness tests for motor vehicles and their trailers and Directive 2014/47/EU on the technical roadside inspection of the roadworthiness of commercial vehicles circulating in the Union (COM(2025)0180 – C10-0072/2025 – 2025/0097(COD))
In accordance with Rules 151(1) and 152(1), the President consults the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the proposal.
referred to committee responsible: TRAN

– Proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the registration documents for vehicles and vehicle registration data recorded in national vehicle registers and repealing Council Directive 1999/37/EC (COM(2025)0179 – C10-0073/2025 – 2025/0096(COD))
In accordance with Rules 151(1) and 152(1), the President consults the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the proposal.
referred to committee responsible: TRAN
opinion: IMCO

– Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2024/1348 as regards the application of the ‘safe third country’ concept (COM(2025)0259 – C10-0088/2025 – 2025/0132(COD))
referred to committee responsible: LIBE

– Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) No 765/2008, (EU) 2016/424, (EU) 2016/425, (EU) 2016/426, (EU) 2023/1230, (EU) 2023/1542 and (EU) 2024/1781 as regards digitalisation and common specifications (COM(2025)0504 – C10-0090/2025 – 2025/0134(COD))
In accordance with Rule 151(1), the President consults the European Economic and Social Committee on the proposal.
referred to committee responsible: IMCO
opinion: ENVI

– Proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directives 2000/14/EC, 2011/65/EU, 2013/53/EU, 2014/29/EU, 2014/30/EU, 2014/31/EU, 2014/32/EU, 2014/33/EU, 2014/34/EU, 2014/35/EU, 2014/53/EU, 2014/68/EU and 2014/90/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards digitalisation and common specifications (COM(2025)0503 – C10-0091/2025 – 2025/0133(COD))
In accordance with Rule 151(1), the President consults the European Economic and Social Committee on the proposal.
referred to committee responsible: IMCO
opinion: ENVI, TRAN

– Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) 2016/679, (EU) 2016/1036, (EU) 2016/1037, (EU) 2017/1129, (EU) 2023/1542 and (EU) 2024/573 as regards the extension of certain mitigating measures available for small and medium-sized enterprises to small mid-cap enterprises and further simplification measures (COM(2025)0501 – C10-0092/2025 – 2025/0130(COD))
In accordance with Rules 151(1) and 152(1), the President consults the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the proposal.
referred to committee responsible: ECON, ENVI, LIBE
opinion: INTA, ITRE, IMCO

– Proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directives 2009/43/EC and 2009/81/EC, as regards the simplification of intra-EU transfers of defence-related products and the simplification of security and defence procurement (COM(2025)0823 – C10-0120/2025 – 2025/0177(COD))
In accordance with Rule 151(1), the President consults the European Economic and Social Committee on the proposal.
referred to committee responsible: SEDE, IMCO
opinion: ITRE

– Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EC) No 1907/2006, (EC) No 1272/2008, (EU) No 528/2012, (EU) 2019/1021 and (EU) 2021/697 as regards defence readiness and facilitating defence investments and conditions for defence industry (COM(2025)0822 – C10-0121/2025 – 2025/0176(COD))
In accordance with Rules 151(1) and 152(1), the President consults the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the proposal.
referred to committee responsible: SEDE, ENVI, ITRE
opinion: IMCO

2) from Members

– Mathilde Androuët, Gerolf Annemans, Jordan Bardella, Nikola Bartůšek, Christophe Bay, Barbara Bonte, Paolo Borchia, Mireia Borrás Pabón, Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain, Anna Bryłka, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Susanna Ceccardi, Anna Maria Cisint, Marie Dauchy, Valérie Deloge, Mélanie Disdier, Csaba Dömötör, Marieke Ehlers, Viktória Ferenc, Anne-Sophie Frigout, Angéline Furet, Jean-Paul Garraud, Catherine Griset, András Gyürk, Enikő Győri, Kinga Gál, Roman Haider, Gerald Hauser, György Hölvényi, Virginie Joron, Ondřej Knotek, Vilis Krištopans, Afroditi Latinopoulou, Fabrice Leggeri, Julien Leonardelli, András László, Thierry Mariani, Jorge Martín Frías, Tiago Moreira de Sá, Aleksandar Nikolic, Philippe Olivier, Gilles Pennelle, Pascale Piera, Pierre Pimpie, Jaroslava Pokorná Jermanová, Julie Rechagneux, Julien Sanchez, Silvia Sardone, Ernő Schaller-Baross, Pál Szekeres, Hermann Tertsch, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Rody Tolassy, Isabella Tovaglieri, Filip Turek, António Tânger Corrêa, Matthieu Valet, Roberto Vannacci, Alexandre Varaut, Séverine Werbrouck and Margarita de la Pisa Carrión. Motion for a resolution on combating the establishment of transnational Islamist networks in Europe (B10-0279/2025)
referred to committee responsible: LIBE

– Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Siegbert Frank Droese, Milan Mazurek, Volker Schnurrbusch and Petar Volgin. Motion for a resolution on the escalation in the Middle East following Israel’s attack on Iran (B10-0301/2025)
referred to committee responsible: AFET
opinion: SEDE, LIBE

IV. Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports

Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports (Rule 55)

(Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 2 July 2025)

ECON Committee

– Competition policy – annual report 2025 (2025/2134(INI))

– Banking Union – annual report 2025 (2025/2136(INI))

EMPL Committee

– Addressing subcontracting chains and the role of intermediaries in order to protect workers’ rights (2025/2133(INI))
(opinion: IMCO)

LIBE Committee

– Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2024 and 2025 (2025/2135(INI))

– Public access to documents – report covering the years 2022-2024 (2025/2137(INI))

PETI Committee

– Activities of the European Ombudsman – annual report 2024 (2025/2138(INI))

SANT Committee

– An EU cardiovascular diseases strategy (2025/2132(INI))

– Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan (2025/2139(INI))

(Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 8 July 2025)

SEDE Committee

– European defence readiness 2030: assessment of needs (2025/2142(INI))
(opinion: BUDG, ECON, ITRE)

– Tackling barriers to the single market for defence (2025/2143(INI))
(opinion: ECON, ITRE, IMCO)

– Flagship European defence projects of common interest (2025/2144(INI))
(opinion: ITRE, IMCO)

Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports (Rule 47)

(Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 2 July 2025)

EMPL Committee

– Just transition directive in the world of work: ensuring the creation of jobs and revitalising local economies (2025/2131(INL))

SANT Committee

– EU rare disease action plan (2025/2130(INL))

V. Consent procedure

Reports with a motion for a non-legislative resolution (consent procedure) (Rule 107(2))

(Following notification by the Conference of Committee Chairs on 2 July 2025)

INTA Committee

– Digital Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Singapore (2025/0009M(NLE) – 2025/0009(NLE))

ATTENDANCE REGISTER

Present:

Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Annunziata Lucia, Antoci Giuseppe, Arias Echeverría Pablo, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barley Katarina, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Beňová Monika, Bentele Hildegard, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berg Sibylle, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blinkevičiūtė Vilija, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bogdan Ioan-Rareş, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Brejza Krzysztof, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Brudziński Joachim Stanisław, Bryłka Anna, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Daniel, Buda Waldemar, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Bullmann Udo, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Ceccardi Susanna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Ciccioli Carlo, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Cristea Andi, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Deutsch Tamás, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Do Nascimento Cabral Paulo, Donazzan Elena, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Düpont Lena, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Estaràs Ferragut Rosa, Everding Sebastian, Ezcurra Almansa Alma, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fernández Jonás, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Flanagan Luke Ming, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Georgiou Giorgos, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glück Andreas, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomart Christophe, Gomes Isilda, Gómez López Sandra, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Gregorová Markéta, Grims Branko, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Groothuis Bart, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Guarda Cristina, Guetta Bernard, Guzenina Maria, Győri Enikő, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hassan Rima, Hauser Gerald, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Homs Ginel Alicia, Humberto Sérgio, Ijabs Ivars, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kaljurand Marina, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Kanev Radan, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kemp Martine, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovatchev Andrey, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyllönen Merja, Kyuchyuk Ilhan, Lagodinsky Sergey, Lakos Eszter, Lalucq Aurore, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Lazarus Luis-Vicențiu, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Loiseau Nathalie, Løkkegaard Morten, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López-Istúriz White Antonio, Lövin Isabella, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Magyar Péter, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Manda Claudiu, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Mantovani Mario, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martín Frías Jorge, Martins Catarina, Martusciello Fulvio, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Mato Gabriel, Matthieu Sara, Mavrides Costas, Maydell Eva, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, Mažylis Liudas, Mebarek Nora, Mehnert Alexandra, Meimarakis Vangelis, Meleti Eleonora, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Millán Mon Francisco José, Miranda Paz Ana, Molnár Csaba, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moratti Letizia, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Nardella Dario, Navarrete Rojas Fernando, Negrescu Victor, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neuhoff Hans, Neumann Hannah, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Oliveira João, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ondruš Branislav, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Panayiotou Fidias, Papadakis Kostas, Pappas Nikos, Pascual de la Parte Nicolás, Patriciello Aldo, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Pereira Lídia, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pietikäinen Sirpa, Pimpie Pierre, Piperea Gheorghe, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Popescu Virgil-Daniel, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radev Emil, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repp Sabrina, Ressler Karlo, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ridel Chloé, Riehl Nela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Šarec Marjan, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schnurrbusch Volker, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Simon Sven, Singer Christine, Sinkevičius Virginijus, Sippel Birgit, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Søvndal Villy, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Ștefănuță Nicolae, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strack-Zimmermann Marie-Agnes, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Sypniewski Marcin, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Târziu Claudiu-Richard, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Temido Marta, Teodorescu Georgiana, Teodorescu Måwe Alice, Terheş Cristian, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Toveri Pekka, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Uhrík Milan, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Overtveldt Johan, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vasile-Voiculescu Vlad, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Verheyen Sabine, Veryga Aurelijus, Vešligaj Marko, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vincze Loránt, Vind Marianne, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Wilmès Sophie, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zajączkowska-Hernik Ewa, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zan Alessandro, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zijlstra Auke, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma, Zoido Álvarez Juan Ignacio, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan

Excused:

Burkhardt Delara, Friis Sigrid, Hazekamp Anja

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Vietnamese gold medalist Do The Manh: “Polytech taught me to boldly move forward”

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

SPbPU Master’s graduate Do The Manh received one of the university’s highest awards – a gold medal. He studied at the Institute of Electronics and Telecommunications in the field of “Secure Telecommunication Systems”. In an interview, he spoke about his path, his love for St. Petersburg and advice to future international students.

— Congratulations on the gold medal! This is an outstanding achievement. Tell us why you chose Russia, St. Petersburg and the Polytechnic?

— For the Vietnamese, Russia is a friendly country. Historical ties are very strong. We know that Russia has powerful technologies, especially in telecommunications — reliable, excellent systems. First, I chose a direction, then decided to study in Russia, and then I learned about the Polytechnic. It attracted me not only by the level of science, but also by the atmosphere, the beauty of the city and student life.

— You went from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree at the Institute of Electronics and Telecommunications. Why telecommunications?

— I became interested in it back in school. I liked how Wi-Fi and the Internet worked. I wanted to understand the principles, how it was installed and how it could be improved. That’s how I decided on the direction.

— Have your expectations from studying been met now, with a master’s degree in hand?

– Absolutely! The knowledge turned out to be deep and very important for a future career. Expectations were fully met.

— What were your first impressions of St. Petersburg and the Polytechnic University seven years ago?

— The city captivated me with its beauty right away: the streets, the architecture, the sights. The number of foreign students at the Polytechnic was astounding — over 5,000! We lived in a dormitory. The Russian language was not easy, especially because of the Cyrillic alphabet. But the teachers at the preparatory faculty were amazingly kind and patient, they explained everything very specifically. It helped a lot.

— The path to the gold medal was clearly not easy. What was the most difficult?

— It was very difficult to combine studies with social work. I was the chairman of the Association of Vietnamese Students in St. Petersburg and a member of the association in Russia. There were many organizational matters, and sometimes the balance between studies and social work failed.

— How did you manage to overcome this imbalance?

— The teachers and the management helped. I knew that I could turn to them for help or advice. And I am very grateful for such support — without it, it would have been more difficult to get a medal.

— Which subjects or teachers did you remember the most?

— The classes of my scientific supervisor Alexander Leonidovich Gelgor were especially inspiring. He taught several subjects both in the bachelor’s and master’s programs. His lectures and seminars were incredibly interesting because they combined theory and practice. I think that not only I, but also most of the group appreciated them for this.

— Besides the language, what difficulties did you face as a foreign student?

— At first, it was difficult to communicate with Russian classmates. My Vietnamese friend and I stuck together, there was a certain wall. But it collapsed after a semester. We started communicating about our studies — we helped each other with assignments, we had a good school base. And then our friendship went beyond the classroom. We went for walks, spent time together.

— Climate, food, everyday life — what was the most unusual?

— The climate! Definitely! In Vietnam, the minimum temperature is 10°C, and in my first winter here I encountered -30°C! It was a shock. But by the second winter I got used to it — it was freezing outside, but the hostel was always warm. There were no problems with food. I really loved borscht! And Russian shashlik is not just food, but a whole atmosphere: company, new places, laughter… A special tradition.

— Did you learn Russian from scratch at the preparatory faculty?

— Almost. In Vietnam, I spent six months learning the basics: the alphabet, basic phrases. Serious grammar and practice began here. I even walked and talked to people on the streets on purpose — I practiced and learned a lot of interesting things about their lives and experiences. The preparatory course gave me much more than just the language.

— What did you like most about St. Petersburg?

— I love everything here! Over the course of seven years, the city, the people, the university, the teachers, the friends — everything has become familiar and dear.

— Did you manage to get to know Russian culture more deeply?

— Yes! Thanks to our work in the association, we were often invited to events by the Committee on External Relations and the Committee on Youth Policy of St. Petersburg. We tried national cuisine and learned about traditions. It is amazing how history is honored and culture is preserved here. This largely explains Russia’s place in the world.

— What have these seven years been like for you?

— It was a path from a schoolboy to a specialist. I matured internally, learned to manage my time, earned the respect of those around me. I received a colossal amount of baggage — not only knowledge, but also life experience.

— What skills, professional and personal, do you consider the most valuable?

— The ability to plan studies and life, to manage time. And respect for people — beyond any doubt.

— What would you tell yourself 7 years ago, on your first day at the Polytechnic?

– Don’t be shy! Act! There were moments when shyness prevented me from doing something, and then I regretted it. If you want something, do it boldly!

— Was there anything completely unexpected, good or difficult?

— The most unexpected and pleasant surprise was the gold medal! I didn’t even know it existed at first. I found out later, but the main goal was always to gain knowledge in order to apply it in Vietnam. The medal is a wonderful bonus to that.

— What are your plans now? Is a Polytechnic diploma an advantage in Vietnam?

— I’m going back to Vietnam soon to work in my specialty. There’s already a place. A Polytechnic diploma is certainly a strong advantage. Russia is known for its technologies, and Polytechnic has a high rating and teachers recognized in our field. This is appreciated.

— Will you maintain contact with Russia?

— Definitely! With friends, teachers, the university. And if the work requires deepening of knowledge, perhaps I will return to graduate school.

— What is your main advice to future foreign students of the Polytechnic University?

— Learn Russian. Don’t be shy about communicating with Russians! Plan your studies. Know how to manage your time. And most importantly: don’t be afraid to ask your teachers. They are friendly and will always help you figure things out.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) Participates in Global Conference on Ethical Finance and Sustainable Growth
Source: APO

The International University of Sarajevo (IUS), in strategic partnership with the Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) (https://IsDBInstitute.org/) and in collaboration with esteemed institutions including the University of Dundee (UK), Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University (Türkiye), INCEIF University (Malaysia), and the Center for Advanced Studies (Bosnia and Herzegovina), successfully hosted the international conference “Values for Impact: Ethical Finance, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth.”

The event, held at the IUS Campus in Sarajevo from 18-19 June 2025, was supported by platinum sponsor Kuveyt Türk Katılım Bankası and BH Telecom, which sponsored a key panel on artificial intelligence.

The conference was inaugurated by IUS Rector, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yıldırım, who highlighted its global significance, stating, “This conference represents a pivotal moment for global collaboration, uniting diverse perspectives to advance ethical finance and sustainable development, aligning with IUS’s commitment to fostering innovation and moral responsibility in economic systems.”

Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Acting Director General of IsDBI, delivered a keynote address, articulating a bold vision for Islamic finance. He stated: “Islamic finance offers the blueprint for aligning finance with markets, technology with values, and innovation with sustainability. As the world desperately seeks a new paradigm, we must rise to the challenge and contribute to a better future that we all aspire to. The path ahead will not be easy. But the mission is worth the journey.”

Dr. Ahmet Albayrak, Executive Vice President of Kuveyt Türk Katılım Bankası and Patron of the IUS Center for Islamic Finance, Innovation, and Sustainability, emphasized the importance of uniting global thought leaders to strengthen the moral and digital foundations of economic systems.

One of the highlights of the conference was the participation of three distinguished recipients of the Islamic Development Bank Prize in Islamic Economics:
- Dr. Mehmet Asutay, Professor of Middle Eastern and Islamic Political Economy & Finance, Durham University Business School, UK
- Dr. Mohammad Kabir Hassan, Professor of Economics and Finance, University of New Orleans, USA
- Dr. Habib Ahmed, Sharjah Chair in Islamic Law and Finance, Durham University Business School, UK
These luminaries enriched discussions with their expertise, offering profound insights into the intersection of ethics, innovation, and finance.

Over 160 participants from more than 20 countries, including academics, industry leaders, policymakers, and representatives of international organizations, engaged in dynamic sessions exploring topics such as Islamic fintech, sustainable investment, and the moral foundations of economic systems.

Notable sessions included “Reviving the Moral Foundations of Economic Life,” “Islamic FinTech for Inclusive and Ethical Futures,” and “Green Waqf: Islamic Sustainable Solutions to Climate Change.” A special parallel session, led by Dr. Beebee Salma Sairally, Editor of the International Journal of Islamic Finance and Sustainable Development (a jointly produced journal by IsDBI and INCEIF), provided valuable guidance on publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

The conference is expected to pave the way for Bosnia and Herzegovina to become an intellectual hub for the development of Islamic economics and finance in the region and to contribute to the national and regional sustainable development agenda.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI).

Social media handles:
X (Twitter): https://apo-opa.co/44XESSI
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LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/40L6ec8

About the Islamic Development Bank Institute:
The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) is the knowledge beacon of the Islamic Development Bank Group. Guided by the principles of Islamic economics and finance, the IsDB Institute leads the development of innovative knowledge-based solutions to support the sustainable economic advancement of IsDB Member Countries and various Muslim communities worldwide. The IsDB Institute enables economic development through pioneering research, human capital development, and knowledge creation, dissemination, and management. The Institute leads initiatives to enable Islamic finance ecosystems, ultimately helping Member Countries achieve their development objectives. More information about the IsDB Institute is available on https://IsDBInstitute.org/

Media files

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MIL OSI Africa –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Be safe on top of the South roads
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

With weather warnings for the top of the South Island escalated, local drivers are being urged to keep a close eye on road and weather conditions.

The Metservice has issued a Red Heavy Rain Warning for Tasman district about and southeast of Motueka and north of Lake Rotoroa.

Orange Heavy Rain Warnings are also in force for Tasman District northwest of Motueka, Nelson, and Marlborough northwest of the Awatere Valley.

This weather will affect:
- State Highway 60 – Richmond to Collingwood
- State Highway 6 – Nelson to Murchison
- State Highway 6 – Nelson to Blenheim
- State Highway 1 – Picton to Seddon
- State Highway 63 – Renwick to Kawatiri Junction
Emma Speight, Director Regional Relationships says Red Warnings must be taken seriously.

“There is no room for complacency. Keep an eye on the weather and avoid unnecessary travel. If you’re in a safe place, stay there and don’t put yourself at risk by driving on flooded roads.”

“It’s also about reducing danger to others too. Respect and obey any road closures that are in place. They are there to keep people safe. Ignoring them not only risks your own safety, but also that of anyone who may be called on to help rescue you,” Ms Speight says.

She also asks people to avoid driving through floodwaters.

“Flood waters can obscure hidden dangers. You just don’t know what is below the surface.”

“Also, driving through flooded areas creates bow waves that can cause more damage to homes and properties. Please, don’t do this,” Ms Speight says.

Contractors are on call and ready to respond to events as they arise and will do their best to keep state highways open.

However, Ms Speight says safety is the priority.

“We are keeping a close eye on areas that suffered damage over the past two weeks – SH6 Kohatu to Kawatiri, SH63 Renwick to Saint Arnaud, and SH6 Rocks Road.”

“If public safety is at risk, roads will be closed. This is why it is critical people keep a close eye on road and weather conditions, and Civil Defence updates. Make sure you know what is happening and how it may affect you,” Ms Speight says.

More Information:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Whitehouse Introduce Bills to Slash Emissions From Ocean Shipping
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, introduced a pair of bills to reduce dangerous air pollution within the shipping industry.

Padilla’s Clean Shipping Act of 2025, led by Representative Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42) in the House, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping industry to protect the health of port communities and address the environmental injustice impacts of the climate crisis. Padilla also co-leads the International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act, led by Whitehouse in the Senate and Representatives Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07) and Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.-15) in the House. The bill aims to reduce emissions by imposing a pollution fee on large marine vessels offloading cargo at U.S. ports to fund decarbonization efforts in the U.S. maritime economy.

“California’s ports are the powerhouse of our country’s economy, moving critical freight and providing good-paying jobs, all while leading the nation’s decarbonizing efforts. But neighboring communities have been forced to shoulder the brunt of global shipping pollution for too long,” said Senator Padilla. “Our legislation would strengthen the sustainability of our shipping industry by reducing emissions in maritime transportation while simultaneously protecting coastal communities. The health of our communities and our planet requires us to be forward-looking and ambitious — we owe future generations nothing less than bold, transformative action.”

“As climate change destroys lives and drives up costs for families, we need an all-hands-on-deck approach to avoid the worst consequences for communities, businesses, and the environment,” said Ranking Member Whitehouse. “Encouragingly, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has put forward a global carbon price on shipping emissions. This legislation reinforces that work, further cutting harmful emissions while supporting the maritime innovators that are pioneering clean technologies to protect public health and can help put us on course to climate safety.”

Globally, maritime shipping is a major source of climate-warming pollution, including climate-warming GHG emissions (carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) and harmful air pollutant emissions (oxides of nitrogen, sulfur dioxide, and fine particulate matter). According to the International Maritime Organization 2020 GHG Study, the global shipping industry emits approximately one billion tons of GHG emissions per year, roughly 3 percent of total anthropogenic global-warming carbon-dioxide emissions. The study projects in future scenarios that shipping’s GHG emissions could more than double between 2018 and 2050. These emissions are not only harmful for the environment, but jeopardize the air quality and public health of the nearly 40 percent of Americans who live within three miles of a port.

Clean Shipping Act

The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 would set a path to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from all ocean shipping companies that do business with the United States. It would direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set progressively tighter carbon intensity standards for fuels used by ships in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Specifically, the bill would direct the EPA to:
- Set carbon intensity standards for fuels used by ships. The bill sets progressively tighter carbon intensity standards for fuels used by ships consistent with a 1.5°C decarbonization pathway. These standards would require lifecycle carbon dioxide-equivalent reductions of 30 percent from January 1, 2030, 58 percent from January 1, 2034, 83 percent from January 1, 2040, 92 percent from January 1, 2045, and 100 percent from January 1, 2050 (based on a 2027 baseline).
- Set requirements to eliminate in-port ship emissions by 2035. By January 1, 2035, all ships at-berth or at-anchor in U.S. ports would emit zero GHG emissions and zero air pollutant emissions.
“Our nation’s ports, particularly the Port of Long Beach, are crucial parts of the economy that drive our supply chain at home. However, they’re also among the largest sources of pollution in our coastal communities,” said Representative Garcia. “Ship pollution is harmful for the health of people living near ports, and disproportionately affects low-income, working-class neighborhoods and communities of color. That’s why I’m proud to introduce a bill that addresses greenhouse gas pollution and creates a path to fully eliminate emissions. We must protect people’s health and stop our climate crisis, while ensuring good-paying jobs for the future.”

“In order to protect our ocean and stay competitive with the rest of the world, we need federal leadership to help modernize and clean up U.S. shipping. By driving the shipping sector to develop, scale and deploy zero-emission technologies, we can spur job creation, help tackle the climate crisis and help create cleaner air for the millions of Americans living near ports. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for their leadership on this issue and look forward to working with members of Congress to make this bill a reality,” said Caroline Bonfield, Ocean Conservancy’s Shipping Emissions U.S. Policy Manager.

“The shipping industry has been polluting communities for decades, but we have the power to make shipping cleaner. Port expansions across the country have been especially devastating for communities living closest to the harbors where large ships spew toxic diesel exhaust that worsens air quality and contributes to the climate crisis. People living near ports deserve to breathe clean air, and the Clean Shipping Act will help make that a reality,” said Katherine García, Director of the Clean Transportation for All Campaign, Sierra Club.

“GreenLatinos endorses the urgently needed Clean Shipping Act, which protects Latino/e and other vulnerable communities from further exposure to port pollution and takes important steps to reduce harm from toxic ship fuels. 1 in 3 Latines live in the top 20% of most pollution-impacted communities. Pollution burdened communities are facing even more exposure as idling ships wait days to enter port and offload their cargo. We urge Congress to act swiftly in passing this vital legislation and protect our coastal communities from the harms of port emissions,” said Andrea Marpillero-Colomina, Policy Advisor, GreenLatinos.

“The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will help us work toward a future where healthy port communities thrive and everyone benefits from leveraging the tremendous potential of the ocean and ocean industries as powerful sources of climate solutions. We are grateful for the leadership of Congressman Garcia and Senator Padilla for advancing this legislation for our ocean, climate, and communities,” said Sarah Guy, Executive Director, Ocean Defense Initiative.

“The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will send a clear signal to the shipping industry that they must reduce their emissions by phasing out the use of fossil fuels and transition to a cleaner future. Technology-forcing policies like this legislation will enable large-scale investment in sustainable maritime fuels and technologies and establish a level playing field, minimizing the risk for manufacturers and suppliers. For far too long, dirty ships have brought significant levels of air pollution into U.S. port communities. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for reintroducing this important bill and leading the effort to help protect communities disproportionately impacted by these harmful emissions,” said Antonio Santos, Federal Climate Policy Director, Pacific Environment.

The bill is supported by industry leaders including ABB, Evolve Hydrogen Inc., Maritime Battery Forum, and Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association, as well as NGOs including Breathe Southern California, CleanEarth4Kids.org, Don’t Waste Arizona, Environmental, Investigation Agency, Friends of the Earth, GreenLatinos, Intheshadowofthewolf, Long Beach Alliance for Clean Energy, Milwaukee Riverkeeper, Ocean Conservancy, Ocean Defense Initiative, Pacific Environment, Restoring Earth Connection, San Pedro & Peninsula Homeowners Coalition, Seattle Cruise Control, Sierra Club, Sunflower Alliance, 350 Bay Area Action, 350 Sacramento, Turtle Island Restoration Network, and Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility.

Full text of the bill is available here.

International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act

The International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act would:
- Impose a pollution fee on the largest marine vessels offloading cargo at U.S. ports, driving industry-wide decarbonization efforts and incentivizing the use and development of cleaner maritime fuels.
- Levy a $150 per ton fee on the carbon emissions of fuel burned on an inbound trip, as well as fees for the nitrogen oxides ($6.30/lb.), sulfur dioxide ($18/lb.), and particle pollution (PM2.5) ($38.90/lb.) that ships emit. The fees would apply only to those ships with 5,000 gross tonnage or more, excluding most of the domestic industry, and the fee on carbon emissions would sunset if the IMO implemented and enforced a fee on the greenhouse gas emissions of marine shipping that was equal to or greater than the $150 per ton fee levied in the bill.
- Provide critical funding to modernize the Jones Act fleet with low-carbon vessels, revitalizing and electrifying U.S. shipbuilding, and addressing and reducing pollutants in America’s port communities, along our coasts, and in our oceans.
The International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act has been endorsed by EV Maritime, Friends of the Earth, GreenLatinos, Ocean Conservancy, Pacific Environment, San Pedro & Peninsula Homeowners Coalition, Sierra Club, 350 Bay Area Action, and 350 Brooklyn.

Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) are cosponsoring the legislation.

Full text of the International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act is available here, and a one-pager is available here.

Senator Padilla believes decarbonizing our ports is vital for powering economic growth and protecting public health. Last year, he announced over $1 billion in EPA funding across seven California ports to build zero-emission port infrastructure and implement climate and air quality management plans. The funding comes through the Clean Ports Program, which is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and aims to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality at ports across the nation. California ports will receive three of the largest seven grants nationwide, including over $411 million for the Port of Los Angeles, the biggest award in the country. In 2023, he announced $74.5 million from the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration to decarbonize, upgrade, and rehabilitate key ports along California’s coast.
MIL OSI USA News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – MetService issues Red Warning for the Tasman District

Source: MetService

Covering period of Friday 11 July – At 9:59am MetService escalated the severe weather warnings in the Tasman District to a Red Warning for Heavy Rain, in consultation with the Tasman District Council. MetService Red Warnings are reserved for the most extreme weather events where significant impact and disruption is expected.

The Red Rain Warning is valid until 11pm tonight (Friday) and covers the Tasman District about and southeast of Motueka and north of Lake Rotoroa, excluding Nelson City. The escalation to a Red Warning comes on the back of three weeks of heavy rain events that have led to very saturated conditions and high river levels, with further rainfall expected with the current weather system. The region has already seen more than 50 mm of rain so far today, with a further 80 to 120 mm expected.

MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says, “Dangerous river conditions, flooding, slips, and dangerous road conditions are expected.”

“A Red Warning signifies that people need to act now as immediate action is required to protect people, animals and property from the impact of the weather. People should also be prepared to follow the advice of official authorities and emergency services.”

This is the second Red Warning MetService has issued this year, and it’s the 17th Red Warning weather event since the highest alert level was introduced back in May 2019.

A Watch for Strong Winds is also in place for the Tasman District for northerlies and northeasterlies approaching severe gale. The wet ground may act together with the strong winds to increase the chances of trees falling.

It’s not just the top of the South Island which is lined up for severe weather. Many parts of the North Island are under a blanket of Warnings and Watches for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds. Northland, Auckland, Coromandel, and Bay of Plenty may see a period of downpours as the weather system moves across this afternoon and evening.

Keep up to date with weather and warnings via metservice.com or our free MetService weather app.

MetService also now provides push notifications for Red Severe Weather Warnings via our app. More information can be found here about enabling them.

Understanding MetService Severe Weather Warning System

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (Localised Red Warning) – take cover now:

This warning is a red warning for a localised area.
When extremely severe weather is occurring or will do within the hour.
Severe thunderstorms have the ability to have significant impacts for an area indicated in the warning.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Red Warning: Act now!

Red Warnings are about taking immediate action:

When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Issued when an event is expected to be among the worst that we get – it will have significant impact and it is possible that a lot of people will be affected
In the event of a Red Warning: Act now!

Orange Warnings are about taking action:

When severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather
In the event of an Orange Warning: Take action.

Thunderstorm Watch means thunderstorms are possible, be alert and consider action

Show the area that thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the validity period.
Although thunderstorms are often localised, the whole area is on watch as it is difficult to know exactly where the severe thunderstorm will occur within the mapped area.
During a thunderstorm Watch: Stay alert and take action if necessary.

Watches are about being alert:

When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issued
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.
During a Watch: Stay alert

Outlooks are about looking ahead:

To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings
Issued routinely once or twice a day
Recommendation: Plan.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey and Rep. Barragán Introduce Resolution to Confront Rising Public Health Threats from Climate Change
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

Resolution Text (PDF)

Washington (July 10, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, and Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44) today introduced a resolution recognizing climate change as a growing threat to public health and calling for a coordinated federal strategy to protect communities from worsening climate-fueled harms. The resolution urges the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and other federal agencies to lead a whole-of-government effort to protect public health and improve resiliency against climate-related threats throughout the health sector. Representatives Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Doris Matsui (CA-07), and Brad Schneider (IL-10) co-led the resolution in the House.

The climate crisis is here. In 2024, the United States experienced 27 climate disasters that caused more than a billion dollars each in damage. Increasingly frequent and extreme events—like wildfires, floods, and heat waves—are driving spikes in illness, displacement, and death. More than 150 million Americans live in areas with unhealthy air, and people with disabilities are 2 to 4 times more likely to die or be injured in climate-related disasters. Frontline workers in agriculture, construction, delivery, and manufacturing face growing health risks from extreme heat and poor air quality on the job.

“With deadly extreme weather disasters, devastating heat waves, and pollution that triggers asthma and other health crises all on the rise, climate change is a full-blown public health emergency—and we need to treat it that way,” said Senator Markey. “This resolution calls on our government to protect the people most at risk from climate-related threats—those on the frontlines of the climate crisis, including Black and Indigenous communities, low-income families, and workers, especially those in construction, delivery, manufacturing, and warehouses. While Republicans pass bills that kick people off their health care, we are fighting for a resilient health system that helps everyone survive a warming and increasingly chaotic world.”

“The climate crisis affects us all, but especially economically disadvantaged communities, communities of color, and other marginalized communities,” said Representative Barragán. “Now more than ever, we see families across the country facing significant health risks as a result of climate disasters such as extreme heat, excessive flooding, and unpredictable storms. Yet the Trump Administration has dangerously chosen to ignore the threat of climate change to our public health – firing staff and canceling programs that were focused on improving our resilience to harmful environmental exposures, such as the HHS Office of Climate Change and Health Equity. That is why I am proud to lead this bicameral resolution with Senator Markey and Representatives Carbajal, Matsui, and Schneider to acknowledge the federal government’s responsibility to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect the health and well-being of all Americans.”

Specifically, the resolution:
- Demands the release of funding appropriated by Congress that would help to address climate-related health threats that has been held up by Federal agencies;
- Details the public health dimensions of the climate crisis, including increased risks of respiratory illness, cardiovascular disease, mental health stressors, pregnancy complications, infectious disease outbreaks, and disaster-related displacement;
- Highlights the disproportionate health burdens on children, people with disabilities, low-income households, communities of color, Tribal nations, and workers in high-risk occupations;
- Calls on the Department of Health and Human Services to lead cross-agency coordination to strengthen health system climate resilience, support frontline providers, close gaps in climate-health data, and help the health sector lower its own environmental impact;
- Affirms the importance of engaging environmental justice and community-based organizations in local climate-health preparedness and response efforts;
- Urges the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to adopt a national worker heat protection standard; and,
- Calls for annual public reporting on federal climate-health resilience investments and progress.
The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Representatives Hank Johnson (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Ritchie Torres (NY-15).

The resolution is endorsed by Health Care Without Harm, Center for American Progress, Climate Justice Alliance, International Transformational Resilience Coalition, Climate and Community Institute, Earthjustice Action, Public Citizen, Deep South Center for Environmental Justice, Center for Oil and Gas Organizing, Physicians for Social Responsibility, and the American College of Physicians.

“Health Care Without Harm applauds Senator Markey for introducing this important resolution and is pleased to endorse it,” said Jenny Keroack, Director of Program Strategy & Management in the U.S. Climate Program. “Climate change is causing more severe and frequent storms, wildfires, and extreme heat events, creating safety and public health crises across our country. Our government must have a science-based, coordinated approach to prepare for and respond to these growing threats, and the Department of Health and Human Services has an indispensable role to play as the guardian of our nation’s health and well-being. Vital programs have been attacked, including a grant program that assists families with energy costs so they can afford to cool and heat their homes, funding that helps hospitals stay open and operational when the grid goes down, and research on how best to protect farmworkers from increasing heat waves. Such programs and the expert civil servants who help protect our communities from environmental health threats like climate change must be immediately reinstated and supported. Now is not the time to retreat.”

“With climate change and extreme weather events driving illness, injury, and death across the United States, the Department of Health and Human Services must harness its resources, leverage its authorities, and coordinate its expertise and action to prepare for and respond to the health and financial impact,” said Jill Rosenthal, Director of Public Health at the Center for American Progress.

“This resolution is crucial because climate change isn’t just an environmental problem; it’s a public health crisis hurting families right now,” said KD Chavez, Executive Director of the Climate Justice Alliance. “Low-income communities bear the brunt – suffering more asthma attacks, heatstroke, and toxic exposure. But these communities also have the answers! They’ve developed practical, replicable solutions. We need bold action: stronger environmental safeguards, smart investments in resilient infrastructure, and policies that prioritize everyone’s health and safety, no matter where they live. Let’s protect our families and build a healthier future for all.”

“The International Transformational Resilience Coalition (ITRC) strongly endorses this resolution,” said ITRC Founder and Coordinator Bob Doppelt. “We do so because the climate crisis is a public health crisis that requires significant leadership, support, and investments by the federal government to prevent and heal the accelerating climate-generated mental health, psychosocial, and physical health issues experienced by newborns, young children, adolescents, working age, and older adults nationwide.”

“Our hospitals and clinics are already seeing the devastating health effects of climate change every day – from children struggling to breathe polluted air to seniors collapsing in extreme heat,” said Ranjani Prabhakar, Legislative Director of Healthy Communities, Earthjustice Action. “Over 200 medical journals have called climate change the greatest threat to human health this century, and Senator Markey’s resolution affirms this data by putting health at the center of environmental solutions. Recognizing this crisis for the public health emergency that it is, is essential to protect our families and communities.”

“As the planet enters a period of increasing climate chaos, our collective response will either deepen disparities or address the drivers of climate breakdown and health inequity together,” said Batul Hassan, Labor Director at the Climate and Community Institute. “This resolution from Senator Markey establishes the urgent need for coordinated action across health and public health systems to ensure all people and generations to come can thrive in a warming world.”
MIL OSI USA News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Advances Additional $16 Million for Construction of Agricultural Research Service Facility at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced she advanced $16 million in additional funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facility at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s (UNL) Innovation Campus through the Senate Appropriations Committee.

The funding was included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which now awaits consideration on the Senate Floor.

“The USDA Ag Research Service facility located at UNL will be a hub for world class agricultural innovation. That’s why I was pleased to advocate for this funding to construct the second phase of the ARS Center, which will continue to help attract students, scientists, and industry leaders who are focused on turning valuable research into tangible products for our farmers and ranchers,” Fischer said.

Fischer also secured additional funding and provisions for Nebraska, which include:
- $1.5 million for the National Drought Mitigation Center at UNL;
- Prioritizing ARS research for the beef industry at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska; and
- Requiring the USDA to streamline contracting and procurement services for livestock research facilities to help USMARC with cost overruns on facility improvements.
MIL OSI USA News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Campus redevelopment marks new chapter for EIT Hawke’s Bay

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

25 seconds ago

A limestone mauri stone that survived Cyclone Gabrielle has been placed at the heart of EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus in Taradale, marking the opening of the new Te Papa o Kiwa quadrant and a fully refurbished student hub.

The Tim Twist Building, formerly the Twist Library, is now the campus’s main student hub. It houses Te Pārongo (Reception, Information, Library and IT Support) and Te Kuhunga (Registry and Enrolment), bringing key services together in one place.

The building connects directly to Te Papa o Kiwa – the landing place of Kiwa – the enhanced quad designed as a central point of orientation for students, staff and visitors.

The redevelopment follows widespread damage to the campus caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023, when floodwaters from the Tūtaekurī River breached stopbanks and severely affected 85 to 90 per cent of ground-floor buildings. In the aftermath, the focus was firmly on supporting students and restoring key services as quickly and meaningfully as possible.

At the entrance to the quad sits a limestone mauri stone, formally named Te Taupunga o Parawhenuamea, meaning “the anchor that withstands the floodwaters of Parawhenuamea”, by local kaumatua. Relocated from beneath a kauri tree, the stone symbolises strength, recovery and connection in the wake of the cyclone.

The stone was placed as part of a dawn ceremony on Tuesday, attended by staff, students, kaumatua and community representatives.
EIT Operations Lead Glen Harkness said the redevelopment reflects EIT’s commitment to putting students at the centre of recovery.

“Our main focus has always been our students. This redevelopment symbolises our collective resilience and our commitment to providing a supportive and inspiring environment for all who study and work here,” Harkness said.

The Tim Twist Building and Te Papa o Kiwa follow the reopening of B Block and Te Ara o Tāwhaki marae in February. B Block, now named Te Pae Hono (a threshold of connection), houses Māori, Pacific and Disability Student Support Services and a multipurpose council room.

The building also features contemporary Māori and Pacific design elements created in collaboration with Poutiaki Taonga (Archive and Collections Manager) Chris Bryant-Toi, postgraduate artists Kylarni Tamaiva-Eria and Tim Whaitiri-Henderson, kaumātua-led community groups, Chow Hill Architects and other industry professionals.

Storytelling walls, tāniko-inspired flooring, river motifs and a suspended waka sculpture bring cultural narratives to life within the space.

“The creative starting point for us was Jacob Scott’s stained glass window representing Tāne, Te Aho a Māui and Te Ara o Tāwhaki Marae.

From there, we could connect to other cultures and shared histories, taking something seemingly old and revitalising it with cutting-edge digital technology.”

Chris said the designs reflect both the experience of Cyclone Gabrielle and ongoing rangahau research.

“We’ve created new imagery that contributes to global conversations around resilience, identity and the climate movement.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: Why Texas Hill Country, where a devastating flood killed more than 120 people, is one of the deadliest places in the US for flash flooding

Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Hatim Sharif, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio

A Kerrville, Texas, resident watches the flooded Guadalupe River on July 4, 2025. Eric Vryn/Getty Images

Texas Hill Country is known for its landscapes, where shallow rivers wind among hills and through rugged valleys. That geography also makes it one of the deadliest places in the U.S. for flash flooding.

In the early hours of July 4, 2025, a flash flood swept through an area of Hill Country dotted with summer camps and small towns about 70 miles northwest of San Antonio. More than 120 people died in the flooding. The majority of them were in Kerr County, including more than two dozen girls and counselors at one summer camp, Camp Mystic. Dozens of people were still unaccounted for a week later.

The flooding began with a heavy downpour, with more than 10 inches of rain in some areas, that sent water sheeting off the hillsides and into creeks. The creeks poured into the Guadalupe River.

A river gauge at Hunt, Texas, near Camp Mystic, showed how quickly the river flooded: Around 3 a.m. on July 4, the Guadalupe River was rising about 1 foot every 5 minutes at the gauge, National Weather Service data shows. By 4:30 a.m., it had risen more than 20 feet. As the water moved downstream, it reached Kerrville, where the river rose even faster.

Flood expert Hatim Sharif, a hydrologist and civil engineer at the University of Texas at San Antonio, explains what makes this part of the country, known as Flash Flood Alley, so dangerous.

What makes Hill Country so prone to flooding?

Texas as a whole leads the nation in flood deaths, and by a wide margin. A colleague and I analyzed data from 1959 to 2019 and found 1,069 people had died in flooding in Texas over those six decades. The next highest total was in Louisiana, with 693.

Many of those flood deaths have been in Hill County. It’s part of an area known as Flash Flood Alley, a crescent of land that curves from near Dallas down to San Antonio and then westward.

The hills are steep, and the water moves quickly when it floods. This is a semi-arid area with soils that don’t soak up much water, so the water sheets off quickly and the shallow creeks can rise fast.

When those creeks converge on a river, they can create a surge of water that wipes out homes and washes away cars and, unfortunately, anyone in its path.

Hill Country has seen some devastating flash floods. In 1987, heavy rain in western Kerr County quickly flooded the Guadalupe River, triggering a flash flood similar to the one in 2025. Ten teenagers being evacuated from a camp died in the rushing water.

San Antonio, at the eastern edge of Hill Country, was hit with a flash flood on June 12, 2025, that killed 13 people whose cars were swept away by high water from a fast-flooding creek near an interstate ramp in the early morning.

Why does the region get such strong downpours?

One reason Hill Country gets powerful downpours is the Balcones Escarpment.

The escarpment is a line of cliffs and steep hills created by a geologic fault. When warm air from the Gulf rushes up the escarpment, it condenses and can dump a lot of moisture. That water flows down the hills quickly, from many different directions, filling streams and rivers below.

As temperature rise, the warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, increasing the downpour and flood risk.

A tour of the Guadalupe River and its flood risk.

The same effect can contribute to flash flooding in San Antonio, where the large amount of paved land and lack of updated drainage to control runoff adds to the risk.

What can be done to improve flash flood safety?

First, it’s important for people to understand why flash flooding happens and just how fast the water can rise and flow. In many arid areas, dry or shallow creeks can quickly fill up with fast-moving water and become deadly. So people should be aware of the risks and pay attention to the weather.

Improving flood forecasting, with more detailed models of the physics and water velocity at different locations, can also help.

Probabilistic forecasting, for example, can provide a range of rainfall scenarios, enabling authorities to prepare for worst-case scenarios. A scientific framework linking rainfall forecasts to the local impacts, such as streamflow, flood depth and water velocity, could also help decision-makers implement timely evacuations or road closures.

Education is particularly essential for drivers. One to two feet of moving water can wash away a car. People may think their trucks and SUVs can go through anything, but fast-moving water can flip a truck and carry it away.

Officials can also do more to barricade roads when the flood risk is high to prevent people from driving into harm’s way. We found that 58% of the flood deaths in Texas over the past six decades involved vehicles. The storm on June 12 in San Antonio was an example. It was early morning, and drivers had poor visibility. The cars were hit by fast-rising floodwater from an adjacent creek.

This article, originally published July 5, 2025, has been updated with the death toll rising.

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

– ref. Why Texas Hill Country, where a devastating flood killed more than 120 people, is one of the deadliest places in the US for flash flooding – https://theconversation.com/why-texas-hill-country-where-a-devastating-flood-killed-more-than-120-people-is-one-of-the-deadliest-places-in-the-us-for-flash-flooding-260555

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Our Shoreline Communities

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced bipartisan legislation, the Digital Coast Act, to help coastal communities better prepare for storms, cope with varying water levels, and plan for future development. The bill reauthorizes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Digital Coast Program, which Baldwin and Murkowski previously spearheaded to reestablish the program in 2020.
“The Great Lakes are essential to the Wisconsin way of life and our economy, but make no mistake – they face some serious and unique challenges, and our local communities need tools and information to address them, keep families safe, and support our local businesses,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to once again work with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to support our local coastal communities and ensure they have the resources and data they need to prepare for disasters, keep our water clean and safe, and make smart planning decisions for the future.”
“As we confront the escalating impacts of climate change, it is crucial our coastal communities remain equipped with the tools and data they need to adapt and thrive,” said Senator Murkowski. “The Digital Coast Program has proven to be a vital resource in this effort, providing essential information and support for our local leaders to make informed decisions.”
NOAA currently assembles and hosts the Digital Coast Project, a collaborative online database of the most up-to-date coastal information and makes it available to both the public and private sectors. Digital Coast also provides tools for coastal communities to decipher and use the high-tech mapping data to make accurate decisions and smart investments in coastal communities.
The Digital Coast Act reauthorizes the program and ensures that communities will continue to have the data to make smart choices for economic development, shoreline management, and coastal restoration. The bill supports further development of the current project, including increasing access to uniform, up-to-date data, to help communities get the coastal data they need to respond to emergencies, plan for long-term coastal resilience, and manage their water resources.
Companion legislation was introduced yesterday in the U.S. House by Representatives Dave Min (D-CA-47) and Rob Wittman (R-VA-01).
“From extreme weather to competing demands for coastal property, our coastal communities need the best available resources to respond to the mounting threat of climate change,” said Congressman Min. “NOAA’s Digital Coast Program provides essential research and data to address the adverse effects of the climate crisis, all while creating thousands of high tech jobs around America. I’m proud to be leading the charge to protect Orange County’s beautiful coastline.”
“Virginia’s First District is home to vibrant coastal communities that rely on cutting-edge data and resources to thrive, especially in the face of challenges such as extreme weather and aging infrastructure,” said Congressman Wittman. “I’m proud to help introduce the Digital Coastal Reauthorization Act alongside Rep. Dave Min, legislation that will reauthorize NOAA’s Digital Coast program. This vital program collects and distributes data that will help mitigate future weather-related issues and provide communities with the tools they need to expand and plan for the future.”
“Digital Coast represents the best of government at work,” said Sue Schwartz, FAICP, President of the American Planning Association. “It’s innovative, collaborative, efficient, bipartisan, and cost-effective; all while helping local communities make better decisions about how to tackle tough coastal challenges. Planners benefit from access to critical data that shapes the insights they bring to residents and local leaders. The American Planning Association strongly supports the reauthorization of this vital resource for protecting and planning our communities.”
“NOAA’s Digital Coast provides a one-stop shop for the data, tools and training that coastal managers and researchers use to learn and do their jobs. As a collaboration between the federal government and partner organizations and used extensively by the public and private sectors, Digital Coast is government at its most effective,” said Derek Brockbank, Executive Director of Coastal States Organization.?“The Digital Coast Act will ensure this important resource for all communities is authorized and funded for the next 5 years.”?
“The Digital Coast Program empowers coastal states with the tools and data they need to address real-world challenges—from flooding and hurricanes to smart growth and resource management,” said Ken Nelson, National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC) President. “Continued federal support is vital to strengthening the geospatial foundation that drives both our economy and our national preparedness. Reauthorizing the Digital Coast Act ensures coastal communities have the high-quality data they need to plan, protect, and prosper.”
“To make sure that people can enjoy everything our coasts have to offer, coastal managers need to have the right tools, data and training. The Digital Coast partnership provides those products and services,” said Stephanie Bailenson, US Federal Water Policy Team Lead at The Nature Conservancy. “We’ve seen in our work across the country how Digital Coast helps coastal communities address storms and flooding while strengthening local economies. We’re happy to see the sponsors of the partnership’s reauthorization bill demonstrate the continued bi-partisan support for the partnership.”
“The provisions of the Digital Coast Reauthorization will modernize the Digital Coast program and provide for the continuation of a sustainable program to utilize geospatial technologies to map and monitor the coastal waterways of the United States, providing an invaluable benefit to the public, and to the professionals whose charge is to protect their health, safety, and welfare,” said Timothy W. Burch, PLS, Executive Director of National Society of Professional Surveyors.
“The Digital Coast Program is a balanced approach to environmental protection and economic development in our valuable coastal areas.? This bill reauthorizes and modernizes a successful program that utilizes the talent of the private sector and intergovernmental agencies by providing data and services that are essential to the economic engine that is coastal America, while conserving it’s precious natural resources through geospatial data and related activities,” said John Palatiello, Founder of US Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO).
“The Digital Coast Partnership Advocacy Coalition commends Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) for introducing the Digital Coast Reauthorization Act. The Coalition also wishes to thank Representatives Dave Min (D-CA) and Rob Wittman (R-VA) for their leadership in introducing the companion bill in the House. The strong bipartisan support for this measure is a demonstration of its broad appeal and value to the nation’s communities. By consolidating coastal data from a variety of sources in one place and making it publicly accessible, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Digital Coast program is helping the coastal management community better plan for storms, flooding, natural disasters, and other challenges that impact vulnerable coastal and Great Lakes communities. Data included in the Digital Coast ranges from surveying, mapping, geospatial, economic, demographic and ecosystem data to satellite imagery. In addition to making this data publicly available online, the Digital Coast provides a wide array of visualization and prediction tools that dramatically improve the effectiveness and efficiency of coastal management projects around the country. Over the next 15 years, NOAA predicts a 411 percent return on investment from the Digital Coast program. In addition to the return on investment, the Digital Coast has played a significant role in protecting communities and natural resources from damaging natural disasters. Furthermore, 75 percent of Digital Coast users surveyed by NOAA indicated that their projects would not have been possible without the Digital Coast. By having bipartisan and bicameral introduction of the Digital Coast Reauthorization Act, we deeply appreciate your recognition of the numerous benefits the Digital Coast can provide to coastal communities and those working to make them more resilient,” said John “JB” Byrd, Coordinator, Digital Coast Partnership Advocacy Coalition.
“As our coastlines and beaches bear the brunt of extreme weather events, flooding, chronic erosion, sea level rise, and other hazards, coastal communities need every tool at their disposal to make informed decisions and plan for a safer, more resilient future,” said Emma Haydocy, Senior Manager of Coasts and Climate Initiative at the Surfrider Foundation. “NOAA’s Digital Coast program makes invaluable data accessible to the American public in light of these challenges, and reauthorizing and expanding this program will help safeguard vital coastal resources throughout the U.S. for years to come.”
The legislation is endorsed by Coastal States Organization, American Planning Association, Association of State Floodplain Managers, National Association of Counties, National Society of Professional Surveyors, U.S Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO), Surfrider Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, National States Geographic Information Council, National Estuarine Research Reserve Association, Quantum Spatial Inc., Wisconsin Society of Land Surveyors, and Digital Coast Partnership Advocacy Coalition.
Full text of the bill is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 501 Status Reports

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luján Questions President Trump’s NOAA Administrator Nominee on Putting Facts and Science First

US Senate News:

Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

Dr. Neil Jacobs was involved in the 2019 “Sharpiegate,” when President Trump altered a hurricane map to falsely show Hurricane Dorian hitting Alabama, contradicting official forecasts

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, questioned Dr. Neil Jacobs, President Trump’s nominee to lead the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), about his commitment to telling the truth during emergencies.

Dr. Jacobs, who previously served as acting NOAA Administrator during President Trump’s first term, had defended the president’s dissemination of inaccurate weather information during a severe weather emergency. The Committee hearing came in the wake of deadly flooding in New Mexico and Texas, which claimed three lives in Ruidoso.

MSNBC – All in With Chris Hayes: Trump’s Pick to Lead NOAA Faces Senate

WATCH: Chris Hayes Highlights Senator Lujan’s Questioning of Dr. Neil Jacobs

Washington Post – Trump’s NOAA pick stands by budget cuts, calls staffing ‘a top priority’

“When Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico) asked whether Jacobs believed Americans should have to pay for access to the best forecasting data, he answered no.”

ABC News – Senate considers Neil Jacobs, ‘Sharpiegate’ scientist, as NOAA administrator

“When asked by Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-NM, on Wednesday whether he would “make the same decision again,” Jacobs replied, “There’s probably some things I would do differently.”

The Hill – Amid bipartisan concern, NOAA nominee pledges to make Weather Service staffing a ‘top priority’

“Asked by Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) whether he would “sign off on an inaccurate statement due to political pressure in the same event,” Jacobs said no.”

An excerpt of the exchange is available HERE and below:

Sen. Luján: September 1, 2019, when you were NOAA’s acting administrator, President Trump erroneously tweeted Alabama had been hit hard by Hurricane Dorian.

Shortly after, the National Weather Service Birmingham office issued the accurate statement, “Alabama will not see any impacts from Dorian.”

Three days later, President Trump went on TV and displayed a weather map altered with a black Sharpie line to show that Dorian would hit Alabama.

Two days after that, you helped draft a release rebuking the Birmingham NWS, and repeating President Trump’s baseless claims that Hurricane Dorian could impact Alabama.

You told the Department of Commerce Office of Inspector General in their investigation that you “definitely felt like our jobs were on the line,” and while you did not like it, you would make the same decision again to edit a less inflammatory statement as the least bad option. Dr. Jacobs, do I have it right? Is that correct?

Dr. Jacobs: That is what the report found.

Sen. Luján: You would do nothing differently?

Dr. Jacobs: There are probably some things I would do differently, and a lot of this that I did after that, I guess, to change any potential future outcome.

Sen. Luján: I just had constituents die in New Mexico and constituents in Texas. Would you sign off on an inaccurate statement due to political pressure in the same event, yes or no?

Dr. Jacobs: No.

Sen. Luján: I appreciate that very much.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia and Senator Alex Padilla Reintroduce the ‘Clean Shipping Act’ to Reduce Port Pollution and Protect the Health of Port Communities

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) and Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) reintroduced the Clean Shipping Act. This bill establishes a path to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from large ships that come to U.S. ports, protecting the health of port communities and addressing the environmental and climate impacts of shipping pollution. Specifically, the bill would mandate that by 2050, ships must cut all greenhouse gas pollution, and by 2035, they must emit zero emissions while parked at ports. The bill is co-led by Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44). The bill text can be found here.

“Our nation’s ports, particularly the Port of Long Beach, are crucial parts of the economy that drive our supply chain at home. However, they’re also among the largest sources of pollution in our coastal communities,” said Congressman Robert Garcia. “Ship pollution is harmful for the health of people living near ports, and disproportionately affects low-income, working-class neighborhoods and communities of color. That’s why I’m proud to introduce a bill that addresses greenhouse gas pollution and creates a path to fully eliminate emissions. We must protect people’s health and stop our climate crisis, while ensuring good-paying jobs for the future.”

“California’s ports are the powerhouse of our country’s economy, moving critical freight and providing good-paying jobs, all while leading the nation’s decarbonizing efforts. But neighboring communities have been forced to shoulder the brunt of global shipping pollution for too long,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “Our legislation would strengthen the sustainability of our shipping industry by reducing emissions in maritime transportation while simultaneously protecting coastal communities. The health of our communities and our planet requires us to be forward-looking and ambitious — we owe future generations nothing less than bold, transformative action.”

“I’m proud to reintroduce the Clean Shipping Act because people deserve to breathe clean air, and this bill will help make that a reality. Communities near the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach—many of them communities of color—continue to suffer from toxic air pollution caused by ships. This bill sets a clear path to zero-emission shipping. It’s a critical step to clean up our air, protect public health, and take on the climate crisis. Port communities have waited long enough, we must act now,” said Congresswoman Nanette Barragán.

“In order to protect our ocean and stay competitive with the rest of the world, we need federal leadership to help modernize and clean up U.S. shipping. By driving the shipping sector to develop, scale and deploy zero-emission technologies, we can spur job creation, help tackle the climate crisis and help create cleaner air for the millions of Americans living near ports. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for their leadership on this issue and look forward to working with members of Congress to make this bill a reality,” said Caroline Bonfield, Ocean Conservancy’s Shipping Emissions U.S. Policy Manager

“The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will send a clear signal to the shipping industry that they must reduce their emissions by phasing out the use of fossil fuels and transition to a cleaner future. Technology-forcing policies like this legislation will enable large-scale investment in sustainable maritime fuels and technologies and establish a level playing field, minimizing the risk for manufacturers and suppliers. For far too long, dirty ships have brought significant levels of air pollution into U.S. port communities. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for reintroducing this important bill and leading the effort to help protect communities disproportionately impacted by these harmful emissions,” said Antonio Santos, Federal Climate Policy Director, Pacific Environment.

“The shipping industry has been polluting communities for decades, but we have the power to make shipping cleaner. Port expansions across the country have been especially devastating for communities living closest to the harbors where large ships spew toxic diesel exhaust that worsens air quality and contributes to the climate crisis. People living near ports deserve to breathe clean air, and the Clean Shipping Act will help make that a reality,” said Katherine García, Director of the Clean Transportation for All Campaign, Sierra Club.

“GreenLatinos endorses the urgently needed Clean Shipping Act, which protects Latino/e and other vulnerable communities from further exposure to port pollution and takes important steps to reduce harm from toxic ship fuels. 1 in 3 Latines live in the top 20% of most pollution-impacted communities. Pollution burdened communities are facing even more exposure as idling ships wait days to enter port and offload their cargo. We urge Congress to act swiftly in passing this vital legislation and protect our coastal communities from the harms of port emissions,” said Andrea Marpillero-Colomina, Policy Advisor, GreenLatinos.

“The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will help us work toward a future where healthy port communities thrive and everyone benefits from leveraging the tremendous potential of the ocean and ocean industries as powerful sources of climate solutions. We are grateful for the leadership of Congressman Garcia and Senator Padilla for advancing this legislation for our ocean, climate, and communities,” said Sarah Guy, Executive Director, Ocean Defense Initiative.

The global shipping industry accounts for nearly 3% of all global greenhouse gas emissions, and that number is expected to rise if no action is taken. Additionally, almost 40% of Americans live near ports, where people’s health is harmed by air pollution. This especially impacts working-class neighborhoods and communities of color.

The Clean Shipping Act is endorsed by Breathe Southern California, CleanEarth4Kids.org, Don’t Waste Arizona, Environmental Investigation Agency, Friends of the Earth, GreenLatinos, Intheshadowofthewolf, Long Beach Alliance for Clean Energy, Milwaukee Riverkeeper, Ocean Conservancy, Ocean Defense Initiative, Pacific Environment, Restoring Earth Connection, San Pedro & Peninsula Homeowners Coalition, Seattle Cruise Control, Sierra Club, Sunflower Alliance, 350 Bay Area Action, 350 Sacramento, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, ABB, Evolve Hydrogen Inc., Maritime Battery Forum, and Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association

Congressman Garcia, a co-chair of the Congressional PORTS Caucus, is committed to advocating for bold climate action and environmental justice, which includes improving port infrastructure. Congressman Garcia first introduced the Clean Shipping Act alongside Senator Padilla in 2023. During his time in Congress, Congressman Garcia has helped secure over $283 million in federal grant money for the completion of the Port of Long Beach Pier B Port Project, which will significantly reduce truck traffic and harmful emissions while improving safety, local congestion, and yielding nationwide economic benefits. Congressman Garcia also helped secure two federal grants through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law totaling nearly $44 million to reduce truck emissions at port facilities located in the Port of Long Beach. As Mayor of Long Beach, Congressman Garcia worked with the Port of Long Beach to navigate the historic surge in volume in freight in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Carroll County, New Hampshire

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Carroll County, New Hampshire

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Carroll County, New Hampshire

Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Carroll County, New Hampshire

Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials

Significant community review of the maps has already taken place

Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 16, 2025

The affected communities in Carroll County, New Hampshire are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www

federalregister

gov/documents/2025/05/22/2025-09209/proposed-flood-hazard-determinationsResidents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect

An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim

Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress

If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals

Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA)

A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA

Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

dhs

gov

The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:FEMA Map Service Center – http://msc

fema

gov/portalPreliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards

fema

gov/femaportal/prelimdownloadFlood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc

fema

gov/fmcvFor more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

dhs

gov

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone

Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www

floodsmart

gov

adrien

urbani
Thu, 07/10/2025 – 16:37

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials

Significant community review of the maps has already taken place

Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 16, 2025

The affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www

federalregister

gov/documents/2025/06/12/2025-10700/proposed-flood-hazard-determinationsResidents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect

An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim

Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress

If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals

Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA)

A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA

Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

dhs

gov

The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:FEMA Map Service Center – http://msc

fema

gov/portalPreliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards

fema

gov/femaportal/prelimdownloadFlood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc

fema

gov/fmcvFor more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

dhs

gov

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone

Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www

floodsmart

gov

adrien

urbani
Thu, 07/10/2025 – 16:34

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire

Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials

Significant community review of the maps has already taken place

Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 16, 2025

The affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www

federalregister

gov/documents/2025/06/12/2025-10700/proposed-flood-hazard-determinationsResidents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect

An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim

Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress

If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals

Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA)

A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA

Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

dhs

gov

The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:FEMA Map Service Center – http://msc

fema

gov/portalPreliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards

fema

gov/femaportal/prelimdownloadFlood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc

fema

gov/fmcvFor more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

dhs

gov

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone

Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www

floodsmart

gov

adrien

urbani
Thu, 07/10/2025 – 16:34

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Tackling aviation contrails – E-001706/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The Commission has been actively supporting research efforts to better understand and address the impact of contrails on the climate for over 35 years.

It is indeed due to these EU and national efforts that we have the present level of understanding and global leadership in this domain. As we work towards implementing effective contrail avoidance practices, our current focus remains on tackling all aviation emissions in the most effective manner.

The Commission is currently working on fuel composition and exploring possible ways to improving jet fuel quality to reduce aromatics and sulphur levels lowering the amounts of non-CO₂-emissions stemming from fuel consumption.

Similarly, the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation[1] and the increased adoption of specific types of sustainable aviation fuels are expected to contribute to the decrease of contrail formation that affect non-CO₂ climate impacts.

In addition, the climate impacts of non-CO₂ are already being monitored and reported following the entry into applicability of the Measurement Reporting and Verification framework as of 1 January 2025, as part of the EU Emissions Trading System Directive.

Financial opportunities for contrail avoidance and sustainable aviation are available through EU funding programmes[2]. For example, the ‘dynamic collaboration to generalize eco-friendly trajectories’ (CONCERTO)[3] aims to demonstrate that more environmental trajectories and climate mitigation measures can be implemented in the daily operations to reduce CO₂ and non-CO₂ emissions.

All the above EU research projects and many other national ones (e.g Climaviation[4] and LUFO[5]) are expected to ensure a rapid and holistic reduction of all non-CO₂ emissions (including contrails).

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/2405.

[2] For example Horizon Europe, PACIFIC, UNIC, E_CONTRAIL, BECOM, CICONIA, as well as the Single European Sky ATM Research 3 Joint Undertaking and the EU ETS Innovation Fund.

[3] https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101114785.

[4] https://climaviation.fr/en/research-focus/contrails/.

[5] https://www.bauhaus-luftfahrt.net/en/projects/project-airtime-reducing-co2-emissions-and-contrails-with-advanced-wing-technologies.
Last updated: 10 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor – News Release – Gov. Green Signed 313 Bills Into Law

Source: US State of Hawaii

Governor Josh Green, M.D., took action on 313 of the 321 bills enrolled during the 2025 regular session of the Hawai‘i State Legislature. Of those, Governor Green conducted 13 bill signing ceremonies to bring together community leaders and stakeholders to discuss and highlight impactful legislation. Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke led efforts for broadband access and expanded Preschool Open Doors through two bill signing ceremonies as acting governor.

Significant milestones during this legislative bill signing session include the enactment of the state budget:

On June 30, Governor Green signed House Bill 300 (Act 250, SLH 2025), the executive biennium budget, which appropriates $19.8 billion across all means of financing in fiscal year 2026 and $19.7 billion in fiscal year 2027. It includes $10.53 billion in general funds in fiscal 2026 and $10.58 billion in fiscal 2027.

CIP funding within the budget comprises $3.3 billion across all means of financing in fiscal 2026 and $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2027. General obligation bonds to support statewide construction projects allocates $1.4 billion for fiscal 2026 and $432 million for fiscal 2027.

Governor Green line-item vetoed $110 million across the fiscal biennium, representing less than half a percent of the roughly $40 billion state budget. These reductions demonstrate fiscal prudence in maintaining a stabilized state budget amid emerging federal funding uncertainty.

Additional key legislation enacted includes:

On May 27, Governor Green signed Senate Bill 1396 (Act 96, SLH 2025) into law, establishing the nation’s first Green Fee to combat the ever-evolving climate crisis that threatens the state. Guided by recommendations from the Climate Advisory Team (CAT), established by Governor Green, comprehensive climate and community-based policies identified the need for a sustainable funding source to support climate resiliency. Dialogue between key stakeholders and the tourism industry contributed to a collaborative effort to find solutions to safeguard the environment.

The signing of this bill strengthens infrastructure and funds initiatives through the revenue generated by a 0.75% increase to the transient accommodation tax. Revenues will fund environmental stewardship, climate and hazard mitigation and sustainable tourism.

On May 30, Governor Green signed Senate Bill 1300 (Act 139, SLH 2025), expanding access to free school meals for Hawai‘i public school students. The legislation aims to eliminate barriers for students experiencing food insecurity, allowing keiki to focus on learning and extracurricular activities. Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, free school meals will be available to all qualifying students under the National School Lunch Program. The following school year, eligibility will expand to include ‘ohana with income below 300% of the federal poverty level. The act appropriates $3.3 million to the Department of Education over the two school years to subsidise free school meals.

On June 30, Governor Green signed House Bill 1483 (Act 243, SLH 2025), strengthening legislation relating to fireworks crimes and increasing the criminal penalties for violators. These newly enacted provisions aim to safeguard Hawai‘i residents and communities by setting stronger deterrences and implementing additional regulatory measures to support the prosecution of fireworks-related crimes.

To further enhance enforcement, the legislation works to streamline the judicial process by amending the traffic and emergency period infractions adjudication system to include fireworks infractions. The addition shall expedite the handling of the high-volume fireworks violation and reduce the burden on the courts.

On July 7, Governor Green signed Senate Bill 1044 (Act 296, SLH 2025), reactivating the Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund (HHRF) to provide insurance coverage in scenarios where the private market fails to do so. To provide additional insurance coverage options, the bill enhances the powers of the Hawaiʻi Property Insurance Association (HPIA) and establishes the Condominium Loan Program to help buildings remain insurable, and mandates the Insurance Commissioner to conduct a comprehensive study aimed at developing sustainable strategies for market stabilization.

On July 8, Governor Green signed House Bill 1001 (Act 301, SLH 2025), establishing the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund to support the funding for the claims of settlement arising from the 2023 Maui wildfires. The bill appropriates $807.5 million to support the state’s portion of the total $4.037 billion settlement agreement. This funding provides timely compensation for survivors as an alternative to lengthy litigation.

To prioritize victims and their families, provisions in Act 301 specify that property and casualty insurance companies can only recover payments made to a policyholder through a statutory lien.

Additionally, Governor Green signed House Bill 1064 (Act 302, SLH 2025), effectuating the Phase Three report provided by the Fire Safety Research Institute, to improve the state’s fire preparedness and response following the 2023 Maui wildfires. The recommendations provided intent to set improvements to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

Under Act 302, the Office of the State Fire Marshal is transferred to the Department of Law Enforcement and is to be led by the State Fire Marshal, the first in the state in nearly 46 years. The measure establishes roles, duties and discretionary authority for both the Office and the State Fire Marshal. To further integrate this role into the state, organizational structure amendments clarify responsibility and reporting requirements for the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Council.

Part of the State Fire Marshal’s responsibility is to provide centralized analysis of fire occurrences from across the state using the annual records submitted by each county’s fire chief. The legislation establishes the biennial statistical report requirement to keep the public informed and to provide the legislature with reports regarding the office’s operations.

Governor Green signed more than 300 additional bills, separate from the public bill signing ceremonies.

“This legislative session delivered many important wins, and I’m deeply grateful to the Hawai‘i State Legislature for championing measures that serve our people and protect our ‘āina,” said Governor Green. “At the same time, we faced real challenges, especially the uncertainty of federal funding, which put critical lifelines for our communities at risk.”

It was the foresight and resilience of our communities — and our willingness to listen — that helped move many of these bills across the finish line. I remain committed to advocating for key administrative priorities, including housing, homelessness, healthcare, wellness and resilience, and climate action. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, healthier and more sustainable future for all of Hawai‘i.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Italy: EIB, SACE and Intesa Sanpaolo provide €1.5 billion for Terna’s Adriatic Link
Source: European Investment Bank

EIB
- The Adriatic Link, a strategic project for Italy’s energy system included in the National Integrated Plan for Energy and Climate, is Terna’s submarine power line that will connect the Marche and Abruzzo regions.
- The financing for Terna is structured as follows: a €750 million loan from the EIB, a €500 million loan from Intesa Sanpaolo, and an additional €250 million credit line from Intesa Sanpaolo with indirect EIB funding. All transactions are backed by SACE’s Archimede Guarantee for an amount exceeding 1 billion.
The European Investment Bank (EIB), Terna, Intesa Sanpaolo (IMI Corporate and Investment Banking Division) and SACE have signed agreements totalling €1.5 billion to back the development and construction of the Adriatic Link, the submarine power cable linking the Italian regions of Marche and Abruzzo. The main objectives of the project are to strengthen energy exchange in central Italy and promote the integration of renewable energy sources.

The signature ceremony took place in Rome today with the participation of EIB Group President Nadia Calviño, EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti, Terna CEO and General Manager Giuseppina Di Foggia, SACE CEO and General Manager Alessandra Ricci, and Head of Industry Infrastructure in Intesa Sanpaolo’s IMI Corporate and Investment Banking Division Riccardo Dutto.

The operation is financially structured into three tranches, all of which are covered by SACE’s Archimede guarantee for an amount exceeding 1 billion euros:
- A €750 million loan granted by the EIB to Terna, with a duration of 22 years;
- A €500 million credit line provided by Intesa Sanpaolo to Terna, with a duration of 7 years;
- An additional €250 million loan from Intesa Sanpaolo, with funding made available by the EIB and a duration of 7 years, in support of the project.
The Adriatic Link is strategically important for Italy’s power grid and is part of the country’s national energy and climate plan. It will strengthen energy exchange in central Italy, meeting the security and flexibility needs of the national power grid and development and renewable energy integration targets

The high-voltage direct current (HVDC) line will be 251 km long, 210 km of which will be submarine cable at a maximum depth of around 100 metres. It will have a nominal active transmission capacity of 1 000 MW and will link the Fano (Province of Pesaro and Urbino) and Cepagatti (Province of Pescara) electrical substations. The cable will be underground or under the seabed for the entire route, minimising the impact on the region. Work (authorised by the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security in January 2024) on land began late last year.

The project will also have a positive economic impact in cohesion regions, contributing to local development.

EIB Group President Nadia Calviño said: “This investment will be key to boost a more stable and safer energy market in the country, improving the national power grid and speeding up the integration of renewable energy sources.” EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti added: “This agreement confirms the EIB’s central role in mobilising public and private sector resources to promote strategic autonomy and the energy transition in Europe.”

“The energy transition has given new impetus to investment to modernise and strengthen power grids across Europe, as shown in Terna’s updated business plan for 2024-2028 presented at the beginning of this year,” said Terna CEO and General Manager Giuseppina Di Foggia. “The financing signed today with the EIB (with which Terna has a strong, longstanding relationship) and Intesa Sanpaolo (which has a key role in backing the group’s financial strategy) recognises the strategic value of our network infrastructure, which is vital to promoting the integration of renewable energy sources and increasing Italy’s energy autonomy and security. At the same time, SACE’s role in the agreement shows Terna’s work creates economic and social value for the country.”

“In the IMI Corporate and Investment Banking division, we have always believed in the value of public-private cooperation, a key element in accelerating the construction of sustainable infrastructure and helping to modernise the country,” added Chief of Intesa Sanpaolo’s IMI Corporate and Investment Banking Division Mauro Micillo. “A concrete example of this is our participation in the Adriatic Link project, which is of strategic importance for energy security. This operation confirms Intesa Sanpaolo’s role in backing the energy transition and supporting public institutions and businesses with high-impact investments for the future of local communities and the national economy.”

“The signature of this agreement is a very important moment for the Italian energy system, showing SACE’s crucial role in supporting innovation and the transition to a more sustainable future. A key pilar of this operation, the Archimede guarantee embodies our commitment to creating value for communities and the whole country,” said SACE CEO and General Manager Alessandra Ricci. “We are moving towards more resilient and integrated energy infrastructure capable of responding to global challenges. SACE will continue to be a strategic partner for projects shaping the future of Italy.”

Background information

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight key priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed over 900 projects worth nearly €89 billion in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security. The EIB Group signed 99 operations totalling €10.98 billion in Italy in 2024, helping to unlock almost €37 billion of investment in the real economy. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment. Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the funds made available by the Group unlocked over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised a further €110 billion for startups and scale-ups. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

The Terna Group is a leading electricity transmission operator in Europe and around the world. It manages Italy’s national high-voltage transmission grid, with around 75 000 km of power lines over 900 electrical substations across the country. Its mission is to guarantee the secure operation, quality and efficiency of the Italian electricity system 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and to ensure equal access conditions for all market operators. A centre of excellence comprising over 6 100 professionals, Terna plays a guiding role in the energy transition process towards complete decarbonisation and the full integration of energy from renewable sources into the grid. For more information, visit www.terna.it.

SACE is an insurance and finance company owned by the Italian Ministry for the Economy and Finance. It specialises in helping Italian companies to grow through a wide range of tools and solutions backing exports and innovation, including financial guarantees, factoring, risk management and protection, advisory services and business matching. With a network of 11 offices in Italy and 13 more in Made in Italy target countries around the world, SACE currently supports 60 000 companies, enabling them to reach their national and international potential with a portfolio of insurance operations and guaranteed investments worth approximately €270 billion in 200 global markets.

Intesa Sanpaolo, with €417 billion in loans and €1.4 trillion in customer financial assets at the end of March 2025, is the largest banking group in Italy, with a significant international presence. It is a European leader in wealth management, with a strong focus on digital and fintech. The Group will provide €115 billion of Impact lending by 2025 to support communities and the green transition, together with a €1.5 billion program (2023-2027) to help people in need. The Bank’s network of museums, the Gallerie d’Italia, hosts its owned artistic heritage and cultural projects of recognized value.

News: group.intesasanpaolo.com/en/newsroom

X: @intesasanpaolo

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/intesa-sanpaolo

TERNA ADRIATIC LINK

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MIL OSI Europe News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Transport poverty in rural areas and the need for regional strategies – E-001629/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Transport poverty is indeed a serious problem in many rural areas. In its Recommendation on transport poverty[1], the Commission puts forward different policy measures to Member States that should, if implemented, contribute to mitigating transport poverty in rural areas.

The Commission shares the view that improvement in transport services can further benefit the economic development of rural and structurally weak regions.

The Commission’s long-term vision for Europe’s rural areas[2] calls on Member States and regions to develop sustainable rural mobility strategies, with the overall objective of creating ‘stronger, connected, resilient and prosperous rural areas by 2040’.

Preventing and mitigating transport poverty is also one of the priorities in the development of the European transport network, and for EU support instruments such as Cohesion policy funds including Interreg, Recovery and Resilience Facility, and the Social Climate Fund, to ensure seamless mobility and accessibility for all users.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reco/2025/1021/oj/eng.

[2] COM (2021) 345 final, https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/en/newsroom/news/2021/06/30-06-2021-long-term-vision-for-rural-areas-for-stronger-connected-resilient-prosperous-eu-rural-areas.
Last updated: 10 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Insurance Biz Africa launches pan-African Insurance Webinar Master Series
Source: APO – Report:

Digital news publisher, Insurance Biz Africa, is proud to announce the launch of a series of pan-African webinar sessions whose objectives are to take an unprecedented deep dive into the forces reshaping the insurance industry across Africa and the world.

The 8-part series, themed: “Innovate. Adapt. Insure the Future“, hosted by Insurance Biz Africa, will feature two-hour webinars designed to unpack the most pressing risks, opportunities, and regulatory changes facing insurers across Africa and beyond.

“This is a pivotal moment for the insurance industry. The annual webinar series will provide crucial insights into topics from AI and climate risk to ESG, equipping professionals and regulators to navigate volatility with confidence. The series is designed to ignite long-lasting conversations around pertinent areas of insurance and reinsurance upon which the industry can build solutions,” says Insurance Biz Africa Founding Editor and Managing Director of New Africa Business News Services (NABNS), Kwanele Sibanda.

“At NABNS, we believe the time is ripe for bold conversations and collaborative thinking. Our series will not only educate but spark innovation, ensuring insurance and reinsurance remain pillars of economic resilience,” adds Kwanele.

“Kicking off with Insuring Against Civil Unrests on the 23^rd of July, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect, especially seeing what is currently happening across Africa in countries like Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Togo, Mali and Lybia because of political tensions. This 2-hour session will see Sasria, the only riots and civil unrests insurer in South Africa present a case study in reflection of South Africa’s July 2021 civil unrests. Sasria will also participate in the panel of experts,” concludes Kwanele.

Insurance Webinar Master Series 2025 Themes & Dates:

22 July 2025 – Insuring Against Unrest: Lessons from SA’s July 2021 Riots and the Evolving Role of Insurers and Reinsurers

05 August 2025 – Cybersecurity and Systemic Risk: Building Insurance Resilience in the Digital Era

Discuss insurance solutions for large-scale cyber events affecting entire economies.

14 August 2025 – The Future of Underwriting: Leveraging AI, Data, and Automation Across the Insurance Value Chain

Explore how AI and advanced analytics can revolutionize underwriting precision and speed.
- Webinar 4:
26 August 2025 – Bridging the Protection Gap: Innovations in Inclusive Insurance and Risk Transfer
Innovative products, partnerships, and risk mechanisms that extend protection to underserved markets.

04 September 2025 – ESG and Sustainable Insurance: From Compliance to Competitive Advantage
Move beyond ESG box-ticking towards long-term, sustainable profitability.

18 September 2025 – Index Insurance and Alternative Risk Transfer: Unlocking Scalable, Transparent Risk Solutions

Examine new models to insure communities and sectors exposed to systemic risks.
- Webinar 7:
30 September 2025 – Navigating AI and Digital Disruption in Life Insurance: Risks, Rewards & Regulation

Balance the transformative potential of AI with evolving consumer protection frameworks.
- Webinar 8:
09 October 2025 – Climate Change and Capital Strain: Managing Volatility in a New Risk Era

Understand how insurers can adapt capital models amid climate-driven losses.

Bonus Session:

October 2025 – Insurtech and Distribution: Reimagining Customer Engagement in Insurance

Explore new technologies reshaping sales, service, and product design.

Each session will bring together industry leaders presenting case studies and learnings, global experts, and policymakers engaging in robust discussions, live Q&As, and actionable insights.

Registration & Sponsorship Opportunities:

Insurance companies, brokers, reinsurers, regulators, and service providers are encouraged to register early or partner as sponsors to showcase leadership in this high-impact series.

For more details, registration, or sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://apo-opa.co/44yEOZH or contact info@insurancebiz.co.za

– on behalf of New Africa Business News Services.

Additional Information:
To Register: https://apo-opa.co/4nIgBrg
Insurance Biz Africa: https://apo-opa.co/4kzR4hb

Contact:
Issued By: New Africa Business News Services (NABNS)
Contact: Kwanele Sibanda
Email: Kwanele@nabns.com
Tel: +27 27 71 316 8517

About Insurance Biz Africa:
Insurance Biz Africa is South Africa’s premier digital news platform dedicated to the insurance, reinsurance, and wealth management sectors. Launched in 2013, the publication offers in-depth industry coverage, expert insights, executive interviews, and regulatory updates to a targeted audience of professionals, decision-makers, and thought leaders. It is owned and published by New Africa Business News Services (NABNS), a division of SAEN Media (Pty) Ltd. The publication adheres to the Press Council of South Africa’s Code of Ethics and remains committed to journalistic integrity and excellence in financial reporting.

Media files

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MIL OSI Africa –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study of projections of heat deaths in England and Wales under difference climate scenarios

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

July 10, 2025

A study in PLOS Climate looks at projections of future heat deaths in England and Wales given different climate scenarios.

Dr Raquel Nunes, Assistant Professor in Health and Environment at the University of Warwick, said:

“The study highlights the importance of mitigation and adaptation for future heat-health outcomes. While it presents valuable future projections, it relies on pre-defined assumptions and scenarios, largely omitting the urgent need to transition from reactive to anticipatory strategies.

“The forecast of a third consecutive UK heatwave so far this summer – and the increasing frequency, intensity and duration of such events – underscores the urgent need to shift from reactive to anticipatory strategies. Heat-related deaths and illnesses are both preventable and avoidable, yet they expose systemic failures and highlight the need for socially inclusive and institutionally embedded adaptation across governance, infrastructure, and health and care services to prevent increasing vulnerabilities and inequalities.”

Dr Akshay Deoras, Research Scientist at the University of Reading, said:

“If floods and storms are the loud alarms of climate change, extreme heat is its silent killer. It is disproportionately lethal, often going unnoticed until it’s too late. With another heatwave bearing down on the UK, this warning feels more urgent than ever.

“This new comprehensive study makes the threat clear. It analyses heat-related mortality across fifteen plausible combinations of climate and socioeconomic scenarios, capturing a wide range of possible futures for England and Wales. It simultaneously accounts for climate change, population growth and ageing, and adaptive capacity. This multi-driver approach avoids the underestimation of future health burdens that can occur when only one driver is considered.

“The results show that heat is not only claiming more lives, but that power outages and an aging population could make things far worse if adaptation doesn’t keep pace. Even under the most optimistic scenarios, heat-related deaths are set to rise sharply by mid-century. One of the limitations of the study is that temperature exposure is assigned at the regional level using population-weighted averages, which may not fully reflect local microclimates, potentially masking local hotspots of risk.

“To save lives, we must cut greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen adaptation strategies at the same time. Crucially, the study highlights the power of natural, passive cooling techniques, such as shutters, shading, and cool roofs, which work even when the electricity fails. These solutions not only protect people but also avoid the trap of relying on air conditioning, which drives further global warming. As the UK experiences fewer cold extremes and more frequent and deadly heatwaves, protecting older adults must be at the heart of climate and public health planning—before this silent threat becomes an undeniable crisis.”

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

“Warming of the climate is making heatwaves more severe and dangerous. The new study paints a concerning picture of the future in which a greater intensity of summer heat compounds with an ageing, more vulnerable population to increase the risk of death.

“The research finds danger to people from persistent heat diminishes in scenarios involving deeper cuts in climate warming greenhouse gases but remain concerningly large, meaning that adaptation of our infrastructure and culture is also needed as well as rapidly transitioning to a low carbon society.

“The study also notes a concurrent reduction in mortality from cold extremes and may underestimate the adaptive measures that could be adopted in response to hot conditions but underscores the importance of avoiding the worst case storylines by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving our resilience to worsening weather extremes.”

‘Projections of heat related mortality under combined climate and socioeconomic adaptation scenarios for England and Wales’ by Rebecca Cole et al. was published in PLOS Climate at 7pm UK time on Thursday 10 July 2025.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pclm.0000553

Declared interests

Richard Allan: “No conflicting interests”

Dr Akshay Deoras: “I receive funding from UKRI and DSIT/Met Office.”

Raquel Nunes: “No conflicts of interest”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Province supports community efforts to protect against climate hazards
Source: Government of Canada regional news

The Disaster Resilience and Innovation Funding (DRIF) program provides support to First Nations and local governments for projects that will enhance their ability to withstand and adapt to natural hazards and climate-driven events.

Funding is available in two categories:
- Structural projects
- Foundational and non-structural projects
Local governments and First Nations throughout British Columbia are receiving more than $6 million for 11 projects as follows:

Structural project

Village of Hazelton: Diking infrastructure and flood protection improvements, $3.6 million

Construction of a new 1.2-kilometre dike and upgrade to an existing dike along the Skeena River to protect critical village infrastructure, including historical structures, homes, businesses, utilities and cultural landmarks.

Foundational and non-structural projects

Central Coast Regional District: Disaster risk reduction and climate-adaptation plan, $290,246

Identifies effective multi-hazard risk-reduction options with a climate-change lens to increase the resilience of the region.

Comox Valley Regional District: Goose Spit climate resiliency project, $275,580

Regional partner: K’omoks First Nation

Assessment of Goose Spit’s protection of residential areas and critical infrastructure from flood, sea-level rise, storm surge and erosion, and to help identify mitigation options.

Cook’s Ferry Indian Band: Shetland Creek hazard and risk assessment, $251,265

Increases resilience for the community by better understanding and reducing natural-hazard risks, including flooding, avalanches, landslides and erosion.

Homalco First Nation: Xwémalhkwu Willow Creek flood-hazard assessment and mitigation design, $399,858

Supports community resilience by providing data to support long-term disaster risk-reduction and climate-adaptation projects to address drought and water scarcity, flood and erosion, and to develop a Willow Creek flood-hazard assessment and disaster-mitigation infrastructure design.

Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation: Klemtu dam design, $394,600

Design for a new water supply intake dam to replace the existing dam, which is at risk of failing and poses significant risk to the community. Increases resilience to both flooding and drought.

Lake Babine Nation: Equipment for extreme temperatures, $61,000

Community members will be protected from extreme temperatures, particularly the elderly and those with high-risk medical conditions, and can reduce response costs for emergency care.

Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations: Climate change and disaster risk assessment, $130,000

Supports long-term planning, ensuring the First Nations are better prepared for climate impacts while respecting and integrating Indigenous knowledge and priorities.

Sumas First Nation: Strategic development for hazard risk and vulnerability resilience, $200,750

By prioritizing key mitigation strategies, Indigenous-led resilience and regional co-ordination, the First Nation is better equipped to build long-term community resilience.

Whispering Pines/Clinton Indian Band (WPCIB): Flood risk-management strategy, $400,000

Advances flood-mitigation planning that considers climate change. Results to inform preliminary planning and design work for structural and non-structural projects for WPCIB IR #4.

Yakweakwioose First Nation: Interception ditch climate-resilience project, $138,000

Planning and design for nature-based solutions – a rain garden and urban forest – to support community resilience to extreme temperatures and flooding.

MIL OSI Canada News –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ADDRESSES FEDERAL RECONCILIATION BILL IMPACTS AND VIRGIN ISLANDS RECOVERY PRIORITIES

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
July 10, 2025 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ADDRESSES FEDERAL RECONCILIATION BILL IMPACTS AND VIRGIN ISLANDS RECOVERY PRIORITIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the federal reconciliation bill signed into law by President Trump and its potential impacts on the U.S. Virgin Islands:

“Last week President Trump signed into law his tax and spending bill, H.R. 1, which passed the House and Senate narrowly with solely Republican votes and several Republican defections. While the inclusion of permanent rum cover-over in H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, represents a major win for the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and the culmination of years-long efforts by elected officials and stakeholders, as I have consistently indicated from the beginning of the year, the bill will also bring significant challenges to our territory through cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, and other critical programs.

“My office has reached out to the Legislature of the Virgin Islands and the Government of the Virgin Islands finance team to share our concerns and offer our support as we hope the local government will begin the efforts to prepare for these impacts over the coming years. It will be imperative for the Virgin Islands local government to focus on finding new revenues and act creatively to remedy the impacts of federal cuts locally. This legislation will require us to find additional sources for increasing revenues to the general fund to continue providing support to families—supporting new businesses, jump starting local small businesses and training our own local workforce to support the rebuilding and construction projects that must come online.”

Congresswoman Plaskett emphasized the importance of the Government of the Virgin Islands taking advantage of the rebuild to create additional revenue, ancillary businesses and increased workforce. Doing so means capitalizing on the cost-share waiver granted by the Biden-Harris administration, which has allocated billions of federal dollars for recovery projects across the territory.

“Seven years ago, our community’s infrastructure was devasted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, leaving our critical infrastructure decimated. Out of devastation came the opportunity to transform our territory and rebuild our critical infrastructure in a more resilient manner with profound funding from the federal government. In the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, I obtained provisions to allow the Virgin Islands to rebuild critical infrastructure with resilient design and features, up to the latest industry building standards and notwithstanding pre-disaster conditions in the Virgin Islands (the standard that normally applies).

“That change in law has meant the Government of the Virgin Islands has been allocated billions in federal funding for our schools, hospitals, water systems, power grid, communications infrastructure, and other critical projects. In 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that rebuild projects approved before September 30, 2024, require only a 2 percent local match instead of the original 10 percent, with other projects requiring just 5 percent – projected cost savings for the local government of almost $1.5 billion. This represents an unprecedented opportunity to complete our hurricane recovery while stimulating economic growth. However, the cost share is for a ten-year period. We must capitalize on this timeframe and utilize this opportunity not only to rebuild our infrastructure but also to attract small businesses and other industries to our territory,” Plaskett added.

“Now that the battle for the permanent increased rum cover-over rate of $13.25 is over, we need to focus on two critical areas related to the rum cover over: ensuring the Virgin Islands receives our fair share of worldwide rum cover-over revenue and working with rum companies to understand the utilization of funds for marketing and potentially increase the amount that comes directly to the Virgin Islands Government. Under the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), rum produced outside the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and then imported into the US also has a rum cover over that is divided between the two territories. Under the CBI, that ratio should be based upon the rum produced by each, however there was never a change in ratio made when Diageo came to the Virgin Islands from Puerto Rico. I previously engaged both the Mapp-Potter and Bryan-Roach Administrations on this issue, and it is my hope that the Bryan Administration will take this matter up so the Virgin Islands will receive its fair share of the cover over. Additionally, we need to ensure the rum companies are utilizing these funds for the maximum benefit for our community.”

“While federal cuts will create challenges, we also have untapped resources and underutilized opportunities at our disposal. The key is acting decisively during this critical recovery window while building sustainable economic growth for our future. My team and I remain ready to work with Governor Bryan and his team along with the Legislature of the Virgin Islands to ensure that we can not only weather these changes but emerge stronger.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ADDRESSES FEDERAL RECONCILIATION BILL IMPACTS AND VIRGIN ISLANDS RECOVERY PRIORITIES

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
July 10, 2025 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ADDRESSES FEDERAL RECONCILIATION BILL IMPACTS AND VIRGIN ISLANDS RECOVERY PRIORITIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the federal reconciliation bill signed into law by President Trump and its potential impacts on the U.S. Virgin Islands:

“Last week President Trump signed into law his tax and spending bill, H.R. 1, which passed the House and Senate narrowly with solely Republican votes and several Republican defections. While the inclusion of permanent rum cover-over in H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, represents a major win for the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and the culmination of years-long efforts by elected officials and stakeholders, as I have consistently indicated from the beginning of the year, the bill will also bring significant challenges to our territory through cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, and other critical programs.

“My office has reached out to the Legislature of the Virgin Islands and the Government of the Virgin Islands finance team to share our concerns and offer our support as we hope the local government will begin the efforts to prepare for these impacts over the coming years. It will be imperative for the Virgin Islands local government to focus on finding new revenues and act creatively to remedy the impacts of federal cuts locally. This legislation will require us to find additional sources for increasing revenues to the general fund to continue providing support to families—supporting new businesses, jump starting local small businesses and training our own local workforce to support the rebuilding and construction projects that must come online.”

Congresswoman Plaskett emphasized the importance of the Government of the Virgin Islands taking advantage of the rebuild to create additional revenue, ancillary businesses and increased workforce. Doing so means capitalizing on the cost-share waiver granted by the Biden-Harris administration, which has allocated billions of federal dollars for recovery projects across the territory.

“Seven years ago, our community’s infrastructure was devasted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, leaving our critical infrastructure decimated. Out of devastation came the opportunity to transform our territory and rebuild our critical infrastructure in a more resilient manner with profound funding from the federal government. In the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, I obtained provisions to allow the Virgin Islands to rebuild critical infrastructure with resilient design and features, up to the latest industry building standards and notwithstanding pre-disaster conditions in the Virgin Islands (the standard that normally applies).

“That change in law has meant the Government of the Virgin Islands has been allocated billions in federal funding for our schools, hospitals, water systems, power grid, communications infrastructure, and other critical projects. In 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that rebuild projects approved before September 30, 2024, require only a 2 percent local match instead of the original 10 percent, with other projects requiring just 5 percent – projected cost savings for the local government of almost $1.5 billion. This represents an unprecedented opportunity to complete our hurricane recovery while stimulating economic growth. However, the cost share is for a ten-year period. We must capitalize on this timeframe and utilize this opportunity not only to rebuild our infrastructure but also to attract small businesses and other industries to our territory,” Plaskett added.

“Now that the battle for the permanent increased rum cover-over rate of $13.25 is over, we need to focus on two critical areas related to the rum cover over: ensuring the Virgin Islands receives our fair share of worldwide rum cover-over revenue and working with rum companies to understand the utilization of funds for marketing and potentially increase the amount that comes directly to the Virgin Islands Government. Under the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), rum produced outside the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and then imported into the US also has a rum cover over that is divided between the two territories. Under the CBI, that ratio should be based upon the rum produced by each, however there was never a change in ratio made when Diageo came to the Virgin Islands from Puerto Rico. I previously engaged both the Mapp-Potter and Bryan-Roach Administrations on this issue, and it is my hope that the Bryan Administration will take this matter up so the Virgin Islands will receive its fair share of the cover over. Additionally, we need to ensure the rum companies are utilizing these funds for the maximum benefit for our community.”

“While federal cuts will create challenges, we also have untapped resources and underutilized opportunities at our disposal. The key is acting decisively during this critical recovery window while building sustainable economic growth for our future. My team and I remain ready to work with Governor Bryan and his team along with the Legislature of the Virgin Islands to ensure that we can not only weather these changes but emerge stronger.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on Bradford-on-Avon flood alleviation scheme
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Update on Bradford-on-Avon flood alleviation scheme

The Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council and Bradford-on-Avon Town Council will focus on strengthening community-level flood resilience.
The Environment Agency, in partnership with Wiltshire Council, Bradford-on-Avon Town Council and Wessex Water, has concluded that a permanent flood scheme for Bradford-on-Avon is currently unviable.

A review of a proposed flood scheme from 2017, which involved low walls and pumping stations, found that costs have risen significantly, increasing from £4.5 million to over £11 million. This is not possible with the current central government funding available.

Efforts to find more cost-effective alternatives—such as replacing permanent surface water pumping with temporary pumps—would still require around £1.7 million in additional partnership funding.

After discussions with partners, no funding opportunities have been identified to bridge this gap.

Bradford-on-Avon’s historic character is vital to its tourism and local economy, adding further complexity to designing a flood scheme that balances protection with preservation.

While the proposed 2017 scheme was designed to be more in keeping with the town’s character, it would still have been overtopped by flooding during Storm Bert in November 2024.

Weighing up these considerations, partners have agreed that a permanent flood scheme is financially unviable at this time.

Even if a scheme were possible, the flood risk benefits would not outweigh the potential harm to the town’s historic and economic importance.

A range of alternative flood management options—including dredging, upstream and underground flood storage, automated barriers, a bypass channel, natural flood management and temporary barriers—have been explored, but each was found to be either ineffective, impractical or also financially unviable.

Moving forward, the Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council, and the Town Council will focus resources on strengthening community-level flood resilience. Residential properties may be eligible for Property Flood Resilience (PFR) measures.

Committed to supporting community

Ron Curtis, Operations Manager from the Environment Agency, said:

We understand this will be disappointing news for those affected by recent flooding, and we recognise the ongoing challenges faced by the community.

We remain committed to supporting Bradford-on-Avon in adapting to flood risks through community resilience measures.

This does not mean that a permanent scheme will never be possible, as changes in government policy, funding availability or advancements in technology could create future opportunities.

We continue to ask residents and businesses to check their flood risk.

The Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council, Bradford-on-Avon Town Council and Wessex Water are hosting a flood drop-in session on Monday 21 July at Holy Trinity Church, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LW from 2 – 6:30pm.

With national expert “Flood Mary” Mary Long-Dhonau OBE in attendance with the Flood Pod, this event will allow the community to ask questions, discuss concerns, and learn more about flood resilience measures and ongoing efforts to manage flood risk in the area.

Councillor Jack Vittles, Mayor of Bradford on Avon, said:

We’re pleased to be able to facilitate this valuable opportunity for the Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council and Wessex Water to come and update residents on their work regarding flooding in the town.

These agencies will explain their plans, share their flood resilience support and highlight the opportunities to enable the town to prepare for future flooding events. This is the perfect chance for residents and businesses to drop in, ask questions, discuss concerns directly with them and pick up advice on making your property as resilient as possible.

I’d like to thank all the agencies involved for engaging so positively with our community and look forward to hearing what they can do for Bradford on Avon and our residents.

Background

More information on the Bradford on Avon drop-in session on July 21 is available on the Bradford on Avon Council site here.

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Published 10 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: $21M for Flood Protection in the Southern Tier 

Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today announced $21 million to support flood protection projects in the Southern Tier. The projects address vital stormwater management and resilient infrastructure projects in communities including Binghamton, Elmira, Olean, and Whitney Point to help advance New York’s comprehensive clean water and resiliency efforts that will safeguard New Yorkers from extreme weather and the costly expenses of rebuilding after a flood.

“As we face more and more devastating extreme storms, we must do everything we can to ensure our communities are resilient, sustainable and ready,” Governor Hochul said. “We saw the flooding in Binghamton almost 15 years ago, and we don’t want to see it again. These projects help us get ahead of the storm damage, save taxpayers millions of dollars in the long run, and prevent post-flood recovery costs for homeowners and businesses alike.”

The $21 million provided through the ‘Restoration and Flood Risk’ category of the historic $4.2 billion Clean Air, Clean Water and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 will support projects implemented by the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The initial four projects announced today will help make necessary updates and bolster the resilience of existing flood infrastructure like levees and flood walls, to help ensure these structures’ long-term effectiveness in protecting communities from flooding. These flood control structures were originally constructed under the federal 1936 Flood Control Act to specifically address flooding along the Southern Tier of New York State and built in the 1940s and early 1950s.

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and historic investments, New York State is making important progress to protect communities and infrastructure from the devastating impacts of flooding. By supporting DEC’s repairs and upgrades in Binghamton, Elmira, Olean, and Whitney Point with the record funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, the Governor is advancing key projects in communities that are susceptible to flooding, helping provide residents the support they need to avoid potential costly repairs if flooding occurs.”

Assemblymember Deborah Glick said, “As climate change continues to intensify storms and flooding across New York, proactive investments like these are critical to protecting communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. The $21 million in Environmental Bond Act funding announced today will strengthen flood control systems in the Southern Tier, projects that are not only long overdue, but essential for public safety and long-term resiliency. I applaud Governor Hochul and Commissioner Lefton for advancing these vital efforts to build a safer, more climate-resilient New York.” 

City of Binghamton Flood Control Project

DEC is making improvements to the Binghamton Flood Control Project located along the Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers in the City of Binghamton. Rehabilitation of the floodwalls is necessary to ensure Binghamton has a resilient working flood protection system. The construction includes replacement of two floodwall panels, replacing deteriorated concrete, and application of a protective coating on the floodwalls to extend the useful life of the concrete walls.    

City of Elmira Flood Control Project

DEC is making improvements to the Elmira Flood Control Project along the Chemung River, which provides flood protection for the city of Elmira. The project consists of levees, and flood walls with appurtenant drainage structures. The project will install 65 relief wells along with collector pipes to provide pressure relief caused by floodwaters and will ensure the structure meets U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requirements.    

City of Olean Flood Control Project

DEC is making improvements to the Olean Flood Control Project located on the Allegheny River and Olean Creek in the city of Olean. The project will stabilize a section of existing levee system, mitigate erosion, and improve access to the levee for regular DEC maintenance.   

Village of Whitney Point Flood Control Project

DEC is making improvements to the Whitney Point Flood Control Project located on the Tioughnioga River in the village of Whitney Point. The project will upgrade the manual gate system and install a new swing gate closure structure to more efficiently and effectively close the existing stoplog railroad closure.   

On Nov. 8, 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act ballot proposition to make $4.2 billion available for environmental and community projects. The Environmental Bond Act supports new and expanded projects across the state to safeguard drinking water sources, reduce pollution, and protect communities and natural resources from climate change. State agencies, local governments, and partners can access this historic funding to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resiliency, and create green jobs.

The projects announced today complement other state investments and opportunities to protect communities from flood damage. In May, Governor Hochul announced more than $78 million in funding available through the Water Quality Improvement Project Program and $22 million in Climate Smart Community grants, which both support projects that include flood risk reduction. Applications for these latest rounds of funding are due by July 31, 2025. In April, the Governor also announced $60 million in Environmental Bond Act funding for the next round of Green Resiliency Grants. The program supports vital stormwater management and resilient infrastructure projects in flood-prone communities across New York State. Applications for this program are due by Aug. 15, 2025. To learn more about resources available for resilient Bond Act-supported projects, visit environmentalbondact.ny.gov.

New York’s Commitment to Water Quality

New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure. With an additional $500 million for clean water infrastructure in the 2025-2026 enacted State Budget announced by Governor Hochul, New York will have invested a total of $6 billion in water infrastructure since 2017. The budget also maintains a strong commitment to environmental conservation with a $425 million Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). This funding bolsters a wide array of vital programs, including land acquisition for habitat and open space preservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives, and water quality improvement projects.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Major Renewable Energy Project Approved for Madison County

Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul announced today that the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission (ORES) has issued a final siting permit to Cypress Creek Renewables to develop and operate Oxbow Hill Solar, a 140-megawatt (MW) solar array in the Town of Fenner in Madison County. The project will create good-paying jobs, improve grid reliability, invest in crucial infrastructure, and increase tax revenues for local schools and other community priorities.

“We are extremely pleased to announce the latest investment in solar technology, upholding our commitment to improving grid reliability and building a clean energy economy,” Governor Hochul said. “The projects we have approved over the last few years are a testament to New York’s commitment to sustainability and resiliency.”

The Oxbow Hill Solar facility will contribute 140 MW of clean, renewable energy to New York’s electric grid while offsetting over 177,000 metric tons of CO2 and providing power for approximately 23,000 average-sized homes.

The new solar facility will consist of the solar array and associated support equipment, along with an interconnection substation, fencing, access roads and an operations and maintenance building. The facility will interconnect to the New York electrical grid via the Fenner Wind to Whitman Road 115 kV transmission line that is owned and operated by National Grid. Oxbow Hill is sited on a portion of the existing Fenner Wind Farm, making it the first ORES permit where a solar facility is co-located with a wind facility.

This project was approved in less than the one-year timeframe required under the law, and was issued after a thorough, timely, and transparent review process that included public comment periods and hearings.

Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission Executive Director Zeryai Hagos said, “As the state approaches 4 gigawatts of clean, renewable energy, a monumental achievement, we are reminded that we still have work to do to address New York’s growing energy needs. ORES will continue to advance New York’s nation-leading clean energy policies while being responsive to community feedback and protecting the environment.”

This project is anticipated to create a total of 330 jobs during construction and marks 24 clean energy projects approved by ORES since 2021, when it was created to accelerate permitting for renewable energy generation. New York State has approved 28 large-scale solar and wind projects since 2021, including 24 permitted by ORES and four approved by the NYS Siting Board under Article 10, the statute that governed solar and wind projects over 25-MW prior to the creation of ORES. The 28 permitted facilities represent 3.9 gigawatts of new clean, renewable energy.

ORES’ decision for these facilities follows a detailed and transparent review process with robust public participation to ensure the proposed project meets or exceeds the requirements of Article VIII of the New York State Public Service Law and its implementing regulations. The application for the Oxbow Hill Solar project was deemed complete on November 18, 2024 with a draft permit issued by ORES on January 14, 2025. This solar power project meaningfully advances New York’s clean energy goals while establishing the State as a paradigm for efficient, transparent, and thorough siting permitting process of major renewable energy facilities.

Today’s decisions may be obtained by going to the ORES website.

Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “By strengthening New York’s energy economy, we position ourselves to not only meet the growing electricity demand, but to do so sustainably. The solar array in Madison County brings us one step closer in reaching our climate and energy goals. Each major renewable energy project helps deliver the critical climate action that our state urgently needs, while also creating hundreds of local jobs and new revenue for community priorities. At a time where the federal government threatens progress on clean energy, New York remains unwavering in its provision of renewable and efficient energy for years to come.”

New York State’s Climate Agenda
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.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: How China’s green transition is reshaping ethnic minority communities

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Reza Hasmath, Professor in Political Science, University of Alberta

China has emerged as a global front-runner in the fight against climate change, with sweeping policies aimed at curbing environmental degradation and building a more sustainable future.

Yet behind these green ambitions lies a more complicated human story. Ethnic minority communities — who make up roughly nine per cent of China’s total population and often inhabit ecologically sensitive regions like Tibet, Xinjiang, Yunnan and Inner Mongolia — are experiencing the transition in ways that involve significant trade-offs.

Where they live, how they work and the cultural practices they depend on have all been shaped by state environmental policies, often without meaningful input or representation.

My ongoing research examines the lesser seen consequences of China’s environmental agenda, focusing on how it affects the lives of ethnic minority communities across four critical dimensions: traditional livelihoods, internal migration, economic well-being and cultural identity.

Disruptions to traditional livelihoods

For centuries, many ethnic minorities in China have built their livelihoods around the land. Tibetan nomadic herders, Uyghur and Kazakh farmers and communities like the Yi, Qiang or Tu have long depended on agriculture, grazing and forest products not just for economic survival, but as a way of life deeply tied to ancestral customs and ecological knowledge.

That fabric is now fraying. Climate change, rising temperatures and desertification have degraded pasturelands in Tibet and farmland in Xinjiang, undermining herding and agriculture.

At the same time, state policies like the Grain for Green program, which converts farmland into forest to reduce erosion, have displaced upland farmers and restricted access to traditional lands.

These disruptions are compounded by restrictions on small-scale logging and non-timber forest product collection. These practices have long sustained communities such as the Hani, Dai and Yi.

Although these initiatives aim for environmental conservation, they often lack provisions for alternative livelihood options, rendering affected ethnic minority communities vulnerable to economic hardship.

Internal migration

As China’s environmental and development policies reshape rural regions, ethnic minority communities are increasingly affected by internal migration. Some ethnic minority families move voluntarily for work, while others are displaced by large-scale infrastructure or conservation projects.

In Tibet, expanded rail and road networks have boosted trade, but contributed to the migration of herding communities. In Yunnan, dam construction has displaced villages inhabited by ethnic groups such as the Nu, Lisu, Hani and Bai, often with minimal consultation.

Relocation into urban areas introduces new pressures: overcrowded infrastructure, limited services and increased competition for employment. These conditions can exacerbate the marginalization of ethnic minorities and heighten social tensions.

The effects are especially stark in Xinjiang. Uyghur communities have been relocated to new urban zones where efforts framed as economic development often fracture social structures and push assimilation.

Coupled with securitization measures, such transitions risk eroding cultural identity and deepening socio-economic disparities, particularly among ethnic minority women.

Ultimately, internal migration fragments extended family networks, an essential characteristic for many ethnic minority cultures. Without inclusive planning, these relocations can entrench the very inequities that sustainability efforts seek to address.

A double-edged economy

Green transition policies promise new livelihoods through eco-tourism, conservation work and renewable energy sectors. For some communities, these transitions have created new pathways.

Pilot programs in ecologically sensitive zones such as Qinghai have involved Tibetan herders as conservation workers, combining ecological protection with livelihood maintenance.

These examples remain exceptions. Most affected communities lack training and access to green jobs. The Grain for Green program offers short-term land conversion subsidies, but little in the way of long-term retraining. As a result, some households plunge deeper into poverty after losing access to their farmland or pasture.

Ironically, relocated families sometimes end up in low-paid construction jobs tied to the very projects that displaced them. This circular dependency — displaced by green projects, then employed in their construction — offers no route to upward mobility and deepens socio-economic marginalization.

Cultural displacement

Perhaps the most intangible impact of China’s green transition is cultural. In many ethnic minority communities, livelihoods are intertwined with the environment; rituals follow the seasons and sacred sites mark the land.

Conservation bans and resettlement disrupt ancestral customs and erase mobility patterns, as seen with the sedentarization of Tibetan nomads.

Eco-tourism campaigns and “heritage villages” try to preserve culture. However, they often turn it into a spectacle. Traditions become performances curated for tourists, while the deeper practices — language, inter-generational teaching and land-based rituals — fade.

Well-meaning efforts to promote ethnic minority festivals in the name of boosting tourism have also sometimes led to the standardization of diverse traditions into single narratives, minimizing internal variation in customs and flattening community voices.

A more inclusive green transition?

There is no doubt that China’s climate ambition is transforming its economy and the daily lives of millions. From the Tibetan Plateau to the Tarim Basin in Xinjiang and across the vast grasslands of Inner Mongolia, environmental protection is impacting the people whose lives are rooted in these fragile ecosystems.

Making this transition equitable means ensuring ethnic minorities shape, not merely receive, state policy. That includes integrating local ecological knowledge into conservation planning, providing long-term training for displaced populations and ensuring that relocation compensation reflects economic losses, as well as social and cultural costs.

China frames its environmental vision through the concept of “ecological civilization,” a philosophy rooted in Confucian ideals and socialist principles that seeks to harmonize human development with nature. At its best, this model aspires to align economic growth with ecological balance.

For ecological civilization to fulfil its promise, it must be inclusive and prioritize cultural rights alongside environmental goals. Environmental policymakers must recognize that sustainability is about both reducing emissions and preserving the dignity, heritage and agency of all communities.

China’s green transition has the potential to be a global model. To lead by example, however, it must confront not only the climate crisis, but also the deeper challenge of inclusion.

Reza Hasmath 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. How China’s green transition is reshaping ethnic minority communities – https://theconversation.com/how-chinas-green-transition-is-reshaping-ethnic-minority-communities-259793

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 11, 2025

Category: Climate Change

What makes Hill Country so prone to flooding?

Why does the region get such strong downpours?

What can be done to improve flash flood safety?

July 10, 2025

Update on Bradford-on-Avon flood alleviation scheme

Committed to supporting community

Background

Share this page

Updates to this page

Disruptions to traditional livelihoods

Internal migration

A double-edged economy

Cultural displacement

A more inclusive green transition?