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Category: Climate Change

  • ‘Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan’ — Remembering Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s Resounding Call: Vice-President Pays Tribute on The Leader’s Balidan Diwas

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    lign=”center”>Article 370 Bled Jammu & Kashmir; Along With Draconian 35A, It Deprived People of Basic Human Rights – VP
    NEP 2020 Reaffirms India’s Belief in Education as Self-Awakening, Not Just Skill-Building, Highlights VP
    Our Universities Are Not Meant To Just Hand Out Degrees. They Have To Be Crucibles of Innovation And Sanctuaries of Ideas, Says VP
    Education Brings About Equality, Education Decimates Inequities. Education Gives Life to Democracy, Stresses VP
    Universities Must Allow Space for Disagreement, Debate, Dialogue and Discussion; Abhivyakti, Vaad Vivaad, Anant Vaad Are Inalienable Facets of Our Democracy, Urges VP
    Establish Institutions of Uncompromising Excellence in AI, Climate Tech, Quantum Science — Then Bharat Will Lead, Others Will Follow, Underlines VP
    Vice-President Addresses the Inaugural Session of the 99th Annual Meet and National Conference of Vice Chancellors (2024–2025) In Uttar Pradesh

    The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today paid homage to Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, saying, “It’s a great day in the history of our nation. One of the finest sons of our soil, it is his balidan diwas today — Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. He gave the slogan — एक विधान, एक निशान और एक प्रधान ही होगा देश में दो नहीं होंगे. He said so during the campaign in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in 1952.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937053832418410692

    Shri Dhankhar further added, “We suffered from Article 370 for too long. It bled us and the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 and the draconian Article 35A deprived people of their basic human rights and fundamental rights. We had a visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a Home Minister in the shoes of Sardar Patel, Amit Shah. Article 370 does not exist now in our Constitution. It was abrogated on 5th August 2019, and the legal challenge to the Supreme Court failed on 11 December 2023. I therefore cannot be at a more befitting place than this to pay tribute to one of the finest sons of our soil. My tributes to him.”

    Addressing the inaugural session of the 99th Annual Meet and National Conference of Vice Chancellors (2024–2025), organised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), at Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Dhankhar said, highlighting the National Education Policy, “I must share with you something which happened after more than 3 decades, that has really changed the landscape of our education. I am making reference to the ‘National Education Policy’ 2020. As Governor, State of West Bengal, I was associated with it. Some major inputs — in the hands of thousands — were taken into consideration for the evolution of this policy.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937060609058800015

    “The policy resonates with our civilizational spirit, essence, and ethos. It is a bold reaffirmation of India’s timeless belief that education is the awakening of the self — not just for education of skills.”

    “I have firmly believed — education is a great equalizer. Education brings about equality as no other mechanism does. Education decimates inequities. As a matter of fact, education gives life to democracy.”

    Congratulating the Government of Uttar Pradesh, he stated, “My congratulations to the Government of Uttar Pradesh. The Chief Minister has done a great initiative. IT was given ‘Industry Status’. That has a huge consequence for positive development. Another aspect for which UP is getting increasingly recognized is at the school education level. The transparency and accountability in administration is becoming a hallmark.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937054543826784674

    Applauding India’s national progress, the Vice-President said, “India has emerged as a land of opportunity, of entrepreneurship, of startups, of innovation, of unicorns. In every parameter where growth and development can be gauged, we are rising.”

    On the role of universities, the Vice-President emphasized, “Our universities are not meant to just hand out degrees. The degrees must carry great weightage. Universities must be sanctuaries of ideas and ideation, crucibles of innovation. These places have to catalyse big change.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937059527398224310

    “That responsibility lies on the Vice-Chancellors in particular and the academia in general. I appeal to you, there must be space for disagreement, debate, dialogue and discussion. That is how the mind cells are activated. Abhivyakti, Vaad Vivaad, Anant Vaad — these are inalienable facets of our civilisation, of our democracy.”

    Highlighting India’s potential to lead in knowledge domains, he said, “When you look around the world, you’ll understand its significance. The state of education defines not only the state of academics, but the state of the nation. We cannot remain perpetual students of Western innovation when our demographic dividend position says, as the world’s knowledge epicenter.”

    “And when we look back in our ancient history, we are reminded of our rich past. It is time Bharat must build world-class institutions, not just to teach, but to pioneer. These are not mere disciplines. These are levers of assurance of our sovereignty in all times to come.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937061917761376261

    Calling for equitable expansion of higher education, the Vice-President observed, “A lot of our institutions have remained brown-field. Let us fall in line with the global groove — let’s go green. Greenfield institutions alone bring about equitable distribution. There is clusterization in metros and Tier 1 cities. Many regions remain untouched.”

    “Let’s go in for greenfield institutions in such areas. Vice Chancellors are not only the watchdogs, but impregnable bulwarks against commodification and commercialisation of education. One of our fundamental objectives is to ensure affordability, reach, and accessibility of quality education for ordinary people.”

    Concluding his address with a call to establish leadership in emerging domains, the Vice-President asserted, “Establish institutions of uncompromising excellence in emerging domains — artificial intelligence, climate change, climate technology, quantum science, digital ethics — then Bharat will lead, others will follow. That’s a challenge.”

    “Education is not just merely for public good. It is our most strategic national asset. It is integrally connected not only with our development journey in infrastructure or otherwise, it assures national security also.”

    “Friends, I am before academicians and therefore I will reveal my thought process a little more critically for your analysis. Impossible choices define our character and strength. We must not take the easy route. Impossible choices define that we really have a great inheritance. Taking the easy path is getting into mediocrity, and then into irrelevance and insignificance.”

    “Universities are crucibles to generate such choices. They prepare minds. They prepare people to be intrepid — to go in for impossible choices.”

    Shri Sunil Kumar Sharma, Minister for IT and Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Dr. Ashok K. Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education and Research Group; Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President, AIU; and Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, AIU, and other dignitaries were also present.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Legal routes for climate justice in Africa

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    By Oluwabusayo Wuraola, Anglia Ruskin University

    Climate change lawsuits have become a new way for countries to assert their rights against actions that degrade the environment. But African countries have yet to fully exploit this route.

    In the Netherlands, the court found that greenhouse gas emissions breached the rights to life and private and family life that are protected by the European Convention on Human Rights.

    In Germany, the court found that the government had breached the Climate Protection Act by not setting out a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions after 2030. This meant that future generations would unfairly bear the burden of trying to limit climate change.

    Africa is the continent that’s most vulnerable to the impact of climate change. At the same time, it has contributed least in the world to greenhouse gas emissions.

    However, African countries have not taken up many climate court cases, mainly because they lack resources. They are also hampered by weak climate laws, limited expertise to gather and present evidence in court, and their economic reliance on extractive industries which they may not want to sue in court.

    One of the few African climate lawsuits was brought by the South African environmental justice group EarthLife Africa Johannesburg. It took the country’s environment ministry to court to cancel the government’s approval of new coal-fired power plants. The Pretoria high court held that the approval was unlawful because it had failed to consider how new coal-fired power stations would make climate change worse.

    Another case was filed in 2020 by civil society groups that sued the governments of Uganda and Tanzania over the East African Crude Oil Pipeline for breaching human rights and damaging the environment. The East African Court of Justice dismissed the case after the activists missed the deadline to file documents. The groups have appealed against the dismissal, but this highlights some of the difficulties in bringing international climate litigation.

    In May 2025, the Pan African Lawyers’ Union asked the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights for an advisory opinion (still to be issued) on the obligations of African states to protect human rights in a time of climate crisis. This case was brought in collaboration with the Africa Climate Platform, the Environmental Lawyers Collective for Africa, Natural Justice, resilient40, and other environmental justice organisations.

    I am an environmental justice researcher who examines how ecocentrism (valuing the entire interests of ecosystems over human interests or individual companies interests) can be taken forward in African legal systems.

    I argue that Africa should use three key international legal routes to amplify its voice in litigating against climate change.

    1. The International Court of Justice

    In December 2024, the International Court of Justice agreed for the first time to provide an advisory opinion on what states are obliged to do to fight climate change and set out the legal consequences for states that do not meet these obligations.

    In late 2024, the court accepted inputs from countries that had already been affected by climate change. These included members of the Organisation of Africa, Caribbean and Pacific States and the African Union, and South Africa, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia and Senegal. The court will hand down the opinion in late 2025.

    Even though International Court of Justice advisory opinions are not legally binding, these proceedings were a milestone. They provided African countries with a good platform to raise their demands about the obligations of countries to protect the climate system in this time of global warming.

    2. International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea

    In June 2023, the African Union submitted a written statement in support of the request made by the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law. The island states had asked the tribunal to set out how governments were obliged by the international marine treaty to prevent, reduce and control marine pollution caused by greenhouse gas emissions.

    This was the first time the tribunal had formally considered the impacts of climate change on the marine environment. The African Union relied on important international environmental legal principles in its statement. These include the duty to avoid polluting the atmosphere and to prevent harm that takes place across borders.

    These principles have been used by different countries in lawsuits previously. These cases form the legal basis for many climate lawsuits today.

    The tribunal’s advisory opinions are not legally binding, but they also contribute to the development of international law, and again, could be useful for Africa to assert a strong, unified legal voice in the global fight for climate justice.

    3. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

    This 1992 convention has been ratified by many African states. It is a central international legal framework that guides global action on climate change. It has been the foundation for many international agreements on how governments will prevent climate change.

    African countries will need to include international climate change agreements into their laws and policies. Not all African countries have climate change laws. Countries with climate change laws include Nigeria, Uganda and South Africa. More must follow.

    Africa lacks the resources to prevent the worst effects of climate change and recover from the damage caused by global warming.

    African countries must now take climate lawsuits forward to demand accountability, shape climate policies and safeguard the future.

    By embracing regional mechanisms like the African court, using international legal instruments, and developing national climate laws, Africa can assert a strong, unified legal voice in the global fight for climate justice.

    Oluwabusayo Wuraola, Lecturer in Law, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Schools champion climate education in drive to towards Net Zero

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Members of the Education and Children’s Services Committee were today (Tuesday 24 June) updated on the significant strides made by Aberdeen schools in educating young people about Climate Change, Biodiversity and the city’s Net Zero ambitions during the 2024-25 school session.

    The report, which detailed a wide range of impactful events and initiatives delivered across schools, as well as the continued efforts of the Youth Climate Change Group, was approved by committee with the exception of recommendation 2.3.  The full report can be viewed here.

    Councillor Martin Greig, convener, of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “Our schools are playing a vital role in preparing young people to meet the challenges of the climate emergency. Through innovative learning and strong partnerships, we are empowering the next generation to lead the way towards a more sustainable and equitable future for Aberdeen and beyond.”

    Councillor Jessica Mennie, vice-convener of the Education and Children Services Committee, said: “The enthusiasm and creativity shown by our young people in tackling climate change is truly inspiring. By embedding sustainability into everyday learning and supporting youth-lead initiatives, we are not only educating but also encouraging future leaders to help shape a greener Aberdeen.”

    Aberdeen’s schools continue to embrace the Learning for Sustainability (LfS) agenda, integrating sustainable development, biodiversity, climate change, outdoor learning, and global citizenship into the Curriculum for Excellence.

    These themes are explored through interdisciplinary learning, project-based learning, science, social studies, and outdoor education, empowering young people to take meaningful action for a better future. Aberdeen now has 11 schools that are recognised as Eco Schools and awarded Green Flag status by Keep Scotland Beautiful.

    St Joseph’s RC School won the Scottish Fair Trade ‘In the Bag’ award in recognition of its 10-year commitment to fair and ethical trade, including being the first school in Scotland to commit to supporting and working with communities in India.

    The Youth Climate Change Group remains a vital platform for pupil voice and leadership and the committee thanked pupils for their significant efforts in promoting and actioning environmental work in school and citywide.

    Committee members agreed that this important area of focused activity should continue and instructed the Chief Officer for Education and Lifelong Learning to support the Youth Climate Change Group to collate and share a yearly summary of the most impactful projects in their schools, through means to be determined by the group, to inspire other young people across the city.

    The committee agreed that representatives from the Youth Climate Change Group should be invited to present the Climate Change report to committee in subsequent years.

    In partnership with the City Development and Regeneration Service, the Education Service will launch the ABZ Pipeline – a new initiative designed to create curriculum-linked pathways into the renewable sector.  This programme will connect learners with employers, offering real-world experiences and helping pupils align their career planning with Aberdeen’s green economy.

    Aberdeen for a Fairer World (AFW) continues to play a key role in supporting schools with climate-related activities. Their work includes developing projects with local authorities, ETZ, and employers, identifying skills and employment opportunities, and assessing the impact of in-school activities.

    A comprehensive record of school participation during Climate Week North East 2025 will be published in the summer term.

    Beyond the classroom, pupils are engaging in film screenings, workshops, barista events, and Fair Trade initiatives – demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and community action.  These efforts also contribute to wider achievement and support National Qualifications.

    These initiatives also align with the Local Outcome Improvement Plan (LOIP) Stretch Outcome 13, which aims to reduce Aberdeen’s carbon emissions by at least 61% by 2026. As the city works towards Net Zero by 2045, the continued focus on climate education and youth engagement is essential to building a resilient, sustainable future.

    The committee instructed the Chief Officer of Education and Lifelong Learning to provide a progress update within one calendar year. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: How’s the UK attempt to reach net zero going? There’s good news and bad news

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By John Barrett, Professor of Energy and Climate Policy, Deputy Director of the Priestly Centre for Climate Futures, Theme Lead for the UKRI Energy Demand Research Centre, University of Leeds

    BOY ANTHONY/Shutterstock

    Each year, the Climate Change Committee – the UK’s independent advisory body tasked with monitoring the country’s movement toward its legally binding climate goals – gives a report on the government’s progress over the last year.

    The Climate Change Committee’s new 2025 progress report is a mix of good and bad news about whether the UK is on track to meet its greenhouse gas emissions targets. These include a 68% reduction by 2030 and an 81% reduction by 2035, relative to 1990 levels.

    Meeting these targets requires long lead times. It takes years to develop and deploy low-carbon technologies, change social practices and align industrial and economic policy with net zero ambitions. The Climate Change Committee’s analysis goes beyond simply measuring emissions — it also evaluates whether the right policies are in place across sectors such as transport, buildings, energy and industry.

    So how is the UK doing? Between 1990 and 2024, the UK halved its greenhouse gas emissions, primarily by decarbonising the power sector, improving energy efficiency and shifts in the UK’s industrial base. This equates to an average annual reduction of 0.7%.

    Since the committee was established in 2008, the rate of reduction has more than doubled. In the last decade, since the Paris agreement was signed in 2015, the UK has decarbonised at around 3.4% per year. To meet the 2030 and 2035 targets, the pace of reduction has to continue at this level, but from a wider set of sectors.

    However, the analysis in the CCC report suggests that even this may not be fast enough. A major scientific review recently warned the world has just three years left in its global carbon budget if we are to stay within the 1.5°C temperature limit agreed in the Paris agreement.

    A mixed picture

    We are both involved with the committee and its work. Piers Forster, a climate scientist, has served on the committee since 2018 and is currently its chair. John Barrett provides key data on imported emissions and regularly provides analysis into the committee’s work.

    On the positive side, the UK continues to expand renewable energy capacity, which not only cuts emissions but lowers energy bills and improves energy security. Emissions from the energy supply sector decreased 17% last year.

    A fifth of new vehicles sold are now electric. For the first time, evidence shows that electric cars are causing transport emissions to decline, even as people are travelling more. Tree planting rates also increased by 56% last year, mainly in Scotland.

    However, this report highlights serious gaps. With only five years left until 2030, the Climate Change Committee estimates that 39% of the required emissions reductions are not adequately backed by government policy.

    Growing demand in high-carbon sectors like aviation is offsetting gains made in electricity generation. Aviation emissions are now scarily largely than those from electricity generation and rising fast.

    Time is running out and climate action is urgently required.
    banu sevim/Shutterstock

    Although nearly 100,000 heat pumps were installed last year, emissions from buildings are still rising. In road transport, while electric vehicle adoption is growing, there’s been little shift towards shared public transport options such as buses and trains. In industry, policies around resource efficiency and consumption remain underdeveloped.

    Critically, the Climate Change Committee notes that electricity currently accounts for just 18% of the UK’s total energy demand, and suggests that 80% of required emissions reductions must come from sectors beyond energy supply. The rates of decarbonisation need to more than double in these other sectors.

    Yet, policy to reduce overall energy demand remains weak. This is a broader agenda than reducing household energy bills but a more fundamental appreciation of how the UK’s energy demand can be shaped in the future.

    The UK cannot rely on technology alone. The climate transition can benefit from changes in how we live, move, consume and produce. Making such changes would make us less dependent on fossil fuel imports, put more money in our pockets from efficiency savings and make us healthier by improving air quality, increase exercise levels through more active travel such as walking and cycling and make our homes more comfortable in both hot and cold conditions.

    A truly credible response to the climate crisis demands a whole-system approach. That means aligning climate goals with economic and social policy, and recognising the broader benefits — from improved health to reduced inequality — that come with reducing energy demand.

    The window to act is closing. The UK has made progress, but without more ambitious and integrated action, it risks falling short when it matters most.

    According to the Climate Change Committee report, the UK can deliver both its legislated targets and its internationally-committed emission reduction targets if it takes decisive policy action. And with the right political will that’s possible in a cost-effective way that improves the lives of its citizens.

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

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    John Barrett receives funding from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

    Piers Forster receives funding from UK and European research councils. He is interim chair of the Climate Change Committee

    – ref. How’s the UK attempt to reach net zero going? There’s good news and bad news – https://theconversation.com/hows-the-uk-attempt-to-reach-net-zero-going-theres-good-news-and-bad-news-259580

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Improve the accessibility of West Kowloon Cultural District

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Following is a question by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (June 25):
     
    Question:

    There are views that the road ancillary facilities and experience of walking to the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) are not satisfactory at present, and during festivals, holidays and large-scale activities, congestion often occurs on the roads in the vicinity. On improving the accessibility of the WKCD, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) as it has been reported that the southern landing facility of the WKCD is expected to come into operation in the fourth quarter of this year, of the specific timetable; of the specific measures in place to expedite the development of waterborne transport there, and whether it has studied developing the area into one of the distribution points for marine tours;

    (2) as some members of the public and tourists have reflected that the current experience of walking from the Xiqu Centre along Austin Road West to the area around the M+ is not satisfactory, whether the authorities will consider prioritising the creation of a pleasant harbourfront promenade from the Xiqu Centre to the WKCD to facilitate access of members of the public and tourists to the area; and

    (3) as there are views that the existing road design of Museum Drive outside the Hong Kong Palace Museum is unsatisfactory and prone to causing traffic congestion, and the authorities are conducting a road network study in the vicinity of Museum Drive, including a study on the construction of additional slip road exits to the West Kowloon Expressway, of the details of the study and whether the relevant works can commence as soon as possible?

    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD or the District) is an important strategic cultural infrastructure investment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. The WKCD is not only a popular choice for local residents to participate in cultural activities, but also one of the must-visit cultural and creative attractions welcomed by tourists.
     
    The Government and the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA) have always attached great importance to the accessibility of West Kowloon. Currently, there are many public transport services and routes to the WKCD, including the MTR, seven franchised bus routes, five green minibus (GMB) routes as well as Water Taxis.
     
    When large-scale activities such as fireworks displays are held at the WKCD or in its vicinity, the WKCDA will closely liaise with the Police and Transport Department (TD). The Police will implement temporary traffic management measures, including road closures, as needed within the WKCD and its vicinity whereas the TD will co-ordinate with public transport services providers to increase their services. Visitors can walk to the two MTR stations (i.e. Kowloon Station and Austin Station) or nearby places to access public transports when roads in the vicinity are still closed after the activities. During major festivals in the past two years, the said arrangements have been working smoothly.
     
    Having consulted the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the WKCDA, my reply to the question raised by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung is set out below:
     
    (1) The Southern Landing Facility (SLF) located opposite to M+ is expected to complete and open in quarter four of this year (2025). By then, the existing berthing point of Water Taxi at the New Yau Ma Tei Typhoon Shelter will be relocated to this new landing facility. The WKCDA is also liaisng with the TD in actively exploring the introduction of a new ferry route between the WKCD and Central, so as to fully utilise the new landing facility for further improving waterborne transport to and from the WKCD.
     
    The SLF is a public landing facility. The WKCDA is currently formulating the future arrangements for the use of the SLF, including reservation arrangements for berthing public vessels other than Water Taxi, and will maintain close communication with the tourism industry and relevant Government departments to explore ways to maximise the utilisation of the SLF.
     
    (2) The WKCD is situated on a 40-hectare site next to the High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, the MTR Tuen Ma Line Austin Station as well as the Tung Chung Line Kowloon Station. Citizens and visitors can choose to use the nearest MTR station according to the different arts and cultural facilities in the District they want to visit.
     
    Taking M+ as an example, visitors can use the MTR Kowloon Station and walk about 10 minutes via Elements Shopping Mall and the Art Square Bridge to reach it. As for the Hong Kong Palace Museum (HKPM), visitors can go for Exit E of the MTR Kowloon Station, walk via Nga Cheung Road and the pedestrian footbridge of the former toll plaza of the Western Harbour Crossing to enter the WKCD West Gate, and then walk along the District’s roads to reach the HKPM in 15 minutes. Visitors going to the Xiqu Centre can use the Austin Road Pedestrian Linkage System at Exit E of the MTR Austin Station to reach the destination within 5 minutes on foot.
     
    The development of the WKCD has always adopted the “City Park” design concept. The planning fundamental of the WKCD is pedestrian-oriented with emphasis on its connectivity, encouraging visitors to walk to and from different arts and cultural facilities within the District. For instance, from M+ to the HKPM, visitors can walk for about 10 minutes through the Art Park or along the WKCD Promenade, both of which are places where citizens and tourists love to linger. As for going from Xiqu Centre to M+, since there are still works in progress in the relevant waterfront and Austin Road West section, we recommend citizens to take about 15 to 20 minutes to walk via Austin Station, High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, Elements, and the Artist Square Bridge at this stage.
     
    If visitors choose to travel between the WKCD and the High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and MTR Austin Station by public transport, they can take the GMB Route CX1, or take the Kowloon Motor Bus Route W4 on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
     
    (3) The Government and the WKCDA have been exploring various options for improving the road network of the WKCD, including the addition of an exit from Museum Drive to the West Kowloon Highway to improve vehicular accessibility of the northern part of the WKCD. The Government will continue to study with the WKCDA in this regard to meet the development needs of the WKCD.

    Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF F-35A marks a significant step in delivering a more lethal Integrated Force and joining NATO Nuclear Mission25 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    The RAF will be equipped with twelve new F-35A fifth-generation aircraft, as part of the Security Defence Review. The procurement of F-35A marks a significant step in delivering a more lethal “Integrated Force”, to maintain operational relevance, which deters, fights, and wins.

    The F-35A aircraft will be available to fly NATO’s nuclear mission in a crisis, deepening the UK’s contribution to NATO’s nuclear burden-sharing arrangements, and deter those who would do the UK and our Allies harm. It reintroduces a nuclear role for the RAF for the first time since the UK retired its sovereign air-launched nuclear weapons following the end of the Cold War.

    This complements the UK’s own operationally independent nuclear deterrent, strengthens NATO’s nuclear deterrence, and underlines the UK’s unshakeable commitment to NATO and the principle of collective defence under Article V.

    As part of the second phase procurement plans of 27 aircraft, we will purchase a combination of twelve F-35A and fifteen F-35B variants, with options on further purchases examined in the Defence Investment Plan. The UK has a declared headmark of 138 aircraft through the life of the F-35 programme.

    Day-to-day, the F-35As will be used in a training role on 207 Squadron, the Operational Conversion Unit (OCU). As the F-35A carries more fuel than the F-35B variant, it can stay airborne for longer, extending the available training time in each sortie for student pilots. As F-35As also require fewer maintenance hours, there will be increased aircraft availability on the OCU. These factors combined will improve pilot training and reduce the amount of time for pilots to reach the front-line squadrons.

    The F-35A will complement the existing F-35B, offering a family of strike aircraft that significantly reduces life-cycle costs, meets operational requirements, and improves F-35 Force Generation for Carrier Strike operations.

    Designed to operate from conventional runways, the F-35A offers increased range, increased payloads, and increased agility. The new fast jets will be based at RAF Marham and support the stand-up of a third front line F-35 Lightning Squadron. 

    The F-35A is the common variant in Europe making it a force multiplier for NATO. This will strengthen allied deterrence and interoperability, supporting the Alliance for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

    “The threat we now face is more serious and less predictable than at any time since the Cold War. We face war in Europe, growing Russian aggression, new nuclear risks, and daily cyber attacks at home. Equipping the RAF with F-35A aircraft demonstrates our unshakeable commitment to our ‘NATO First’ principle, acting as a potent deterrent to those who would do the UK and our Allies harm.” 
    Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton

    “For routine day-to-day operations, we have deliberately chosen to home the F-35A on the Operational Conversion Unit, as it can provide greater flying time per sortie and requires less maintenance hours. Consequently, it will reduce the time taken to train new pilots and improve F-35 Force Generation to support Carrier Strike operations around the world.” 
    Director Capability and Programmes, Air Vice-Marshal Beck 

    Typhoon will remain a fundamental part of the UK’s Combat Air mix. The synergy between Typhoon and F-35 Lightning forms a powerful, interoperable force, offering a blend of air-to-air dominance, stealth, and versatile air-to-ground capabilities. We will create an RAF with new generation jets including GCAP, F35A, F35B and Typhoon, supported by autonomous wingmen, to defend Britain’s skies and strike anywhere in the world.

    Specification F-35A Lightning II F-35B Lightning II
    Length 51.4 ft / 15.7 m 51.2 ft / 15.5 m
    Speed Mach 1.6 Mach 1.6
    Wingspan 35 ft / 10.7 m 35 ft / 10.7 m
    Wing Area 460 ft² / 42.7 m² 460 ft² / 42.7 m²
    Combat Radius (Internal Fuel) >590 n.mi / 1,093 km >450 n.mi / 833 km
    Range (Internal Fuel) >1,200 n.mi / 2,200 km >900 n.mi / 1,667 km
    Internal Fuel Capacity 18,250 lb / 8,278 kg 13,100 lb / 5,942 kg
    Max G-Rating 9.0 7.0
    Weapons Payload 18,000 lb / 8,160 kg 15,000 lb / 6,800 kg
    Propulsion F135-PW-100 F135-PW-600
    Thrust (Max / Mil) 40,000 lb / 25,000 lb 38,000 lb / 26,000 lb (40,500 ib vertical)

    *Maximum Power (Max) = With Afterburn

    Military Power (Mil) = Without Afterburn

    To view the official government announcement, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-to-purchase-f-35as-and-join-nato-nuclear-mission-as-government-steps-up-national-security-and-delivers-defence-dividend

    All imagery is current RAF F-35B variant.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Emergency response drill a succes

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Civil Service Bureau today conducted a tabletop exercise, testing the mobilisation efficiency of all government departments to further familiarise them with the operation of the mobilisation protocol and enhance the Government’s emergency response capabilities.

     

    The exercise simulated a scenario in which a super typhoon was approaching Hong Kong and its associated torrential rain might result in serious flooding in some low-lying areas.

     

    As a consequence, it was necessary for the Government to promptly mobilise a significant number of staff across departments to form a quick response unit accordingly to provide timely support.

     

    In accordance with the requirement of the “government-wide mobilisation” level, all bureaus and departments, as well as the Independent Commission Against Corruption, have to arrange around 10,000 personnel on standby through an interdepartmental communication mechanism established for the “government-wide mobilisation” level.

     

    Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung, who was briefed on the communications among the different departments during the exercise, noted that the exercise was generally smooth, fully demonstrating the departments’ progressive enhancements in alertness and responsiveness under the “government-wide mobilisation” level.

     

    The interdepartmental communication mechanism can also continue to support the operation of the mobilisation protocol in a highly efficient manner, Mrs Yeung said, adding that the exercise’s successful completion is an affirmation of the mature operation of the mobilisation protocol, and showcases the flexibility, efficiency and solidarity of the civil service.

     

    In September 2023, the Government activated the mobilisation protocol twice, mobilising more than 600 government staff from 16 bureaus and department to take part in the operations that assisted in the recovery work in the wake of Super Typhoon Saola and the torrential rain.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cold front hits Eastern Cape

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, June 25, 2025

    A cold front is expected to make landfall on Wednesday in the Eastern Cape, according to South African Weather Service (SAWS).

    “Ahead of the frontal system, strong to gale force winds are expected over the interior of the Eastern Cape on Wednesday and Thursday, 26 June 2025,” SAWS said. 

    As the cold front passes through the Eastern Cape on Thursday, the surface high pressure system will extend its ridge behind it, resulting in cold to very cold conditions in places across the province from Thursday to Friday. 

    “Snowfalls of between 1 to 5 cm accumulation can be expected over the northern high-lying areas on Thursday. Very rough seas, with wave heights reaching 6m, and strong to gale force winds can also be expected in places along the Eastern Cape coast on Thursday into Friday,” the weather service said.

    The SAWS has issued the following impact-based warnings:

    • A yellow level 2 warning (high likelihood of minor impacts) for damaging winds resulting in localised damage to settlements (formal and informal) and localised runaway fires in places over Chris Hani District Municipality (DM), Joe Gqabi DM, Sarah Baartman DM, Raymond Mhlaba LM and Amahlathi LM on Wednesday, 25 June, and over the coastal areas between Plettenberg Bay and East London Thursday, 26 June.
    • A yellow level 2 warning for damaging wind and waves resulting in difficulty in navigation of small vessels with a risk of taking in water and capsizing in the locality between Plettenberg Bay and East London.
    • A yellow level 1 warning for disruptive snow resulting in traffic disruptions due to icy roads, and isolated cases of loss of vulnerable livestock and crops over Senqu and Elundini Local Municipalities.
    • An intense cold front will be passing through the Eastern Cape on Thursday. The public and small stock farmers are advised that snow, cold to very cold and windy conditions as well as very rough seas can be expected in places over the province. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Reaching the Right Households: Reforming Social Aid in Sri Lanka

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Concerns with eligibility criteria

    Some of these relate to the inclusion of households not facing economic hardship and the exclusion of families living in poverty. There’s a need to refine the current criteria to better identify households experiencing temporary financial difficulties, even if they own certain assets.

    Challenges in data verification

    Another area for improvement in Aswesuma is the difficulty officials face in verifying household information related to eligibility. For example, errors may occur during data collection if households withhold accurate information about their poverty status to qualify for benefits or are unable to recall details correctly. These inaccuracies can reduce the program’s effectiveness by excluding people who genuinely need help and undermining efforts to create a more objective social protection system.

    Improving follow-up and monitoring

    Better data collection methods during follow-ups with Aswesuma recipients would help improve the criteria. This would allow the program to monitor households’ economic conditions and track improvements resulting from cash transfers. The main goal of these transfers is to help participants move out of poverty by improving their living situations. Therefore, follow-up assessments should document any changes and measurable outcomes related to food insecurity or poverty levels. These outcomes should go beyond the current Aswesuma indicators to better reflect improvements in well-being.

    Addressing chronic and transient poverty

    Ongoing updates to Aswesuma should also improve its ability to target people experiencing both chronic and transient poverty. Chronic poverty refers to long-term deprivation, often passed down through generations, while transient poverty involves short-term income or spending losses, even when long-term resources are sufficient to stay above the poverty line (Duclos et al., 2078). The current deprivation score mainly focuses on chronic poverty, emphasizing household assets and housing conditions (13 of the 22 indicators are based on multidimensional measurements).

    Gaps in coverage and food insecurity

    While addressing chronic poverty is important, it’s also necessary to consider temporary poverty. A large portion of the population (households ineligible for Aswesuma but who experienced food insecurity in the past 12 months) remains underserved. Of the 20% of the population that faced food insecurity, nearly 40% are not eligible for Aswesuma.

    Expanding the framework for vulnerability

    Given the current economic climate, with rising costs and income losses, measures of temporary poverty could help identify both long-term and short-term hardship, regardless of assets or housing. Including data on household members’ recent employment experiences, especially job loss, could offer a more complete picture of who needs support. The amount of cash transferred is unlikely to directly improve indicators related to household assets or other long-term poverty markers, as those require larger investments in education, health, and infrastructure (Lipton and Ravallion, 1995).

    Climate vulnerability and regional differences

    Climate vulnerability also adds complexity to household conditions. Although it’s difficult to measure, including it would help the program reach more at-risk groups in Sri Lanka.

    The current set of indicators can also be improved by accounting for both visible and hidden factors that influence household selection. The relevance of indicators varies by region and demographics. For example, vehicle use and electricity consumption depend on the availability of alternatives, which differ across the country. Rural households may lack access to transportation or electricity not because of poverty, but because those services aren’t available. Regional adjustments in how deprivation is measured could lead to more accurate assessments of poverty in both rural and urban areas.

    Asset ownership and agricultural work

    Asset indicators like ownership of agricultural machinery or land are influenced by both observable and hidden factors, including the decision to work in agriculture. This suggests a need for additional support programs, such as insurance for agricultural workers. In some areas, deprivation in agriculture-related indicators may actually reflect higher well-being, depending on location and market access.

    Labor market impacts and conditional transfers

    Finally, the program’s impact on labor market outcomes should be considered. The study predicts a drop in labor force participation for both men and women under various scenarios. This aligns with economic theory, which suggests that higher non-labor income reduces the need for paid work (Garganta et al., 2017). However, building resilience through employment is key to long-term poverty reduction. In some cases, transfers tied to employment have shown fewer negative, or even positive, effects on labor participation (Berlinski et al., 2024). While cash transfers are helpful for addressing food insecurity, exploring conditional transfers that encourage work and self-reliance is important for helping people move out of poverty.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Reaching the Right Households: Reforming Social Aid in Sri Lanka

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Concerns with eligibility criteria

    Some of these relate to the inclusion of households not facing economic hardship and the exclusion of families living in poverty. There’s a need to refine the current criteria to better identify households experiencing temporary financial difficulties, even if they own certain assets.

    Challenges in data verification

    Another area for improvement in Aswesuma is the difficulty officials face in verifying household information related to eligibility. For example, errors may occur during data collection if households withhold accurate information about their poverty status to qualify for benefits or are unable to recall details correctly. These inaccuracies can reduce the program’s effectiveness by excluding people who genuinely need help and undermining efforts to create a more objective social protection system.

    Improving follow-up and monitoring

    Better data collection methods during follow-ups with Aswesuma recipients would help improve the criteria. This would allow the program to monitor households’ economic conditions and track improvements resulting from cash transfers. The main goal of these transfers is to help participants move out of poverty by improving their living situations. Therefore, follow-up assessments should document any changes and measurable outcomes related to food insecurity or poverty levels. These outcomes should go beyond the current Aswesuma indicators to better reflect improvements in well-being.

    Addressing chronic and transient poverty

    Ongoing updates to Aswesuma should also improve its ability to target people experiencing both chronic and transient poverty. Chronic poverty refers to long-term deprivation, often passed down through generations, while transient poverty involves short-term income or spending losses, even when long-term resources are sufficient to stay above the poverty line (Duclos et al., 2078). The current deprivation score mainly focuses on chronic poverty, emphasizing household assets and housing conditions (13 of the 22 indicators are based on multidimensional measurements).

    Gaps in coverage and food insecurity

    While addressing chronic poverty is important, it’s also necessary to consider temporary poverty. A large portion of the population (households ineligible for Aswesuma but who experienced food insecurity in the past 12 months) remains underserved. Of the 20% of the population that faced food insecurity, nearly 40% are not eligible for Aswesuma.

    Expanding the framework for vulnerability

    Given the current economic climate, with rising costs and income losses, measures of temporary poverty could help identify both long-term and short-term hardship, regardless of assets or housing. Including data on household members’ recent employment experiences, especially job loss, could offer a more complete picture of who needs support. The amount of cash transferred is unlikely to directly improve indicators related to household assets or other long-term poverty markers, as those require larger investments in education, health, and infrastructure (Lipton and Ravallion, 1995).

    Climate vulnerability and regional differences

    Climate vulnerability also adds complexity to household conditions. Although it’s difficult to measure, including it would help the program reach more at-risk groups in Sri Lanka.

    The current set of indicators can also be improved by accounting for both visible and hidden factors that influence household selection. The relevance of indicators varies by region and demographics. For example, vehicle use and electricity consumption depend on the availability of alternatives, which differ across the country. Rural households may lack access to transportation or electricity not because of poverty, but because those services aren’t available. Regional adjustments in how deprivation is measured could lead to more accurate assessments of poverty in both rural and urban areas.

    Asset ownership and agricultural work

    Asset indicators like ownership of agricultural machinery or land are influenced by both observable and hidden factors, including the decision to work in agriculture. This suggests a need for additional support programs, such as insurance for agricultural workers. In some areas, deprivation in agriculture-related indicators may actually reflect higher well-being, depending on location and market access.

    Labor market impacts and conditional transfers

    Finally, the program’s impact on labor market outcomes should be considered. The study predicts a drop in labor force participation for both men and women under various scenarios. This aligns with economic theory, which suggests that higher non-labor income reduces the need for paid work (Garganta et al., 2017). However, building resilience through employment is key to long-term poverty reduction. In some cases, transfers tied to employment have shown fewer negative, or even positive, effects on labor participation (Berlinski et al., 2024). While cash transfers are helpful for addressing food insecurity, exploring conditional transfers that encourage work and self-reliance is important for helping people move out of poverty.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Where’s the Capital for Climate?

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Where’s the Capital for Climate?

    From $300 billion in annual climate commitments to support emerging economies to greater regulation of carbon credit trading, COP29 marked a crucial step forward for climate finance. However, the climate finance gap remains vast and trillions more are needed to drive rapid climate action.

    How can private and public sector involvement be amplified to unlock capital at scale?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNo9hQ9EJu0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Press Conference: Energy Transition Index 2025 – From Climate Commitment to Economic Opportunity

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Press Conference: Energy Transition Index 2025 – From Climate Commitment to Economic Opportunity

    Now in its 15th year, the Fostering Effective Energy Transition 2025 report tracks global progress towards a more secure, equitable and sustainable energy system. Join us for insights into the top performers of the Energy Transition Index 2025 and strategies to advance energy transitions that drive economic opportunity amid rising global uncertainty.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXCdP2KdNic

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Bats get fat to survive hard times. But climate change is threatening their survival strategy

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Nicholas Wu, Lecturer in Wildlife Ecology, Murdoch University

    Rudmer Zwerver/Shutterstock

    Bats are often cast as the unseen night-time stewards of nature, flitting through the dark to control pest insects, pollinate plants and disperse seeds. But behind their silent contributions lies a remarkable and underappreciated survival strategy: seasonal fattening.

    Much like bears and squirrels, bats around the world bulk up to get through hard times – even in places where you might not expect it.

    In a paper published today in Ecology Letters, we analysed data from bat studies around the world to understand how bats use body fat to survive seasonal challenges, whether it’s a freezing winter or a dry spell.

    The surprising conclusion? Seasonal fattening is a global phenomenon in bats, not just limited to those in cold climates.

    Even bats in the tropics, where it’s warm all year, store fat in anticipation of dry seasons when food becomes scarce. That’s a survival strategy that’s been largely overlooked. But it may be faltering as the climate changes, putting entire food webs at risk.

    Climate shapes fattening strategies

    We found bats in colder regions predictably gain more weight before winter.

    But in warmer regions with highly seasonal rainfall, such as tropical savannas or monsoonal forests, bats also fatten up. In tropical areas, it’s not cold that’s the enemy, but the dry season, when flowers wither, insects vanish and energy is hard to come by.

    The extent of fattening is impressive. Some species increased their body weight by more than 50%, which is a huge burden for flying animals that already use a lot of energy to move around. This highlights the delicate balancing act bats perform between storing energy and staying nimble in the air.

    Sex matters, especially in the cold

    The results also support the “thrifty females, frisky males” hypothesis.

    In colder climates, female bats used their fat reserves more sparingly than males – a likely adaptation to ensure they have enough energy left to raise young when spring returns. Since females typically emerge from hibernation to raise their young, conserving fat through winter can directly benefit their reproductive success.

    Interestingly, this sex-based difference vanished in warmer climates, where fat use by males and females was more similar, likely because more food is available in warmer climates. It’s another clue that climate patterns intricately shape behaviour and physiology.

    Climate change is shifting the rules

    Beyond the biology, our study points to a more sobering trend. Bats in warm regions appear to be increasing their fat stores over time. This could be an early warning sign of how climate change is affecting their survival.

    Climate change isn’t just about rising temperatures. It’s also making seasons more unpredictable.

    Bats may be storing more energy in advance of dry seasons that are becoming longer or harder to predict. That’s risky, because it means more foraging, more exposure to predators and potentially greater mortality.

    The implications can ripple outward. Bats help regulate insect populations, fertilise crops and maintain healthy ecosystems. If their survival strategies falter, entire food webs could feel the effects.

    Fat bats, fragile futures

    Our study changes how we think about bats. They are not just passive victims of environmental change but active strategists, finely tuned to seasonal rhythms. Yet their ability to adapt has limits, and those limits are being tested by a rapidly changing world.

    By understanding how bats respond to climate, we gain insights into broader ecosystem resilience. We also gain a deeper appreciation for one of nature’s quiet heroes – fattening up, flying through the night and holding ecosystems together, one wingbeat at a time.

    Nicholas Wu was the lead author of a funded Australian Research Council Linkage Grant awarded to Christopher Turbill at Western Sydney University.

    – ref. Bats get fat to survive hard times. But climate change is threatening their survival strategy – https://theconversation.com/bats-get-fat-to-survive-hard-times-but-climate-change-is-threatening-their-survival-strategy-259560

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Delivers Floor Speech on Lowering Flood Insurance Rates with Hurricane Season Underway

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor highlighting the need to end the Biden-era Risk Rating 2.0 policy and for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to remain affordable.
    “We have a chance to bring down prices on flood insurance in the same way President Trump has brought down all these other prices—gas, eggs, milk, you name it,” said Dr. Cassidy.
    “As hurricane season ramps up, the clock is ticking. Let’s act now,” concluded Dr. Cassidy.Background
    In June, Cassidy led the charge in demanding the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) finally end the Biden-era policy, Risk Rating 2.0, which caused flood insurance premiums to skyrocket.
    In May, Cassidy delivered another speech discussing the danger that Risk Rating 2.0 poses to low- and middle-income families’ ability to be enrolled in the program.
    In April, Cassidy delivered a speech on the Senate floor calling for the continuation of FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program, which helps fund pre-disaster mitigation and flood prevention projects in Louisiana and nationwide.
    In March, Cassidy delivered a floor speech calling for a long-term extension of  NFIP and introduced legislation to extend the program through December 31, 2026. Cassidy also met with the Jefferson Business Council where he discussed his efforts to keep flood insurance affordable and extend NFIP long-term.
    In February, Cassidy introduced the Flood Insurance Affordability Tax Credit Act to give low- and middle-income households enrolled in NFIP a 33% refundable tax credit to combat rising flood insurance premiums. Cassidy also released a report last fall outlining the current state of NFIP and the issues that have led to skyrocketing premiums for millions of homeowners.
    Last year, the U.S. Senate Banking Committee held a hearing on NFIP at the request of Cassidy. The hearing highlighted the urgent need for Congress to act and featured a Louisiana witness. Cassidy also participated in a roundtable hosted by GNO, Inc. and the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance to hear from community leaders and advocates on the issue.
    Cassidy traveled St. Bernard Parish in 2023 to talk with residents about their flood insurance premiums, recording the second episode of his Bill on the Hill series.
    Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:
    Mr. President,
    In every single state, there are Americans who rely on the National Flood Insurance Program to protect their home.
    Congress has a responsibility to serve ALL Americans, regardless of age, income, or zip code.
    Since Biden’s implementation of Risk Rating 2.0, seniors and low- and middle-income homeowners have been left behind.
    Earlier this month, I led eight of my Republican colleagues in urging FEMA to end the Biden-era Risk Rating 2.0.
    I want to work with him to fix the mess the Biden administration left us in.
    Now, I want to share with my colleagues the same case we made in that letter for why we need to act now.
    Every year on June 1st, the phrase “Hoping for the best, preparing for the worst” comes to mind.
    For the people in my state, it becomes a way of life.
    Another hurricane season is upon us.
    With a higher Gulf temperature than usual, meteorologists predict 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes hitting the U.S. before the year’s end.
    Before long, Louisianans will, yet again, be stocking up on non-perishable food items and prescriptions, boarding up the windows, and checking on their neighbors.
    They will also be bracing themselves financially.
    Louisianans are still trying to get back on their feet after four years of financial distress under the Biden administration.
    Now, add the costs for recovery from severe weather damage. Many families just can’t afford it.
    That’s why we have NFIP—a program which has provided a safety net for millions in Louisiana and across the country for the last 50 years.
    Because of NFIP, the retired couple in Livingston Parish who just paid off their mortgage sleeps better at night knowing they are covered the next time they flood.
    The single working mother in Cameron Parish can rest assured knowing there is help available when it comes time to replace the siding and roof tiles, which have been torn loose by torrential winds. 
    But this program—and the peace of mind of those who rely on it—is being threatened.
    Since FEMA, under the Biden Administration, implemented Risk Rating 2.0, premiums have skyrocketed—making desperately needed protection unaffordable for millions. Over 80% of NFIP policyholders in Louisiana saw a spike in their premiums after its implementation in 2021.
    The protection that millions so desperately need has become unaffordable.
    When I say unaffordable, I’m not talking about a one or two-hundred-dollar increase.
    Even that would be too much for a lot of families.
    I’m talking about a $1,916 increase for a homeowner in Waggaman, Louisiana.
    I’m talking about a $4,500 increase for a homeowner in Gibson, Louisiana.
    I’m talking about an $8,256 increase for a homeowner in Belle Chasse, Louisiana.
    And there is no end in sight for these 300, 400, 500…one THOUSAND percent increases.
    Has FEMA been transparent about these stunning spikes?
    No.
    In fact, never knowing why their premiums rose in the first place, Americans have no option but to drop their NFIP coverage altogether, leaving them totally vulnerable.
    Has Congress been given the opportunity to provide meaningful comment in response?
    No, we were stonewalled for years under President Biden. Now with President Trump in charge, I trust there will be more transparency into Risk Rating 2.0 than we’ve ever seen before. 
    The American people—and certainly Louisianans—made it clear when they elected President Trump that they are ready to end the confusion and high prices of the previous administration.
    They were talking about the grocery store, at the gas pump, and yes, about insurance.
    NFIP was at the heart of the cost-of-living crisis Americans struggled through under President Biden.
    We have a chance to bring down prices on flood insurance in the same way President Trump has brought down all these other prices—gas, eggs, milk, you name it.
    I want to work with President Trump and my colleagues to make life affordable again!
    As hurricane season ramps up, the clock is ticking. Let’s act now!
    With that, I yield. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Bats get fat to survive hard times. But climate change is threatening their survival strategy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicholas Wu, Lecturer in Wildlife Ecology, Murdoch University

    Rudmer Zwerver/Shutterstock

    Bats are often cast as the unseen night-time stewards of nature, flitting through the dark to control pest insects, pollinate plants and disperse seeds. But behind their silent contributions lies a remarkable and underappreciated survival strategy: seasonal fattening.

    Much like bears and squirrels, bats around the world bulk up to get through hard times – even in places where you might not expect it.

    In a paper published today in Ecology Letters, we analysed data from bat studies around the world to understand how bats use body fat to survive seasonal challenges, whether it’s a freezing winter or a dry spell.

    The surprising conclusion? Seasonal fattening is a global phenomenon in bats, not just limited to those in cold climates.

    Even bats in the tropics, where it’s warm all year, store fat in anticipation of dry seasons when food becomes scarce. That’s a survival strategy that’s been largely overlooked. But it may be faltering as the climate changes, putting entire food webs at risk.

    Climate shapes fattening strategies

    We found bats in colder regions predictably gain more weight before winter.

    But in warmer regions with highly seasonal rainfall, such as tropical savannas or monsoonal forests, bats also fatten up. In tropical areas, it’s not cold that’s the enemy, but the dry season, when flowers wither, insects vanish and energy is hard to come by.

    The extent of fattening is impressive. Some species increased their body weight by more than 50%, which is a huge burden for flying animals that already use a lot of energy to move around. This highlights the delicate balancing act bats perform between storing energy and staying nimble in the air.

    Sex matters, especially in the cold

    The results also support the “thrifty females, frisky males” hypothesis.

    In colder climates, female bats used their fat reserves more sparingly than males – a likely adaptation to ensure they have enough energy left to raise young when spring returns. Since females typically emerge from hibernation to raise their young, conserving fat through winter can directly benefit their reproductive success.

    Interestingly, this sex-based difference vanished in warmer climates, where fat use by males and females was more similar, likely because more food is available in warmer climates. It’s another clue that climate patterns intricately shape behaviour and physiology.

    Climate change is shifting the rules

    Beyond the biology, our study points to a more sobering trend. Bats in warm regions appear to be increasing their fat stores over time. This could be an early warning sign of how climate change is affecting their survival.

    Climate change isn’t just about rising temperatures. It’s also making seasons more unpredictable.

    Bats may be storing more energy in advance of dry seasons that are becoming longer or harder to predict. That’s risky, because it means more foraging, more exposure to predators and potentially greater mortality.

    The implications can ripple outward. Bats help regulate insect populations, fertilise crops and maintain healthy ecosystems. If their survival strategies falter, entire food webs could feel the effects.

    Fat bats, fragile futures

    Our study changes how we think about bats. They are not just passive victims of environmental change but active strategists, finely tuned to seasonal rhythms. Yet their ability to adapt has limits, and those limits are being tested by a rapidly changing world.

    By understanding how bats respond to climate, we gain insights into broader ecosystem resilience. We also gain a deeper appreciation for one of nature’s quiet heroes – fattening up, flying through the night and holding ecosystems together, one wingbeat at a time.

    Nicholas Wu was the lead author of a funded Australian Research Council Linkage Grant awarded to Christopher Turbill at Western Sydney University.

    – ref. Bats get fat to survive hard times. But climate change is threatening their survival strategy – https://theconversation.com/bats-get-fat-to-survive-hard-times-but-climate-change-is-threatening-their-survival-strategy-259560

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wellington Regional Council must stand up to short-sighted Coalition Government and continue with its plan to restore water quality for its people – CCW

    Source: Choose Clean Water – Tom Kay


    Greater Wellington Regional Council must stand up to the short-sighted Coalition Government in its vote tomorrow on whether to continue with its regional plan change to protect and restore water quality in the region, say freshwater campaign group Choose Clean Water.

    Regional council papers show councillors will be considering three options for the region’s freshwater plan change at their meeting on Thursday 26 June: to pause the plan change until October, to pause the plan change until they can continue with ‘confidence’ about upcoming changes to national direction, or to withdraw the plan change entirely.

    “Regional councils are being bullied by this short-sighted Coalition Government into stopping their years-long, vital work to save our waterways from further degradation and protect our drinking water sources. This Government is compromised by its close ties to polluting commercial interests and Wellington regional councillors must stand up to them for the health of their region’s environment and people,” says Choose Clean Water spokesperson Tom Kay

    Kay says Wellington Regional Council’s uncertainty in moving ahead with their plan change is another sign of the Government trying to take power away from communities to make decisions about managing their rivers, streams, and harbours, and instead give it to polluting commercial interests.


    “There is no reason to throw out this plan change. Councillors are risking starting this process all over again on the basis of yet-to-be-seen national policy and speculation about what may or may not eventuate. They should keep calm and carry on.”

    The plan change forms part of a program to restore and protect fresh and coastal water health the Regional Council has been working on for the last 15 years, including with significant investment and support from communities and iwi. It would bring policies and rules for two major Wellington catchments into line with the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020, including the prioritisation of freshwater and community health in decision-making over commercial interests.

    But with changes to weaken freshwater policy announced by the Government, councillors are now considering whether to continue or not, risking undermining years of progress and future potential for healthy water in the region, say campaigners.

    “The council meeting papers say that if the plan change is withdrawn, water quality that is already degrading by some measures is likely to continue to degrade because the old plan provisions are less protective.”

    “Communities have been waiting decades for these plan changes, particularly in places like Te Awarua-o-Porirua / Porirua harbour, which continues to suffer from issues like sediment buildup and pollution from heavy metals, pathogens, and nutrients, with impacts on fishing and food gathering, swimming, boating, and human health.”

    “The plan also promotes planting of highly erosion-prone land, and adds provisions on stormwater and earthworks that would help reduce risks of flooding and erosion. We’ve seen what Cyclone Gabrielle did in regions that hadn’t prepared for the impacts of these natural hazards. Why would we delay these actions that will build resilience?”

    “This Government came into power saying they were going to allow local communities to make decisions at a community level. But they lied. We saw it with Otago Regional Council being stopped when they tried to progress a freshwater plan change that was years in the making. Now we risk seeing it with Wellington.”

    “Wellington Regional Council must push ahead as soon as possible.”

    Wellington Regional Council will vote on whether to proceed with the plan tomorrow, 26 June.

    The Government’s consultation document on freshwater policy is open for submissions until 27 July. The consultation document proposes to remove national bottom lines for pollution as well as to remove or rewrite Te Mana o te Wai, the decision making framework in current national policy that prioritises the public interest in healthy water bodies.


    Note: Tom Kay participated in the Environment Court hearings process for the operative Natural Resources Plan and participated in the current Plan Change 1 process (including providing evidence) while in previous roles at Forest & Bird.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Make polluters pay to bring down bills, Greens say 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    Responding to the Climate Change Committee’s latest report, co-leader Carla Denyer MP said:

    “Last year fossil fuel giants Shell and BP made a total of £26 billion in profit – while ordinary people struggle every day to pay their energy bills, and the climate crisis takes its toll on communities across the UK. 

     “The Climate Change Committee’s latest report shows some movement in the right direction towards trying to keep us all safe, but the truth is we’re not moving nearly fast enough. Stalling progress means we all have higher bills in cold and leaky homes, while wildfires, extreme heat and flooding put lives and livelihoods at risk. The best time for action was years ago – the next best time is now. 

    “We need urgent action to bring down the cost of electricity more widely, to reduce household bills and keep us all safe from the growing threat from the climate crisis. Instead of handing fossil fuel giants a licence to keep profiting from climate destruction, or wasting money on slow and expensive nuclear projects, now is the time for a national push to roll out energy efficiency, heat pumps, solar panels and battery storage for our homes. 

    “Crucially, it’s time for the government to stop throwing money at the fossil fuel industry and instead make big polluters like Shell and BP pay up. Currently the government subsidises the fossil fuel industry to the tune of a staggering £17.5 billion per year – it’s time to pull the plug and put that money into lowering bills instead.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China activates emergency response to flooding in Chongqing, Guizhou

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 24 — China’s State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters on Tuesday launched a Level-IV emergency response to flooding in Chongqing Municipality and Guizhou Province as the two southwestern regions brace for a new round of rainfall.

    A team has been dispatched to Guizhou to assist with flood prevention and relief efforts in the province’s Rongjiang and Congjiang counties, according to the headquarters.

    China has a four-tier emergency response system for flood control, with Level I being the most severe.

    Due to recent rainfall, the upper reaches of the Liujiang River in Guizhou have experienced flooding, necessitating flood-prevention work in Rongjiang and Congjiang, the headquarters said.

    According to meteorological forecasts, further heavy rainfall will affect the eastern regions of southwest China. Some parts of Chongqing and Guizhou are expected to experience moderate-to-heavy rains or torrential downpours, leading to heightened risks of river floods, mountain torrents and other geological disasters.

    Local authorities have been urged to step up their inspections and implement risk-mitigation measures in key areas, strengthen rainfall and flood monitoring work, and ensure timely evacuation of residents from high-risk areas, according to the headquarters.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Farm-to-forest Ban passes first reading

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has taken a major step towards protecting food production by ending the large-scale conversion of productive farmland into pine plantations, with the first reading of the Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading Scheme—Forestry Conversion) Amendment Bill receiving unanimous support in Parliament last night.

    “This Bill is about protecting our most valuable land that grows food for export and sustains rural communities,” Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay says. 

    “For too long, ETS incentives have driven the wrong outcomes for our rural sector.”

    “Once farms are planted in trees as a result of carbon credits we lose the ability to produce the high-quality safe food that consumers demand – and we lose rural jobs, export earnings, and the families that go with them. Today we are putting a stop to the harm that this has done to rural New Zealand.”

    The Bill will:

    • Prevent exotic forests from entering the ETS on LUC 1–5 land (New Zealand’s most productive soil);
    • Limit new ETS registrations on LUC 6 land to 15,000 hectares per year, allocated by ballot;
    • Allow up to 25 per cent of a farm to go into the ETS, preserving landowner choice while ending full-farm conversions;
    • Protect eligible Māori-owned land, and provide time-limited exemptions for pre-announced investments.

    The Bill includes temporary exemptions where an investor can provide evidence of a qualifying forestry investment between 1 January 2021 and 4 December 2024. For instance, the purchase of land and ordering of trees prior to 4 December 2024 would be an example of proof of a qualifying investment, whilst each of these actions alone would not. 

    “The last Government sat back while 300,000 hectares of farmland were sold off for carbon credits. That short-sighted policy puts ideology ahead of long-term food security. We’re reversing that damage.”

    The new settings will take effect from 4 December 2024, with the law coming fully into force in October 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Announces $26.5M for Local Transportation Projects

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp and the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) Board of Directors today announced the approval of a record $26.5 million in Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) loans and grants that will help fund 13 transportation infrastructure projects across the state. This round of GTIB awards is possible thanks to a $46 million budget enhancement allocated in the AFY 2025 state budget. These investments also mark two additional records for the bank that include the largest combined rural award, totaling $13.3 million, and the largest amount of loans, totaling $15.5 million.

    “Thanks to conservative budgeting and strategic funding of our priorities, Georgia is not only the No. 1 state for business we’re also the best state for reliable infrastructure,” said Governor Brian Kemp, Chairman of the SRTA Board. “With this year’s historic rural investment, we’re preserving our competitive edge and reaffirming our commitment to creating opportunity in all parts of our state, especially rural Georgia. I want to thank the General Assembly and the SRTA team for making these awards possible and I look forward to the generational impact they will have on our communities.”

    The Mount Vernon Roadway Connectivity project, one of the major rural investments included in this round of awards, will receive a $1.4 million GTIB grant for improvements and repairs to several local roads damaged by Hurricane Helene. Funds will also go toward the paving of a dirt road. This GTIB grant enables critical roadwork to advance more quickly, enhancing safety for this rural community.

    The largest GTIB investment for this round is a $4.9 million loan to the Cumberland CID for the Cumberland Sweep Segment C buildout – a 3+ mile path around the core of the Cumberland District. The project will enhance transportation for more than 80,000 office workers, residents and visitors in the Improvement District by constructing the first portion of the Cumberland Sweep, a 0.4-mile shared-use path that connects to the existing pedestrian bridge over I-285 and includes traffic signal upgrades at Galleria Drive and Galleria Parkway.

    Another significant loan of $2.4 million along with a $1 million grant was awarded to Barrow County for a new roundabout at State Route 53 (SR 53) at Mulberry Road. This portion of SR 53 connects the cities of Winder, Hoschton, and Braselton, with a combined population of over 40,000. The project will reduce vehicle collisions and improve freight movement. This GTIB investment also accelerates project delivery by three years, resulting in lower overall project costs.

    “SRTA is honored and excited to continue investing in Georgia’s transportation network, this year by infusing more state funds than ever into local projects,” said Jannine Miller, Executive Director of the State Road and Tollway Authority. “Rural communities made up 38% of GTIB applications this year, indicating transportation is important in every corner of our state. With the support of Governor Kemp and the General Assembly, GTIB is helping local governments accelerate project delivery and lower long-term costs for Georgia taxpayers.”

    Since its inception in 2010, GTIB has awarded $242 million in transformative grants and loans, investing in projects with a combined project value exceeding $1.2 billion, demonstrating the impact of the state’s investment and outstanding partnerships with local governments and community improvement districts over the past 15 years.

    From the very first award granted, GTIB has provided strategic state investments in critical transportation projects that enhance mobility in local communities throughout Georgia. Applications are evaluated on a competitive basis, and criteria include transportation, engineering, economic value, matching funds, and project specifics like project phase and feasibility.

    Loan applications are also evaluated for creditworthiness and overall project merits. An advisory committee comprised of representatives from state agencies and statewide associations evaluate SRTA staff recommendations and make final recommendations to the SRTA Board. Funds distributed by GTIB are used to support capital improvements.

    SRTA began accepting GTIB applications mid-November 2024 and closed the application window on January 14, 2025. Fiscal Year 2025 awardees, project descriptions, and funding amounts are as follows:

    Athens-Clarke County
    Roadway Reconfiguration

    This project will improve the intersection of Hawthorne and Oglethorpe Avenue by realigning it, reconfiguring lanes and adding multimodal options. The improvements will improve safety at the intersection and enhance the City’s sidewalk and bike network. 

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,700,000

    Barrow County
    State Route 53 at Mulberry Roundabout

    This project will construct a single lane roundabout at the intersection of State Route 53 and Mulberry Road and realign the intersection. The new intersection is expected to improve road safety and freight movement. GTIB investments accelerate this project by three years.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,468,241

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,000,000

     

    Cherokee County
    Airport Road Spur and Technology Ridge Parkway Project

    This project is the second phase of the Technology Ridge Parkway Project to receive funding from GTIB. This phase of the project will construct a new, two-lane roadway connecting the airport to the existing I-575 interchange. The new spur road will allow the County to move forward with plans to extend the runway to 6,000 feet, allowing aircraft to carry more fuel and make longer trips. The project also includes a segment of Technology Ridge Parkway Phase III which provides access to 86 acres owned by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development and adds a roundabout at the intersection of Wes Welker and Airport Drive.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,000,000

    City of LaGrange
    Project Eagle

    This project will construct a new two-lane road, Callaway South Parkway, from the intersection of Pegasus Parkway ending in a roundabout. This improvement provides access to undeveloped parcels in the Callaway South Industrial Park, enabling even greater private investment in the area. Funding for the project will come from GTIB, the City of LaGrange, Troup County, and the Calloway Foundation.

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,000,000

     

    City of Mount Vernon
    Mount Vernon Roadway Connectivity

    This project will pave Carver Street, which is currently a dirt road, and make drainage improvements and repairs on Broad Street, South Railroad Avenue, North Washington Street, and McKinnon Street. The dirt road paving will improve road safety and provide the opportunity to attract industry while the drainage improvements and road repairs will address significant damage caused by Hurricane Helene re-opening roads currently closed to traffic. This City of Mount Vernon is approximately four (4) square miles and home to 1,800 residents.

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,406,242

    City of Mount Zion
    2025 Street Repairs

    This project will repave several roads for approximately five miles and realign the intersection of Beaver Pond Road and Bowdon Junction Road to improve safety. This intersection is near the West Georgia Regional Airport which supports economic development providing air transportation to companies including SMI Inc., Honda Lock, and Southwire. The GTIB investment will accelerate the project by four (4) years reducing project costs.

    GTIB Loan Award: $487,500

    GTIB Grant Award: $162,500

     

    City of Twin City
    Paving Improvements

    This project will resurface 16 roads for a distance of approximately seven miles. The GTIB investment accelerates the project by several years reducing project costs. Located in Emanual County, City of Twin City is approximately four (4) sq miles and is home to 1,700 residents and George L. Smith, II State Park.

    GTIB Grant Award: $700,000

     

    Colquitt County
    Resurfacing Improvements

    This project will resurface ten roads for a distance of 11 miles in South Georgia’s Colquitt County. Full depth reclamation and replacement of existing culverts will occur where necessary. GTIB investment accelerates project delivery by three (3) years.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,567,430

    GTIB Grant Award: $2,000,000

     

    Cumberland CID
    Cumberland Sweep Segment C – Galleria Parkway Improvements

    This project will build the first section of the Cumberland Sweep project including a shared use path along Galleria Drive from Akers Mill Road to the existing bike/pedestrian bridge over I-285, a distance of just under half-a-mile. Pedestrian lighting will be included along the path and the traffic signal at Galleria Drive and Galleria Parkway will be upgraded. The project improves multimodal travel in one of Atlanta’s biggest activity centers and is funded in partnership with the Cumberland CID, an organization of over 190 commercial property owners fund key infrastructure projects throughout the Improvement District.

    GTIB Loan Award: $4,858,435

     

    Dodge County
    Dodge County Road Improvement Program

    This project will pave Bill Mullis Road from Roddy Highway to SR 87 (3.7 miles), perform full-depth reclamation on Milan Eastman Road from SR 117 to SR 280 (8.2 miles) to repair damage from increased freight traffic and resurface Zion Hill Church from Antioch Church Rd to Coody Road (4.5 miles). By combining these three segments into one project and obtaining GTIB funds, the project will reduce unit costs and accelerate the project timeline by approximately ten years providing substantial project savings.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,429,108

    GTIB Grant Award: $2,000,000

     

    Dougherty County
    Road and Bridge Infrastructure Improvements

    This project will provide design funds to widen and increase the weight capacity of two bridges on Gravel Hill Road to better accommodate truck and agricultural equipment traffic as well as pave and widen four (4) dirt roads which are heavily affected by adverse weather.  

    GTIB Loan Award: $667,758

    GTIB Grant Award: $580,659

     

    Stewart County
    Moores Store Road Box Culvert Replacement

    This project will replace a double cell box culvert on Moores Store Road at Bussey Creek, resurface the area and improve roadway shoulders and slopes by the creek. These improvements will allow both lanes of the bridge to re-open to traffic and will help minimize damage from future large rain events.

    GTIB Grant Award: $250,000

    Town of Iron City
    Dunham and Broad

    This project is consistent with the Seminole County and Cities Comprehensive Plan and will jumpstart downtown revitalization efforts by repaving streets in downtown Iron City – Broad Street from Church Street to Williams Street and Dunham Street. Located in Seminole County, the Town of Iron City is farming community of approximately one (1) sq mile and home to 300 residents.

    GTIB Grant Award: $260,325

    For more information about the GTIB program, visit www.srta.ga.gov/gtib.

    About the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA)                                               

    SRTA is a state-level authority created to operate tolled transportation facilities within Georgia and act as the transportation financing arm for the state. SRTA manages the collection of tolls on Georgia’s Express Lanes System through the use of Peach Pass. Since 2010, the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) – a grant and low-interest loan program administered by SRTA – has provided funding for eligible local transportation projects across the state. In 2017, SRTA combined with the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) to jointly provide the services of both state authorities. The GRTA board continues to oversee developments of regional impact, air quality reporting and regional transportation plan approval.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Unprecedented fires fueled by climate change threaten iconic World Heritage forests

    Source: United Nations

    In an update to the joint UNESCO-WRI-IUCN report “World Heritage forests: carbon sinks under pressure”, new data reveals that fires have accounted for approximately 75% of tree cover loss in World Heritage sites. Steadily increasing tree cover loss due to fires, fueled by climate change, has led to record high emissions, and threatens the robust carbon sinks of forests in World Heritage sites.

    Fires are the primary cause of forest loss in World Heritage sites

    Since 2001, approximately 4.5 million hectares of forest—more than the area of Switzerland—have been lost across World Heritage sites, with fires responsible for around 75% of that loss. The vast majority — approximately 80% — of all fire-related tree cover loss occurred in high-latitude forests, primarily across North America and Siberia. Forests in Australia account for an additional 15% of the loss, while all other regions contributed approximately 5%.

    Solid lines show annual tree cover loss in World Heritage sites by cause, while dotted lines indicate long-term trends.
    Source: WRI Land & Carbon Lab

    While the number of World Heritage sites affected by fires annually has slightly declined in recent years — averaging around half of all forested sites per year — the severity of these events is escalating. Since 2020, fire-related tree cover loss has averaged approximately 240,000 hectares per year — more than twice the annual average recorded in the early 2000s.

    In contrast, non-fire-related tree cover loss has remained relatively stable, averaging around 45,000 hectares per year. This loss is primarily attributed to anthropogenic land-use pressures, such as illegal logging, wood harvesting, and agricultural encroachment related to livestock grazing and crop production, mainly in sites included in the List of World Heritage in Danger. Increases in non-fire-related forest loss were observed in 2016-2017 and 2020, linked to the impacts of hurricanes and storms in the Caribbean and Asia, and intensified agricultural expansion resulting from limited ability to monitor illegal activities during the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively. However, forest loss from non-fire causes has since gradually returned to pre-pandemic levels.

    “The data is clear: climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is here, now, and it is threatening the irreplaceable natural heritage of our world.”

    Climate change is intensifying fires in World Heritage sites

    The steady increase in fire-related tree cover loss highlights the growing influence of climate change on fire regimes in World Heritage sites. While fire plays a natural role in many ecosystems —particularly in temperate and boreal forests in higher latitudes— rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and changing weather patterns are creating conditions that fuel more intense fires. When forests burn, they release vast amounts of carbon stored in trees and soils into the atmosphere, primarily as carbon dioxide (CO₂). These emissions further exacerbate climate change and increase the likelihood of further fires in a self-reinforcing “fire-climate feedback loop.”

    Source: WRI Global Forest Watch

    Forest fires in World Heritage sites have resulted in an average of nearly 60 million tonnes CO2-equivalent (Mt CO2e) emissions per year, equivalent to Austria’s annual fossil fuel emissions[1]. Largely due to extreme fires, fire-related emissions in World Heritage forests have surged in recent years. In 2023, a record-breaking fire swept through over 300,000 hectares of forest in Canada’s Wood Buffalo National Park, releasing an estimated 190 Mt CO₂e—roughly equivalent to Argentina’s annual fossil fuel emissions. This more than doubled the previous record set in 2021 in Canada’s Pimachiowin Aki (86 Mt CO2e). Australia’s devastating 2019–2020 fires torched around 300,000 hectares in the Greater Blue Mountains Area, emitting over 45 Mt CO2e.

    Tree cover loss due to fires (brown) in Canada’s Wood Buffalo National Park after the 2023 fires (left), Pimachiowin Aki after the 2021-2022 fires (middle) and Australia’s Greater Blue Mountains Area after the 2019-2020 fires (right) 
    Source: WRI Global Forest Watch

    In the tropics—where fires have historically been rare—fire activity has surged, driven by intense outbreaks in sites such as Bolivia’s Noel Kempff Mercado National Park in the Amazon Basin, and Brazil’s Pantanal Conservation Area. Since 2020, fire has been responsible for approximately 35% of tree cover loss and associated emissions in World Heritage tropical forests—more than four times the annual average recorded in the early 2000s.

    Source: WRI Land & Carbon Lab

    “These intensifying fires are not just destroying tree cover and understory—they are unraveling ecological systems and pristine primary forests which underpin people’s livelihoods and provide several ecosystem services, such as climate regulation and human health maintenance.”

    Carbon sinks and biodiversity in World Heritage sites are under increasing risk

    Fires can have profound negative impacts on ecosystems, particularly by contributing to climate change and biodiversity loss. Covering more than 70 million hectares of forests—more than the area of Germany— World Heritage sites have traditionally played a crucial role in sequestering carbon. However, as fire intensity and frequency increases, this role is under threat. Fire-related emissions in World Heritage forests now account for about 40% of the carbon these forests absorb each year (80 vs. 200 Mt CO2/year), resulting in a net carbon sink of 120 Mt CO2e/year. High-latitude World Heritage forests have now collectively shifted from being carbon sinks to becoming net carbon sources, emitting around 5 Mt CO₂e/year. In contrast, lower latitude forests—mainly in the tropics—remain strong carbon sinks, absorbing roughly 130 Mt CO₂e/year. However, fires in tropical regions are especially damaging because their dense vegetation and high biomass cause them to release more carbon per unit of forest lost than fires in cooler regions. This makes tropical fires a growing threat to climate stability, accelerating the fire–climate feedback loop and pushing ecosystems closer to irreversible tipping points.

    Beyond carbon, fires are also placing fragile ecosystems at serious risk. In ecosystems not adapted to fire—such as tropical rainforests and wetlands—fires can permanently alter habitats, disrupt species interactions, and erase biodiversity that has taken millennia to evolve. Australia’s 2019–2020 fires, for example, are estimated to have affected the habitats of at least 293 threatened animal species and 680 threatened plant species. In the Greater Blue Mountains Area alone, over 140 million animals were impacted, including approximately 15 million mammals, 17.7 million birds, and 110.4 million reptiles. Similarly, in the Pantanal Biosphere Reserve—which includes the Pantanal Conservation Area World Heritage site—an estimated 17 million vertebrates may have perished during the 2020 fires. These fires also drastically worsened air quality, exposing surrounding communities to hazardous levels of smoke and particulate pollution, which can lead to serious respiratory and cardiovascular health problems and straining healthcare systems.

    © M & G Therin-Weise / Jaguar coming out of the forest, Pantanal Conservation Area, Brazil

    “The transformation of carbon sinks into carbon sources signals not just an ecological crisis, but a critical tipping point in our climate system — one that threatens both the natural world and the communities that rely on it. Investing in robust fire prevention and response systems is essential to combat wildfires, especially in carbon-rich forests.”

    Helping communities prepare and respond to fires

    As fire continues to threaten both ecological integrity and human livelihoods, proactive fire response and preparedness are more critical than ever. Communities living in and around World Heritage sites are often the first affected by these events—facing loss of land, water resources, cultural heritage, and biodiversity that their lives and traditions depend on.

    To support rapid and informed action, UNESCO has been leveraging real-time fire alert data through platforms like Global Forest Watch, developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI). These tools enable early detection of fire outbreaks and offer actionable insights that help local authorities and conservation managers respond quickly and effectively.

    Complementing this, Land & Carbon Lab – an applied geospatial research lab convened by WRI and the Bezos Earth Fund – provides critical data on carbon storage, emissions and sequestration in terrestrial ecosystems—enhancing global understanding of how fires and other human activities are imperiling carbon sinks and converting some forests to carbon sources. This data helps inform not only emergency response, but also long-term restoration and climate resilience strategies.

    A notable example of these data in action is their integration into the World Heritage Online Map Platform (WHOMP), which has supported the deployment of the Rapid Response Facility (RRF)— a joint initiative from UNESCO and Fauna and Flora. These tools have helped guide emergency response efforts at critical sites, including Brazil’s Pantanal Conservation Area and Bolivia’s Noel Kempff Mercado National Park. In these areas, satellite monitoring and fire alerts have enabled early fire detection, faster mobilization of resources, and timely support for both ecosystems and local communities.

    © Fundación para la Conservación del Bosque Chiquitano 

    “The grant from the Rapid Response Facility (RRF) was crucial in quickly mobilizing resources to keep the ranger corps, community brigade firefighters, and firefighting authorities active in Noel Kempff Mercado National Park. Without this swift support, the damage to the park’s forests and the species that depend on them could have been far more severe.”

    © Panthera

    “The Rapid Response Facility (RRF) made it possible to train brigades, improve communication, support government institutions and, above all, strengthen integrated firefighting actions between the various stakeholders involved.”

    Beyond immediate response, these efforts also strengthen local capacity, foster community engagement, and promote sustainable land management practices. By combining cutting-edge technology, operational monitoring systems based on Earth observation data, and on-the-ground collaboration, UNESCO and its partners are helping vulnerable communities become more prepared and resilient in the face of escalating fire risks. Ultimately, these initiatives play a vital role in safeguarding the world’s natural heritage for future generations—preserving the ecological, cultural, and climate value of these irreplaceable landscapes.

    UNESCO thanks the support of the Government of Norway to the Rapid Response Facility (RRF) and the Government of Flanders (Belgium) to the World Heritage Online Map Platform (WHOMP). WRI thanks the Bezos Earth Fund and Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI).

    [1] All country emissions equivalencies are for CO2 emissions from fossil fuels in 2023, according to the Global Carbon Atlas produced by the Global Carbon Budget: https://globalcarbonatlas.org/emissions/carbon-emissions/

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Tennessee After Severe Storms, Straight-Line Winds, Tornadoes and Flooding

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Tennessee After Severe Storms, Straight-Line Winds, Tornadoes and Flooding

    How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Tennessee After Severe Storms, Straight-Line Winds, Tornadoes and Flooding

    Tennessee homeowners and renters in nine counties who had uninsured damage or loss caused by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred April 2-24 may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance

    The designated counties include Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson

     FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, rental assistance, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs

    There are several ways to apply for FEMA disaster assistance

    Go to DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Lines are open from 6 a

    m

    to 10 p

    m

    CT seven days a week and specialists speak many languages

     To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube

    FEMA’s disaster assistance offers benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors

    In addition, simplified processes and expanded eligibility allows Tennesseans access to a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs

     What You’ll Need When You ApplyA current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible

    FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance

    If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance

    kwei

    nwaogu
    Tue, 06/24/2025 – 14:23

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein Leads National Effort to Protect Critical Food and Nutrition Program

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Josh Stein Leads National Effort to Protect Critical Food and Nutrition Program

    Governor Josh Stein Leads National Effort to Protect Critical Food and Nutrition Program
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein led a group of 23 Governors to urge Congressional leadership to support the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that puts food on the table for millions of people across the nation.  

    “SNAP has impacts far beyond the people who receive its benefits. It improves overall health, helps rural grocery stores stay open, and maintains our thriving agriculture industry,” said Governor Josh Stein. “As Governors, we urge Congress to reject any proposal that would put our people’s health and well-being at risk.”

    “A shift of this scale in SNAP costs to states and counties, coupled with the proposed devastating cuts to Medicaid, pose a serious threat to the health and well-being of millions of North Carolinians,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “Food is foundational to our health. These proposals make it harder for people to access the food and health care they need, creating massive funding gaps that state and county budgets simply cannot absorb.” 

    The letter signed by 23 governors from across the country warns that current proposals in Congress threaten the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which addresses hunger, improves overall health, and helps people overcome poverty. SNAP provides critical food benefits for more than 42 million people in the United States. In North Carolina, more than 1.4 million people depend on SNAP, including children, seniors and working families.

    Currently, the federal government pays 100 percent of the food benefit costs and 50 percent of the administrative costs of each state’s SNAP program. The latest congressional proposals would shift up to 25 percent of the food benefit costs onto states, meaning a new expense of millions — and in some states, billions — of dollars. This shift in costs to the states is unprecedented in SNAP’s 50-year history. 

    North Carolina could be forced to pay up to $700 million per year to keep SNAP running. In a challenging budget year, this expense could force state leaders to make cuts to education, health care, or emergency services in order to afford the new bill from Congress. The new proposal could also force North Carolina to end the SNAP program entirely, leaving North Carolinians unsure of where their family’s next meal will come from. 

    SNAP provides nine meals for every one meal a food bank can supply. With grocery prices still high, food banks are already stretched to the limit and cannot serve as a substitute for a robust federal nutrition program. A family of four receives up to $975 per month in food benefits, and every SNAP dollar spent brings up to $1.80 back into local economies. 

    According to the National Grocers Association, SNAP is responsible for thousands of jobs across grocery stores and supporting industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, and municipal services, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in economic growth in North Carolina. Any cuts to federal support of SNAP will have direct consequences on states’ local economies.

    Since SNAP is a federal program with set eligibility criteria, states have limited options to reduce SNAP enrollment. Because SNAP is a safety net program, states are one economic downturn or natural disaster away from seeing increased SNAP demand. Following the catastrophic damage left behind by Hurricane Helene, Disaster-SNAP or D-SNAP was a critical lifeline to families who lost everything in the storm, and SNAP had the highest number of applications (169,000) since Hurricane Florence in 2018.

    Click here to read the Governors’ full letter to Congress.

    Jun 24, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – The UN High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 14-23 July 2025, New York – 24-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The purpose of this briefing is to provide support to the European Parliament delegation to the 13th session of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, taking place 14-23 July 2025 at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters, under the auspices of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The briefing provides an overview of the progress made on the SDG implementation by the global community and the EU, as well as key issues at stake in the meeting. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. hydropower generation expected to rise in 2025 following last year’s relative low

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    May 19, 2025

    We expect U.S. hydropower generation will increase by 7.5% in 2025 but will remain 2.4% below the 10-year average in our May Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO). Hydropower generation in 2024 fell to 241 billion kilowatthours (BkWh), the lowest since at least 2010; in 2025, we expect generation will be 259.1 BkWh. This amount of generation would represent 6% of the electricity generation in the country.

    About half of the hydropower generating capacity in the country is in the western states of Washington, Oregon, and California, so we closely monitor precipitation patterns in this region to inform our hydropower outlook.

    Precipitation conditions have been mixed across the western United States since October. According to the WestWide Drought Tracker, more precipitation than normal has fallen in northern California, Oregon, and the eastern half of Washington state. Some areas in southeastern Oregon received record precipitation between October 2024 and April 2025. In contrast, precipitation was below normal in parts of Washington, Montana, Idaho, and Southern California.

    Accumulation from winter precipitation tends to peak by April 1. The snowpack accumulation at higher elevations serves as a natural reservoir that melts gradually as temperatures rise in the late spring and early summer, leading to increased waterflow through dams.

    Northwest and Rockies
    We expect hydropower generation in the Northwest and Rockies region to be 125.1 BkWh, which is a 17% increase compared with 2024 and 4% less than the 10-year average. Our hydropower forecast is informed by the water supply outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Northwest River Forecast Center (NWRFC).

    On May 1, NWRFC released its latest April–September water supply forecast for the Pacific Northwest, part of the larger Northwest and Rockies region as modeled in the STEO. The NWRFC forecasts the region will have a below-normal water supply compared with the past 30 years in the northern portion of the basin, which includes the Upper Columbia River Basin, and above- to near-normal water supply in the southern portion, which includes the Snake River Basin. Water supply conditions at The Dalles Dam, located near the mouth of the Columbia River on the border between Washington and Oregon, reflect those of the upstream Columbia River system. The forecast at The Dalles Dam as of May 1 was 85% of normal for the same period.

    California
    We forecast hydropower generation in California to be 28.5 BkWh in our May STEO, which is 6% less than last year’s generation. This total would be 15% more than the 10-year average.

    As of April 1, reservoir levels in most major reservoirs in California were above the historical average for this time of year. The two largest reservoirs in the state, Shasta and Oroville, were at 113% and 121% of the historical average, respectively. According to the California Department of Water Resources, snowpack conditions as of April 1 were at 118% of normal for the Northern Sierra Nevada, 92% for Central Sierra, and 83% in Southern Sierra Nevada regions. Warmer-than-normal temperatures in April led to some early snowmelt across the state. As of the beginning of May, snowpack conditions were at 81% of normal for the Northern Sierra Nevada, 73% for Central Sierra, and 53% for the Southern Sierra portion.

    Principal contributor: Lindsay Aramayo

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – European rules on waste incineration and the impact on smaller Member States – E-002469/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002469/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Alex Agius Saliba (S&D)

    Following reports[1] in my Member State, Malta, on the topic of waste incineration, and false claims that this facility can negatively affect the population, I would like to request some clarification in order to be able to debunk potential misinterpretation of the European rules. In the particular case of Malta, due to the limited physical space on the islands, we cannot rely on landfill for non-recyclable waste as a solution, and waste incineration is an important part of our waste management system.

    • 1.Could the Commission confirm that waste incineration will continue to be allowed under the relevant EU rules, such as the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED) or other legal requirements?
    • 2.Does the Commission take into account the physical limitations of small island Member States when making its policy on waste management and circularity?
    • 3.Could the Commission clarify what is expected from waste incineration plants to comply with European requirements under, for example, the best available techniques principles and how the prescribed environmental impact assessment (EIA) gives assurances on air quality and other aspects that are important for neighbouring inhabitants?

    Submitted: 18.6.2025

    • [1] https://timesofmalta.com/article/no-ecohive-save-lives-residents-protest-planned-waste-incinerator.1109520, and https://timesofmalta.com/article/wasteserv-complains-standards-commissioner.1109939.
    Last updated: 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB and Andalusia regional government sign €133 million loan to finance projects in education, healthcare, labour inclusion, the energy transition, sustainable transport and digitalisation in Andalusia

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The loan will co-finance projects included in the 2021-2027 plan of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and other EU funds.
    • The EIB loan will enable the Andalusia regional government to co-finance projects in various provinces of the region, from healthcare and education infrastructure improvement to sustainable urban transport and digitalisation.
    • The agreement highlights efforts to promote economic, social and territorial cohesion, one of the EIB Group’s cross-cutting strategic priorities.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €133 million loan with the Andalusia regional government (the Junta de Andalucía) to co-finance social, green and digital investment in the Spanish region. The EIB loan and co-financing from the Junta de Andalucía will make it possible to back projects contributing to the dual green and digital transition, social infrastructure development, jobs and training, and cohesion in Andalusia.

    The loan is part of the EU operational programme for cohesion policy funding 2021-2027, particularly the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the Just Transition Fund.

    The loan will co-finance projects in various provinces of the autonomous community, including the renovation and improvement of infrastructure like hospitals, health centres, music conservatories or primary and secondary schools where climate change adaptation works will also be undertaken; job incentives, training and labour inclusion; support for research, development and innovation in universities; and digitalisation, sustainable urban mobility and energy transition projects.

    The agreement highlights the commitment of the European Investment Bank Group (EIB Group) to economic, social and territorial cohesion, which is one of the cross-cutting priorities set out in the Group’s strategic roadmap for 2024-2027. All the projects will be implemented in Andalusia, which is considered to be a cohesion region by the European Union.

    This is the third loan signed by the Junta de Andalucía and the EIB under the 2021-2027 plan of the European Regional Development Fund, with the first €195 million loan being signed in December 2022, and the second €215 million loan signed in April 2024.

    Background information

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core 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 nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

    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.

    In Spain, the EIB Group signed €12.3 billion of new financing for more than 100 high-impact projects in 2024. This financing is contributing to the green and digital transition , economic growth, competitiveness and improved services for citizens in Spain.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of the EIB Group’s headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB and Andalusia regional government sign €133 million loan to finance projects in education, healthcare, labour inclusion, the energy transition, sustainable transport and digitalisation in Andalusia

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The loan will co-finance projects included in the 2021-2027 plan of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and other EU funds.
    • The EIB loan will enable the Andalusia regional government to co-finance projects in various provinces of the region, from healthcare and education infrastructure improvement to sustainable urban transport and digitalisation.
    • The agreement highlights efforts to promote economic, social and territorial cohesion, one of the EIB Group’s cross-cutting strategic priorities.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €133 million loan with the Andalusia regional government (the Junta de Andalucía) to co-finance social, green and digital investment in the Spanish region. The EIB loan and co-financing from the Junta de Andalucía will make it possible to back projects contributing to the dual green and digital transition, social infrastructure development, jobs and training, and cohesion in Andalusia.

    The loan is part of the EU operational programme for cohesion policy funding 2021-2027, particularly the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the Just Transition Fund.

    The loan will co-finance projects in various provinces of the autonomous community, including the renovation and improvement of infrastructure like hospitals, health centres, music conservatories or primary and secondary schools where climate change adaptation works will also be undertaken; job incentives, training and labour inclusion; support for research, development and innovation in universities; and digitalisation, sustainable urban mobility and energy transition projects.

    The agreement highlights the commitment of the European Investment Bank Group (EIB Group) to economic, social and territorial cohesion, which is one of the cross-cutting priorities set out in the Group’s strategic roadmap for 2024-2027. All the projects will be implemented in Andalusia, which is considered to be a cohesion region by the European Union.

    This is the third loan signed by the Junta de Andalucía and the EIB under the 2021-2027 plan of the European Regional Development Fund, with the first €195 million loan being signed in December 2022, and the second €215 million loan signed in April 2024.

    Background information

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core 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 nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

    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.

    In Spain, the EIB Group signed €12.3 billion of new financing for more than 100 high-impact projects in 2024. This financing is contributing to the green and digital transition , economic growth, competitiveness and improved services for citizens in Spain.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of the EIB Group’s headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How restoring river catchments can minimise drought and flood risks

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Neil Entwistle, Professor of River Science and Climate Resilience, University of Salford

    Elenitsa/Shutterstock

    As Britain’s first heatwave of 2025 hits with temperatures climbing above 30°C, Yorkshire has joined the northwest in official drought status.

    This spring has been the driest in the UK since 1893. May’s rainfall was 43% lower than the long-term average. Fish rescues have already taken place in Shropshire as rivers dried up. Low water levels have made it difficult for boats to navigate along some canals.

    Water companies in regions such as Hampshire, Yorkshire and Cumbria are encouraging residents to conserve water.

    Years of drainage, overgrazing and peatland degradation have turned much of the UK’s uplands into fast-draining systems. Rainfall that once infiltrated slowly now rushes off hillsides, filling rivers quickly, before vanishing just as fast.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Even after a year of exceptional rain and flooding, the soils and ecosystems that should be buffering us against drought are depleted. This recent spell of dry weather has exposed just how fragile the system has become.

    The UK government reconvened the national drought group – a coalition of its most senior decision-makers, Environment Agency, water companies, plus key farming and environmental groups – on June 5 to address growing concerns as reservoir levels which are at 77% of capacity nationally.

    Water availability remains under pressure across much of England. Sources in the northwest Pennines, Haweswater and Thirlmere in the Lake District, which supply much of the northwest, are currently at around 50% of capacity. Normally, they would be around 75% full. In Yorkshire, these water levels are currently around 60%.

    The reservoir at Anglezarke in Lancashire is drying out.
    Neil Entwistle, CC BY-NC-ND

    But landscapes can be restored in ways that reduce both flood risk and the effects of drought. At Smithills Estate near Bolton, the Mersey Forest (Cheshire and Merseyside’s community forest), conservation charity Woodland Trust and the Environment Agency have spent the last decade restoring 1,700 hectares of upland.

    They have blocked old drainage channels, rewetted peat bogs, planted trees, improved soil structure and adapted farming. These changes (often referred to as natural flood management) allow the land to hold water longer, slow its release, and sustain the flow of water in rivers during dry periods that can help water conservation and reduce the risk of floods.

    Restoring rivers

    We both grew up in the shadow of the moorlands around Rivington and Smithills in Bolton. We built our careers restoring rivers and their catchments and want to prevent “water-stressed” situations where water demand exceeds the available supply. We continue to study the implications and resilience of natural flood management here in the UK and overseas.

    At Smithills, restored bogs act like sponges, soaking up rain and releasing it gradually. Newly planted woodland supports biodiversity, encourages water infiltration and provides shade, which reduces evaporation. Natural flood management has slowed water down across the catchment, helping to reduce peak flows during storms by 27.3% and has boosted river flows during dry spells by storing and slowly releasing water by 27.1%.

    Tree trunks slow down the flow of water.
    Neil Entwistle, CC BY-NC-ND

    Tree trunks laid across the gullies have kept areas of Smithills wet throughout spring, creating valuable habitat and supporting water resilience in the landscape. We’re working with partners to monitor natural flood management benefits and expand restoration, while also exploring new questions.

    These include how the structures influence greenhouse gas emissions through wetting and drying cycles, affect sediment capture and storage, and how their function changes over time. This research is helping to shape how nature-based solutions are understood, valued and adopted more widely.

    Mitigation (tackling the root causes) and adaptation (adjusting systems and behaviours) to water stresses require landowners, water companies, local authorities, regulators, environmental groups and communities to work together to deliver shared outcomes.

    But this effort needs to be matched by an understanding that changes in how land is managed too. If the landscape continues to shed water rapidly, reservoirs will struggle to recover even when rain does arrive. We need to slow the flow of water and rejuvenate the lost natural processes at large scales through restoration.

    Farmers are grazing cattle on the heath.
    Neil Entwistle, CC BY-NC-ND

    The UK will face water shortages within the next decade unless urgent action is taken. The recent Independent Water Commission, set up by the UK government to recommend a major overhaul of the water sector’s planning, regulation and infrastructure, highlights the importance of nature-based solutions, such as restoring natural processes like river flow and wetland function, alongside natural capital investment.

    This involves putting money and resources into the protection, restoration or enhancement of nature, to secure long-term benefits such as clean air, water purification or flood protection.

    Nature-based solutions can be scaled up quickly, plus they benefit people and the environment. Local communities can also get involved in meaningful restoration work. At Smithills, volunteers plant trees and help monitor the benefits of natural flood management, including changes in water quality, water levels and biodiversity. Farmers are exploring regenerative grazing.

    Schools use the estate for environmental learning. This is not only about resilience – it is about reconnecting people with the natural landscapes that surround them.

    To avoid routine hosepipe bans, protect biodiversity and secure food and water supply into the future, land needs to be at the centre of the UK’s drought strategy. Restoring bogs, woodlands and soils is not a luxury. It is essential infrastructure in a changing climate.

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

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Neil Entwistle has received previous funding from British Council, Universities UK, NERC for work related to river restoration and climate resilience. He also works for a boutique fund manager, to fund and deploy solutions to some of the most pressing Nature-related challenges our economy faces today.

    Neil Macdonald receives funding from DEFRA through the Natural Flood Management Programme (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/natural-flood-management-programme).

    – ref. How restoring river catchments can minimise drought and flood risks – https://theconversation.com/how-restoring-river-catchments-can-minimise-drought-and-flood-risks-258840

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Climate, Peace and Security Group on Libya – Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Joint stakeout by Climate, Peace and Security Group on Libya, led by Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, and accompanied by Security Council Members including Denmark, Ecuador, France, Greece, Guyana, Malta, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, the United Kingdom.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0ug_evEa6c

    MIL OSI Video –