It is one of the largest car park solar panel and battery storage installations in the country.
This innovative initiative comprises rooftop solar PV arrays on four buildings and newly constructed solar car park canopies in three car parking areas, equipped with accompanying battery storage. The full network of solar panels is set to generate approximately 4,000MWh per year. This is a huge amount of energy and is sufficient to power over 1,300 average three-bedroom houses for one year.
The energy generated will meet around 40% of the entire site’s electricity usage and will mean, on very sunny days and weekends, excess power can be released to the grid. The project is estimated to prevent more than 900 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
The completion of the solar panels and battery storage installation marks a significant milestone in Lakeside’s and Portsmouth City Council’s journey towards sustainability and greener energy, in line with the Council’s Net Zero ambitions.
The Energy Services and Building Projects teams at Portsmouth City Council have been working with solar panel installation contractor, Custom Solar, to get the panels up and running at Lakeside.
Cabinet Member for Greening the City and Climate Action Cllr Kimberly Barrett said: “We are thrilled to have reached the final stage of this groundbreaking project! All teams have been dedicated and relentless in their efforts towards completion. It’s truly inspiring to see another solar project land at Portsmouth and make a huge step towards greener energy and our Net Zero goal.”
Simon Bateman, Asset Manager at Lakeside North Harbour, added: “This is an excellent opportunity for Lakeside businesses to benefit from the council’s Net Zero target at no direct cost to them. We are committed to creating a sustainable and environmentally responsible workspace for the businesses based here, the largest of its kind in this region. We recognise our responsibility to reduce environmental impacts, enhance sustainability, and contribute positively to the community and economy.
“This solar project will enable us to have a green electric supply for all 60 businesses at Lakeside. The environment is a fundamental core value at Lakeside – from creating the right atmosphere for our occupier community to driving sustainability and efficient use of our valuable resources.”
To keep up to date on their projects, follow Lakeside North Harbour on LinkedIn.
To keep up to date on the council’s energy and building projects, follow the Portsmouth City Council building services on LinkedIn.
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on April 21, 2025, United States District Judge Brett Ludwig accepted the guilty plea of James Morgan (formerly Karactus Blome) to one count of possession of chemical weapon precursors—chemicals that combine to create chlorine and chlorine gas—not intended for peaceful purposes, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 229(a).
According to court documents, on December 21, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed a search warrant at Morgan’s storage unit and found the precursor chemicals. Morgan had studied chemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and had described himself as a weapon designer who did not need a conventional weapon. In a video, Morgan displayed the chemicals and said they were for making a lot of chlorine very quickly. In messages in 2022, he said that what he had was “scary,” and that the chemicals react to produce a lot of chlorine gas, which can be “effective if your enemy is not ready for it.” He sent links for purchasing the chemicals and discussed the amounts needed to make a lot of chlorine gas really fast. In messages in 2023, Morgan discussed a plan to defeat the government, if it came for his guns, by producing a large amount of chlorine that he claimed could be used against approximately twenty government agents. The FBI Laboratory determined that the chemicals Morgan possessed could produce a large amount of chlorine that could result in rapid, serious health effects, including death.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 1, 2025, before Judge Ludwig. Morgan faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release after any period of imprisonment.
The FBI, the Janesville Police Department, and the Whitewater Police Department investigated the case, which also resulted in Morgan’s conviction for possession of destructive devices in the Western District of Wisconsin.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Scully is prosecuting the case in the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Duchemin prosecuted the case in the Western District of Wisconsin, and Trial Attorney Justin Sher of the National Security Division, Counterterrorism Section, assisted on both prosecutions.
HAMILTON, Ontario, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innovative climate solutions require bold ideas, and young leaders are stepping up to the challenge. Wawanesa Insurance and Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2) are thrilled to announce the latest recipients of the Wawanesa Climate Champions: Youth Innovation Grants. The $150,000 in available funding will support youth-led projects focused on tackling climate change and building more resilient communities across Canada.
Through a competitive selection process, five outstanding projects have been chosen to each receive a $30,000 grant to develop and implement their climate-focused initiative with support from C2R2 partner institutions. These projects represent the creativity and commitment of young Canadians striving for meaningful environmental impact.
“The level of innovation and dedication from young leaders across Canada is truly inspiring,” said Has Malik, Saskatchewan Polytechnic Provost & Vice President Academic and C2R2 Co-Chair. “By investing in these projects, we are not only supporting youth-led ideas, but also empowering the next generation to take an active role in shaping a more sustainable future.”
Recognizing the critical role youth play in driving climate adaptation and mitigation solutions, Wawanesa first awarded the grant last year in partnership with C2R2. The initiative is part of the Wawanesa Climate Champions program, which reinforces the insurer’s annual $2 million commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities.
“Canada’s youth are instrumental in building more climate-resilient communities,” said Jackie De Pape Hornick, Director, Communications & Community Impact at Wawanesa. “These grants are designed to empower young climate champions to transform their innovative ideas into action. We’re proud to once again partner with C2R2 to support another group of changemakers as they create a meaningful, lasting impact in our communities.”
The Wawanesa Climate Champions: Youth Innovation Grants received over 10 outstanding submissions from youth across seven of C2R2’s institution partners. Of the projects, the following have been selected to receive funding:
Anamika Gupta at Saskatchewan Polytechnic for her project; Prairie EcoWatt: Energy Champions of Saskatchewan.
Clarissa Getigan at New Brunswick Community College for her project; Sustainable Greenhouse Farming: Securing Food with Resource Efficiency.
Dexter Guino at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology for his project; Enhancing the Durability Performance of Low-Carbon Concrete using Carbon-Sequestered SCM.
Jeshuah Gilroy at Holland College for his project; Novel bioremediation approach to neutralize nitrous oxide precursors from water.
Maninder Kailay and Nga Phan at the British Columbia Institute of Technology for their project; Supercritical CO₂ Techniques for Lithium-Ion Battery Metal Recovery.
These projects will be implemented over the next year, with recipients working alongside industry experts, academic mentors, and community partners to maximize their impact.
About Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2)
Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2) is a coalition of 15 highly aligned colleges, cégeps, institutes, and polytechnics across Canada with an established commitment to sustainability. The coalition members have come together as a driving force, providing the skills required to transition to a clean economy in Canada. C2R2’s administration and secretariat are located at Mohawk College in Hamilton.
The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, founded in 1896, is one of Canada’s largest mutual insurers, with over $3.5 billion in annual revenue and assets of $10 billion. Wawanesa Mutual, with its National Headquarters in Winnipeg, is the parent company of Wawanesa Life, which provides life insurance products and services throughout Canada, and Western Financial Group, which distributes personal and business insurance across Canada. Wawanesa proudly serves more than 1.7 million members in Canada. The company actively gives back to organizations that strengthen communities, donating more than $3.5 million annually to charitable organizations, including over $2 million annually in support of people on the front lines of climate change. Learn more at wawanesa.com.
Allenton is the latest community within Derby to become home to a mobility hub, joining Six Streets, Chaddesden and Normanton/Arboretum.
Building on the success of similar schemes elsewhere in the city, the new mobility hub will be installed at the Osmaston Road shopping precinct, giving citizens and local businesses greater choice when deciding how they travel around their local community.
Mobility hubs provide more opportunities for the local community to use sustainable and active travel methods – such as walking and cycling – making it easier for citizens to access local amenities. Not only do the hubs make it easier for residents to access local amenities, but it is hoped that they will draw more people into the area and enhance the local economy.
The hubs will also help the Council to learn more about the community’s travel needs and preferences, helping to shape future schemes.
Work on site to install the Osmaston Road mobility hub will begin later this spring, and will include:
Electric vehicle (EV) charging and dedicated parking for up to three EVs
An Enterprise Car Club location
An accessible seating area with bike storage, designed in consultation with local businesses, ward councillors and the Police
Interactive information totem with live travel updates
Councillor Carmel Swan, Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability said:
We’ve been working hard over the past few years to enhance and diversify Derby’s active and sustainable transport offer, giving citizens greater choice when it comes to deciding how to travel around the city.
This latest mobility hub will be a welcome addition to our ever-growing network, playing a key role in our combined efforts to combat climate change through reduced pollution and congestion in Derby.
Work on site to create the hub will begin later this spring and is expected to be completed in summer 2025.
The mobility hub will be funded by the Department for Transport (DFT)’s Future Transport Zones Fund, which was awarded to Derby City Council to trial new and exciting developments in transport.
Residents who would like to know more about the mobility hubs can get in touch with the Future Transport Zones team by emailing traffic.management@derby.gov.uk.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)
In honor of Earth Day, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) reintroduced the Agriculture Resilience Act (ARA), comprehensive legislation that aims to help the U.S. reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector by 2040—while giving America’s farmers more tools and resources to increase their profitability.
“From historic droughts and wildfires to devastating floods and extreme weather, America’s farmers are directly impacted by the climate crisis,” said Pingree, a longtime organic farmer and senior member of the House Agriculture Committee. “With the Farm Bill in limbo and the Trump Administration actively undermining farmers’ interests, bold legislation like the Agriculture Resilience Act is more urgent than ever. These goals are ambitious—but they’re achievable. By helping farmers adopt practices that boost resilience and profitability, this bill charts a path to not only create a more sustainable future for America’s agriculture sector, but ensure greater economic viability for our farmers as well.”
“New Mexico’s agricultural producers and rural communities rely on the health of our land and water to sustain their families and communities. They are also the first to feel the impacts of climate change. That is why we need to provide our farmers and ranchers with new tools to not only protect their land and way of life, but also be part of the climate solution,” said Heinrich. “I’m pleased to reintroduce the Agriculture Resilience Act, which sets a national goal of achieving net-zero emissions in agriculture by 2040 through farmer-led, science-based initiatives. I’ll continue working to bring our communities the tools they need to improve soil health, expand conservation programs, increase research into climate-friendly agricultural practices, and support on-farm renewable energy projects.”
To reach net-zero agricultural emissions within the next 15 years, the ARA focuses on six concrete policy areas—and solutions that are rooted in science.
These goals include:
Increasing Research: The ARA would ensure existing agriculture research programs prioritize climate change research, increase funding for USDA’s Regional Climate Hubs, support public breed and cultivar research, and create a new SARE Agricultural and Food System Resilience Initiative for farmer and rancher research and demonstration grants.
Improving Soil Health: The ARA would create a new soil health grant program for state and tribal governments, authorize USDA to offer performance-based crop insurance discounts for practices that reduce climate risk, expand the National Agroforestry Center by authorizing three additional regional centers, and provide more technical assistance and flexibility in USDA conservation programs to support climate-smart practices.
Protecting existing farmland and supporting farm viability: ARA would increase funding for the Local Agriculture Market Program to help keep local farms profitable and create a new subprogram for farm viability and local climate resilience centers to help farmers reach new markets. The bill would also increase funding for the Agriculture Conservation Easement Program to make farmland affordable for the next generation.
Supporting pasture-based livestock systems: The ARA would create a new alternative manure management program to support an array of livestock methane management strategies and establish a new grant program to help small meat processors cover the costs associated with meeting federal inspection guidelines.
Boosting investments in on-farm energy initiatives: The ARA would increase funding for the Rural Energy for America Program to prioritize low-emissions electrification projects and direct USDA to study dual-use renewable energy and cropping or livestock systems.
Reducing food waste: The ARA would standardize food date labels to reduce consumer confusion about the shelf life of foods, create a new USDA program to reduce food waste in schools, and increase federal support for food waste research and outreach, composting, and anaerobic digestion food waste-to-energy projects.
The ARA is supported by dozens of national and local organizations including American Farmland Trust, the World Wildlife Fund, and Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, as well companies like Stonyfield and Organic Valley. Click here for a full list of endorsers.
READ WHAT ORGANIZATIONS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE ARA.
An organic farmer since the 1970s, Pingree has been recognized as a national policy leader on sustainable food and farming. Pingree is the founder of Congress’s first-ever Bipartisan Food Recovery Caucus and is Vice Chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Climate and Agriculture Task Force. In addition to serving on the House Agriculture Committee, Pingree is a member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, where she serves as Ranking Member on the Interior and Environment Subcommittee and on the Agriculture Subcommittee.
MELBOURNE, Fla., April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orion180, a leading provider of innovative homeowners and flood insurance solutions, has announced a collaboration with Jewelers Mutual, the only insurer dedicated to jewelry and jewelry businesses with over a century of expertise, to provide homeowners with specialized jewelry insurance coverage beyond the typical limits of a standard homeowners policy.
Through a seamless integration with Orion180’s homeowner’s quoting process, customers can obtain comprehensive protection against risks specific to high-value items, including theft, loss, and accidental damage.
“By working with Jewelers Mutual, Orion180 is addressing an underserved need among clients who require comprehensive jewelry coverage that goes beyond standard offerings,” said Ken Gregg, CEO and founder of Orion180. “We believe this collaboration adds a valuable layer to our insureds’ insurance experience because they can protect both their home and adequately protect their high-value items all in one place.”
Jewelers Mutual provides customers with specialized expertise and options such as flexible deductibles and the ability to choose their own preferred jeweler for repairs or replacements, offering policyholders a level of coverage not typically included in standard homeowners insurance policies.
“This new relationship with Orion180 allows us to leverage technology in new ways to make insurance more accessible to more jewelry consumers,” said Mike Alexander, Chief Operating Officer. “We’re able to meet customers where they want to be met and give them the freedom to wear their jewelry confidently knowing each piece has the expert protection it deserves.”
This collaboration represents a milestone in Orion180’s mission to provide value-added, technology-driven insurance solutions that cater to specific client needs. Independent insurance agents and homeowners can learn more about this jewelry insurance option by visiting Orion180.com or contacting Orion180 directly.
About Orion180 Orion180 is a technology-driven and customer-centric insurance brand that combines proprietary technology, real-time data, and straightforward underwriting practices to provide a seamless and premier insurance experience. Orion180 operates through Orion180 Insurance Co., a surplus lines insurance company serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Colorado (Flood only), Tennessee (Flood only), Illinois (Flood only) and Arizona, and Orion180 Select Insurance Co., an admitted insurance company offering coverage in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Ohio. With its proprietary MY180 platform and third-party integrations, Orion180 offers unmatched efficiency and innovation, fulfilling its vision of becoming the global leader in insurance solutions while maintaining its mission to deliver superior customer experiences and a comprehensive suite of products. Connect with Orion180 on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TruthSocial, and YouTube. For more information, visit www.Orion180.com.
Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual’s powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers’ strong financial position is reflected in their 38 consecutive “A+ Superior” ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2024. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.
LEAWOOD, Kan. and MADRID, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Euronet (NASDAQ: EEFT), a global leader in payments processing and cross-border transactions, and Prosegur Cash (Spanish SE: CASH), a global Cash-In-Transit company with strong leadership in Latin American markets, announced today the launch of their Independent ATM Network (IAD) in Peru and the Dominican Republic. The initiative is part of their joint venture agreement, branded as LATM (a combination of LATAM and ATM), to deploy independent ATMs across most countries of Latin America and provide comprehensive ATM As-a-Service solutions to banks and financial institutions in the region.
The initiative is sponsored by leading local financial institutions in both markets: Banco Alfin, recognized in Peru for its commitment to digitalization and technological innovation, and Banco BHD, the second-largest private bank in the Dominican Republic. The joint venture will provide state-of-the-art ATM solutions in key locations across both countries where cash is needed most, including popular destinations attracting international travelers. The ATMs will feature the distinct and well-recognized LATM branding, showcasing the combined strengths of the parties in providing financial services at scale. The BHD and Alfin brands will also be displayed on respective LATM ATMs in the Dominican Republic and Peru.
The joint venture leverages Euronet’s Ren payments platform and the company’s extensive portfolio of value-added ATM management services as well as Prosegur Cash’s customer-centric, on-the-ground operational services for cash management, end-to-end hardware services and facilities management.
“We are thrilled with the launch of our first markets with Independent ATM Networks in Latin America through our joint venture with Prosegur Cash,” said Nikos Fountas, Euronet EVP and CEO EFT Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “This joint venture positions us for rapid growth in the region. We are confident that we will achieve a rapid pace of ATM deployment in these countries based on well-established local partnerships backed by our global processing centers. The deployment of our IAD in the region is also an excellent platform for providing ATM As-a-Service to banks and financial institutions.”
“The start of operations in Peru and the Dominican Republic represents the full and effective development of the agreement reached with Euronet and is a winning model which we will see soon in many more countries in the region,” said José Antonio Lasanta, CEO of Prosegur Cash, in welcoming the launch in the two countries.
About Prosegur Cash
Prosegur Cash is a company dedicated to cash logistics and cash management that covers the complete cash cycle. It employs around 45,000 people, in more than 31 countries, and in 2023, it obtained revenues of 1,861 million euros. Prosegur Cash is positioned as a global benchmark with a clear vocation for leadership. In addition, the company articulates its social commitment by working on ten of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations in which it considers it can generate a positive impact.
Prosegur Cash is part of The Climate Pledge, an international alliance whose members have pledged to generate zero net carbon emissions by 2040. Prosegur Cash is listed on the Spanish stock exchanges under the symbol CASH.
A global leader in payments processing and cross-border transactions, Euronet moves money in all the ways consumers and businesses depend upon. This includes money transfers, credit/debit processing, ATMs, point-of-sale services, branded payments, currency exchange and more. With products and services in more than 200 countries and territories provided through its own brand and branded business segments, Euronet and its financial technologies and networks make participation in the global economy easier, faster and more secure for everyone.
Starting in Central Europe in 1994, Euronet now supports an extensive global real-time digital and cash payments network that includes 55,248 installed ATMs, approximately 1,160,000 EFT point-of-sale terminals and a growing portfolio of outsourced debit and credit card services which are under management in 67 countries; card software solutions; a prepaid processing network of approximately 777,000 point-of-sale terminals at approximately 362,000 retailer locations in 64 countries; and a global money transfer network of approximately 607,000 locations serving 197 countries and territories with digital connections to 4.1 billion bank accounts and 3.1 billion digital wallet accounts. Euronet serves clients from its corporate headquarters in Leawood, Kansas, USA, and 67 worldwide offices. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.euronetworldwide.com.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)
The bipartisan Protect National Service Act would block federal funds from being used to cut the national service agency
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) and Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE-02) introduced theProtect National Service Act, which would prohibit federal dollars from being used to carry out AmeriCorps cuts and damaging the agency’s core functions.
This follows on the heels of a bipartisan letter that the three members and Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) sent to the White House on April 11 demanding that President Trump work with Congress on any proposed AmeriCorps reforms rather than pursue unilateral executive actions.
This legislation is in response to reporting that the Trump Administration is attempting to fire large swaths of the Agency’s workforce, beginning with its disaster relief efforts. Earlier this week, AmeriCorps members who had been working in North Carolina rebuilding from the effects of Hurricane Helene were recalled from their project sites ahead of termination on April 30.
“Let me be clear: dismantling AmeriCorps is an indefensible attack on some of our most patriotic and selfless young Americans. For 30 years, AmeriCorps has opened the door for people across this country to step up and serve,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “AmeriCorps members are on the front lines of public service: rebuilding after disasters, helping families file taxes, and tutoring children in struggling schools. Time and again, they’ve proven their power to bridge divides and drive meaningful progress across the country. Now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk want to tear down three decades of progress — without justification and without a plan. But here’s the truth: for every $1 Congress invests in AmeriCorps, our country gets back over $17 in economic and community benefits. That’s not just service — that’s impact. The American spirit of service runs deep. It’s in our DNA. We will fight for every piece of this program, because national service will endure.”
“I am horrified that the Trump Administration is attempting to gut AmeriCorps,” said Congresswoman Houlahan. “National service brings together Americans across political divides, uplifts communities, and is a terrific return on investment for the federal government. To target AmeriCorps, especially at a time when Members are still working to repair hurricane damage in North Carolina and elsewhere, is wrong.”
“While I am supportive of President Trump’s mission of cutting the size and cost of the federal government, I am deeply troubled that once again, they are using a sledgehammer approach on vital programs such as Americorps, which gives young people an opportunity to serve their country through programs such as disaster relief efforts and food banks,” said Congressman Bacon. “Not only do these young Americans lose the opportunity to make a difference, but programs connecting elderly volunteers with people in their age group who need help are being shut down because there is no one to run them. It seems that no thought goes into what gets cut, and DOGE is just slashing to meet some number goal.”
Residents and businesses are being invited to share their views on a proposal to expand York’s existing Smoke Control Area to cover all areas within council boundaries.
In a Smoke Control Area, it is an offence to emit smoke from a chimney of a building. Correctly seasoned wood, timber or logs should only be burnt in a Defra approved appliance and authorised ‘smokeless’ fuels must be used in any other appliances that are not Defra approved.
Most residential areas within York’s outer ring road and Haxby and Wigginton, are already included within York’s Smoke Control Area.
The new proposal to expand the area across York will not ban people from burning solid fuel. Instead, it will require all residents and businesses to take responsibility for the fuel they burn – to minimise smoke and air pollution and improve health and wellbeing.
Houseboats are not covered by the existing Smoke Control Areas and are not proposed to be covered by the expanded area. Garden bonfires, outdoor barbecues, chimineas and firepits are also not covered by Smoke Control Area rules.
The Council has previously consulted on measures to improve local air quality and reduce the impact of burning solid fuels such as wood (AQAP4). Burning of wood contributes to a type of pollution called fine particulate matter (PM2.5) both inside and outside the home. Around a third of PM2.5 emissions in York are caused by burning wood for heating.
Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environmentand Climate Emergency, said:
“Everyone can be affected by air pollution, but children, older people and those with heart and lung conditions are especially at risk.
“We are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the local community and improving local air quality is one way in which we are working to achieve this.
Cllr Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Public Health, said:
“Emissions of fine particulate matter present in smoke are particularly harmful to health as their size means they can get deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream to be transported around the body.
“Expanding the Smoke Control Area willprovide cleaner air for all and provide a level playing field across the city.”
Any complaints of chimney smoke will be investigated in line with the Council’s current enforcement policy, which initially requires the Council to provide advice on the use of suitable appliances and fuels. Residents struggling with the cost of heating will be signposted to advice on accessing financial and practical help on heating their homes.
Following advice, Council officers can issue penalties of up to £300 where they witness the emission of smoke from a chimney in a Smoke Control Area. Those found to be selling or buying unauthorised fuel for use in an appliance that’s not approved by Defra can also face fines of up to £1,000.
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jay Rickabaugh, Assistant Professor of Public Administration, North Carolina State University
Last year was a record year for disasters in the United States. A new report from the British charity International Institute for Environment and Development finds that 90 disasters were declared nationwide in 2024, from wildfires in California to Hurricane Helene in North Carolina.
The average number of annual disasters in the U.S. is about 55.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides funding and recovery assistance to states after disasters. President Donald Trump criticized the agency in January 2025 when he visited hurricane-stricken western North Carolina. Though 41% of Americans lived in an area affected by disaster in 2024, according to the institute’s report, the Trump administration is reportedly working to abolish or dramatically diminish FEMA’s operations.
But I believe the current discussion about FEMA handling U.S. disasters puts the emphasis in the wrong place.
As a scholar who researches how small and rural local governments cooperate, I believe this public debate demonstrates that many people fundamentally misunderstand how disaster recovery actually works, especially in rural areas, where locally directed efforts are particularly key to that recovery.
I know this from personal experience, too: I am a resident of Watauga County, in western North Carolina, and I evacuated during Hurricane Helene after landslides severely impaired the roads around my home.
When disaster strikes
Here, in short, is what happens after a disaster.
Federal legislation from 1988 called the Stafford Act gives governors the power to declare disasters. If the president agrees and also declares the region a disaster, that puts federal programs and activities in motion.
Yet local officials are generally involved from the very start of this process. Governors usually seek input from state and local emergency managers and other municipal officials before making a disaster declaration, and it is local officials who begin the disaster response.
That’s because small and rural local governments actually have the most local knowledge to lead recovery efforts in their area after a disaster.
Local officials determine conditions on the ground, coordinate search and rescue, and help bring utilities and other infrastructure back online. They have relationships with community members that can inform decision-making. For example, a county senior center will know which residents receive Meals on Wheels and might need a wellness check after disaster.
However, small towns cannot do all this alone. They need FEMA’s money and resources, and that can present a problem. The process of applying and complying with the requirements of the grants is incredibly complex and burdensome. According to FEMA’s website, there are eight phases in the disaster aid process, composed of 28 steps that range from “preliminary damage assesment” to “recovery scoping video” to “compliance reviews” and “reconciliation.” Getting through these eight phases takes years.
Larger cities and counties frequently have dedicated staff that apply for disaster aid and ensure compliance with regulations. But smaller governments can struggle to apply for and administer state or federal grants on their own – especially after a disaster, when demands are so high.
That’s where regional intergovernmental organizations come in. Every region has its own name for these entities. They’re often called councils of government, regional planning commissions or area development districts. My colleagues and I call them RIGOs, for their initials.
What is a RIGO?
No matter the name, RIGOs are collaborative bodies that allow local governments to cooperate for services and programs they might not otherwise be able to afford. Bringing together local elected officials from usually about three to five counties, RIGOs help local officials cooperate to address the shared needs of everyone in their area. They do this in normal times; they also do this when disasters strike.
RIGOs operate throughout most of the U.S., in big cities and rural areas, in turbulent times and in calm. They serve different needs in different regions, but in all cases, RIGOs bring together local elected officials to solve common problems.
One example of this in western North Carolina is the Digital Seniors project, launched during COVID-19. Here, the local RIGO is called the Southwestern Commission. In 2021, the RIGO area agency on aging coordinated with the Fontana Regional Library to help dozens of elders who had never been connected to the internet get online during the pandemic. The Southwestern Commission used its relationships with the local senior centers to identify people who needed the service, and the library had access to hot spots and laptops through a grant from the state of North Carolina.
In rural areas, RIGOs work alongside regional business and nonprofits to allow local governments to offer regular services and programs they might not otherwise be able to afford, such as public transportation, senior citizen services or economic development.
Part of that work is helping member governments navigate the maze of federal and state funding opportunities for the projects they hope to get done, often by employing a specialized grant administrator. Each small local government may not have enough work or revenue to justify such a staff member, but many together have the workload and funding to hire someone specially trained to abide by the rules of funding from states and the federal government.
This system helps small local governments receive their fair share in federal grant money and report back on how the money was spent.
Transparency, technical compliance and action
Disasters rarely respect borders. That’s why governments generally work together to distribute grant money for rebuilding communities.
Similarly, after disastrous flooding hit Vermont in 2023 and 2024, another RIGO, the Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission, jumped into action. It quickly provided emergency communication to the 23 small villages and towns in its region and has since supported local governments applying for grants and reimbursements.
Rebuilding after a disaster is a long, arduous process. It begins after national journalists and politicians have left the area and continues for years. That would be true no matter how Trump restructures emergency aid: The damage is massive, and so is the repair.
For example, here’s how western North Carolina looks six months after Helene: Most businesses have reopened, most folks have running water again, and people can drive in and out of the area.
But many roads are still full of broken pavement. Mud from landslides presses up against the sides of the highway, and condemned housing teeters on the edge of ravaged creek beds.
It is, in other words, too soon to see the full impact of local government efforts to rebuild my region. But RIGOs across the region are hiring additional temporary staff to help local governments get federal money and comply with complex guidelines. Their support ensures that decisions affecting North Carolinians are voted on by the city and county leaders they elected – not decreed by governors or handed down from Washington, D.C.
Locally led rebuilding is slow and difficult work, yes. But it is, in my opinion, the most community-responsive way to deal with disaster.
Jaylen Peacox, a graduate student in public administration at North Carolina State University, contributed to this story.
Jay Rickabaugh receives grant funding from the National Science Foundation. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
Almost half of Scots say reaching net zero will improve their quality of life.
Almost half (44%) of Scots think that reaching net zero by 2045 would improve their quality of life – compared to just 1 in 10 who think it would make it worse – according to new official statistics published for the first time today.
The Scottish Climate Survey also found that almost three-quarters of those surveyed (72%) feel climate change is an immediate and urgent problem and almost all households have experienced a severe weather event in the past 12 months.
More than 4,000 adults across Scotland shared their views on a range of climate-related issues, including transport, nature, preparing for the impacts of climate change and home energy.
The survey found that a third of households (33%) were finding it difficult to afford their energy bills whilst more than four in ten (42%) said they were having to cut back spending on food and other essentials to spend more on energy bills.
People were also asked about their overall views on climate change and the impact of the transition to net zero. Almost half of adults (46%) reported feeling worried about climate change – with one in ten (11%) saying that their feelings about climate change had a negative effect on them most of the time.
Acting Minister for Climate Action, Alasdair Allan, said: “The findings from this survey highlight that people recognise the benefits that reaching net zero by 2045 will bring.
“However, if we are to persuade people to back climate action wholeheartedly, we must speak not only of the costs and challenges but also demonstrate clear and direct household and community benefits where possible.
“Whilst the powers over energy price setting and regulation are reserved, we continue to prioritise support for the most vulnerable households through access to long-term, sustainable measures with our energy efficiency programmes. We are also calling on the UK Government to introduce targeted energy bill discounts to support those who need it most.
“Scotland is now halfway to net zero and continues to be ahead of the UK as a whole in delivering long term emissions reductions. However in order to reach our target, we need to work together more effectively, at all levels of Government and beyond – and the findings from this survey help demonstrate that Scots not only understand the seriousness of the climate crisis – but want to see action.
“That’s why we will continue to drive climate action that is fair, ambitious and effective at addressing the scale of the emergency which faces us.”
LONDON, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading international residence and citizenship advisory firm Henley & Partners, in partnership with Andan Foundation, a Swiss non-profit humanitarian organization, is pleased to announce the call for nominations for the 2025 Global Citizen Award.
Created 11 years ago in 2014, the Global Citizen Award is a tribute that honors remarkable individuals working to advance any one of the global challenges affecting humanity today – challenges that transcend national boundaries and cannot be resolved by any one country acting alone.
The 2025 laureate will be selected by a distinguished, independent committee and honored at the Global Citizen Award ceremony. This is a gala evening event which forms part of the annual Henley & Partners Global Citizenship Conference which is taking place this year at The Dorchester, London from 2–4 November 2025.
Henley & Partners Chairman and Founder of the Andan Foundation, Dr Christian H. Kaelin, says the awardee’s work needs to demonstrate a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable social groups, particularly with a connection to migration-related issues. “The Global Citizen Award is open worldwide to those working in a field with a direct link to the issues they are looking to affect. The committee is looking for remarkable and inspirational individuals who demonstrate vision, courage, and innovation in driving global change, and whose actions and outlook contribute to a more just, peaceful, connected, and tolerant world.”
The selection process is based on a majority decision of the Award Committee. The award itself consists of a bespoke sculptural medal designed by leading Italian artist Antonio Nocera, an award certificate signed by the Chairman of the Global Citizen Award Committee, and a monetary prize of USD 20,000, which goes towards supporting the awardee’s humanitarian efforts. In addition, Henley & Partners commits to working closely with the awardee for a period of one year, raising awareness of their work and supporting the selected project through the firm’s network of more than 60 offices worldwide.
Since its inception, the Global Citizen Award has honored many remarkable individuals, including German entrepreneur Harald Höppner, who set up the refugee humanitarian aid project Sea Watch, Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of the Gift of the Givers Foundation, Africa’s largest disaster relief organization and Monique Morrow, Co-Founder of The Humanized Internet, a digital identity project that aims to bring hope to the estimated 1.1 billion individuals in the world who cannot prove their legal identity.
Diep Vuong, Co-Founder and President of the Pacific Links Foundation, was awarded for her work in Southeast Asia campaigning for the rights of those enslaved by human trafficking, while Prof. Dr. Padraig O’Malley received his Global Citizen Award in recognition of his work on conflict resolution and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, South Africa, and Iraq. Zannah Bukar Mustapha was recognized for the psychological, educational, spiritual and other developmental support provided to the children and widows affected by the insurgency in north-eastern Nigeria, and last year, Mohamed Nasheed, former President of the Maldives and the current Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, was acknowledged for his pioneering work as a human rights activist and advocate for climate action.
Reflecting on the award’s legacy and impact, Dr. Kaelin explains that the ideals of global citizenship have always been central to Henley & Partners. Through its collaboration with the Andan Foundation, the firm extends vital support to individuals displaced by conflict, war, and climate-related crises. “Each of our Global Citizen Award recipients has moved us with their courage to tackle challenges many consider overwhelming,” he says. “Today’s global issues go far beyond individual communities or nations. More than ever, it’s essential to support those who are actively creating meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable communities worldwide.”
Nominations close on Tuesday, 1 July 2025. You can submit your nomination online here or send it to gca@henleyglobal.com.
Media Contact
For further information, please contact:
Sarah Nicklin Group Head of Public Relations sarah.nicklin@henleyglobal.com Mobile: +27 72 464 8965
Temporary speed restrictions will remain in place at the site of a slip on State Highway 1 Brynderwyn Hills.
The slip on State Highway 1 Brynderwyn Hills on Sunday (20 April 2025).
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says the slip reduced traffic to a single lane for a short, 3-4 hour period on Sunday evening before the road was reinstated to 2 lanes with a temporary speed restriction still in place.
SH1 Brynderwyn Hills suffered significant damage from severe weather events in early 2023, resulting in severe underslips and overslips. A range of recovery and enabling works were then carried out, finishing last year, to help the road better withstand future weather events.
The work, which included soil nailing, mesh, drainage improvements and benching (levels cut into the hillside), reduces the likelihood of overslips by contributing to a more stable hillside. The wider road shoulder also provides space to clear any slips with less disruption to traffic, in the event one does occur.
Auckland and Northland Regional Manager Maintenance and Operations, Jacqui Hori-Hoult, says the slip highlighted the effectiveness of recent recovery works by minimising disruption to traffic.
“Keeping this key route open during severe weather events, like Cyclone Tam, was exactly what the recently completed recovery work was designed for.
“The benches caught falling trees and debris, preventing the majority of the slip from reaching the road, avoiding a full highway closure and ensuring we were able to maintain access for road users at all times across the busy Easter holiday weekend.”
Crews will continue to monitor the slip and work to remove the trees and debris on the benches above the highway will take place on Thursday, ahead of the long weekend.
Delays due to the temporary speed restrictions were minimal, even with an increase in traffic due to the holidays.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience as our crews worked hard across the weekend to keep traffic moving safely and efficiently across the region.”
Longer-term, a Brynderwyn Hills alternative will be part of the Te Hana to Port Marsden section of the Northland Corridor, made up of 3 Roads of National Significance (RoNS).
For more information about the resilience work, please visit:
For more information about the Northland Corridor, including Section 2 Te Hana to Port Marsden, which includes a Brynderwyn Hills alternative, please visit:
Beneath the surface of the Southern Ocean, vast volumes of cold, dense water plunge off the Antarctic continental shelf, cascading down underwater cliffs to the ocean floor thousands of metres below. These hidden waterfalls are a key part of the global ocean’s overturning circulation – a vast conveyor belt of currents that moves heat, carbon, and nutrients around the world, helping to regulate Earth’s climate.
For decades, scientists have struggled to observe these underwater waterfalls of dense water around Antarctica. They occur in some of the most remote and stormy waters on the planet, often shrouded by sea ice and funnelled through narrow canyons that are easily missed by research ships.
But our new research shows that satellites, orbiting hundreds of kilometres above Earth, can detect these sub-sea falls.
By measuring tiny dips in sea level – just a few centimetres – we can now track the dense water cascades from space. This breakthrough lets us monitor the deepest branches of the ocean circulation, which are slowing down as Antarctic ice melts and surface waters warm.
Dense water helps regulate the climate
Antarctic dense water is formed when sea ice grows, in the process making nearby water saltier and more dense. This heavy water then spreads across the continental shelf until it finds a path to spill over the edge, plunging down steep underwater slopes into the deep.
As the dense water flows northward along the seafloor, it brings oxygen and nutrients into the abyss – as well as carbon and heat drawn from the atmosphere.
But this crucial process is under threat. Climate change is melting the Antarctic ice sheet, adding fresh meltwater into the ocean and making it harder for dense water to form.
Underwater waterfalls around Antarctica carry dense, salty surface water into the depths of the ocean.
Past research has shown the abyssal circulation has already slowed by 30%, and is likely to weaken further in the years ahead. This could reduce the ocean’s ability to absorb heat and carbon, accelerating climate change.
Our research provides a new technique that can provide easy, direct observations of future changes in the Southern Ocean abyssal overturning circulation.
Satellites and sea level
Until now, tracking dense water cascades around Antarctica has relied on moorings, ship-based surveys, and even sensors attached to seals. While these methods deliver valuable local insights, they are costly, logistically demanding, carbon-intensive, and only cover a limited area.
Satellite data offers an alternative. Using radar, satellites such as CryoSat-2 and Sentinel-3A can measure changes in sea surface height to within a few centimetres.
And thanks to recent advances in data processing, we can now extract reliable measurements even in ice-covered regions – by peering at the sea surface through cracks and openings in the sea ice.
Openings or ‘leads’ in sea ice can reveal the height of the sea surface beneath. NASA ICE via Flicker, CC BY
In our study, we combined nearly a decade of satellite observations with high-resolution ocean models focused on the Ross Sea. This is a critical hotspot for Antarctic dense water formation.
We discovered that dense water cascades leave a telltale surface signal: a subtle but consistent dip in sea level, caused by the cold, heavy water sinking beneath it.
By tracking these subtle sea level dips, we developed a new way to monitor year-to-year changes in dense water cascades along the Antarctic continental shelf. The satellite signal we identified aligns well with observations collected by other means, giving us confidence that this method can reliably detect meaningful shifts in deep ocean circulation.
Cheap and effective – with no carbon emissions
This is the first time Antarctic dense water cascades have been monitored from space. What makes this approach so powerful is its ability to deliver long-term, wide-reaching observations at low cost and with zero carbon emissions – using satellites that are already in orbit.
These innovations are especially important as we work to monitor a rapidly changing climate system. The strength of deep Antarctic currents remains one of the major uncertainties in global climate projections.
Gaining the ability to track their changes from space offers a powerful new way to monitor our changing climate – and to shape more effective strategies for adaptation.
Matthis Auger receives funding from the Australian Research Council Special Research Initiative, Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science.
The Government must support Northland hapū who have resorted to rakes and buckets to try to control a devastating invasive seaweed that threatens the local economy and environment.
“The Government’s expectation that local Bay of Islands hapū fight a tsunami of caulerpa, a pest seaweed species, with garden rakes is unrealistic,” Labour biosecurity spokesperson Jo Luxton said.
“Government funding of $15 million to combat caulerpa in Northland is not enough. Tonnes of it have washed up on shores following Cyclone Tam.
“Caulerpa is a seaweed that smothers the seafloor and competes with other species for space. It could potentially devastate the local aquaculture industry, and stifle opportunities for the local Māori economy and jobs.
“Local hapū are crying out for government resourcing to control the weed but are being ignored. Instead, they must resort to rakes and buckets to clean up a multimillion-dollar mess.
“Overseas, infested areas have halved local fish stocks and heavily affected tourism jobs.
“Māori aren’t after compensation but want their efforts to be resourced and to be involved in decision making. By ignoring their calls, this is just another kick in the guts for Māori from this government.
“There are opportunities for the local Māori economy and jobs that could be lost because of this Government’s incompetent response,” Jo Luxton said.
The global wind and photovoltaic power generation capacities are projected to increase by over 10 percent and 30 percent, respectively, year on year in 2025, according to a report released on Monday.
The report, issued by the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization and the National Climate Center under the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), makes the first projections for renewable energy generation capacities both globally and in major countries, mapping the long-term potential and trends of renewable energy generation.
The research integrates meteorological factors into renewable energy generation forecasts, marking the latest progress in energy-meteorology collaborative research.
Currently, the global energy landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, with the proportion of new energy sources — represented by wind and solar power — continuing to rise steadily.
By the end of 2024, the total installed capacity of renewable energy sources such as wind and photovoltaics had reached 1.45 billion kilowatts, surpassing the installed capacity of thermal power for the first time in history.
Xiong Shaoyuan, deputy head of the CMA, said that the administration will adhere to an innovation-led approach to enhance the timeliness and accuracy of energy meteorological forecasts.
It will also accelerate the transformation of research findings into practical applications, strengthen joint research on key issues in the field of new energy meteorology, and work collaboratively on the development of relevant standards, Xiong said.
Covering period of Tuesday 22nd – Thursday 24th April – The Easter weekend was marked by severe weather across many parts of Aotearoa New Zealand. Cyclone Tam, the remains of a tropical weather system, arrived on our shores last Thursday bringing strong winds and heavy rain across the top of the country, resulting in power outages through Northland. Even the sheltered urban centre Whangarei was buffeted with gusts up to 96 km/h and exposed places recorded gusts well in excess of 100 km/h. Tam remained close throughout the long weekend, keeping a feed of warm but unsettled conditions across the country.
Intense thunderstorms moved across Auckland overnight Friday and during Saturday bringing large volumes of rainfall. Over 1000 lightning strikes were recorded in the upper North Island and Mt Roskill recorded 81mm of rain within an hour. The top of the South Island also experienced the impacts from Cyclone Tam with flooding in parts of Buller on Sunday.
MetService Meteorologist Michael Pawley details “The slow-moving nature of Cyclone Tam meant that the impacts from this system remained with us throughout the Easter Weekend. From Severe Thunderstorms to record breaking temperatures this has been a challenging weekend of weather for many parts of New Zealand.”
April maximum temperature records were broken in Whanganui and Palmerston North. Levin reached a sweltering 28.7°C, smashing the record of 25.7°C set in April of 1999.
This week, thankfully, sees a change in the weather with Cyclone Tam giving way to a period of more settled weather as high pressure builds across the country. As the winds swing from the warm north to the cool south, temperatures across the country will be dropping.
For those attending dawn services for ANZAC day on Friday, the forecast is generally one of dry but cold weather.
Michael continues “Time to bring out the woollen jumper again! It will be a cold start to the day on ANZAC day, especially compared to the recent warm nights. However, for many of us it will be a dry start to the long weekend.”
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $3,279,624.93 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in reimbursement for permanent repairs following Hurricanes Laura and Ida.
“These grants help return communities and classrooms to wholeness,” said Dr. Cassidy. “It’s a step forward for South Louisiana families and their communities.”
The City of Lake Charles will receive $1,681,034.13 in federal funding for permanent repairs to communication towers damaged during Hurricane Laura. The Jefferson Parish Public School System will receive $1,598,590.80 in federal funding for permanent repairs to Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies as a direct result of Hurricane Ida.
The Government is making more financial support available for eligible farmers in many parts of the North Island and upper South Island to help with essential living costs, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston and Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson say. “Rural Assistance Payments are being made available from Monday 28 April 2025 in 27 districts affected by dry conditions. We want to help eligible farmers whose income has been severely affected by drought-stricken conditions,” Louise Upston says. “We know farmers in these regions have been significantly impacted by low rainfall over recent months, and we want people to be able to access support when they need it “These Rural Assistance Payments are being made available until 28 October 2025, when farmer incomes are expected to lift.” Mark Patterson is encouraging farmers doing it tough to get in touch with their local Rural Support Trust to find out what help is available and to apply for a Rural Assistance Payment if they need it. “Droughts often have a sting in the tail with the cold tough winter months still to come. We know how hard it can be to recover from a drought, and we are here to support farmers through it,” Mark Patterson says. Farmers in the Northland, Waikato, Taranaki, Horizons (Manawatū-Whanganui, including Tararua), and the Top of the South Island (Marlborough, Tasman, and Nelson City) regional council areas can apply for Rural Assistance Payments.
Police are urging the public to prepare for the worst before heading outdoors this long holiday period following two land rescues in the Kaimai Ranges.
The first call for help came around 3.30pm on Friday 18 April, when Police were notified of two people having not returned from their hike.
The pair were located at around 7pm near a river that had flooded and blocked their exit.
Police kept in contact with the pair overnight before Search and Rescue, and Swift Water Rescue teams assisted them in getting back home safe the next day.
On Monday 21 April at around 6.45pm, Police were called to an area near Rataroa Stream where a hiker got stuck while walking a four hour hike. The person was located around two hours later.
Although we are pleased to have provided a swift response in both these incidents and help the three people return home safe, these incidents are a reminder to the public to prepare for any situation that may arise.
New Zealand’s environment and weather can be unpredictable, and with the recent wet weather, our rivers and streams are flooded, fast flowing, and high. It will take a few days for the rivers to return back to normal levels once the rain has completely stopped.
Your safety is your responsibility in the outdoors, by preparing for the worst-case scenario, you can enjoy your trip knowing you will be okay if anything goes wrong.
Even the most experienced people can get caught up in situations where they need assistance, and any day trip has the potential to turn into an overnight situation.
If you are going outdoors, no matter if it is hiking, hunting, or climbing, please follow the five simple steps of the Land Safety Code,
Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it. It is important to choose a trip that suits everyone in your group. When you are looking at options, make sure to think about everyone’s fitness levels and experience in the outdoors.
Understand the weather. New Zealand weather can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed. Weather can make or break a trip. It is one of the most important things to consider when going into the outdoors.
Park warm clothes and extra food. Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out. Any trip, even if it is short and easy, need preparation. Packing the right things can make trips safer and more enjoyable.
Share your plans and take ways to get help. Telling a trusted person about your trip details and taking a personal locator beacon can save your life. We all want our trips to go as planned – but sometimes they don’t. If you get hurt or lost on your trip, how would you get help?
Take care of yourself and each other. East, drink, and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together. The best way to enjoy your experience in the outdoors and make it home safely is to look out for one another.
Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres, and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.
If you have purchased a beacon, make sure to register it at www.beacons.org.nz.
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
ICYMI: In New Op-Ed, Padilla Outlines Bipartisan Approach to Mitigating Wildfire Risk
LA Daily News Op-Ed
LOS ANGELES — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Wildfire Caucus, published an op-ed in the Los Angeles Daily News highlighting his bipartisan push to address wildfires in the aftermath of the devastating Southern California fires.
In the piece, Padilla discusses the Senate version of the Fix Our Forests Act, which he recently introduced alongside Senators John Curtis (R-Utah), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.). The Senate version of the legislation would help combat catastrophic wildfires, restore forest ecosystems, and make federal forest management more efficient and responsive.
A list of Senate Fix Our Forests Act provisions particularly impactful for California is available here.
Full text of the op-ed is available here and below.
“California can’t wait for the political winds to shift. My bipartisan wildfire bill would save lives.”
By Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
No matter how many times you’ve seen it, nothing can prepare you for the devastation you find in the aftermath of a wildfire.
Nothing.
I’ve visited the Forest Service’s Incident Post in Quincy as fire crews battled the raging Dixie Fire in 2021.
And I toured what’s left of the Pacific Palisades and Altadena neighborhoods that were hit worst by this winter’s fires. What I’ve seen is heart wrenching.
Car wheels melted into the sidewalk.
A sea of embers and ashes, interrupted only by chimneys and fireplace mantels where family photos once rested.
In some cases, brick sidewalks and doorways that once led to baby cribs and kitchen tables, that now lead to nowhere.
No one could walk away after seeing what I’ve seen, year after year in California, and still deny the threat of climate change.
We have to do more.
That begins with listening to our climate scientists and working to reduce emissions to protect our planet in the long term.
But reducing emissions alone won’t save your house or keep your neighborhood from burning down.
As long as massive wildfires continue to burn, we’ll see those same greenhouse gases pouring out into the atmosphere — just as we did in 2020, when wildfires alone emitted enough to wipe out nearly 20 years of California’s emissions reduction progress.
This isn’t a choice between addressing short-term wildfire risk and combatting climate change. We must do both.
It may seem like an impossible task in our current political environment — Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House. That means we face an uphill battle to passing any law that address the impacts of climate change.
But whether it’s political division in Washington, or wildfires raging in Los Angeles — Californians can’t afford to wait.
Since January, I’ve convened a bipartisan group of senators from Western states willing to work towards a comprehensive wildfire bill that could pass both chambers of Congress.
It’s been hard, but I’ve been driven by that image I have of the Californians who would do anything they could to save their homes, their property, and their families.
That’s why, I was proud to announce our Senate version of the Fix Our Forests Act.
It starts with a basic premise: The status quo isn’t working. Wildfires are getting worse. To protect our communities, we have to reassess how we prevent and mitigate wildfires.
That means increasing the speed and scale of our prevention and mitigation efforts, while making sure no one exploits this crisis to compromise our natural resources.
We’ve worked to make sure our Senate bill will protect both communities close to forests AND those in non-forested, urban areas like Los Angeles and Santa Rosa.
Here’s how:
Our bill would allow us to responsibly speed up the removal of hazardous fuels from our forests that serve as kindling for mega wildfires. Think dry branches, leaves, and dead and diseased trees that can pile up and spread fires very easily.
It would make it easier for land managers and utilities to build “fuel breaks.” These strips of thinned out trees can serve like a gap in a long line of falling dominos which can allow firefighters to gain a foothold or even stop a growing wildfire in its tracks.
It would help neighborhoods become more resilient to wildfires, with guidance to help Americans build or retrofit their homes with more fire-resistant materials and landscaping plans. And it would allow for prescribed burns to proactively clear hazardous fuel — just as Native American tribes have done for countless generations.
Finally, it would create the first-ever Wildfire Intelligence Center to streamline our wildfire preparedness and response — similar to what the National Weather Service does for storms.
These are exactly the types of tools firefighters and state, tribal, and local agencies have been asking for.
That’s why our bill is already supported by Governor Gavin Newsom, CAL FIRE Chief Joe Tyler, California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot, and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, along with environmental groups like The Nature Conservancy, Audubon, the Environmental Defense Fund, and the National Wildlife Federation.
Of course, the Senate version of the Fix Our Forests Act may not stop every wildfire. Nothing could.
But if these measures can prevent just one more community from having to experience the same heartbreak felt by families in Santa Rosa, in Paradise, and now in the Palisades and Altadena, then our efforts will have been worth it.Alex Padilla represents California in the United States Senate.
New York, April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Value Line, Inc. (NASDAQ – VALU) announced today that its Board of Directors has just raised its quarterly dividend, which will be $0.325 per common share ($1.30 annualized). The new higher cash dividend is payable on May 12, 2025 to stockholders of record on April 28, 2025. The increase of 8.3% is the 11th consecutive yearly increase in Value Line’s dividend.
Value Line is a leading provider of investment research. The Value Line Investment Survey is one of the most widely used sources of independent equity research.
Value Line publishes proprietary investment research in separate print and digital formats.
Value Line provides these specialized services: a. Value Line Select – Each month, Value Line analysts recommend the one exceptional stock with superior profit potential and a favorable risk/reward ratio. b. The Value Line Special Situations Service – Each month, Value Line analysts recommend small and mid-cap stocks that hold the potential to transform your portfolio by delivering returns that are well above the market average. c. Value Line Select ETFs – Each month, Value Line analysts sift through the myriad investment possibilities to identify the one exchange traded fund that appears best positioned to outperform the market. d. Value Line Select: Dividend Income & Growth – Each month Value Line analysts make two stock recommendations that are expected to provide above-average current income along with appealing long-term dividend growth prospects. e. The New Value Line ETFs Service – includes data, information, and analysis on more than 2,800 exchange-traded funds (ETFs), to help subscribers select the best fit for their portfolios. f. The Value Line M&A Service – Value Line analysts highlight one company each month that is a candidate to be acquired by a larger entity at a material premium to the current stock price. g. Value Line Information You Should Know wealth newsletter – Value Line focuses on financial planning and investment issues that matter for today’s investor. h. The Value Line Climate Change Investing Service – Value Line analysts target a critical issue – climate change, which is expected to spur transformation in the global economy for decades to come i. Certain Value Line copyrights distributed under agreements including proprietary ranking system information and other information used in 3rd party products j. The Value Line Options Survey – information and ranks on more than 600,000 options on stocks covering 90% of the market. k. The Value Line Fund Adviser Plus – covers 20,000 funds, grouped into more than 30 Investment Objective Categories. Our proprietary Ranking System makes it simple to tell whether or not a particular fund is a worthwhile investment. Our approach helps to ensure that investors avoid funds with unsustainable short-term performance, and you can count on our Safety ™ rank to help manage your risk. Our professionally selected Model Portfolio names the best Exchange-Traded funds in eight key categories. l. The Value Line Investment Survey–Small& Mid Cap – print and digital financial information and quantitative analysis on approximately 1,800 companies with market capitalizations of less than $10 billion. m. The Value Line 600– in-depth, independent print research on 600 large and prominent companies n. The Value Line Investment Survey–Selection & Opinion – Value Line’s weekly economic and stock market commentary, four Model Portfolios, which are actively managed, updated each week, and always contain 20 equities each. o. The Value Line Investment Survey–Smart Investor– a digital service providing investment research covering large, mid and small-cap stocks comprising about 90% of the total U.S. stock market p. The Value Line Investment Survey–Small Cap Investor – digital financial information and quantitative analysis on approximately 1,800 companies with market capitalizations of less than $10 billion q. The Value Line Investment Survey–Savvy Investor – a digital package covering more than 3,000 large, mid and small-cap stocks r. The Value Line Investment Survey–Investor 900 – this digital service provides investment research on 600 of the largest cap stocks plus 300 small- and mid-cap stocks s. The Value Line Investment Survey–Investor 600 – In-depth, independent digital research on 600 large and prominent companies t. The Value Line Investment Survey–Investor 2400 – This digital service provides investment research for 600 of the largest cap stocks plus approximately 1,800 small and mid-cap stocks u. The Value Line Investment Analyzer – This digital only service covers large, mid and small cap stocks comprising about 90% of the U.S. stock market v. Value Line Investment Analyzer Plus – a digital service that provides complete stock analysis for approximately 6,000 equities w. Value Line Research Center – A complete, online investment research system that includes all the financial information and tools needed to structure a well-researched and diversified portfolio for stocks, ETFs and mutual funds x. Value Line Equity Research Center – A complete, online investment research system that includes all of Value Line’s equity research products needed to structure a well-researched and diversified portfolio for equities
Value Line’s products are available to individual investors by mail, at www.valueline.com or by calling 1-800-VALUELINE (1-800-825-8354).
Institutional services for professional investors, advisors, corporate, academic, and municipal libraries are offered at www.ValueLinePro.com, www.ValueLineLibrary.com and by calling 1-800-531-1425.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information In this report, “Value Line,” “we,” “us,” “our” refers to Value Line, Inc. and “the Company” refers to Value Line and its subsidiaries unless the context otherwise requires.
This report contains statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions (including certain projections and business trends) accompanied by such phrases as “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “will”, “intend” and other similar or negative expressions, that are “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Actual results for Value Line, Inc. (“Value Line” or “the Company”) may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to the following:
maintaining revenue from subscriptions for the Company’s digital and print published products;
changes in investment trends and economic conditions, including global financial issues;
changes in Federal Reserve policies affecting interest rates and liquidity along with resulting effects on equity markets;
stability of the banking system, including the success of U.S. government policies and actions in regard to banks with liquidity or capital issues, along with the associated impact on equity markets;
continuation of orderly markets for equities and corporate and governmental debt securities;
problems protecting intellectual property rights in Company methods and trademarks;
problems protecting confidential information including customer confidential or personal information that we may possess;
dependence on non-voting revenues and non-voting profits interests in EULAV Asset Management, a Delaware statutory trust (“EAM” or “EAM Trust”), which serves as the investment advisor to the Value Line Funds and engages in related distribution, marketing and administrative services;
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possible changes in the valuation of EAM’s intangible assets from time to time;
possible changes in future revenues or collection of receivables from significant customers;
dependence on key executive and specialist personnel;
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continued availability of generally dependable energy supplies and transportation facilities in the geographic areas in which the company and certain suppliers operate;
terrorist attacks, cyber attacks and natural disasters;
the need for changes in our business plans because of unexpected events that occur;
widespread illnesses which may drastically affect markets, employment, and other economic conditions, and may have additional unpredictable impacts on employees, suppliers, customers, and operations;
changes in prices and availability of materials and other inputs and services, such as freight and postage, required by the Company;
risk of inadequacy of our insurance coverage to compensate for potential losses;
potential impact of vendors’ consolidation;
other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to the risks described in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2024 and in Part II, Item 1A of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended January 31, 2025; and other risks and uncertainties arising from time to time.
These factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any of our forward-looking statements. Other unknown or unpredictable factors which may involve external factors over which we may have no control could also have material adverse effects on future results. Likewise, changes we make in our plans, objectives, strategies, or intentions, which may occur at any time in our discretion, could also have material favorable or adverse effects on our future results. Except as otherwise required to be disclosed in periodic reports required to be filed by public companies with the SEC pursuant to the SEC’s rules, we have no duty to update these statements, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks and uncertainties, current plans, anticipated actions, and future financial conditions and results may differ from those expressed in any forward-looking information contained herein.
Contact: Howard A. Brecher Value Line, Inc. 212-907-1500
HOUSTON, April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Weatherford International plc (NASDAQ: WFRD) (“Weatherford” or the “Company”) today announced it has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with AIQ, the Abu Dhabi-based artificial intelligence (AI) champion developing innovative solutions for the energy sector. This partnership is set to bring transformative efficiency to energy production, leveraging advanced automation, data-driven insights, and the power of AI technology.
The collaboration aims to integrate Weatherford’s world-class software and hardware solutions, including the Modern Edge suite, Unified Data Model, and WFRD Software Launchpad, with AIQ’s robust AI-driven systems. By combining these advanced tools, Weatherford and AIQ will enable operators to optimize their production workflows, reduce downtime, and significantly enhance operational efficiency across global oil and gas facilities.
Girish Saligram, President and Chief Executive Officer of Weatherford, commented, “We are excited to partner with AIQ to bring innovative, AI-driven solutions to the oil and gas industry. This strategic partnership allows us to deliver cutting-edge technologies that empower our customers to maximize their operational efficiency, enhance automation, and reduce costs. By combining our strengths, we are leading the way in helping operators modernize their workflows and achieve greater success in today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape.”
Magzhan Kenesbai, Acting Managing Director of AIQ, said, “This partnership marks another step in AIQ’s mission to build partnerships that accelerate the deployment of impactful AI systems across the energy value chain. By integrating our advanced AI-driven tools with Weatherford’s energy-specific technology, we are driving greater efficiencies to the industry through the development of scalable, automated applications. Together, we are set to empower operators to optimize their workflows, reduce downtime, and achieve unparalleled operational excellence.”
Key Highlights of the Strategic Partnership:
Modern Edge Integration: The partnership will combine AIQ’s AI technology with Weatherford’s Modern Edge, providing operators with the ability to scale their work processes efficiently while ensuring an economic return. This integration will empower customers to modernize their edge operations, facilitate autonomous production, and offer the flexibility to expand operations, all while optimizing resource usage and reducing costs.
Unified Data Model: Weatherford’s Universal Normalizer will work in tandem with AIQ’s capabilities to harmonize multi-asset data, combining operational and financial analysis into a unified, API-supported data model. This will drive smarter decision-making and streamline operations across facilities.
WFRD Software Launchpad: Through the WFRD Software Launchpad, customers will gain the ability to procure all of their software needs via a comprehensive industrial SaaS platform. This eliminates the complexity of managing multiple systems and vendors, providing a single point of access for all Weatherford and partner-built applications, while ensuring data security and autonomy within their own network.
By combining their strengths, Weatherford and AIQ will enable the energy sector to unlock unprecedented efficiencies, boost productivity, and reduce operational costs. This partnership is a significant step forward in Weatherford’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower operators to succeed in an increasingly competitive and data-driven industry.
About Weatherford
Weatherford delivers innovative energy services that integrate proven technologies with advanced digitalization to create sustainable offerings for maximized value and return on investment. Our world-class experts partner with customers to optimize their resources and realize the full potential of their assets. Operators choose us for strategic solutions that add efficiency, flexibility, and responsibility to any energy operation. The Company conducts business in approximately 75 countries and has approximately 19,000 team members representing more than 110 nationalities and 330 operating locations. Visit weatherford.com for more information and connect with us on social media.
Contacts For Investors: Luke Lemoine Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & Investor Relations +1 713-836-7777 investor.relations@weatherford.com
AIQ is an innovative global technology pioneer based in Abu Dhabi, dedicated to accelerating AI-driven advancements within the Energy sector, propelling it towards a sustainable future. AIQ solutions improve performance and efficiency; protect personnel, assets, and operations; and enable customers to meet their sustainability goals. As a committed contributor to realizing the UAE’s ambition to lead the world in AI by 2031, AIQ is playing a pivotal role in the AI ecosystem of Abu Dhabi, the UAE, and the global Energy sector. To find out more, visit: aiqintelligence.ae/
President Donald Trump has issued an executive order that would block state laws seeking to tackle greenhouse gas emissions – the latest salvo in his administration’s campaign to roll back United States’ climate action.
Under Trump, the US has clearly abdicated climate leadership. But the US has in fact obstructed climate action for decades – largely due to damaging actions by the powerful fossil fuel industry.
In 20 years studying attacks on climate science and the powerful forces at work behind the scenes, I’ve come to think the United States is simply not going to lead on climate action. The fossil fuel industry has so poisoned the well of public debate in the US that it’s unlikely the nation will lead on the issue in our lifetimes.
Australia, on the other hand, has enormous potential.
I recently visited Australia from Harvard University for a series of publictalks. This nation is very close to my heart. I trained as a mining geologist and spent three years in outback South Australia, before returning to academia.
The vacuum Trump has created on climate policy provides a chance for other countries to lead. Australia has much more to gain from the clean-energy future than it stands to lose – and your climate action could be pivotal.
The climate crisis: a long time coming
Scientists first warned against burning fossil fuels way back in the 1950s. When the US Clean Air Act was passed in 1970, the words “weather” and “climate” were included because scientists had already explained to Congress that carbon dioxide was a pollutant with serious — even dire — effects.
In the late 1980s, scientists at NASA observed changes in the climate system that could only be explained by the extra heating effect of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The predictions had become reality.
The scientists informed their managers of the risk of catastrophic damage if the burning of oil, gas and coal continued unabated. They even suggested the company might need a different business model – one not so dependent on fossil fuels.
But managers at ExxonMobil made a fateful decision: to turn from information to disinformation. Working in tandem with other oil, gas and coal companies, as well as automobile and aluminium manufacturers, ExxonMobil launched an organised campaign, sustained over decades, to block climate action by casting doubt on the underlying science.
They ran ad campaigns in national and local newspapers insisting the science was too unsettled to warrant action. They created “astroturf” organisations that only pretended to be green, and funded “third-party allies” to argue that proposed remedies would be too expensive, cost jobs and damage the economy.
The company funded outlier scientists to publish papers claiming atmospheric warming was the result of natural climate variability. They pressured journalists to give equal time to “their side” of the story in the name of “balance”.
Over the next three decades, whenever any meaningful climate policy seemed to be gaining traction, the industry and its allies lobbied Congress and state legislatures to block it. So, neither Democratic nor Republican administrations were able to undertake meaningful climate action.
While people were dying in climate-charged floods and fires, the fossil fuel industry persuaded a significant proportion of the US population, including Trump, that the whole thing might just be a hoax.
Rise up Australia
In a matter of weeks after becoming president, Trump pulled out of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming, shut down government websites hosting climate data, and withdrew support for research that dares to mention the word “climate”.
This has created a vacuum that other countries, including Australia, can step up to fill.
Few countries have more to lose from climate change than Australia. The continent has already witnessed costly and devastating wildfires and floods — affecting remote areas and major cities. It’s not unreasonable to worry that in coming years, significant parts of Australia could become uninhabitable.
Like the US, Australia has a powerful fossil fuel industry that has disproportionately influenced its politics. Unlike the US, however, that industry is based mainly on coal for export, which Australians do not depend on in their daily lives.
And Australia is truly a lucky country. It has unsurpassed potential to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy.
More than 15 years ago, Australian researchers in the Zero Carbon Australia project offered a blueprint for how the country could eliminate fossil fuel use entirely. Since then, renewable energy has only become cheaper and more efficient.
Across Australia, the share of renewable electricity generation is growing. Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland are vying for second place after SA. It’s fascinating to watch the National Electricity Market balance supply and demand in real time, where a large proportion of the electricity comes from rooftop solar.
For decades, the fossil fuel industry has told the public our societies can’t manage without fossil fuels. Large parts of Australia have proved it’s just not so. The rest of the nation can follow that lead, and model the energy transition for the world. Here’s your chance.
Over the past two decades, Naomi Oreskes has received grant funding from various governments and non-government organisations to support the research upon which this piece is based. She serves on the board of The Climate Science Legal Defense Fund, which works to protect the integrity of climate science, and climate scientists, from politically motivated attacks. The Fund is a registered 501 c(3) non-profit organisation, meaning it does not engage in political activities. She is also an emerita board member of Protect our Winters, a 501 c (3) that works with the winter sports community to educate people about climate change and the threat it poses to winter sports. Naomi serves on the board of the Kann-Rasmussen foundation (Denmark), a non-profit foundation that works “to support the transition to a more environmentally resilient stable, and sustainable planet”.
Naomi currently serves as a consultant to a number of groups pursuing climate litigation in the United States, and recently submitted an expert report to the International Court of Justice on behalf of Vanuatu. She also receives speaking fees and book royalties for talks and publications on the history of climate science and climate change denial. Co-author, with Erik M. Conway, of Merchants of Doubt (2010) and The Big Myth (2023).
overnor Kathy Hochul today announced $4.85 million in grants is being awarded to municipalities across the state to support the installation of electric vehicle chargers as part of the State’s Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Grants program. The funded projects support New York’s ongoing efforts to advance clean transportation, expand publicly available electric vehicle chargers, and help reduce pollution including greenhouse gas emissions for a cleaner and greener environment.
“My Administration is committed to advancing the transition to a cleaner and healthier future for our environment benefitting all New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Our continued investments in electric vehicle infrastructure encourages more drivers to switch to electric, reducing pollution and emissions across the State and improving the health and well-being of our residents and communities.”
The Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Infrastructure Grant program administered by the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) prioritizes clean transportation investments in communities most affected by pollution and climate change. The program includes a variable local match requirement based on the municipality’s median household income (MHI) and whether the ZEV infrastructure is located in a disadvantaged community, based on the disadvantaged communities criteria developed by the State’s Climate Justice Working Group. Of the awards announced today, approximately $885,000 were granted to municipalities located in disadvantaged communities in New York State.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “New York continues advancing the state’s transition to clean transportation with investments in municipal electric vehicle chargers to encourage the switch to plug-in hybrids and EVs. DEC’s Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Grant program is expanding New York’s EV charging station network and supporting municipalities statewide taking climate action, investing in electric transportation, and helping realize the clean energy economy of the future.”
New York State Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Through clean transportation initiatives such as DEC’s Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure program, the State is helping counties, cities, towns, and villages install more public charging stations for zero-emission vehicles across New York. Congratulations to these municipalities for their leadership and making it easier for residents and visitors alike to choose cleaner vehicles with the confidence they’ll be able to charge their cars where and when they need to.”
Assemblymember Didi Barrett said, “This funding will help New York’s smaller municipalities, in the Hudson Valley and beyond, be part of the state’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure network build out. The four new Level 2 electric charging ports in the Town of Hyde Park will reduce range anxiety for residents and visitors alike.”
State Senator Pete Harckham said, “Encouraging motorists to drive zero-emissions vehicles is the best way to ramp up our fight statewide against the climate crisis and improve public health. These new state infrastructure grant awards announced by Governor Hochul for EV charging stations show New York is committed to a steady and inclusive transition to a clean energy economy that will benefit residents in many ways. The partnership between the governor and the state legislature in making a transition to clean transportation is a strong one and will continue to make New York an environmental leader.”
2024 Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Grant Awards include:
Capital Region
City of Rensselaer – $233,000 for one DCFC pedestal
Finger Lakes
Village of Brockport – $188,825 for 10 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
Village of Dundee – $24,200 for four Level 2 charging ports
Town of Farmington – $225,620 for 24 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
Town of Huron – $43,200 for four Level 2 charging ports
Village of Interlaken – $124,470 for one DCFC pedestal
Village of Le Roy – $20,605 for four Level 2 charging ports
Village of Oakfield – $24,380 for four Level 2 charging ports
County of Ontario – $309,100 for 14 Level 2 charging ports and two DCFC pedestals
Village of Palmyra – $222,250 for two DCFC pedestals
Village of Warsaw – $148,500 for one DCFC pedestal
Village of Waterloo – $238,900 for 12 Level 2 charging ports
Long Island
Town of Huntington – $326,000 for four Level 2 charging ports and six DCFC pedestals
City of Long Beach – $296,080 for four Level 2 charging ports and two DCFC pedestals
Mid-Hudson
Town of Hyde Park – $32,480 for four Level 2 charging ports
Town of Orangetown – $46,352 for four Level 2 charging ports
Town of Putnam Valley – $29,822 for four Level 2 charging ports
Town of Shawangunk – $26,587 for two Level 2 charging ports
Village of South Blooming Grove – $250,000 for three DCFC pedestals
North Country
Town of Colton – $76,318 for four Level 2 charging ports
Village of Constableville – $21,222 for two Level 2 charging ports
Town of Diana – $159,150 for one DCFC pedestal
County of Essex – $55,008 for four Level 2 charging ports
Town of Jay – $206,403 for two Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
County of Lewis – $298,728 for two DCFC pedestals
Village of Lowville – $93,312 for 12 Level 2 charging ports
Village of Saranac Lake – $482,164 for 30 Level 2 charging ports
Southern Tier
Town of Danby – $11,400 for two Level 2 charging ports
Western New York
City of Dunkirk – $53,400 for 14 Level 2 charging ports
Village of Springville – $248,000 for one DCFC pedestal
Town of Tonawanda – $285,007 for 16 Level 2 charging ports and one DCFC pedestal
Village of Wilson – $49,648 for two Level 2 charging ports
More information about the DEC Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Grant program, as well as the DEC Municipal ZEV Rebate program, is available on DEC’s website. For questions about the Municipal ZEV program, email [email protected] or call DEC’s Office of Climate Change at 518-402-8448.
New York State’s nearly $3 billion investment in electrifying its transportation sector has supported a range of initiatives aimed to increase access to electric vehicles (EVs) and charging while improving air quality and health outcomes for all New Yorkers. These programs include today’s Municipal ZEV Infrastructure Program grants and many other programs, including EV Make Ready, EVolve NY, Charge Ready NY 2.0, the Drive Clean Rebate, the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program, the New York School Bus Incentive Program, and the Direct Current Fast Charger program. The State invests in charging infrastructure and EVs to benefit all New Yorkers, and its efforts have been successful at increasing the number of EVs and charging stations across all regions of New York – with, over 280,000 EVs on the road statewide and over 17,000 public chargers- more public chargers than any other state except for California. Additionally, there are more than 4,000 semi-public charging stations at workplaces and multifamily buildings across the state.
New York State’s Climate Agenda New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.
Time: 09:00 London | 17:00 Incheon Date: 22 May 2025 (Thursday) Event Language: English
Description
Cities face many critical challenges in accessing financial resources for adaptation and resilience projects, including for disaster response and preparedness. Among these are challenges with the capacity of cities to develop investible adaptation and resilience projects and implement technical solutions to climate hazards.
This one-hour webinar aims to provide attendees with an understanding of the landscape of urban climate finance, introduce the project preparation process, and share examples of successful implementation of adaptation and resilience actions in global cities. The session will also showcase tools available by the Cities Climate Finance Leadership Alliance (CCFLA) and its members that city and subnational governments can use to enhance their project preparation capacity and develop investible projects to enhance their resilience to climate hazards and disasters.
Hosted by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Global Education and Training Institute (UNDRR GETI), the webinar is open to local government officials and relevant stakeholders, especially those responsible for disaster and climate actions and seeking next steps towards accessing finance for implementation.
CCFLA is the main multi-level and multi-stakeholder coalition aimed at closing the investment gap for urban subnational climate projects and infrastructure worldwide, launched at the United Nations Secretary General’s Climate Summit in September 2014 and renewed at the United Nations Secretary General’s Climate Summit in September 2019. CCFLA provides a platform to convene and exchange knowledge among all relevant actors dedicated to urban development, climate action, and/or financing.
CCFLA’s 80+ members include public and private finance institutions, national governments, international organizations, NGOs, research groups, UN organizations, and city and regional networks that represent most of the world’s largest cities. CCFLA works across several key thematic areas including tracking urban climate finance, project preparation, urban adaptation and resilience finance, private sector mobilization, and public sector and enabling environments. The CCFLA Secretariat is hosted by Climate Policy Initiative (CPI).
UNDRR Global Education and Training Institute (UNDRR GETI)
UNDRR GETI was established in 2010 to develop a new cadre of professionals in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation to build disaster resilient societies. GETI has a global mandate to provide capacity building support to mainstream disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation into sustainable development; convene and support inter-city learning to strengthen resilience (Making Cities Resilient); and to provide capacity building and best practice sharing support to national training institutions working on resilience issues. Based in Incheon, the Republic of Korea, UNDRR GETI is also the global secretariat of the Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030).
The Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) is a unique cross-stakeholder initiative for improving local resilience through advocacy, sharing knowledge and experiences, establishing mutually reinforcing city-to-city learning networks, injecting technical expertise, connecting multiple layers of government and building partnerships. Through delivering a clear 3-stage roadmap to urban resilience, providing tools, access to knowledge, monitoring and reporting tools. MCR2030 will support cities on their journey to reduce risk and build resilience. MCR2030 aims to ensure cities become inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable by 2030, contributing directly to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG11) “Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable”, and other global frameworks including the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, the Paris Agreement and the New Urban Agenda.
EMA is hosting a Housing Resource Fair on Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Burke County at the following location: Burke County Office Park Auditorium 715 W 6thSt. Waynesboro, GA 30830 The Housing Resource Fair will bring together federal, state and local agencies in one place to offer services and resources to families recovering from Hurricane Helene. The goal of this collaborative effort is to help connect eligible disaster survivors with affordable housing along with valuable information and resources on their road to recovery. Survivors will meet with local housing organizations, property owners and landlords, as well as get information on the HEARTS Georgia Sheltering Program and U.S. Small Business Administration loans. The Housing Resource Fair is an opportunity for survivors to:
Explore affordable housing options and rental assistance programs. Meet with representatives from local housing organizations, landlords and property managers. Gain access to resources for displaced individuals and families. Learn from community partners about educational funding resources.
For FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, the Housing Resource Fair is an opportunity to give survivors a one-on-one experience: “We want survivors to know we are here for them and want to see the best outcome, which is moving into safe, sanitary and functioning housing,” he said. “We will walk them through their options to ensure they are aware of the resources that are available to fit their need.” Anyone affected by Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, whether they applied for FEMA assistance or not, is welcome to attend.
strong>FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky homeowners and renters who suffered uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from the February Severe Storms, Flooding and Straight-line winds now have a few weeks left to apply for federal disaster assistance. FEMA has extended the application deadline to Monday, May 25, 2025. FEMA assistance for individuals affected by the severe weather can cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits. Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA Individual Assistance cannot duplicate insurance benefits or other sources of assistance. To apply with FEMA:
Go online at DisasterAssistance.gov (fastest option); Use the FEMA App (available at the Apple App Store or Google Play); Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone, or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations: DRCLocator.
Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive technology and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.
ADVISORY – SCHUYLKILL COUNTY – Shapiro Administration Will Announce Opening of Next Round of Growing Greener Grants
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley will be at the site of a restored stream, the Swatara Creek Floodplain Restoration project, to celebrate Earth Day and announce the opening of the next Growing Greener Grant round.
Growing Greener is the largest single investment of state funds in Pennsylvania’s history to address critical environmental concerns.
WHAT: Celebrating Earth Day and announcing the opening of 2025 Growing Greener Grant Program applications.
WHEN: April 22, 2025 at 2:00 PM
WHERE: 40.55903, -76.39103; Whispering Pines Blvd (Behind the Boyer’s Food Market in Pine Grove)
For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s website, or follow DEP on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or LinkedIn.
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $21,879,841.94 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in reimbursement for permanent repairs and recovery efforts following Hurricanes Laura and Ida.
“This funding supports schools, hospitals, and airport infrastructure,” said Dr. Cassidy. “These investments help our communities recover and prepare for the next storm.”
Grant Awarded
Recipient
Project Description
$11,270,163.36
Terrebonne Parish School Board
This grant will provide federal funding for the replacement of damaged school property as a direct result of Hurricane Ida.
$1,239,204.18
Ochsner Clinic Foundation
This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the Kenner Ochsner Medical Office Building damaged by Hurricane Ida.
$7,071,039.26
Calcasieu Parish School Board
This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs at Barbe High School campus facilities damaged by Hurricane Laura.
$1,020,440.82
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to buildings damaged by Hurricane Ida.
