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Category: Environment

  • MIL-OSI Global: We’ve bred corals to better tolerate lethal heatwaves, but rapid climate action is still needed to save reefs

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Liam Lachs, Postdoctoral Research Associate in Climate Change Ecology and Evolution, Newcastle University

    The authors working in their ‘coral nursery’ in the Pacific. Liam Lachs

    Our research group has bred corals able to better survive marine heatwaves. Our work, now published in Nature Communications, shows that it is possible to improve coral heat tolerance even within a single generation.

    We did this using selective breeding: a technique used by humans for thousands of years to produce animals and plants with desirable characteristics. Selective breeding is how humans turned wolf-like dogs into St Bernards, chihuahuas and everything in between.

    Now, selective breeding is being considered as a tool for nature conservation, particularly for coral reefs. The Coralassist Lab (of which we are part) and the Palau International Coral Reef Center have been working on coral heatwave survival specifically. Our latest results are the culmination of seven years’ work.

    Marine heatwaves trigger mass coral bleaching and mortality, with 2023-2024 declared as the fourth global mass bleaching event. Assisted evolution methods — like selective breeding — aim to boost natural adaptation to buy time for corals under climate change.

    Yet the improvement in heat tolerance in our selectively bred corals was modest compared to the intensity of marine heatwaves expected in the future. While selective breeding is feasible, it is likely not a panacea. We’ll still need to tackle the cause of mass coral bleaching by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in order to mitigate warming and give assisted evolution programmes time to take effect.

    How to breed corals for heat tolerance

    The first step was to determine the heat tolerance of many potential parent corals on the reef. Then, we chose specific individuals to breed two separate families of offspring, selected for either high or low heat tolerance. We reared these offspring for three to four years until they reached reproductive maturity, and then tested their heat tolerance.

    Some of the selectively-bred coral at the nursery in the Pacific island nation Palau.
    Jesse Alpert

    We conducted selective breeding trials for two different traits, either the tolerance to a short, intense heat exposure (temperatures 3.5°C above normal for ten days) or a less intense but long-term exposure more typical of natural marine heatwaves (2.5°C above average for a month). This enabled us to estimate the heritability of each trait, the response to selective breeding, and whether both traits have a shared genetic basis.

    Selecting parents for high- rather than low-heat tolerance enhanced the tolerance of their adult offspring for both traits tested.

    a) Overview of the experimental design and examples of (b) Acropora digitifera parents and (c) their offspring at the nursery in Palau.
    Coralassist lab

    Heritability was roughly 0.2 to 0.3 on a scale of 0 to 1, which means about a quarter of the variability in offspring heat tolerance was due to genes passed from their parents. In other words, these traits have a substantial genetic basis on which natural and artificial selection can act.

    We measure cumulative heat stress and tolerance in terms of degree-heating weeks (°C-weeks), which reflects both how hot it gets and for how long. Given the trait variability identified in these particular corals, heat tolerance could in theory be enhanced by about 1°C-week within one generation.

    However, even this level of enhancement may not be enough to keep pace with ever more intense heatwaves. Depending on climate action, the intensity of heatwaves is expected to rise in the coming decades by around 3°C-weeks per decade, faster than the enhancement achieved in our study.

    Interestingly, corals selectively bred for high- rather than low, short-stress tolerance were no better at surviving the long heat stress exposure. With no genetic correlation detected, it is plausible that these traits are driven by independent sets of genes, and corals that are good at surviving the short sharp heat stress aren’t necessarily the best at surviving longer term marine heatwaves.

    This would have important implications, as work like this would benefit from cheap and rapid tests that can effectively identify heat tolerant colonies for breeding. However, if these tests can’t predict which coral colonies will survive month-long heatwaves, it presents a serious challenge.

    Coral fragments during a long-term simulated marine heatwave, with some remaining relatively healthy throughout (upper) and others bleaching (lower) or dying (not shown).
    Liam Lachs

    Scaling up selective breeding

    Since it is possible to selectively breed corals for increased heat tolerance, the next step is to conduct large-scale trials in the wild. This will likely require considerable numbers of selectively bred corals to be deployed, perhaps by directly seeding coral larvae on reefs, or planting corals reared in an aquaculture facility.

    For this to work, outplanted corals must become reproductive themselves and contribute to the wild population gene pool. Doing this at very large scales will be challenging, but it may not be necessary to replenish the coral coverage of large areas.

    Instead, it may be sufficient to create a network of fewer strategically located larval production hubs, containing selectively bred corals at high densities to maximise fertilisation success. These hubs would serve to seed other reefs and could provide further broodstock for targeted actions.

    A lot more research and development is still needed, with many critical questions remaining unanswered. How many corals need to be outplanted to have the desired effect? Can we ensure there are no trade-offs that could compromise populations (evidence so far suggests this is not a large risk)? How can we avoid dilution of selected traits once added to the wild? How can we maximise responses to selection?

    Given the pace of ocean warming, optimisation and implementation of assisted evolution will need to happen soon for them to have a chance at success, even if only on small scales. Above all, the survival of coral reefs still depends on urgent climate action.

    Liam Lachs received funding from the Natural Environment Research Council ONE Planet Doctoral Training Partnership (NE/S007512/1).

    James Guest received funding from European Research Council Horizon 2020 project CORALASSIST (725848). He is affiliated with SECORE International as a science advisory board member.

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

    – ref. We’ve bred corals to better tolerate lethal heatwaves, but rapid climate action is still needed to save reefs – https://theconversation.com/weve-bred-corals-to-better-tolerate-lethal-heatwaves-but-rapid-climate-action-is-still-needed-to-save-reefs-241298

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Issues at stake at the COP16 to the Convention on Biological Diversity – 14-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    The Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted in 2022, aims to drive global biodiversity conservation through 23 targets and four overarching goals. As COP16 approaches in October 2024, the study looks at overall progress in implementation since COP15 and examines the major issues at stake, including a review of the state of implementation at national level, establishing a financial mechanism and adopting a multilateral agreement on digital sequence information. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Giving First Nations names to our bird species is a lot more complex – and contentious – than you might think

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Garnett, Professor of Conservation and Sustainable Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University

    Shuterstock

    First Peoples’ names for animals and plants undeniably enrich Australian culture. But to date, few names taken from a language of Australia’s First Peoples have been widely applied to birds.

    About 2,000 Australian bird species and subspecies occur in Australia and its territories. However, just 35 of these have common names taken directly from First Peoples’ languages. These names are variations of just a handful of First Peoples words: galah, gang-gang, budgerigar, currawong, brolga, kookaburra, chowchilla, Kalkadoon and mukarrthippi.

    By contrast, many more bird names promote colonial power, by memorialising (mostly male) foreign explorers, naturalists, administrators or royalty – some of whom never even visited Australia.

    There is growing interest in the use of First Peoples’ words, as a global movement to decolonise the common names of species gathers pace. But as we and our colleagues explain in a paper published today, the practice is far more complex, and sometimes contentious, than it might appear.

    Budgerigar is one of eight First Peoples words used for Australian bird names.
    Shutterstock

    A bird by many names

    In Aoteoroa/New Zealand, many birds are known by their Māori names. Kiwis have never been known by any other name, and nor have kākāpō or kākā.

    It seems natural to assume using Indigenous names for our flora would help recognise First Peoples’ rights and knowledge, and their important role in Australian bird conservation.

    But we should proceed with both caution and respect.

    More than 250 First Peoples languages exist in Australia. This is unlike New Zealand where there is one Māori language (though many dialects).

    Most Australian birds occur on Country of more than one First Peoples’ group, and each group is likely to have at least one name for each species.

    The galah is a good example. For the first 100 years after Europeans arrived, naturalists most commonly used the name rose-breasted cockatoo.

    Gradually, however, the name used by the Yuwaarlaraay of north-western New South Wales – gilaa – took hold. In 1926, the Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union, now BirdLife Australia, adopted a variant of this, galah, as the official Australian name for the species.

    Since then, galahs have become deeply embedded into the national psyche. When Home and Away character Alf Stewart calls someone a “flamin’ galah” most Australians knows he is being uncomplimentary.

    Similarly, there could be no mistaking which species a survey respondent was referring to when they stated their favourite bird was a “glar”.

    But in the Kimberley region, the Gooniyandi peoples call galahs girlinygirliny. In the NSW Riverina, the Wemba-Wemba name is wilek-wilek.

    Galahs are known by myriad names.
    Shutterstock

    Likewise, the white-throated grasswren is known by the name yirlinkirrkkirr or yirrindjirrin in the Kunwinjku dialect. It’s also known as djirnidjirnirrinjken in the Kune dialect, from the Bininj Kunwok language group. The Jawoyn name for the same species is nyirrnyirr.

    The situation is even more complicated for birds shared with other countries.

    These multiple words for a species mean governments and other organisations could be seen as favouring one group over another if they recognise a particular First Peoples’ name.

    So sometimes it’s best to keep the English name, even though First Peoples’ names exist. This was the case with the endangered golden-shouldered parrot, known by Queensland’s Olkola people as alwal.

    The bird is highly significant in the Olkola creation story. However, a team working on the species’ recovery, chaired by an Olkola representative, decided to stick with the English name because neighbouring language groups refer to the bird by other names.

    Sadly, the parrots themselves no longer occur on the Country of some First Peoples, and only the name of the bird remains.

    Golden-shouldered parrots no longer occur on the Country of some First Peoples.
    Shutetrstock

    Protecting the secret and sacred

    The words First Peoples use to describe species may have special cultural significance.

    First Peoples’ names for birds, and other species, are often built around the birds’ relationships with people, kin and with Country. For example, the name may describe:

    • a connection between a person and a species
    • a group of people’s relationship with each other which is related to a shared ancestor
    • relationships between people and a sacred site or Dreaming track.

    Sometimes the names have sacred or secret meanings – and these can change with the place or with the speaker.

    For these reasons, First Peoples may not want names from their language to be publicly available or used in official documents without their consent.

    Permission is key

    There are cases where English names should and can be replaced by a First Peoples’ name.

    For example, in 2020 the bird now known as the mukarrthippi grasswren was recognised as a separate subspecies and needed its own common name. Australia’s rarest bird, it is known from just a few sand dunes on Country of the Ngiyampaa people in western New South Wales.

    Ngiyampaa elders together settled on the name mukarrthippi. It is a combination of Ngiyampaa words – mukarr or spinifex (the spiny grass in which the grasswrens live) and thippi which means little bird.

    Across Australia, 14 other bird subspecies have only ever been known from Country of a single First Peoples group. This means conversations with elders could be had about ascribing a First Peoples’ name to these birds.

    In other cases, language users from multiple First Peoples groups could decide together on a name.

    Where First Peoples offer alternative names for animal and plant species, governments should embrace the change. But no new First Peoples’ names should be adopted for species without explicit permission of the speakers of the language.

    Stephen Garnett receives funding from the Australian Research Council. He is affiliated with BirdLife Australia where he is a board member.

    Sophie is a proud Alywarr woman currently working at CSIRO

    – ref. Giving First Nations names to our bird species is a lot more complex – and contentious – than you might think – https://theconversation.com/giving-first-nations-names-to-our-bird-species-is-a-lot-more-complex-and-contentious-than-you-might-think-238432

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley Announce $37 Million in Federal Funds for Oregon to Replace Unsafe Drinking Water Infrastructure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 14, 2024
    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $37 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace lead and copper water pipes across Oregon that have been known to cause serious health issues.
    “The science is clear – there is no safe level of lead in drinking water,” Wyden said. “I am very grateful to see more than $37 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law ensure that Oregonians always have access to clean drinking water in our schools, homes, and places of work. This funding proves that investing in infrastructure means investing in the health and wellbeing of Oregonians for generations to come.”
    “Oregonians in every corner of the state should be able to turn on their tap without fear of lead contamination in their drinking water,” Merkley said. “These federal funds will allow for the replacement of lead pipes around the state and improve our water infrastructure systems—a top concern I hear about in the town halls I hold in every county in Oregon. I’ll continue to do all I can ensure every community in Oregon and across the U.S. has reliable access to safe, clean drinking water.”
    The federal investment is through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, and is intended to help replace all lead water pipes from Oregon’s water supply within the next 10 years.
    Wyden and Merkley have long been champions for more resources to address aging water infrastructure. In May, Wyden and Merkley announced $5.5 million to replace aging water delivery infrastructure in communities across Oregon. In addition, the senators have supported water pollution monitoring and wastewater upgrade projects for communities and tribes across Oregon. As chair of the Energy and Natural Resources’ Subcommittee on Water and Power, Wyden helped lead a coordinated set of hearings last year on drinking water issues to identify the federal and state jurisdictional areas that prevent addressing aging water infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $9.5 Million and Other State Assistance to SeaPort Manatee for Repairs After Hurricane Damage

    Source: US State of Florida

    PALMETTO, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $9.5 million to SeaPort Manatee to jumpstart its recovery and help repair impacted infrastructure following significant damage caused by Hurricane Milton. SeaPort Manatee is the primary deep-water seaport in Southwest Florida. It receives fuel, fruits and vegetables, appliances, construction materials, and wood for distribution across Southwest Florida and the Southeast.

    Following Hurricane Milton, initial damage assessments indicated potential losses of $225 million at SeaPort Manatee. While many of the port’s losses are insured, some components are not. Damage to the port includes the loss of 10 out of 13 on-site warehouses, 3 of the ten port-owned docking facilities, and widespread damage to port offices.

    “This action to get SeaPort Manatee back to full operations will benefit the people of Florida, ensure the hardening of our infrastructure for future disasters, and ensure normal life is resumed for Floridians as soon as possible,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Taking action to address these impacts now is imperative to keep Florida on the road to recovery.”

    This investment will include:

    • $5.5 million for emergency berth repairs and dredging in state waters;
    • $3.5 million for immediate security needs and access control; and,
    • $500,000 to support planning activities for fortifying port infrastructure.

    In addition to this funding, Governor DeSantis directed several state agencies to step in and assist the port to expedite recovery efforts. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will provide subject matter experts and skilled workers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will expedite all permits for the immediate rebuild of port infrastructure, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) will provide support in navigating the FEMA award process. The Florida National Guard will also provide personnel to reestablish perimeter security and assist in repairing the port fence.

    “With the major impact that seaports have on our state’s economy and the quality of life for our residents, it’s critical that we ensure our seaports are open and fully operational, particularly SeaPort Manatee given the significant damage they sustained following Hurricane Milton,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Thank you to Governor Ron DeSantis, our state agency partners, and all our seaport partners as we work together to ensure Florida’s seaports stay open for business.”

    For every state dollar invested in seaport infrastructure, the expected return on investment for the state is seven dollars in state and local taxes. In 2023, SeaPort Manatee supported 42,094 U.S. jobs, generated $275 million in state and local taxes, and contributed $7.3 billion in economic value to the U.S. economy.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why FEMA’s disaster relief gets political − especially when hurricane season and election season collide

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jennifer Selin, Associate Professor of Law, Arizona State University

    President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the effects of Hurricane Milton on Oct. 10, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

    Rumors and lies about government responses to natural disasters are not new. Politics, misinformation and blame-shifting have long surrounded government response efforts.

    When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston in 2017, for example, rumors and misinformation both originated from and were spread by government, news and individual user accounts on social media. And after Hurricane Sandy in 2012, rumors about the storm were so widespread that even CNN’s live coverage of the event was inaccurate.

    Those rumors don’t usually come from former presidents. Yet in the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton, former President Donald Trump spread falsehoods about the federal government’s response to the disaster. Misinformation on the topic became so widespread that the Federal Emergency Management Agency, known as FEMA, set up a webpage to debunk the rumors spawned by Trump.

    President Joe Biden responded angrily, calling the falsehoods that Trump and his followers spread “reckless, irresponsible” and “disturbing.” He also suggested Trump’s claims undermined the rescue and recovery work being done by local, state and federal authorities.

    Disaster relief often becomes political because so many people are affected – and because there is a lot of media coverage surrounding hurricanes, floods and other major weather events. Additionally, relief requires a lot of money and coordination by high-profile elected officials.

    The rhetoric around federal emergency management is made only more complicated because most people do not know that much about the federal law that governs disaster relief. Indeed, even state and local officials find navigating the details of the law and accompanying regulations difficult.

    And finally, the law’s design and the timing of hurricane season can lead to politicization. Elected officials – politicians – are always involved in coordinating government response efforts, adding a layer of politics to disaster relief. The fact that hurricane and election seasons coincide only heightens the politics of such relief.

    Former President Donald Trump saying falsely that the Biden administration “stole a billion dollars” meant for disaster relief and used it to help immigrants.

    Explaining government responses to natural disasters

    The Disaster Relief Act of 1974, as amended and now known as the Stafford Act, is the law that governs how the federal government responds to natural disasters and other emergencies.

    But the act does not guarantee federal assistance to the communities affected by hurricanes or other natural disasters.

    Instead, the governor of an affected state or the chief executive of an affected tribal government must ask the president for a disaster declaration. The request can be made before or after a storm hits but must show that the disaster is of such a severity and magnitude that the state, local or tribal governments cannot respond on their own.

    Responding to such requests, Biden issued declarations covering eight states before and after Helene. He also issued a declaration for the Seminole Tribe and the state of Florida in response to Milton.

    After the president issues a declaration, the federal government can begin to assist state, local and tribal governments. This includes coordinating all disaster relief assistance – from evacuations to recovery – provided by federal agencies, private organizations such as the Red Cross, and state and local governments.

    Federal assistance can be financial or logistical. It covers everything from help repairing roads and restoring utility services to providing assistance and services, such as temporary housing, legal services and crisis counseling, to the people who have been affected by the disaster.

    The number of federal agencies and employees involved in disaster relief is astounding. For example, thousands of federal personnel from FEMA, the Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Protection Agency and the departments of Defense, Energy, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Transportation are helping respond to Helene and Milton.

    Several state and local officials also play key roles after a disaster declaration. Each state’s governor or tribe’s chief executive serves as the leading official for coordination of state and federal efforts. That person also designates an officer to serve as a liaison between the federal government and the state or tribe. And in each affected community, a local elected official leads the response on the ground. This is usually a city or town’s mayor.

    Federalism in action

    Implementation of the Stafford Act requires cooperative, healthy relationships between the president, federal agencies and state, local and tribal governments.

    When done well, government disaster response is a prime example of what’s called “federalism” in action. Federalism involves the sharing of power between the national and state governments. The framers of the United States Constitution created this system of shared power so that the national government could solve coordination and capacity problems among the states, and the state governments could respond to the nuances of local circumstances.

    In response to state government requests in the wake of Hurricane Helene, for example, Biden directed federal efforts to help those most affected. The federal government’s response has so far included working with over 450 state and local officials to ensure that those affected by the hurricane have everything from housing assistance to financial support for medical and funeral expenses.

    Politics in the mix

    The very things that the framers designed the federalist constitutional system to do, however, can create opportunities for political manipulation. The Stafford Act creates a system of emergency management that is highly decentralized and responsive to local needs.

    But that decentralization also means that, because of their different perspectives, the officials involved in disaster response prioritize different things, which can lead to conflict.

    For example, various officials involved in the response to Hurricane Helene have advocated for federal resources such as money and personnel to go toward restoring utilities, law enforcement, fire, health, communications and transportation services. How can the national government possibly choose between all of these necessary services?

    Everything is made more complicated because, as studies have shown, on average, the officials in charge of making such decisions – elected officials and their appointees – have less experience in government than the career civil servants who work on a daily basis with the people affected by natural disasters.

    As a result, the Stafford Act’s decision to place elected officials and their appointees in charge of emergency management could reduce the quality of government response.

    Members of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue task force search a flood-damaged area in Asheville, N.C., in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on Oct. 4, 2024.
    Mario Tama/Getty Images

    Debating size and role of government

    Elected officials’ different political leanings add another wrinkle. Debates over disaster response often reflect larger political debates such as those over the size and role of government.

    The history of the Stafford Act provides an illustrative example. Traditionally, disaster relief was the responsibility of state and local government. But a series of natural disasters, including the Alaska earthquake in 1964 and hurricanes Betsy in 1965 and Camille in 1969, were so large in scale that the federal government had to step in and help.

    In the aftermath of Camille, accusations of racial discrimination in the relief process and partisan squabbling over who was to blame for the ineffectiveness of the government’s response to the disaster mounted. Media and congressional attention on government mismanagement of the relief effort created a window for the expansion of the federal government’s role in the process and ultimately led to the passage of the first version of the Stafford Act.

    Fast-forward 35 years and many of the same issues – racial discrimination, government mismanagement and politicization of relief – arose in 2005 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Media and congressional attention led to legislation that amended the Stafford Act and restructured FEMA and how the federal government responds to state and tribal requests for assistance.

    Trump’s lies are from the same playbook – false claims about money being diverted to migrants and that relief efforts are being used only to help areas where Democrats live.

    Yet the devastation left by Helene and Milton do raise questions about local and federal coordination in preparation for and response to natural disasters and has led to calls for Congress to pass reforms to improve equity, efficiency and effectiveness in government responses to natural disasters. Whether this reform is possible in such a contentious political climate remains an open question.

    Jennifer L. Selin has received funding and/or support for her research on the executive branch from the Administrative Conference of the United States. The views in this piece are those of the author and do not represent the position of the Administrative Conference or the federal government.

    – ref. Why FEMA’s disaster relief gets political − especially when hurricane season and election season collide – https://theconversation.com/why-femas-disaster-relief-gets-political-especially-when-hurricane-season-and-election-season-collide-241092

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Five people rescued in three separate incidents on Mt Taranaki

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are reminding anyone planning an adventure outdoors to plan for the worst, after a busy weekend rescuing five people on Mount Taranaki.

    The first call for help came about 4am on Saturday, when Police were notified of three people stuck on the mountain at an altitude of 2300 metres.

    “Time was of the essence to reach them as the temperature was in the negatives with wind gusts of 40-50kmh,” Sergeant Wade Callander said.

    Taranaki Rescue Helicopter assisted the Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue team in reaching the trio.

    One person had hypothermia and all three were assisted in walking to a nearby lodge, where Taranaki Search and Rescue was waiting to transport the party down the mountain to get medical attention.

    About 12pm, while that rescue was unfolding, Police were alerted to a personal locator beacon activation near the summit of the mountain.

    “We established one person had taken a 250-metre-long fall, resulting in a leg injury.”

    With teams from Taranaki Search and Rescue and Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue still involved in the first incident, teams from Whanganui/National Park Search and Rescue and the Ruapehu Alpine Cliff Rescue were called to assist with the second.

    The Ruapehu Alpine Cliff Rescue team was able to extract the person, who was flown by helicopter to a nearby lodge.

    The Taranaki Rescue Helicopter then transported the person to hospital for treatment for their leg injury.

    “As the Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue team were coming down the mountain from the second incident, they came across another member of the public in distress. They were underprepared for their intended route, and the team helped them walk down the mountain,” Sergeant Callander said.

    “Although we are pleased to have pleased to have provided a fast and swift response to help these five people get back home and safe, these incidents are a reminder to the public that the mountain is a dangerous place.”

    Climbing on Mount Taranaki requires experience, knowledge, and properly fitted and correct equipment.

    “Even the most experienced people can get caught up in situations where they need assistance.”

    Any day trip has the potential to turn into an overnight situation and those wanting to go on an alpine climb need to consider if they have the right equipment to keep them safe if something happens, Sergeant Callander says.

    To ensure your safety, make sure to consider the following precautions:

    • Choose the right trip for you – Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
    • Understand the weather – It can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.
    • Pack warm clothes and extra food – Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.
    • Share your plans and take ways to get help – Telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.
    • Take care of yourself and each other – Eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.

    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 you register it at beacons.org.nz.

    For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to Know Before You Go – AdventureSmart – NZ Search & Rescue Council | AdventureSmart

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Making another stride towards making India global leader in economy and frontline player in ensuring greener, cleaner planet, Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in Pune

    Source: Government of India

    Making another stride towards making India global leader in economy and frontline player in ensuring greener, cleaner planet, Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in Pune

    The Facility exemplifies how technological advancements in bioplastics can lead to economic growth: Dr Jitendra Singh

    India’s Bioeconomy grew more than $150 billion in 2023; expected to achieve $300 billion by 2030: the Minister

    Posted On: 13 OCT 2024 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

     Making yet another stride towards making India a global leader in economy and a frontline player in ensuring greener and cleaner planet, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (I/C) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today inaugurated India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in at Jejuri in Pune from New Delhi today. The facility has been built by Praj Industries.

    Addressing the audience, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “This ‘First-of-its-kind Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in India’ is a pioneering effort in developing indigenously integrated technology for the production of Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastic. This marks a pivotal development for India’s commitment to sustainable solutions. This demonstrates India’s resolve to transition from fossil-based plastics to eco-friendly alternatives, crucial for addressing the global plastic pollution crisis.”

    Speaking about India’s advancement in the field of science and technology, he said, “India has emerged as a highly alluring destination on a global scale, propelled by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary endeavour to establish the country as “Atmanirbhar”. Our Bioeconomy has grown more than $150 billion in 2023, and is expected to achieve $300 billion by 2030.”

    The emphasis on Green Growth in the Union Budget (2023-2024); Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to make India a ‘Net Zero’ carbon economy and ‘Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE)’ launched by the PM in October 2022. This will also enable dual goals of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make-in India’ with a foundational focus on biosafety, ethics and inclusive growth. He emphasised that the Union has approved the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy of DBT. The BioE3 Policy is an important step forward towards sustainable growth in the backdrop of climate change, depleting non-renewable resources and unsustainable waste generation.

    Dr Jitendra Singh further said, “India now ranks 12th in the world in biotech and 3rd in Asia-pacific. We are the largest vaccine manufacturer and the 3rd largest Startup ecosystem,” adding, the Biotech ecosystem in the country is emerging at a rapid pace with the setting up of 95 bio incubators and increasing numbers of Biotech Startups. The Biotech Startups have experienced remarkable growth, increasing from just about 50 in 2014 to over 8,500 in 2023. The rise of Biotech Startups is pivotal for our future economy. These efforts place India at the forefront of the global bioplastics movement, showing the world how biotechnology can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

     

    Speaking about the partnerships between industry, academia, and government, he said, it is crucial for translating innovative ideas into real-world solutions and fostering innovation through research and development. This facility symbolises a new chapter for India’s bioeconomy. It showcases our ability to lead in technological innovation and offers a sustainable pathway to reducing Environmental impact. He concluded by saying, “It is time for broader synergy among all professions to achieve the “Amrit Kaal” goals over the next 25 years for advancements in the biotechnology sector which underscores India’s potential as a global player in the field.

    *****

    NKR/DK

    (Release ID: 2064526) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Quarrying in the area of Androlikou, in the Paphos district, Cyprus – P-001994/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001994/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giorgos Georgiou (The Left)

    The quarrying carried out over the last 40 years in the Androlikou area, in regions that are part of the Natura 2000 network, has caused serious and irreversible damage to the environment. However, although quarry operators have a legal obligation to restore the environment, they have never done so.

    In 2017 and 2022 opinions were issued as part of an evaluation report by the Department of Environment. These clearly stress that other quarry zones outside the Androlikou area, less harmful to the environment and to people, must be considered. Ignoring the warnings, the Mines and Quarries Service of the Cypriot ministry announced a public contract for the conduct of a study to evaluate the effects of the possible creation of a new quarry zone in the Androlikou area. This development, which infringes European policies on the environment, will prioritise the profits of business groups, wreaking more destruction on the environment in a protected region and further degrading the quality of life of those living in the area, putting public health at risk.

    In view of this:

    • 1.What is the Commission’s position on the residents’ request that a new quarry in the region be refused permission, to avoid further destruction of the environment?
    • 2.What is its position on the taking of measures to restore the environment in the region, in accordance with European legislation?
    • 3.What is its view regarding the promotion of alternative solutions for the construction of marine and coastal projects?

    Submitted: 8.10.2024

    Last updated: 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Champions enhance ABC Borough’s Age Friendly status

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough’s reputation as an area where older people can live full, active, valued and healthy lives, has been further enhanced with the appointment of new Age Friendly Champions.

    Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy and Deputy Lord Mayor, Cllr Kyle Savage have been joined by Chair of the Environment Committee, Alderman Margaret Tinsley and Deputy Chair of the Environment Committee, Cllr Kate Evans as Age Friendly Champions for the ABC Borough.

    Last year, the Borough became an official member of the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities and the addition of two more Age Friendly Champions is a further reflection of the commitment from ABC Council in listening to the needs of the ageing population and providing effective advice, support and practical help.

    The four Age Friendly Champions have come together to highlight support to those pensioners who may be impacted by the forthcoming changes to the Winter Fuel Payments.

    At its monthly meeting in September, ABC Borough Council agreed to write to the Prime Minister urging the Government to reverse the changes to Winter Fuel Payments. The Council motion is also seeking assurance that, at the very least, the Pension Credit minimum income guarantee will be increased, ensuring that more low-income pensioner households become eligible for pension credit.

    Together, the Age Friendly Champions are calling on pensioners and also their family and carers, to check for Pension Credit status, which may allow them to receive the payment. Pension Credit checks can be made through the Age NI charity which has an online benefits calculator. Alternatively there is the Department for Communities’ ‘Make the Call’ service, which also lets people know what benefits they are entitled to.

    You can visit the Age NI website here – https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefits-entitlements/benefits-calculator/ or contact the Department for Communities’ Make the Call service on tel: 0800 232 1271

    A number of information events focusing on benefits and support are being held as part of Positive Ageing Month in the ABC Borough – for more information visit http://www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/PAM

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: What Is Blue Carbon?

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Sediment that accumulates in the seagrasses, mangroves and marshes can be analysed to help indicate changes in the environment over periods of time, ranging from the past few years to millions of years ago. The capacity of vegetated coastal ecosystems to sequester and store carbon in their sediments can be measured by nuclear and isotopic techniques.

    The IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories in Monaco use these elements to determine the rates at which organic carbon accumulates in marine sediments using sediment core samples from vegetated coastal ecosystems. Sediment cores are collected by using long plastic tubes that during sampling are able to preserve the layers of sediment accumulated over time.

    The naturally occurring radioactive isotope lead-210 (210Pb), in combination with some artificial radionuclides such as caesium-137 (137Cs) are used to determine the sedimentation rates in the sediments at timescales of decades – up to around 100 years, a period during which human induced impacts on the environment have dramatically increased.

    These techniques encompass radiochemical separation and measurements by alpha and gamma spectrometry adapted to each isotope. This is then combined with the measurement of organic carbon contents and its isotopes along the sedimentary record by mass spectrometry methods to assess the organic carbon stocks and burial rates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aberdeen locals urged to recycle their electricals

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    19 recycling bins installed across city neighbourhoods and local school electrical recycling educational tour planned.

    Aberdeen City Council today unveils its plans for a new local small electrical recycling project. Launched on International E-Waste Day (14th October), the project aims to raise awareness of the importance of recycling electricals and encourage residents across the city to get behind its drive to recycle their electricals. 19 striking, large, bright pink collection bins have been installed across Aberdeen neighbourhoods, providing locals with easily accessible options at community sports clubs and libraries, to safely dispose of unwanted electrical items.  

    This is one of over 40 UK projects funded by Material Focus, the not for profit leading the Recycle Your Electricals campaign, who have provided £32,000 to support this project. Aberdeen City Council are joining other projects around the country in making it easier for 10 million UK residents to recycle their electricals. The 19 large bins can be filled with small electricals, including mobile phones, tablets, household appliances, cables, and children’s electrical toys, anything smaller than the size of a standard microwave. Three additional bins will be toured around schools to help educate young people on recycling.

    Residents will be made aware of how and where they can recycle their electricals through information on leaflets and on eye-catching posters featuring HypnoCat. Keep an eye out for HypnoCat, the Recycle Your Electricals mesmerising pink, fluffy mascot, who is on a mission to hypnotise local residents into recycling their electricals.

    The aim of the nationwide Electricals Recycling Fund is to significantly reduce e-waste and its environmental impact by making it easier for consumers to recycle their electricals. The projects that have been funded by Material Focus include a variety of recycling methods, from kerbside collections to more drop-off points in schools, community centres, and bring banks. Overall there will be over 400 new collection points plus kerbside collections for 5.5 million UK residents.

    Recycle Your Electricals research has shown that 80% of consumers believe recycling is a good thing, and many of us already recycle things like paper and plastic. Research has also shown that most of us have unwanted electricals we want to get rid of. On average there are at least 30 electricals hidden away in drawers in UK homes, a total of 880 million items across the Uk  – with a simple repair many could be donated or sold to people who could put them to good use. And yet 39% of people bin electricals, rather than recycle or reuse them leading to over 100,000 tonnes of electricals thrown away every year. The aim of these projects is to overcome these issues by making it easier to repair, donate or recycle electricals.

    Aberdeen City Council Co-leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “When items can’t be repaired, donated, or reused it’s important to recycle them. The addition of these bins will help our citizens to easily recycle electricals.  

    “Following the fire at our Altens recycling centre, we know the damage electrical items can cause when not recycled safely. We’re pleased to have a new solution in place to reduce the amount of these items ending up in citizen’s bins.”  

    Net Zero, Environment and Transport vice-convenor, Councillor Miranda Radley added: “Unwanted electricals are one of the fastest growing types of waste in the world. When these items are incorrectly disposed of, we lose materials like aluminium and copper that can be used to make new devices.

    “We would like to extend our thanks to Material Focus for their support in delivering this project.”

    “We are pleased to support Aberdeen City Council’s project that addresses the pressing issue of e-waste.” said Scott Butler, Executive Director of Material Focus. “By investing in improved collection and drop-off services and exploring new recycling methods, we are taking a significant step towards creating a more sustainable future by making it easier for 10 million more people to recycle their electricals.”

    In celebration of International E-Waste Day (14th Oct) Recycle Your Electricals is launching The Great Cable Challenge, calling on all UK households to take part and collectively recycle one million cables, helping to reduce e-waste. Local residents can get involved in International E-waste Day locally by participating in Aberdeen’s electrical recycling project.

    To find your nearest recycling point search recycle your electricals.
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Enlight Announces the Full Commencement of Commercial Operation of the Solar & Storage Cluster in Israel

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Cluster includes 12 facilities, with a combined solar generation capacity of 254 MW and energy storage capacity of 594 MWh, and produces over 50% of the clean electricity in Israel’s newly deregulated power market

    Distributed generation facilities located in northern and southern Israel strengthen the energy and economic security of the agricultural communities involved in the Cluster

    TEL AVIV, Israel, Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enlight Renewable Energy (“Enlight”, “the Company”, NASDAQ: ENLT, TASE: ENLT.TA), a leading renewable energy platform, announces that it has completed the COD of its Solar and Storage Cluster (“the Cluster”) in Israel. The Cluster is comprised of 12 installations located in the northern and southern regions of the country, with a combined solar generation capacity of 254 MW and energy storage capacity of 594 MWh. Portions of the Cluster began commercial operation in 2023 and grid connections continued throughout 2024; this gradual COD process has been completed today.

    The entire output of the Cluster will be sold to Enlight’s supplier division, which markets the electricity direct to customers in Israel’s newly deregulated power market. This includes signing corporate PPAs with large industrial clients such as Soda Stream and Applied Materials, as well as sales to households and small businesses through a joint venture with Electra Power, in which Enlight owns a 35% stake. The Cluster’s generation volumes currently account for 50% of all clean power produced under the new regulatory framework.1

    The Cluster is expected to generate revenue of $34-36 million and EBITDA of $24-26 million in the first full operating year, before taking into account the additional margin generated by Enlight’s supplier division. The transition to a deregulated electricity market combined with the low production costs of renewable energy enables the Company to provide its customers with clean power at competitive prices, while at the same time yielding attractive returns for Enlight and its partners. Cluster installations have been built in cooperation with numerous agricultural communities in Israel, and partnership in the projects increases these regions’ energy and economic security.

    Gilad Peled, General Manager of Enlight MENA, commented, “Today we completed the commencement of full commercial operations at the largest group of renewable energy facilities operating in Israel’s deregulated power market. The Cluster will generate attractive returns for Enlight, while creating a stable and vital source of income for our partners in the agricultural communities of Israel.”

    1 Based on Company estimates and publicly available information.

    About Enlight Renewable Energy

    Founded in 2008, Enlight develops, finances, constructs, owns, and operates utility-scale renewable energy projects. Enlight operates across the three largest renewable segments today: solar, wind and energy storage. A global platform, Enlight operates in the United States, Israel and 10 European countries. Enlight has been traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange since 2010 (TASE: ENLT) and completed its U.S. IPO (Nasdaq: ENLT) in 2023. Learn more at http://www.enlightenergy.co.il.

    Contacts:

    Yonah Weisz
    Director IR
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Erica Mannion or Mike Funari
    Sapphire Investor Relations, LLC
    +1 617 542 6180
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s expectations relating to the Project, the PPA and the related interconnection agreement and lease option, and the completion timeline for the Project, are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible,” “forecasts,” “aims” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the following: our ability to site suitable land for, and otherwise source, renewable energy projects and to successfully develop and convert them into Operational Projects; availability of, and access to, interconnection facilities and transmission systems; our ability to obtain and maintain governmental and other regulatory approvals and permits, including environmental approvals and permits; construction delays, operational delays and supply chain disruptions leading to increased cost of materials required for the construction of our projects, as well as cost overruns and delays related to disputes with contractors; our suppliers’ ability and willingness to perform both existing and future obligations; competition from traditional and renewable energy companies in developing renewable energy projects; potential slowed demand for renewable energy projects and our ability to enter into new offtake contracts on acceptable terms and prices as current offtake contracts expire; offtakers’ ability to terminate contracts or seek other remedies resulting from failure of our projects to meet development, operational or performance benchmarks; various technical and operational challenges leading to unplanned outages, reduced output, interconnection or termination issues; the dependence of our production and revenue on suitable meteorological and environmental conditions, and our ability to accurately predict such conditions; our ability to enforce warranties provided by our counterparties in the event that our projects do not perform as expected; government curtailment, energy price caps and other government actions that restrict or reduce the profitability of renewable energy production; electricity price volatility, unusual weather conditions (including the effects of climate change, could adversely affect wind and solar conditions), catastrophic weather-related or other damage to facilities, unscheduled generation outages, maintenance or repairs, unanticipated changes to availability due to higher demand, shortages, transportation problems or other developments, environmental incidents, or electric transmission system constraints and the possibility that we may not have adequate insurance to cover losses as a result of such hazards; our dependence on certain operational projects for a substantial portion of our cash flows; our ability to continue to grow our portfolio of projects through successful acquisitions; changes and advances in technology that impair or eliminate the competitive advantage of our projects or upsets the expectations underlying investments in our technologies; our ability to effectively anticipate and manage cost inflation, interest rate risk, currency exchange fluctuations and other macroeconomic conditions that impact our business; our ability to retain and attract key personnel; our ability to manage legal and regulatory compliance and litigation risk across our global corporate structure; our ability to protect our business from, and manage the impact of, cyber-attacks, disruptions and security incidents, as well as acts of terrorism or war; the potential impact of the current conflicts in Israel on our operations and financial condition and Company actions designed to mitigate such impact; changes to existing renewable energy industry policies and regulations that present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to renewable energy projects; the reduction, elimination or expiration of government incentives for, or regulations mandating the use of, renewable energy; our ability to effectively manage our supply chain and comply with applicable regulations with respect to international trade relations, tariffs, sanctions, export controls and anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws; our ability to effectively comply with Environmental Health and Safety and other laws and regulations and receive and maintain all necessary licenses, permits and authorizations; our performance of various obligations under the terms of our indebtedness (and the indebtedness of our subsidiaries that we guarantee) and our ability to continue to secure project financing on attractive terms for our projects; limitations on our management rights and operational flexibility due to our use of tax equity arrangements; potential claims and disagreements with partners, investors and other counterparties that could reduce our right to cash flows generated by our projects; our ability to comply with tax laws of various jurisdictions in which we currently operate as well as the tax laws in jurisdictions in which we intend to operate in the future; the unknown effect of the dual listing of our ordinary shares on the price of our ordinary shares; various risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel; the costs and requirements of being a public company, including the diversion of management’s attention with respect to such requirements; certain provisions in our Articles of Association and certain applicable regulations that may delay or prevent a change of control; and other risk factors set forth in the section titled “Risk factors” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and our other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC.

    These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as may be required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A block on building hundreds of new homes in Norwich is set to be unlocked this week

    Source: City of Norwich

    Published on Monday, 14th October 2024

    The city council’s decision-making body, cabinet, will meet on 16 October to consider joining a company which can help to unlock the planning permissions needed for more than 2,000 new homes.

    Building these new residential properties has been blocked by a government intervention known as ‘nutrient neutrality’ which has caused the delays.

    Mike Stonard, leader of Norwich City Council, said: “We have been working really hard since the government introduced the issue of nutrient neutrality in 2022 to find an answer to how we can get new homes built in affected areas. 

    “The proposal to join Norfolk Environmental Credits Ltd (NEC Ltd), a joint venture between several local authorities in Norfolk, gives us the chance to sign up to a scheme that can help us get more than 2,000 homes built across Norwich.”

    The nutrient neutrality scheme was brought in by the previous government over growing concerns that building work was causing an increase in the pollution levels in our waterways and leaching our rivers of nutrients.

    As a result, very few planning applications have been approved in Norwich since the new guidance came in.

    This has caused serious disruption to housing development across the city resulting in more than 2,000 residential properties waiting to be built. For more information read the full report to be considered by cabinet on 16 October.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is Australia’s trade war with China now over? The answer might be out of our hands

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Jean Monnet Chair of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide

    YULIYAPHOTO/Shutterstock

    Finally, Australia’s rock lobster industry will be able to export to China again, following a deal struck on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Laos last week.

    It will take some weeks to finalise the paperwork, but Chinese diners can expect to eat our high-quality crustaceans as we devour our Christmas roast turkeys.

    The breakthrough brings a particularly nasty chapter in Australia-China trade relations to a close. Tariffs on rock lobsters were the only remaining major restriction of a raft of trade barriers imposed by China in 2020.

    It might be tempting to celebrate, but we should tread carefully. Our situation remains hostage to Beijing’s relationship with Washington. Whether Australia’s trade woes with China are actually over may ultimately be out of our hands.



    Read more:
    China removes block on Australian lobster, in last big bilateral trade breakthrough

    Australia’s reversal of fortunes

    The past couple of years have been a whirlwind.

    The Albanese government has seen China systematically undo the export restrictions it had imposed on Australia in 2020 – including on barley, wine, beef, and now lobster – without giving away much of substance in return.

    Yes, Australia suspended two cases it had brought against China at the World Trade Organization, concerning barley and wine duties China had imposed. But those cases can be resumed if the Chinese government backslides.

    China will resume imports of Australian lobster by the end of this year.
    Abdul Razak Latif/Shutterstock

    And true, the Albanese government did not oppose China’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership – an important regional free trade agreement of which Australia is a founding member. But neither did it endorse China’s bid.

    It seems we’ve come a long way since 2020, when China tabled its infamous “14 grievances” against Australia. This deliberately leaked document publicly criticised Australia on a whole range of fronts, including foreign investment decisions, alleged interference in China’s affairs, research funding and media coverage.

    A more sobering picture elsewhere

    This reopening of trade might make it seem like things are looking up for Australia. In some cases, our business community has bounced back with gusto, notably wine exports to China.

    Zooming out, however, paints a more sobering picture of global trade relations. In the near term, the decisions of our key allies – namely the United States – may come to matter more than our own.

    The Biden administration has long hoped to place a “floor” under America’s geopolitical competition with China. Neither side wants things to get ugly.

    But in Washington, strong bipartisan consensus remains that China must be confronted. The US has continued to take coercive actions against Chinese exports and investment.

    For example, the US recently imposed a 100% import duty on electric vehicles produced by Chinese-owned companies. Similarly, it imposed a 25% import duty on imports of Chinese container cranes. Strategic distrust will escalate no matter who wins the White House on November 5.

    This animosity is mirrored in Beijing. China’s security state is expanding ever more into business, while its private sector retreats. China’s own coercive activities are also escalating in regional disputes over the South and East China seas, as well as in its trade retaliations against Western markets.

    Widening tensions

    These tensions are also playing out in Europe and the Middle East. International relations scholars worry that the West must now confront an authoritarian axis comprising Russia, Iran, North Korea and China.

    China’s “no limits” partnership with Russia has spooked most European elites. Western sanctions on Russia, meant to erode the Kremlin’s war machine, are likely being circumvented by China’s unmatched industrial capacities.

    Iran’s military support for Russia supplements the Kremlin’s war-fighting capacities at Ukraine’s expense.

    Unsurprisingly, economic security concerns are rapidly eclipsing free trade considerations for the US.

    Advanced manufacturing capabilities – such as semiconductor production – are increasingly important strategic assets.
    genkur/Shutterstock

    When US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan introduced the 2022 National Security Strategy, he adopted a selectively restrictive approach he called “small yard, high fence”.

    He was talking about export controls and inward restrictions on investment, applied to high-technology products.

    Since then, the “yard” has grown wider, and the “fence” has expanded. More sectors and products are being thrown into the mix, from energy security, through critical minerals, to food production.

    The challenge with digital technologies, able to be used for both military and civilian purposes, is that the yard can be very large indeed.

    Middle power problems

    The US has the economic and military weight to confront China. As the European Union is learning, having the economic weight is necessary. But being politically united is essential, and they remain far from that.

    Australia is a middle power, without the necessary economic weight or military heft to confront China. That means we must support the rules-based multilateral trading system – preserving the authority of institutions like the World Trade Organisation (WTO) – to constrain the actions of the great powers and preserve as much of our open trade posture as possible.

    Washington, however, increasingly expects its allies to fall into line. How else can one explain Canada’s decision to follow the US and impose 100% import duties on electric vehicles produced by Chinese owned companies?

    Like Australia, Canada is also a middle power. It is also a strong supporter of the rules-based multilateral trading system. But Canada’s action violates WTO rules.

    The fact that Washington’s actions also violate these rules is taken for granted these days.

    Australia must pay attention

    Global trade cooperation is deteriorating, and the world is fracturing into two “values-based” trading blocs. While there could be positive upswings in our bilateral trade relations with China, the medium term trend is down.

    As Napoleon Bonaparte is reputed to have said:

    China is a sleeping giant; let him sleep, for if he wakes he will shake the world.

    China has changed, and the world with it.

    Australian business needs to pay attention. Our East Asian partners, notably Japan and South Korea, have long spoken of the need for a “China plus one” (or more) business strategy – making sure trade and investment is diversified into other countries, as well.

    Such diversification will be increasingly important in the years to come.

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

    – ref. Is Australia’s trade war with China now over? The answer might be out of our hands – https://theconversation.com/is-australias-trade-war-with-china-now-over-the-answer-might-be-out-of-our-hands-241117

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: OpenET: Balancing Water Supply and Demand in the West

    Source: NASA

    At the end of 2022, 65 percent of the Western United States was in severe drought, the result of a two decades long mega drought in the Colorado River Basin that had captured headlines around the world. 
    However, it was flooding, not drought, that was making headlines when we began our research for this story about OpenET, a revolutionary new online platform geared towards helping farmers and water managers monitor and reduce water use in watersheds where supplies were not keeping up with demand.  
    The start of 2023 brought flooding to many counties in California, leaving 68 percent of the state with suddenly little to no drought. And caused Forrest Melton, the NASA Project Scientist for OpenET and Associate Program Manager for agriculture and water resources with the NASA Earth Action program, to pause our video interview after a tree fell down outside his Bay Area home on a rainy day in March, 2023. 
    Coming online again after calling the fire department, Melton didn’t seem all too optimistic that the wet conditions would last. “California tends to swing between the two extremes of drought and flood,” Melton said. He referenced the 2016/17 winter which had particularly high precipitation but was followed by dry conditions during the following years, before the relief brought by the heavy rains, and flooding, in early 2023. 
    According to NOAA’s National Integrated Drought Information System it will take more than one wet winter to replenish groundwater in many parts of the western United States. Groundwater levels across the California Central Valley and many parts of the Ogallala Aquifer continue to decline. The need for better water management remains essential, and yet the data necessary to support new approaches has not been broadly available. 
    Enter the OpenET project, a multi-disciplinary, collaborative effort to make satellite-based evapotranspiration (ET) data available to the public. Melton describes the project as providing invaluable and scientifically robust data at all scales, “that can be used to support day to day decision making and long range planning to try to solve some really long standing and important water management challenges in the West.”

    Evapotranspiration is the combined process of evaporation and transpiration, both of which transfer water from the land surface to the atmosphere as water vapor. Evaporation transforms water from the surface of the ground or bodies of water into water vapor, while transpiration is water vapor that is evaporated from plant tissues and escapes through the stomata, the tiny pores in plant leaves and stems. It is a process that is happening all around us almost all the time, but because water vapor is invisible to the human eye, it is very hard to measure on the ground.  

    To understand the effect evapotranspiration has on a local water cycle, picture a large decorative fountain. Typically, these fountains recycle the same water over and over. As a fountain runs, water is pumped out of the fountain heads, falls back into the fountain’s basin, and then flows back through the pipe system before starting the process all over again. We can think of the water remaining within this fountain’s local water system as non-consumptive water use. Some water, however, will be lost from the fountain’s local water system by evaporating from the pool’s surface or mist from the fountain’s spray.
    Imagine the fountain also has lily pads growing in its basin. The lily pads will use the fountain’s water to survive and grow, losing some of that water to transpiration. The total water lost is evapotranspiration, and is considered consumptive water use, because it cannot be reused by the fountain. Tracking evapotranspiration can tell you how much water is removed or “depleted” from a local water system, and how much water needs to be added back in to support plant growth and maintain a healthy balance between water supply and water use. If too much water leaves the fountain, it will stop running. If too much water is added, it will overflow.  
    These concepts can be applied more broadly to the hydrologic cycle as a whole, and evapotranspiration data can play an important part in designing and implementing sustainable water management practices to combat larger issues like drought, as well as both short and long-term reductions in water availability. Historically, ET data have been obtained from ground-based instruments and methods, such as weighing lysimeters, which weigh soil and plants to track the water volume lost by evaporation or transpiration. Another common method is called eddy covariance, which calculates the amount of water vapor transported away from the land surface by wind eddies as they move across the land surface. But both are expensive and difficult to install and maintain, and measurements are only representative of a small portion of an individual agricultural field. It is cost prohibitive to collect these measurements over larger areas. 

    The OpenET team saw the important niche left open by traditional evapotranspiration measurement methods and filled it. They built upon decades of research funded by NASA, USDA and USGS and developed a new platform that can take easily accessible and already available data from satellite programs, like Landsat, and combine it with weather data to calculate the ET for every quarter acre of land. Satellites can record information like the Earth’s surface temperature and how much of the incoming light from the sun is being reflected back out to space. OpenET is able to use physically-based mathematical models to combine the satellite and weather data and output accurate data on evapotranspiration rates and volumes. 
    This information is then made easily accessible through OpenET’s Data Explorer, a free web-based tool that allows anyone with an internet connection to access the data OpenET provides. Users begin by selecting an area of interest from a map of the western United States that provides data at the satellite resolution of a quarter-acre, and also broken down into known areas of interest and individual agricultural fields, each color coded with a heat map of evapotranspiration. Cooler colors indicate higher rates of evapotranspiration while warmer colors indicate lower rates. Users can zoom into specific areas on the map, and with just a click, a chart pops up showing the evapotranspiration trends for a given area, for the current year and the past five years. 
    The chart can show monthly ET trends, useful for understanding seasonal fluctuations, and also cumulative trends, useful for understanding year-to-year changes in evapotranspiration. “The OpenET team took a user-driven design approach from the beginning, and each element of the Data Explorer and the open data services is there because a water manager or farmer asked for it,” Melton explained. As we played around with the map, it became apparent how much work was put into developing this project. Scientists needed to improve models and assess the accuracy of data, programmers had to develop the user interface and data services, designers needed to make the interface intuitive enough to be impactful, agriculture and environmental groups needed to help validate the model’s accuracy, and users of all types needed to provide requirements and then test the product to make sure their needs were actually met. 
    The OpenET consortium includes NASA, USGS, USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), Google Earth Engine, California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB), Desert Research Institute (DRI), Habitat Seven, Chapman University, Cornell University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln and close to a dozen other universities and experts across the U.S. NASA Ames Research Center and CSUMB have played key roles in the scientific and technical leadership of the effort from the outset, working closely with DRI, EDF and the recently formed non-profit OpenET, Inc. In addition, over 100 partners from the water management, agriculture and conservation community provided user requirements and assisted with the design and testing of the OpenET platform and tools.
    “OpenET would not be possible without the contributions of each one of those partners,” Melton said. “Both on the implementation side and those who are translating the data from OpenET into solutions to long standing challenges.” 

    Models like those built into OpenET can be extremely useful tools for understanding patterns in ET and water use, but are only helpful if their accuracy is known. The OpenET science team recently completed the largest accuracy assessment to date for field-scale satellite-based ET data, comparing the satellite data to ground-based measurements at more than 150 sites across the U.S. Led by John Volk of the Desert Research Institute, the study was published in Nature Water earlier this year. A key finding was that across all sites, an ensemble value computed from six different ET models performed the best overall, leveraging the strengths of each individual satellite-driven model. 
    However, the study also found that some models performed best for particular crop types or regions, which is important information for water managers and farmers who need the most accurate data possible. Publishing the results as an open access study with all data and analysis made publicly available was also important to build trust in the data. While the study highlighted some limitations of the models and priorities for future research, the rigorous and reproducible accuracy assessment helps to build user confidence that they can use the data, while being aware of the expected accuracy for different applications of the data.  

    OpenET has already contributed to one significant win for farmers that affects how water use will be monitored and reported in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 
    This inland river delta covers 750,000 acres and is an important water resource in California, but one where accelerated demand combined with habitat loss and water quality issues has led to major concerns. In the Delta, large portions of the agricultural land are below sea level. Levees protect the fields and contain the river channels that supply water for irrigation. In 2023, the state began requiring farmers to maintain a water meter or measuring device on each diversion, where water is diverted from a river for irrigation. However, this measurement proved challenging and costly as there are thousands of diversions in the Delta, and the measuring equipment was inaccurate and difficult to maintain in this environment. In addition, water users also had to pay for meters at the locations where water that drained from the fields was pumped back over the levees and into the river channels.

    “Mostly, what the state was interested in was the consumptive use: how much (water) was actually removed from the supply in that region,” Melton said. “So, it’s the perfect place for using OpenET because evapotranspiration really is the majority of the consumptive use in the Delta, if not all of it.”
    After the launch of OpenET, farmers in the Delta worked with the Delta Watermaster, the California State Water Resources Control Board, the OpenET team and the Delta Measurement Consortium to develop an alternative compliance plan that used OpenET data to help streamline the water use required reporting for this complex region. Once the alternative compliance plan was approved, Forrest Melton and Will Carrara of NASA worked with the state Water Resources Control Board, the Delta Watermaster and water management agencies, and Jordan Harding of HabitatSeven to implement this solution. The Delta Alternative Compliance Plan, also known as the Delta ACP, allows farmers to use OpenET data to estimate their water usage; enabling farmers to complete their use reports in a matter of minutes. 
    “It’s the first time that satellite-based evapotranspiration data has been automatically integrated with a state-managed water reporting system,” Melton said. 
    Last year, more than 70% of farmers in the Bay-Delta region chose to use OpenET and to report their water use through the Delta ACP website, and they expect this percentage to continue to increase over time. 
    “The best part is that it is saving farmers hundreds of hours on preparing and submitting reports, avoiding millions of dollars in costs for farmers to deploy and maintain meters, and giving the state consistent and reproducible data on water use that has been reviewed and approved by the water user,” Melton said. 
    According to Delta Watermaster, Jay Ziegler, this approach has a clear benefit in the unique water flow setting of the Delta. “In reality, OpenET – and the use of publicly accessible data measuring ET is the only way to really discern consumptive use of water in the Delta on a reliable basis,” Ziegler said. “Candidly, we don’t really have a viable “plan B” in the absence of applying Open ET for water use reporting.”

    Jay ziegler
    Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Watermaster

    As water scarcity is increasingly becoming an urgent issue all around the world, it’s easy to imagine how many countries could benefit from OpenET data. 
    OpenET’s first international partnership is led by Anderson Ruhoff, a professor in Hydrology and Remote Sensing at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, where his team developed an evapotranspiration model called geeSEBAL for Brazil’s Water Agency.
    Ruhoff learned about OpenET while he was in the US on a visiting professorship in Nebraska. He was intrigued and reached out to Melton who encouraged him to attend an upcoming conference in Reno, Nevada, where OpenET would be featured. The conference was due to start in just a few days time.
    “So I had to find a last minute ticket to Reno and I’m glad I bought it, because when I arrived there they invited me to join Open ET. It was quite a coincidence,” Ruhoff said, smiling as he remembered the spontaneous decision. “We adapted our model for the US and started to participate in their work.”
    In March, 2024, Ruhoff and OpenET launched an extension of the tool, called OpenET Brazil, with financial support from the Agência Nacional de Águas e Saneamento Básico (ANA), the Brazilian national water agency. The tool, called OpenET Brazil, will have similar goals as OpenET in the U.S., and the data collected will help improve Open ET’s accuracy overall.
    Melton feels this will be a “great test case” for both working with new environmental conditions (in Brazil there frequently is more cloud cover than in the US during key parts of the growing season) and also developing new collaborations.
    “The partnership will help us figure out how we can work with international partners to make the ET data useful,” Melton said. “The key aspect of our approach to geographic expansion is that leading scientists in each country and region, like Dr. Ruhoff, will lead the implementation, accuracy assessment, and the development of applications and partnerships for their country.”
    Brazil has one of the world’s largest sources of freshwater, the Amazon River, and yet it can still be affected by drought. This is partly due to the fact that deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest has an impact on the entire region’s water cycle. Trees draw water up from the soil and during photosynthesis they release vapor into the atmosphere. This water vapor will accumulate and form precipitation. Trees are “basically a huge water pump,” Ruhoff said, and the Amazon Rainforest is large enough that it helps to produce the rainy season. But when deforestation is allowed to happen over large areas, that mechanism is interrupted. As a result of this disruption, the dry season is predicted to intensify, becoming longer and dryer, which in turn can affect crop production in Brazil as well as the rainfall that is critical for sustaining water supplies in Brazil and other areas of South America.
    “Water doesn’t see borders. It doesn’t follow our rules,” Ruhoff said. “Deforestation in one place can affect people thousands of kilometers away.”

    Anderson Ruhoff
    Professor of Hydrology and Remote Sensing, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

    Studying evapotranspiration can reveal the impacts of deforestation with even more clarity. And importantly, it’s also public information. “So not only the farmers and water managers but every citizen can check how much water is being used in their area, especially during drought. It’s democratic information in that way,” Ruhoff said. “I think it’s important to have this information openly available and to try and reach as many people as possible.”
    Melton feels there’s the potential to expand the project, if more people like Ruhoff are there to lead the way.
    “There’s huge potential, but there do need to be stakeholders that come to the table and say that this is something that they’re interested in,” Melton said. “Water is so important and at times so contentious that it’s really important the data is seen as trusted. When there is a local leader, that substantially increases the likelihood that it will be trusted, and most importantly, used to bring people together to develop solutions.”

    Even when you live in a water-scarce region like California it’s easy to take water for granted. What platforms like OpenET can do for us, however, is make water, even in its most diffuse form, more visible to everyone.
    Written by Jane Berg and Rachel Sender, co-published with the Bay Area Environmental Research Institute
    To learn more about OpenET, visit https://etdata.org/
    Program Contact:Forrest MeltonNASA Ames Research Centerforrest.s.melton@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $21.7 million boost for local roads in South Australia

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government continues to support local governments across South Australia improve road safety and reduce long-term road maintenance, with $21.7 million flowing to 34 projects under the latest round of the Special Local Roads Program.

    Unique to South Australia, the program enables the state’s 68 councils to pool together a portion of their federal road funding – and distribute it through competitive grants.

    This supports the delivery of high priority projects that would otherwise exceed an individual council’s capacity – with $17.9 million from this round flowing to regional and rural roads, and $3.8 million to metro projects.

    Stretching from the Lower Eyre Peninsula to the Limestone Coast, projects will improve road safety, boost tourism access to key parts of the state, and help reduce congestion.

    Works will include resealing and reconstruction of roads, shoulder widening, and improvements to kerbs and gutters.

    This includes $993,000 to complete the third and final stage of the Billiatt Road reconstruction in the District Council of Loxton Waikerie.

    As the gateway to the Billiatt Conservation Park and the main tourism route in the region, the works will seal and widen the road from 6.2 metres to 7.6 metres to accommodate increased traffic, including road trains.

    Improving the safety of Hawker Street, Brompton is something the local community has long called for – with $600,000 flowing to the City of Charles Sturt to reconstruct the road, and to upgrade street lighting.

    The City of Holdfast Bay will receive $200,000 to improve the safety of the emu school crossing on Partridge Street, Glenelg and to upgrade the roundabout at Colley Terrace and Anzac Highway, which will reduce congestion.

    Nationally, the Albanese Government is delivering significant funding increases to support local councils deliver their priority projects. 

    The Roads to Recovery program is progressively increasing from $500 million to $1 billion per year, with South Australian councils receiving $395 million over five years – an increase of $153 million.

    The Road Black Spot Program is increasing to $150 million per year, and $200 million per year is available under our new Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program – with both programs open for applications year-round.

    For more information on the Special Local Roads Program, administered by LGA South Australia, visit: http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/members/infrastructure-and-assets/special-local-roads-program

    For the full list of 2024-25 funded projects, visit: https://www.dit.sa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/1396195/special_local_roads_program_2024-25.pdf

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:

    “The Albanese Government continues to turn national funding into local results, by partnering with local councils across South Australia to deliver their priority road projects.

    “This $21.7 million will improve the safety of local road networks across the state, making it easier to drop the kids off at school, and for tourists to experience everything that South Australia has to offer.

    “We know that roads across regional South Australia are not only under more demand than ever, but critical to keeping our supply chains moving – which is why the bulk of this round’s investment is targeting high-priority regional upgrades.” 

    Quotes attributable to SA Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, the Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP:

    “We welcome any initiative designed to help councils reduce the maintenance task on local government owned roads.

    “This innovative funding solution from the Australian Government will support councils in maintaining and improving South Australia’s critical local roads network – and that will provide a broader benefit that extends beyond individual council areas.”

    Quotes attributable to SA Minister for Local Government, the Hon Joe Szakacs MP:

    “South Australian councils, particularly smaller, regional councils, are constantly balancing service and infrastructure delivery against the growth of rates. 

    “Through these merit based grants councils have a chance to undertake important road improvements they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford.

    “This is a terrific initiative, unique to South Australia, that sees all three levels of government working hand-in-hand to deliver the best outcomes for South Australians.”

    Quotes attributable to Local Government Association South Australia President, Mayor Dean Johnson:

    “Councils do an incredible job improving and maintaining South Australia’s local road network, but it’s a costly process that’s reliant on support from other levels of government.

    “The $21.7 million allocated through the Special Local Roads Program this year – which the LGA is pleased to facilitate for our councils – will help enhance liveability in local communities and make our roads safer and more accessible.”

    Quotes attributable to District Council of Loxton Waikerie Mayor, Trevor Norton:

    “The Billiatt Road project has been ongoing for several years and we’re extremely excited to enter the final stage.

    “These works have been made possible by previous Special Local Roads Program funding and we’re grateful to again be a recipient under this latest round to complete the vital reconstruction of the road for our community and visitors to our region.

    “Once finished, Billiatt Road will be better equipped to handle increased freight and tourist traffic, making it safer for locals, workers and visitors travelling to and from the Riverland.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mount Fanjing in southwest China inscribed in IUCN Green List

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

    This aerial drone photo taken on May 4, 2024 shows a view of Mount Fanjing in Tongren City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    GUIYANG, Oct. 14 — Mount Fanjing National Nature Reserve in southwest China’s Guizhou Province has been officially included in the Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), said local authorities in Tongren City on Sunday.

    The Green List is a global program established by the IUCN in order to promote biodiversity conservation based on protected and conserved areas. It serves as a global standard for measuring the management status of such areas.

    The inclusion of the Mount Fanjing National Nature Reserve in the IUCN Green List signifies international recognition of its conservation achievements and its significant role in global biodiversity conservation, according to authorities in Tongren, where the mountain is located.

    The IUCN plans to announce the new list of protected and conserved areas included in the Green List for 2024 at the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16), which is scheduled to be held in Colombia in late October.

    Mount Fanjing is a World Heritage Site that covers an area of 775 square kilometers. It not only provides an important glimpse into geological evolution in southern China but also serves as an ecological security barrier in the middle and upper reaches of the Yangtze River.

    Mount Fanjing boasts a typical and intact ecosystem of the Central Asian subtropical primeval forests, with 7,925 species of wild plants and animals. It is home to many ancient relict plants and rare and endangered species such as Guizhou golden monkey and Abies fanjingshanensis.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Kiwi Art Trail takes kiwi conservation to the streets of Te Ika-a-Māui | Conservation blog

    Source: Department of Conservation

    By Erin Reilly, Save the Kiwi

    The Kiwi Art Trail hits the streets of Tauranga on Monday 14th October. Photo credit: Matter

    Forget rattling buckets for loose change on street corners; there’s a new fundraising initiative in town for kiwi conservation, just in time for Save the Kiwi Week (14-20 October).

    After a successful inaugural campaign in Auckland last year, the Kiwi Art Trail is back, bigger, better and … Buzzier?

    On Monday, the Kiwi Art Trail launched in Tauranga, kickstarting a six-month roadshow around Te Ika-a-Māui.

    The Kiwi Art Trail is a collection of 20+ kiwi sculptures that have been turned into bespoke pieces of art by talented New Zealanders, including Otis Frizzell, FLOX, Jing Liu, Milarky and Sarah Oostendorp.

    And the best bit? When the trail ends in March, the sculptures will be auctioned and proceeds will go towards kiwi conservation.

    “What kind of art and what artists are involved?” I hear you ask. Well, the trail includes an array of well-known and up-and-coming artists across multiple genres. There’s pop art, street art, floral art, surreal art … there’s even a quintessential Buzzy Bee crossed with a kiwi, designed by renowned artist duo Weston Frizzell (coming soon!).

    Buzzy Kiwi’ by Weston Frizzell. Photo credit: Matter.

    This is artist and actress Amanda Billing’s second year participating in the Kiwi Art Trail. She says:

    “The Kiwi Art Trail is a celebration of creativity and community,” Amanda says. “I feel lucky that I get to make a contribution to something meaningful through making art.

    “All of the artists embrace the project in their particular way, so following the trail when they’re all on show is exciting and inspiring. And the auction at the end is a nail-biter! The Kiwi Art Trail is a great initiative that really is win-win-win: our beautiful national apteryx icon wins through the auction winnings, and everyone who gets to see them out and about is reminded of how good art is for us – how it really does make our lives better.”

    Bloom Bird by Amanda Billing. Photo credit: Matter.

    One sculpture has been designed by 14-year-old Pakuranga College student Abby Taylor, who won a school competition run by principal sponsor Gallagher Insurance. Her design called “Wingless” was selected from more than 1,800 entries.

    “I drew inspiration from the Māori story about how the kiwi sacrificed its wings to protect the ground,” Abby says. “I incorporated wing bones and the letters ‘INRI,’ typically found on crucifixes, symbolising self-sacrifice.”

    Wingless by Abby Taylor features a kiwi skeleton on one side
    and a heavily bandaged kiwi on the other.

    This year, the trail isn’t heading to one but four locations: Tauranga, Napier, Whangārei and Auckland. This means there’s plenty of time for locals and visitors alike to get up close and personal with these beautiful, bespoke sculptures.

    And if you thought that wasn’t local enough, here’s the kicker. At every location, two local artists are participating too. Plus, proceeds from the sale of their sculptures will go to local kiwi conservation efforts.

    For more information about the Kiwi Art Trail, brought to you by Save the Kiwi and Gallagher Insurance, visit the website and follow the trail on Facebook and Instagram.

    Kiwi Art Trail dates

    • Tauranga: 14 October – 17 November
    • Napier: 23 November – 29 December
    • Whangarei: January
    • Auckland: February/March
    • Auction: late-March

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mount Fanjing in SW China inscribed in IUCN Green List

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    This aerial drone photo taken on May 4, 2024 shows a view of Mount Fanjing in Tongren City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Mount Fanjing National Nature Reserve in southwest China’s Guizhou Province has been officially included in the Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), said local authorities in Tongren City on Sunday.
    The Green List is a global program established by the IUCN in order to promote biodiversity conservation based on protected and conserved areas. It serves as a global standard for measuring the management status of such areas.
    The inclusion of the Mount Fanjing National Nature Reserve in the IUCN Green List signifies international recognition of its conservation achievements and its significant role in global biodiversity conservation, according to authorities in Tongren, where the mountain is located.
    The IUCN plans to announce the new list of protected and conserved areas included in the Green List for 2024 at the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16), which is scheduled to be held in Colombia in late October.
    Mount Fanjing is a World Heritage Site that covers an area of 775 square kilometers. It not only provides an important glimpse into geological evolution in southern China but also serves as an ecological security barrier in the middle and upper reaches of the Yangtze River.
    Mount Fanjing boasts a typical and intact ecosystem of the Central Asian subtropical primeval forests, with 7,925 species of wild plants and animals. It is home to many ancient relict plants and rare and endangered species such as Guizhou golden monkey and Abies fanjingshanensis. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ATF Assembles Federal Law Enforcement Teams; Provides Emergency Support for Hurricanes Helene, Milton

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    WASHINGTON – The federal government’s Emergency Support Function #13 (ESF #13) was activated to provide federal public safety and security assistance in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. ESF #13 is managed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on behalf of the Department of Justice.

    On Oct. 5, ESF #13 was activated to provide force protection for ESF #9 Federal Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) teams and ESF #8 Public Health and Medical Services missions following Hurricane Milton. ESF #13 is also positioned to provide direct federal assistance to Florida if needed. Since arriving in Florida, ESF #13 has:

    • Pre-staged 34 Law Enforcement Strike Teams (LEST) comprised of more than 440 federal law enforcement officers (FLEO) from 12 separate federal agencies, including ATF, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Bureau of Prisons (BOP), Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Federal Air Marshals (FAMS), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and U.S. Marshals Service (USMS). It is anticipated that more FLEOs will be requested to assist with response efforts.
    • Staged resources to provide law enforcement and security support for 22 US&R teams and two Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMAT).

    On Sept. 24, ESF #13 was activated for Hurricane Helene to the southeastern part of the United States.

    At its peak, ESF #13:

    • Deployed more than 30 federal LESTs consisting of 400+ FLEOs from 15 federal law enforcement agencies, included ATF, DEA, FBI, USMS, BOP, CBP, BLM, USFWS, CGIS, Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID), Department of Transportation OIG (DOT-OIG), U.S. Treasury Inspector General (TIGTA), Health and Human Services OIG (HHS-OIG), FAMS, and IRS.
    • Deployed to Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina for Helene recovery support.
    • Supported approximately 30 federal US&R teams from Virginia, Tennessee, Ohio, California, Texas, Indiana, Missouri, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada.
    • Deployed more than 40 K-9s to assist in searches.
    • Supported four Health and Medical Task Forces (HMTF) and DMATs in the Western North Carolina area.
    • Deployed approximately 10 peer support personnel from ATF and USMS.

    The federal government’s disaster response includes 15 Emergency Support Functions. ESF #13 coordinates the federal law enforcement response to any disaster requiring the federal whole-of-government response. In Feb. 2006, the Department of Justice was designated the ESF #13 coordinating department. In October 2008, ATF was assigned as the lead coordinating agency for ESF #13 on behalf of DOJ.

    [1:01 PM] Herman, Cara A. (ATF) ATF teams up with multiple agencies to stage resources to provide law enforcement and security support to FEMA’s ESF #9 Urban Search and Rescue teams.

    ATF teams up with multiple agencies to stage resources to provide law enforcement
    and security support to ESF #9 Federal Urban Search and Rescue teams.

    ESF #13 provides force protection for FEMA’s Urban Search and Rescue teams following Hurricane Milton.

    ESF #13 provides force protection for Federal Urban Search
    and Rescue teams following Hurricane Milton.

    ESF #13 provides force protection for a FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team in the southeastern part of the U.S. following Hurricane Helene.

    ESF #13 provides force protection for aUrban Search and Rescue
    team in the southeastern part of the U.S. following Hurricane Helene.

    ESF #13 continues to provide force protection for Urban Search and Rescue teams as they use drones to look for victims across the southeastern part of the U.S. following Hurricane Helene.

    ESF #13 continues to provide force protection for Urban Search
    and Rescue teams as they use drones to look for victims across
    the southeastern part of the U.S. following Hurricane Helene.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Reforestation Underway on NSA Washington’s East Campus

    Source: National Security Agency NSA

    As construction continues on NSA/CSS Washington’s (NSAW) East Campus, hundreds of native trees have been planted as part of the agency’s reforestation effort.

    Reforestation is the process of planting new trees in areas that have been disturbed by construction, or where there were few trees initially. The construction of East Campus required the removal of many trees that had been part of the site, in order to construct the utility infrastructure, as well as the new buildings on site.

    This reforestation effort is driven by NSA’s Environmental Management System Policy, which states that the Agency is committed to the establishment and maintenance of world-class environmental, safety, and occupational health programs, and that these programs are designed to protect the environment and health of the workforce, customers, and communities.

    “We believe it is important to be a good neighbor, so we worked to incorporate the requirements of the Fort Meade forest policy into our site layout and construction,” said Matthew Boren, chief of the Military Construction (MILCON) office within NSA’s Installation and Logistics (I&L) organization.

    Reforestation has benefits to both the environment and to the workforce.

    Environmentally, it improves and expands the natural habitat of birds and animals. A large portion of the reforestation occurred along the Midway Branch, where the reforestation trees expand the stream buffer and ensure that development does not encroach on the stream. Additionally, the trees help reduce the amount of stormwater runoff from the site, as well as improve the quality of stormwater that does leave. In turn, that protects the Little Patuxent and the Chesapeake Bay and the quality of those waters.

    Reforestation replants trees in a more natural environment and in larger numbers. This is different from landscape trees, which are standalone and singular in nature and do not provide the same habitat features, or quantity of stormwater support.

    To grow these reforestation areas, MILCON office partners with Occupational Health and Well-Being Services to enhance the NSAW campus, adding shade, storm water management, and improving the well-being of the workforce by creating a more relaxed atmosphere, according to Williams.

    Both the reforestation areas and landscape trees require care and maintenance, from normal mulching to evaluation by an arborist. Whether it is a new tree that does not thrive or an established tree that is causing issues for the surrounding forestation, they may need to be trimmed or replaced.

    I&L tries to plant a new tree somewhere close to the original spot, but in a better location, whenever one is removed.

    “Our goal is to be a great place for the next generations of Agency employees,” Boren added.

    Interested in learning more about joining NSA’s mission? Visit NSA.gov/Careers for more information. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NSA’s Morrison Center Earns Gold LEED Certification for Sustainability

    Source: National Security Agency NSA

    The Morrison Center, constructed on the National Security Agency (NSA)/Central Security Service (CSS) Washington East Campus, has received the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification — the first project on the campus to earn the designation.

    “The Morrison Center demonstrates that innovative design, functionality, and environmental stewardship can coexist harmoniously to create exceptional spaces for the benefit of both people and the planet,” said Randy Westfall, chief of Installations & Logistics (I&L).

    Recent awards bestowed upon one of NSA’s newest buildings is further cementing NSA’s Military Construction (MILCON) team as a leader in sustainable and innovative builds.

    “Obtaining LEED Gold is a notable achievement, demonstrating that our next-generation operational mission space has been built with attention to both the workforce space and the larger environmental impact of our expansion,” said Jeffrey Williams, the environmental engineer responsible for East Campus sustainability.

    Williams noted that the accolades not only highlight the building’s outstanding design and functionality, but also demonstrate NSA’s commitment to environmental stewardship and efficient resource management. “The Morrison Center boasts state-of-the-art insulation, high-performance windows, and efficient HVAC systems to minimize energy consumption and thereby reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” he said.

    LEED certification is the premier, globally recognized symbol of sustainable building design and construction. While all the buildings on East Campus are built to be LEED Silver, the Morrison Center is the first NSA-owned building to achieve LEED Gold, according to Williams. This certification signifies that the Morrison Center meets stringent criteria for energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable site development, he said.

    The facilities throughout the building feature low-flow fixtures to significantly decrease water usage, as well as use of water from the reclaimed water system in industrial sources, promoting responsible resource management, Williams explained. The structure prioritizes the health and well-being of its occupants by incorporating ample daylight, superior air quality control, and ergonomic design principles, he said.

    Additionally, the facility incorporates lush green spaces for storm water management integrated into the East Campus design, along with a rooftop garden and outdoor gathering areas. According to Williams, this was done to foster a connection with nature and provide a serene environment away from the mission tempo.

    Finally, during the construction — managed by U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) Baltimore District East Campus Integrated Program Office — materials were sustainably sourced. From construction to interior finishes, the building utilizes locally sourced, environmentally friendly materials with recycled content, minimizing the impact on natural resources, Williams said.
     
    Under LEED, an evaluated project scores points across six categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environment quality (IEQ), and design innovation. Certification is achieved by documenting compliance with requirements in each category.

    “The higher the degree of compliance, the higher the certification level,” Williams said. “Achieving LEED Gold demonstrates a high degree of attention to the sustainable aspects of the building’s construction.”

    The certificate marks the latest significant recognition captured by the state-of-the-art building since it opened late last year. The Morrison Center, which serves as the new home for the National Security Operations Center and the Director, also won the Association of General Contractors Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering and Collaboration Award and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence’s (ODNI) Intelligence Community (IC) Facilities Program of the Year.

    The Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering and Collaboration Award is a highly coveted honor presented annually to construction projects that demonstrate excellence and achieve success by implementing the principles of partnering.

    According to MILCON Chief Matt Boren, construction of the 843,000-square foot facility was successful due to six guiding principles established early on: putting the mission first, safety, operational readiness/schedule, quality, teamwork, and team experience.

    “This project showcases partnering at its finest,” Boren said. “Collaboration and communication among stakeholders and the team’s commitment to a ‘mission first’ mindset resulted in a facility of exceptional quality that will play a vital role in protecting our national security for decades to come.”

    The IC Facilities Program of the Year award recognizes buildings that demonstrate excellence in facility management, maintenance, and operations. The Morrison Center surpassed other facilities projects in the IC by implementing cutting-edge technologies and systems that optimize energy consumption, enhance occupant comfort, and streamline maintenance processes, Boren said.

    By employing intelligent building automation, advanced energy management systems, and efficient waste management strategies, the facility showcases a commitment to operational efficiency and sustainable practices, Boren said.

    The Morrison Center is a testament to the possibilities of sustainable architecture and design, according to Westfall.

    “The receipt of these awards solidifies NSA’s position as a trailblazer in the IC,” Westfall said. “By combining architectural ingenuity, operational excellence, and environmental leadership, this extraordinary structure has set new benchmarks for sustainable building practices.”

    As I&L looks to the future of the East Campus, the Morrison Center stands as an inspiration for architects, developers, and facility managers worldwide, Westfall explained.

    MILCON is already applying the lessons learned in collaboration and design to create future structures on East Campus.

    “Both the Chiari Center and the Kenny Center are being constructed with the goal to further establish the East Campus as the global state-of-the-art IC campus,” Westfall said.
     

    Interested in learning more about joining NSA’s mission? Visit NSA.gov/Careers for more information. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: WATER SAFETY – Key initiatives funded around the country to help reduce harm on the water – UPDATED

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Just under three quarters of a million dollars has been allocated to 29 programmes supporting safer boating up and down New Zealand. 
    Tragically, on average 18 people a year lose their lives in recreational craft incidents. This winter has been a stark reminder of the dangers on the water, with eight people losing their lives in four separate incidents since mid-July.
    Maritime NZ Director, Kirstie Hewlett says “getting out on the water is a key part of life in New Zealand, and the recreational craft sector want people to not only enjoy the water, but be well informed about the risks, understand what can go wrong, and to come home safe.”
    Approximately 1.7 million people in Aotearoa undertake activities on the water each year. Through the grant funding Maritime NZ looks to work with partners who can reach these recreational craft users, particularly high risk users, and deliver initiatives that can have a real impact on reducing harm on the water. A key requirement of the funding this year was that applicants could demonstrate how their initiatives delivered the outcomes in the Recreational Craft Strategy, developed by the Safer Boating Forum.
    “The recreational sector is broad, from stand up paddle boards to high powered motorboats. This funding goes to organisations right across the sector who have highly skilled and talented people that want to improve the knowledge of those who enjoy being out in the water,” she says.
    Funding will go to a range of different regional councils as well as national bodies. Some of the larger grants have gone towards supporting Coastguard.
    Among the initiatives that have secured funding are Coastguard’s Old4New lifejacket upgrade programme, as well as its bar crossing seminars; Waka Ama NZ, to build on the culture of water safety for waka ama; and Northland Regional Council’s Nobody’s Stronger Than Tangaroa campaign. Tasman District Council has received funding to appoint an Iwi Launch Warden in a remote region of Golden Bay, where there is an increased presence of recreational craft users in the holiday period.
    From spring through to Easter, many people in New Zealand enjoy the good weather out on the water. The team at Maritime NZ and its partners hope they will check out the programmes and initiatives on offer to improve their knowledge and safety skills on the water. 
    Successful recipients:
    Council / Organisation: Bay of Plenty Regional Council Programme: Kia marutau ki te wai Description: Continuation of Safer Boating Education to Maori and Pasifika to address harm and reduce fatalities by giving them access to boating education. Funding Approved: $15,000
    Council / Organisation: Bay of Plenty Regional Council Programme: Safety is our Wai Description: Continuation of on water and boat ramp education Funding Approved: $60,000
    Council / Organisation: Buller District Council Programme: Understand – Monitor – Inform Description: New Programme to deliver a West Coast regional wide safer boating education and interaction programme. Funding Approved: $7,356
    Council / Organisation: Canoe Racing New Zealand Programme: Try-Learn-Explore Description: A programme specifically focussed on safe paddling practises, and increasing knowledge and awareness of conditions. Funding Approved: $15,000
    Council / Organisation: Coastguard New Zealand Tautiaki Moana Aotearoa Programme: Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade Campaign Description: Continuation of the Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade campaign offering discounted lifejackets and PFD’s to those who upgrade their old or damaged lifejackets across NZ. Funding Approved: $80,000
    Council / Organisation: Coastguard NZ Programme: Ko Tangata Moana Description: Continuation of programme to provide education and skills to recreational craft users of Māori, Pasifika and Asian descent. Funding Approved: $90,000
    Council / Organisation: Environment Canterbury Programme: Canterbury Safe Boating Programme Description: Continuation of programme to educate safer boating on-water and at boat ramps. Funding Approved: $45,000
    Council / Organisation: Environment Southland Programme: Environment Southland Boating Safety Program Description: Continuation of existing programme to deliver consistent boating safety education to recreational boating operators on water and on boat ramps. Funding Approved: $15,000
    Council / Organisation: Gisborne District Council Programme: Tairāwhiti Haumaru Moana Description: Continuation of promoting safer boating throughout the region, particularly in more isolated and remote coastal communities in partnership with Māori Wardens. Funding Approved: $32,000
    Council / Organisation: Greater Wellington Regional Council Programme: Be Responsibility (for actions/for safety) Description: Continuation of nationally consistent safe boating messages with a strong education push and basic messaging. Funding Approved: $30,000
    Council / Organisation: Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Programme: Hawke’s Bay Safer Boating Programme Description: Continuation of education program of delivering Safer Boating Education to high risk communities. Funding Approved: $10,500
    Council / Organisation: Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers (KASK) Programme: KayakSafe NZ Description: Continuation of delivery of key kayaking safety messages through a variety of channels. Funding Approved: $7,000
    Council / Organisation: Marlborough District Council Programme: Marlborough Boating Safety Workshop Description: Continuing of educating theory and practical boat safety to recreational craft users. Funding Approved: $15,000
    Council / Organisation: Nelson City Council Programme: Maritime Safety Internship Description: Continuation of increasing safety education and compliance for Nelson waters Funding Approved: $16,265
    Council / Organisation: Nelson City Council/Tasman District Council Programme: Sup Water Safety Course Description: Continuation of programme to educate SUP users on safety and help develop skills about informed decision making in dynamic environments. Funding Approved: $5,920
    Council / Organisation: New Zealand Stand Up Paddling Inc. (NZSUP) Programme: SUP SAFE Description: Continuation of campaign targeted at stand up paddle boarders to increase safety behaviours. Funding Approved: $16,600
    Council / Organisation: New Zealand Sport Fishing Council Inc. Programme: Coasters and Conversations – Introducing water safety to seasoned fishos and the next generation Description: New initiative that implements targeted messages that promote water safety. Funding Approved: $10,000
    Council / Organisation: New Zealand Underwater Association Programme: Fly the Flag Description: New initiative to enable boaties to access free boat dive flags & float flags. Funding Approved: $3,613
    Council / Organisation: Northland Regional Council Programme: Nobody’s stronger then Tangaroa Description: Continuation of engaging with remote communities with specific messaging and face to face engagement, and deliver lifejacket hubs. Funding Approved: $80,000
    Council / Organisation: Otago Regional Council Programme: Otago Recreational Safer Boating Campaign Description: New programme to expand community’s understanding of safety in Otago waterways. Funding Approved: $20,000
    Council / Organisation: Queenstown Lakes District Council Programme: QLDC Waterways Skipper Responsibility Campaign Description: Increased public messaging to promote skipper responsibility of waterways within region. Funding Approved: $7,000
    Council / Organisation: Surfing New Zealand Programme: Surfers Rescue 24/7 Description: New programme to encourage and develop water rescue techniques. Funding Approved: $12,500
    Council / Organisation: Tasman District Council Programme: Summer Student 2024/2025 Description: New programme to employ student to support safer boating messaging across the Tasman region. Funding Approved: $14,790
    Council / Organisation: Tasman District Council Programme: Iwi Launch Warden Description: New programme to appoint an Iwi Launch Warden in Golden Bay to increase safety awareness in remote area of the region. Funding Approved: $6,000
    Council / Organisation: Waikato Regional Council Programme: Operation Neptune Description: Continuation of on-water education engagement and enforcement while delivering safety messages Funding Approved: $40,000
    Council / Organisation: Waka Ama NZ Programme: Building a culture of water safety for Waka Ama NZ Description: Continuation of building a culture of water safety for Waka Ama NZ by CBE Waka Ama Safety Courses and Social Media campaigns. Funding Approved: $23,500
    Council / Organisation: Watersafe Auckland Inc.(Drowning Prevention Auckland) Programme: WaiWise for Safer Boating for Pacific Peoples, and Asian Communities Description: Continuation of programme to provide specific drowning prevention education for the three at-risk communities in Tāmaki Makaurau. Funding Approved: $19,482
    Council / Organisation: Watersafe Auckland Inc.(Drowning Prevention Auckland) Programme: Expansion of Lifejacket Hubs Description: Continuation to provide hubs where people can access lifejackets and support the establishment of further hubs. Funding Approved: $40,000
    Council / Organisation: Yachting New Zealand Programme: Yachting New Zealand Coastal Personal Safety Course Description: A new programme to deliver a coastal yacht personal safety course. Funding Approved: $5,500
    Total Funding Approved: $743,026

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global sci-tech experts to address sustainability at annual forum

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The sixth World Science and Technology Development Forum will be held in Beijing from Oct. 22 to 24, the organizer announced Thursday.
    This year’s session, themed “Science and Technology for the Future,” will focus on six key ideas: intelligence, interdisciplinary, infrastructures, innovation, interaction, and integration.
    Since its initiation in 2019 by the China Association for Science and Technology, the annual forum has addressed various sustainability challenges. Previous sessions have covered topics ranging from food security to disaster prevention.
    At the inaugural session, Vania G. Zuin Zeidler, professor of green chemistry and sustainable chemistry at the Federal University of São Carlos in Brazil and visiting professor at the Green Chemistry Center of Excellence at the University of York, U.K., said about 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted annually. She discussed how the farm-to-table model can prevent food waste and how São Paulo produces healthy food through sustainable agricultural systems.
    At a previous subforum on food security during the fourth session, Deng Xingwang, a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences and dean of the School of Advanced Agricultural Sciences of Peking University, discussed the advantages of third-generation hybrid rice breeding technology. He emphasized that this internationally leading technology is cost-effective and safe, making it easier to apply. It has already been successfully validated and commercialized in China.
    At a subforum on carbon reduction during the fourth session, Lei Xianzhang, a member of the German National Academy of Science and Engineering, introduced electric-hydrogen coupling technology. This technology supports carbon peaking and neutrality by enabling efficient conversion between hydrogen and electricity, using clean energy sources like wind, solar and hydropower to produce hydrogen or hydrogen-based energy. 
    At the NexTus SDGs Youth Innovators’ Assembly during the fourth session, Yan Luhui, founder of Carbonstop, introduced a carbon management SaaS platform. Yan explained how big data and artificial intelligence can visualize carbon, analyze data and help companies improve carbon reduction efficiency.
    At a subforum on disaster prevention and mitigation at the fourth session, Ge Yonggang, director of the Science and Technology Division at the Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, detailed how Sichuan province combines weather monitoring with tracking mountain floods and debris flows. This innovative approach aims to create a more precise early warning system. The research, currently focused on Liangshan, is set to expand to Chengdu and Mianyang.
    Cui Peng, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, described a new platform for predicting mountain disasters. He explained how the platform includes a risk baseline database, physical parameter library and risk analysis system. With these tools, the platform can forecast mountain disasters every hour in real-time, pinpoint specific disaster locations and their features, and provide precise early warnings. Cui also suggested combining disaster management with efforts to restore nature and develop eco-friendly industries.
    The U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution in August 2023 declaring 2024-2033 the “International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development.” The upcoming forum will be held during the first year of this decade. 
    The organizer said the event will continue to gather global expertise to promote high-quality development and enhance international scientific and cultural exchanges.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA sincerely thanks international community for taking concrete actions to support Taiwan’s UN participation

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    October 4, 2024
    No. 058

    The General Debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) concluded on September 30. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) sincerely thanks the diplomatic allies, like-minded countries, and friends from around the world who expressed support for Taiwan’s participation in the UN and refuted China’s deliberate misrepresentation of UNGA Resolution 2758 in various ways, both in the chamber and on the sidelines of the event. 

    High-level government officials from Taiwan’s diplomatic allies Paraguay, the Marshall Islands, Palau, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Eswatini, Tuvalu, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Belize spoke up for Taiwan at the UN General Debate and Summit of the Future. Officials from the Marshall Islands, Palau, Tuvalu, and Saint Lucia explicitly pointed out that UNGA Resolution 2758 did not preclude Taiwan’s participation in the UN system. Following similar remarks in 2022, US President Joe Biden again used his speech to the UN General Debate to spell out the United States’ commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Australia mentioned the Taiwan Strait for the first time at the UN General Debate, with Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong stating that Australia had consistently pressed China on peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.  

    At a US House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs hearing held a few days before the UN General Debate, US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell criticized China for using UNGA Resolution 2758 as a diplomatic tool to suppress Taiwan’s status. In response to a question in parliament, Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Caspar Veldkamp openly acknowledged that the resolution had nothing to do with Taiwan. Following a meeting on the sidelines of the UNGA held by the Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers and the European Union high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, the chair of the meeting released a statement reaffirming the importance of cross-strait peace and stability to international security and prosperity as well as supporting Taiwan’s international participation. 

    Joint statements expressing a high regard for cross-strait peace and stability were issued after other recent high-level meetings, including the Quad leaders’ summit, the seventh high-level meeting of the EU-US Dialogue on China, the US-Japan summit meeting, the UK-US Strategic Dialogue, the Japan-Australia Foreign and Defence Ministerial Consultations, the Republic of Korea-New Zealand bilateral meeting, and the Lithuania-US Strategic Dialogue on the Indo-Pacific.

    In terms of legislative branches, the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China passed a model resolution on UNGA Resolution 2758 on July 30 for its members’ reference. The Australian Senate, the Dutch House of Representatives, and the Guatemalan Congress have since adopted motions in support of Taiwan based on the model resolution. The Foreign Affairs Committee of the Italian Chamber of Deputies also approved a resolution backing Taiwan’s international participation, demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan.

    Speaking for the first time on the sidelines of the UNGA at the annual summit of the New York-based nonprofit organization Concordia through prerecorded remarks, President Lai Ching-te told the UN family that Taiwan would strive to maintain regional peace and stability and urged the international community to support Taiwan’s participation.  Ambassador Alexander Tah-ray Yui, Representative to the United States, held a discussion with former US Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Keith Krach on cross-strait peace and security and Taiwan’s campaign to participate in the UN. During the UNGA, Taiwan cohosted a seminar in New York with the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada under the Global Cooperation and Training Framework. The event underscored Taiwan’s resolve to contribute to the global community.

    MOFA also appreciates the unwavering support of the Legislative Yuan. A cross-party delegation of legislators—including Ngalim Tiunn, Wu Tsung-hsien, and Wu Chun-cheng—visited New York during the UNGA to provide guidance and take part in related activities. The group powerfully conveyed the strong desire of the Taiwanese people to be part of the UN system.

    Through an international publicity and new media campaign, the government effectively communicated Taiwan’s demands for UN participation to all quarters. An op-ed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung, letters to the editor from Taiwan’s overseas missions, and interviews with Taiwanese ambassadors and representatives appeared 455 times in mainstream international media outlets. These included the Diplomat, the Hill, the Washington Times, National Review, and the New York Sun in the United States; Modern Diplomacy and the European Business Review in the European Union; the National Post in Canada; Le Figaro in France; Norrbottens-Kuriren in Sweden; La Razón in Spain; De Telegraaf and Nederlands Dagblad in the Netherlands; Euractiv in Greece; Rzeczpospolita in Poland; La Verità and Le Formiche in Italy; the Sankei Shimbun in Japan; the Chosun Ilbo in the Republic of Korea; the Philippine Star in the Philippines; the Hindustan Times and the Tribune in India; the Jerusalem Post in Israel; La Razón in Peru; the Eswatini Observer in Eswatini; La Nación in Paraguay; O Tempo in Brazil; Jelen in Hungary; and the Daily News in Thailand. 

    The short promotional film IC You received more than 25.4 million views—again breaking the record for Taiwan’s annual campaign. During the UNGA, MOFA and its overseas missions released 2,922 posts about Taiwan’s bid on social media platforms including Facebook, X, Instagram, and Threads. The posts were seen over 48.378 million times and received an unprecedentedly warm response. A short animation video, UNity through Peace: Chip in with Taiwan, was shown on a large billboard in New York City’s iconic Times Square. The advertisement featured elements including semiconductor circuits and Taiwan’s contributions to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The video conveyed Taiwan’s strengths in IC technology, highlighted its image as a responsible member of the global community, and broadened worldwide recognition and support for Taiwan’s call for international participation.

    MOFA reiterates that UNGA Resolution 2758 does not mention Taiwan. The resolution therefore has nothing to do with Taiwan and cannot serve as the basis for precluding Taiwan from the UN system and other international organizations. Taiwan is determined, willing, and able to contribute to the global community. Continuing to exclude Taiwan from multilateral endeavors will not only be a loss to humanity but also detrimental to realizing the SDGs. To uphold the UN principle of leaving no one behind, MOFA again calls on the UN to stop bowing to pressure from China and swiftly allow Taiwan’s full participation. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cassowary alert – keep your windows up and your speed down

    Source: Government of Queensland

    Issued: 10 Oct 2024

    An adult cassowary is risking its life and bringing traffic to a standstill along a narrow, winding stretch of road at the top of Gillies Range.

    The cassowary has been sighted repeatedly meandering in and out of traffic along a five-kilometre stretch of Gillies Range Road, where the verges on each side are extremely steep.

    Manager Northern Wildlife Operations Dave Woods from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation has asked drivers on Gillies Range Road to reduce their speed, keep an eye out for the bird and keep their windows wound up.

    “Wildlife officers have reviewed videos taken by members of the public, and believe this bird has been previously fed by people from cars,” Mr Woods said.

    “It is not wary of vehicles, and it can be seen approaching vehicles as they slow down or stop, hoping to be fed.

    “We have conducted several site inspections and observed the cassowary’s behaviour, but the section of road presents operational challenges.

    “Due to the narrow road, high volume of traffic and steep landscape, it would be dangerous and difficult for wildlife officers to conduct behavioural modification on the animal.

    “We are currently working with the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Queensland Police Service about management options to address the risk to road users and the cassowary.”

    Mr Woods said the cassowary had been reported to the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service by concerned members of the public.

    “We would like to thank everyone who made those reports out of concern for the safety of road users and welfare of the cassowary,” he said.

    “Cassowaries are an endangered, iconic species, and every bird is precious. We don’t want anything to happen to this animal and we want drivers to remain safe.

    “We’re asking everyone who uses Gillies Range Road to keep their windows up, not discard any food and drive with caution near the top of the range.

    “If people stop offering the cassowary food, it will return to the rainforest and go back to foraging for food without any further human intervention.

    “It is illegal to feed cassowaries, because it can alter their behaviour, puts them at risk of vehicle strike or dog attack and they can act aggressively towards people if they are expecting food.

    “Cassowaries have been around for millions of years, and they know how to find their own food in the rainforest.”

    The southern cassowary is considered endangered, and its population is limited to rainforest areas of the Wet Tropics and Cape York.

    Cassowaries can inflict serious injuries to people and pets by kicking out with their large, clawed feet. People are asked to Be cass-o-wary at all times in the Wet Tropics.

    • Never approach cassowaries.
    • Never approach chicks – male cassowaries will defend them.
    • Never feed cassowaries – it is illegal, dangerous and has caused cassowary deaths.
    • Always discard food scraps in closed bins and ensure compost bins have secure lids.
    • Slow down when driving in cassowary habitat.
    • Never stop your vehicle to look at cassowaries on the road.
    • Keep dogs behind fences or on a leash.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Csongrád-Csanád County in Hungary suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 15) that in view of a notification from the Ministry of Agriculture of Hungary about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Csongrád-Csanád County in Hungary, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

         A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with Hungary for the import of poultry meat but not for poultry eggs. According to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 40 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Hungary in the first six months of this year. 

         “The CFS has contacted the Hungarian authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the World Organisation for Animal Health and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Consultations on the property and help from movers: Muscovites received more than a million notifications from the super service “Moving under the renovation program”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since 2020, Muscovites have received over a million notifications from the super service “Moving under the renovation program”. It includes many functions – a set of instructions, notifications and electronic services that help those moving. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of Urban Development Policy of the City of Moscow Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    In the notifications of the super service, residents receive information about the start of resettlement, invitations to view the new apartment and messages about the readiness of the project and contract for signing. Notifications are made through a personal account on the mos.ru portal and push notifications.

    “In total, more than a million notifications have been sent to users since the launch of the super service. The most frequent of them are related to giving consent to the offered apartment – there are more than 363 thousand such messages, with sending a letter with an offer of an apartment – more than 289 thousand, with the start of relocation – more than 188 thousand. Notifications about signing a contract and registering for relocation were received by 159 thousand and 40 thousand people, respectively,” said Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    In addition to notifications, the service has personal instructions for residents who are in the process of moving. The document is drawn up taking into account the life situation of the owners.

    In addition, with the help of the super service, users can receive six online services, such as ordering free help from movers and a car for transporting things, as well as leaving a request to eliminate construction defects. Among them are four digital services supervised by the capital’s Department of City Property. They allow Muscovites to reduce the number of visits to information centers.

    “Participants in the renovation program who have a full account on the mos.ru portal can sign up for an inspection of the apartment offered by the city. After the contract is ready, it is necessary to choose a convenient time to sign it. It is also possible to sign up for an appointment with a notary online and upload the necessary documents. These services have already been used more than 11.7 thousand times since their launch,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    As noted by the Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow, the following will help prepare for the move: general instructions. It is available in the super service without authorization on the portal. With the help of the memo, owners can find out how the move is organized, get information about the necessary documents for drawing up a contract, and also use links to useful services.

    Resettlement under the renovation program affectedover 176 thousand Muscovites. They have received new apartments or are in the process of moving.

    You can find out more about apartments and houses under the renovation program on this page.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. In 2023 alone, 59 new buildings in the capital were handed over for settlement and the resettlement of over 47 thousand people was ensured. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin instructedto double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction rates and volumes. Over the past five years, within the framework of the federal project “Housing” of the national project “Housing and Urban Environment“The volume of construction and commissioning of residential buildings in the capital has doubled – from three million to five to seven million square meters per year.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145227073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More than 100 houses resettled under renovation program in the west of the capital

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of the renovation program, 39 new buildings have been handed over for settlement in the west of the capital. Residents of 151 old buildings will move into them, more than 100 of them have already been completely resettled. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Since the beginning of the renovation program in the west of the capital, 20.5 thousand residents of 151 old houses have begun resettling. At present, 105 buildings have already been completely resettled. City residents have been provided with apartments in 39 new buildings. In total, 548 houses in the west of the capital are planned to be resettled, in which more than 100 thousand Muscovites live. They will be provided with equivalent housing with improved finishing,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    Under the renovation program, Muscovites are provided with comfortable housing. New buildings are located in modern, well-appointed areas with developed infrastructure.

    “The resettlement of residents under the renovation program in the west of the capital began in April 2018. Of the 105 completely resettled houses, the largest number is in the Mozhaisk district – 26, another 21 are in Fili-Davydkovo and 18 are in Ochakovo-Matveevsky,” emphasized the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    Participants in the renovation program are offered equivalent apartments in the same areas where their old houses are located. According to the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman, the renovation program is aimed at increasing the level of comfort for Muscovites without interfering with their established way of life. During its entire implementation, over 19.6 thousand city residents living in nine districts in the west of the capital received new apartments. Since the beginning of 2024 alone, almost 3.9 thousand people have become owners of housing in new buildings, and another 1.1 thousand city residents are still making their choice.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin reported, that since the beginning of the year, 23 new buildings have been commissioned in the capital, and 44 residential complexes have been handed over for occupancy.

    Renovation program approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. In 2023 alone, 59 new buildings in the capital were handed over for settlement and the resettlement of more than 47 thousand people was ensured. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction rates and volumes. Over the past few years, within the framework of the federal project “Housing” of the national project “Housing and Urban Environment” the volume of residential construction and commissioning in the capital has doubled – from three to five to seven million square meters per year. More information about this and other national projects being implemented in Moscow can be found on the website.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145223073/

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