NewzIntel.com

Category: Environment

  • MIL-OSI Australia: City to hold free nature events during July school holidays

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is again holding a series of free events to highlight the region’s natural environment and biodiversity during the July School Holidays.

    City of Greater Bendigo Climate Change and Environment Manager Michelle Wyatt said the free events will both educate and entertain participants.

    “We held a series of similar events during the last school holidays which proved very popular,” Ms Wyatt said.

    “Our region has a diversity of wildlife and the free sessions help residents to learn about their unique characteristics and understand the importance of caring for the habitats they live in.”

    The free events include:

    • Evening Bat Fly-out on Tuesday July 8 and Tuesday July 15, 5pm – 6.30pm at Rosalind Park
    • Nature by Night on Thursday July 10 and Thursday July 17, 5.30pm – 7pm along the O’Keefe Rail Trail
    • Winter Wander on Saturday July 12, 10am – 12pm in Junortoun Flora and Fauna Reserve
    • Bats of Bendigo on Tuesday July 15, 10am – 11.30am at Rosalind Park
    • Nature in the Mall on Thursday July 17, 11am – 2pm at Hargreaves Mall

    For more information, or to book, visit:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Lost in space: MethaneSat failed just as NZ was to take over mission control – here’s what we need to know now

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicholas Rattenbury, Associate Professor in Physics, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Environmental Defense Fund, CC BY-SA

    This week’s announcement of the loss of a methane-detecting satellite, just days before New Zealand was meant to take over mission control, is a blow to the country’s space research sector.

    New Zealand invested NZ$29 million in the MethaneSat mission, built and operated by the US nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund, with a goal of growing the nation’s space industry.

    This would have been accomplished through gaining experience in operating a satellite at the University of Auckland’s Te Pūnaha Ātea Space Institute, and through research led by a team at Earth Sciences New Zealand to use the satellite to measure agricultural sources of methane.

    But on June 20, the satellite lost power and contact with the ground, and appears to be irrecoverable. This is disappointing for everyone on the mission development and operations teams.

    Having been in that position personally when my team lost a miniature satellite after a successful launch, I sympathise. But the benefits New Zealand hoped to gain from the MethaneSat mission will now be limited, at best, and questions need to be asked to learn from the failure.

    Early issues and delays

    The MethaneSat satellite launched in March 2024. New Zealand was meant to take over mission control by the end of last year, but problems with the satellite’s thrusters meant this was delayed to June this year.

    The satellite’s main mission was to detect methane leaks from oil and gas production, but it was also used to track methane sources from agriculture.

    New Zealand was not likely involved in the chain of events leading to the under-performance and delays, nor the eventual loss of the satellite. But as investors in the project, we are entitled to an explanation.

    That a spacecraft fails in orbit is not surprising. The space environment is unforgiving. But there is a question about whether New Zealand should have taken a closer look “under the hood” before investing in MethaneSat.

    The principle of caveat emptor (buyer beware) applies to spacecraft as much as to purchasing a car. While we were not involved in the MethaneSat mission design, satellite construction and testing, we were certainly entitled to relevant information to make a fully informed decision on whether or not to invest.

    Questions remain. During the MethaneSat post-mortem, one could reasonably ask to what extent experts were consulted during the decision-making process to invest in the satellite mission, and who was applying due diligence on behalf of New Zealand taxpayers.

    When earlier issues emerged, to what extent should New Zealand taxpayers, as investors, have been happy with explanations veiled in reported obligations of confidentiality or commercial sensitivity?

    Lessons for future space missions

    New Zealand has scientists and engineers working at publicly-funded universities who can contribute to future decision-making processes for the next taxpayer-funded space mission.

    New Zealand scientists working in the space sector do so knowing full well that the nation’s capacity to fund space missions is limited. Apart from being hard, frustrating, rewarding and unforgiving, working in space is expensive – and there are often delays and setbacks.

    Some of us working in New Zealand space research have been trying to work through how best to advise government on where to spend limited public funding. This will not be an easy task.

    The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) is an international organisation established in 1958 to promote global cooperation in space research. It provides a forum for the exchange of scientific results, sets standards for space data sharing, and advises on space policy and planetary protection.

    New Zealand participates in COSPAR as a national member and its committee comprises space science researchers from across the country. As chair of the New Zealand COSPAR committee, I sent a letter to Minister of Space Judith Collins last year offering our services:

    I believe closer collaboration between COSPAR’s initiatives and New Zealand’s aerospace goals would enhance our mutual objectives and strengthen our contribution to the global aerospace community. Specifically, we are uniquely placed to advise on the range of scientific endeavours currently underway […] that could be at the heart of a national space mission.

    Close scrutiny needed

    New Zealand has more talent and good research ideas than funding to support them. So there has to be a way of choosing between competing ideas.

    Crucially, that selection process has to be fully transparent so the investors – New Zealand taxpayers – can have confidence their investment is being safely bestowed.

    My vision is for a funding process for future space missions that addresses scientific goals relevant to New Zealand and takes advantage of the talent we have.
    There will be applicants who miss out, as there always are in any competitive process. But I would like to see support given to unsuccessful applicants to improve their chances in subsequent attempts.

    I work towards fostering the New Zealand space sector, especially in the areas where we can push back the boundaries of human knowledge via the safe, peaceful and sustainable use of space. This is the excitement I see reflected in the students I teach.

    For a nation with ambitions to utilise space for science, technological development and commercial gain, we also have to acknowledge that failure is a part of that journey. To make the best use of our very limited resources, we must examine our processes in the fullest light of disclosure – regardless of whether the failure was technological or in our decision-making processes.

    Nicholas James Rattenbury works for The University of Auckland. He has received funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Royal Society Te Apārangi. He is affiliated with Te Pūnaha Ātea Space Institute. He is the current Chair of the New Zealand Committee of COSPAR.

    None of the viewpoints expressed in this article necessarily reflect those held by any of the abovementioned organisations or any other organisation or entity mentioned in the article.

    – ref. Lost in space: MethaneSat failed just as NZ was to take over mission control – here’s what we need to know now – https://theconversation.com/lost-in-space-methanesat-failed-just-as-nz-was-to-take-over-mission-control-heres-what-we-need-to-know-now-260407

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaLota Delivers $5,000+ SALT Relief, Cuts Middle-Class Taxes, Protects Social Security, and Strengthens Long Island’s Economy

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Nick LaLota (R–Suffolk County) released the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 1 – the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act, a sweeping legislative package that delivers the most significant tax relief for the middle class in a generation, includes historic investments in national security and workforce development, and provides direct financial relief to Long Island families.

    “It’s official—Congressional Republicans’ signature budget bill passed the House and is heading to President Trump’s desk,” said LaLota. “This bill quadruples the SALT cap for five years, boosts the Child Tax Credit, eliminates taxes on tips and overtime, and delivers the biggest middle-class tax cut in decades. Just the SALT provision alone means that a Long Island family earning $250,000 and paying $18,000 in property taxes will get $5,000 more back when they file their 2025 taxes—real relief I fought tooth and nail to deliver.”

    A taxpayer can calculate his or her gain under the new SALT cap here.

    “This is a pro-worker, pro-family, pro-growth bill. It avoids the $1,700 Biden tax hike that would have taken the equivalent of eight weeks of groceries from many households. Instead, it expands 529 education savings, creates newborn savings accounts, and protects Social Security and Medicare—while finally ending the provider tax scam that let states game Medicaid. Taxpayers deserve transparency, not gimmicks,” LaLota added.

    “Raising the SALT cap was the toughest legislative fight of my time in Congress. Some on the right called it a ‘blue state bailout.’ Many on the left dismissed it as welfare for the wealthy and refused to fix it—despite years of empty rhetoric. But despite opposition from 213 Members and 53 Senators, I didn’t blink. The SALT cap is now $40,000. That’s a hard-earned win for Long Island families,” said LaLota.

    Background

    What’s in the One Big, Beautiful Bill. The legislation delivers direct, measurable benefits to Suffolk County and middle-class families across the country. 

    State and Local Tax (SALT) Deduction Relief. Raises the SALT deduction cap to $40,000 for five years for households earning under $500,000, indexed to inflation. For many Long Island families, this restores nearly all the tax relief lost in 2017.

    Direct Tax Relief for Working Families. Eliminates taxes on tips, overtime, and car loan interest—putting more money back into workers’ paychecks. Prevents the $1,700 tax hike previously projected under the Biden administration.

    Pro-Family Provisions. Increases the Child Tax Credit to $2,200, expands 529 accounts to cover apprenticeships and job training, and establishes childcare and newborn savings accounts.

    Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) and PTET Fixes. Permanently raises the AMT exemption and phase-out thresholds to prevent surprise tax hikes for upper-middle-income families. Fixes the Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET) to help small businesses grow and reinvest locally.

    Deficit Reduction Without Touching Social Security or Medicare. Closes the Medicaid provider tax loophole that allowed states to inflate federal reimbursements—ending a long-running budget gimmick. Requires able-bodied adults to work, volunteer, or train to receive Medicaid benefits, promoting accountability while preserving care for those truly in need. All without touching a penny of Social Security or Medicare.

    Defense and Workforce Investment. $18.5 billion in warship procurement and $3.8 billion to expand the maritime industrial base—supporting local shipbuilding. Also includes:

    • $750 million for supplier development
    • $450 million for maritime workforce development grants
    • $250 million for Training in Defense Manufacturing Program

    Support for Long Island Agriculture

    • $3.3 billion for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program
    • $1.375 billion for the Conservation Stewardship Program
    • $100 million in Specialty Crop Block Grants
    • Expanded crop insurance access for small and specialty growers

    Healthcare and Hospital Funding. Delays harmful Medicaid DSH cuts through 2029, preserving critical funding for hospitals like Stony Brook. Extends Medicare telehealth access and expands Medicaid flexibility for outpatient and behavioral health care.

    Border Security and Immigration Reform. Adds immigration judges and infrastructure to clear case backlogs. Enhances ICE capacity and legal resources to adjudicate up to 1 million removal cases annually.

    Critical Infrastructure and Safety Investments

    • $12.5 billion to modernize air traffic control and hire more controllers
    • $625 million to support law enforcement and emergency coordination for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

    For a comprehensive list of policies included in the bill, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Senators Duckworth, Markey, Booker Condemn Republican Cuts to Environmental Justice Grants, Slam GOP Weakening of Key Environmental Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    July 02, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ)—co-chairs of the Environmental Justice Caucus—today issued the following statement after Senate Republicans rammed through Trump’s so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which would rescind funds already appropriated by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act for environmental and climate justice block grants and undermine the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The co-chairs filed two amendments that would have saved these funds and removed “pay-for-play” permits. Republicans blocked both amendments.

    “Senate Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill is a direct attack on communities that have long been last in line for federal investments and is a part of a broader campaign to shield polluters from accountability,” said the co-chairs. “Cutting funds for projects that would deliver clean air, safe water, healthy land, and basic human dignity for all—along with efforts to defund air pollution monitoring and rubberstamp polluting infrastructure—will further harm communities already suffering devastating health consequences from living next door to our nation’s most polluting industries. As the House considers this Big Ugly Bill, we urge our colleagues to reject GOP efforts to claw back these funds and permit projects that jeopardize the health of millions of Americans. All Americans deserve a government that enacts—not eliminates—policies that protect public health, lower costs, and hold the fossil fuel industry accountable.”

    The co-chairs were joined by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) in cosponsoring the environmental justice grants amendment.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tiny tags could reveal fish sex secrets

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  04 July 2025

    Threatened-Nationally Vulnerable shortjaw kōkopu are found only in Aotearoa. As juveniles, they are one of six species known as whitebait.  

    Over the past year, DOC Ranger Suze Harris has inserted 12.5 mm-long PIT (passive integrated transponder) tags under the skin of 41 shortjaws living in a tributary of Kaniere River, Hokitika.  

    The inserted PIT tags allow her to track individual fish via a detector blue-toothed to her phone. 

    “We need to know the females’ spawning time so we can track down nesting sites. This helps us target conservation efforts such as trapping – since rats eat shortjaw kōkopu eggs. We can also make recommendations under the Resource Management Act on the timing of activities, like earthworks, that sometimes occur along stream margins.” 

    Suze also says although the West Coast remains a shortjaw stronghold, with enviable populations compared to the rest of the country, some streams with previously strong populations are being claimed by other whitebait species – and the shortjaws have either significantly decreased or gone altogether. 

    “The usual freshwater monitoring methods, like electric fishing, don’t work well on shortjaws. Their preference for deep rocky pools and their flitty behaviour makes them hard to survey. 

     “PIT tagging the fish means I don’t have to keep recapturing them. Instead, when I’m monitoring in the field, my phone might ping, I’ll look at a summary of the fish on my phone and think, ‘oh, that’s Charlie Brown, who is male – I’ll leave him alone because I’m looking for females at the moment’.”  

    Shortjaw reproduction occurs in late autumn, with males producing milt (sperm) and raring to go earlier than females. 

    “Males dominate the Hokitika site. We still haven’t managed to tag a female – they’re so elusive. But tagging males helps because their presence indicates the right conditions for spawning, meaning females are likely to show up soon. 

    Suze was granted animal ethics approval to tag up to 50 shortjaws. She tagged a total of 41 in February 2024 and 2025. Of those, 39 are giving signals from live fish.  

    New Zealand’s native species, like shortjaw kōkopu, are unique and special, with 88 per cent of our fishes found nowhere else in the world. DOC freshwater rangers throughout the country are identifying populations of shortjaw kōkopu so DOC can work with iwi, hāpu, councils, landowners and community groups to protect them. 

    Background information

    Shortjaw kōkopu are a migratory galaxiid species (named for their skin which looks like a galaxy of stars). Their largest populations are in Northland, Taranaki, Wairarapa, Tasman, Marlborough and the West Coast.

    PIT tags are the same technology used to microchip dogs and cats, with a variety of sizes as appropriate for the animal.

    As the fish being tagged are adults, and it is the juvenile fish which are eaten as part of the whitebait catch, there is no chance of a PIT tag being eaten by a human.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tiny tags could reveal fish sex secrets

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  04 July 2025

    Threatened-Nationally Vulnerable shortjaw kōkopu are found only in Aotearoa. As juveniles, they are one of six species known as whitebait.  

    Over the past year, DOC Ranger Suze Harris has inserted 12.5 mm-long PIT (passive integrated transponder) tags under the skin of 41 shortjaws living in a tributary of Kaniere River, Hokitika.  

    The inserted PIT tags allow her to track individual fish via a detector blue-toothed to her phone. 

    “We need to know the females’ spawning time so we can track down nesting sites. This helps us target conservation efforts such as trapping – since rats eat shortjaw kōkopu eggs. We can also make recommendations under the Resource Management Act on the timing of activities, like earthworks, that sometimes occur along stream margins.” 

    Suze also says although the West Coast remains a shortjaw stronghold, with enviable populations compared to the rest of the country, some streams with previously strong populations are being claimed by other whitebait species – and the shortjaws have either significantly decreased or gone altogether. 

    “The usual freshwater monitoring methods, like electric fishing, don’t work well on shortjaws. Their preference for deep rocky pools and their flitty behaviour makes them hard to survey. 

     “PIT tagging the fish means I don’t have to keep recapturing them. Instead, when I’m monitoring in the field, my phone might ping, I’ll look at a summary of the fish on my phone and think, ‘oh, that’s Charlie Brown, who is male – I’ll leave him alone because I’m looking for females at the moment’.”  

    Shortjaw reproduction occurs in late autumn, with males producing milt (sperm) and raring to go earlier than females. 

    “Males dominate the Hokitika site. We still haven’t managed to tag a female – they’re so elusive. But tagging males helps because their presence indicates the right conditions for spawning, meaning females are likely to show up soon. 

    Suze was granted animal ethics approval to tag up to 50 shortjaws. She tagged a total of 41 in February 2024 and 2025. Of those, 39 are giving signals from live fish.  

    New Zealand’s native species, like shortjaw kōkopu, are unique and special, with 88 per cent of our fishes found nowhere else in the world. DOC freshwater rangers throughout the country are identifying populations of shortjaw kōkopu so DOC can work with iwi, hāpu, councils, landowners and community groups to protect them. 

    Background information

    Shortjaw kōkopu are a migratory galaxiid species (named for their skin which looks like a galaxy of stars). Their largest populations are in Northland, Taranaki, Wairarapa, Tasman, Marlborough and the West Coast.

    PIT tags are the same technology used to microchip dogs and cats, with a variety of sizes as appropriate for the animal.

    As the fish being tagged are adults, and it is the juvenile fish which are eaten as part of the whitebait catch, there is no chance of a PIT tag being eaten by a human.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Landmark decision on the human right to a healthy climate delivered by the highest court in the Americas

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Amsterdam, Netherlands – The Inter-American Court of Human Rights just delivered a landmark decision on the obligations of States in the face of the climate emergency.[1] The Court established that governments must take “urgent and effective actions” to safeguard the right to a healthy climate, and that companies have obligations with regard to climate change and its impacts on human rights. This decision unequivocally puts the rights of people and nature above the interests of polluters.

    In an unprecedented move, the Court also recognised the right to nature and ecosystems to maintain their essential ecological processes, as a crucial part in the effort to address the triple planetary crisis [2] and to achieve a truly sustainable development model that respects planetary boundaries and guarantees the rights of present and future generations. 

    Pablo Ramírez, Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace Mexico, said: “This is a life-changing decision for thousands of communities that are impacted by climate change on our continent. The highest court in the Americas is providing us with a pathway to climate justice, obliging States to guarantee human rights, address climate impacts and force polluting industries to repair the damage they have caused.”

    The Court’s decision puts powerful legal tools to secure climate accountability and justice in the hands of more than 300 million people in 20 states that are party to the American Convention on Human Rights, including Indigenous Peoples, civil society organisations and individuals. 

    The advisory opinion was requested in January 2023 by the governments of Chile and Colombia. [3] It was followed by the most participatory process in the history of the Court, with 150 oral interventions from States, international organisations, Indigenous Peoples, and civil society, as well as 265 written submissions, including from Greenpeace International.

    Latin America and the Caribbean are highly affected by air pollution,[4] rising sea levels and extreme weather events,[5] fuelled by emissions from oil and gas corporations and other polluting industries.[6] 

    The Court’s decision is grounded in clear scientific evidence that attributes large emissions from corporations to impacts such as loss of life and livelihoods from climate disasters. This Court decision will directly assist individuals and communities in pushing back against corporate polluters and corporate violations of human rights.

    Maria Alejandra Serra, Legal Counsel, Greenpeace International, said: “For too long, politicians and corporations have gotten away with profiting from the destruction of our environment and from harming the lives of ordinary people. This decision marks the beginning of the era of corporate accountability and a big step towards dismantling the colonial legacy of systemic impunity in our region.”

    The decision builds on the growing global momentum in courts tasked with interpreting international law facing the climate crisis.[7] It is expected to be used by governments to present more ambitious climate action plans and shape future decisions by other international human rights courts, setting the stage for a forthcoming historic advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice – the world’s highest court – on the responsibilities of States to mitigate climate impacts. 

    ENDS 

    Notes:

    Photos and videos of Greenpeace International and its allies in the process at the Inter-American Court of Human Rights on the Greenpeace Media Library. 

    [1] The Inter-American Court of Human Rights, one of three regional human rights courts in the world, has the role to interpret and clarify the obligations of States. Its decisions inform national governments and courts. Read the full decision in Spanish here.

    [2] As established by the United Nations, “[t]he triple planetary crisis refers to the interconnected challenges of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss”. See here 

    [3] Read the Advisory Opinion Request here. 

    [4] A review on the impact of climate change and air pollution in the region, particularly in the Caribbean, is detailed in a Columbia University publication authored by Muge Akpinar-Elci and Olaniyi Olayinka.

    [5] As recently as 2024, the Americas region faced devastating effects from multiple extreme weather events, which continued to impact lives, livelihoods, and food supply chains long after the events had passed, according to a publication by the World Meteorological Organization. 

    [6] Written observation on the request for an advisory opinion on the climate emergency and human rights by Greenpeace International, the Center for International Environmental Law, the NYU Climate Law Accelerator, the Union of Concerned Scientists, and the Open Society Justice Initiative.

    [7] Some examples are the recent decisions from the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, which classified greenhouse gas emissions as marine pollution, and the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights against Switzerland, a State failing to set adequate climate targets.

    Contacts:

    Tal Harris, Greenpeace International, Global Media Lead – Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign, +41-782530550, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]Follow @greenpeacepress on X/Twitter for our latest international press release

    Follow @greenpeacepress on X/Twitter for our latest international press release

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Statement on Appointment to Health Subcommittee Chair

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    Griffith Statement on Appointment to Health Subcommittee Chair

    U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce Chairman Brett Guthrie selected U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) to serve as Chairman of the Committee’s Health Subcommittee. Congressman Griffith issued the following statement:

    “I am excited to take on the role as the Health Subcommittee Chairman for the House Energy and Commerce Committee! I look forward to continuing the work of former Chairman Buddy Carter and wish him well in all his endeavors. Further, I am committed to advancing Chairman Guthrie’s priorities. 

    “I have had the pleasure of working closely with Chairman Guthrie on many health care related issues, particularly while I chaired the Oversight Subcommittee.

    “I will remain on the Environment Subcommittee, where I will support Chairman Palmer as we look for reauthorization of numerous important environmental programs.”

    BACKGROUND

    As part of the July 3 announcement, Congressman Gary Palmer will take over as Chairman of the Environment Subcommittee.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Old Glory on the Red Planet

    Source: NASA

    The United States flag adorns an aluminum plate mounted at the base of the mast, or “head,” of NASA’s Perseverance Mars rover. This image of the plate was taken on June 28, 2025 (the 1,548th day, or sol, of the mission), by the WATSON (Wide Angle Topographic Sensor for Operations and eNgineering) camera on the end of the rover’s robotic arm.
    WATSON, part of an instrument called SHERLOC (Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman & Luminescence for Organics & Chemicals), was built by Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS) in San Diego and is operated jointly by MSSS and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. JPL, which is managed for the agency by Caltech, built and manages operations of the Perseverance rover.
    Learn more about Perseverance’s latest science.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Markey, Duckworth Condemn Republican Cuts to Environmental Justice Grants, Slam GOP Weakening of Key Environmental Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), co-chairs of the Environmental Justice Caucus, issued the following statement after Senate Republicans rammed through Trump’s so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which would rescind funds already appropriated by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act for environmental and climate justice block grants, and undermine the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The co-chairs filed two amendments that would have saved these funds and removed “pay-for-play” permits. Republicans blocked both amendments.
    “Senate Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill is a direct attack on communities that have long been last in line for federal investments, and is a part of a broader campaign to shield polluters from accountability,” said the co-chairs. “Cutting funds for projects that would deliver clean air, safe water, healthy land, and basic human dignity for all—along with efforts to defund air pollution monitoring and rubberstamp polluting infrastructure—will further harm communities already suffering devastating health consequences from living next door to our nation’s most polluting industries. As the House considers this Big Ugly Bill, we urge our colleagues to reject GOP efforts to claw back these funds and permit projects that jeopardize the health of millions of Americans. All Americans deserve a government that enacts—not eliminates—policies that protect public health, lower costs, and hold the fossil fuel industry accountable.”
    The co-chairs were joined by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) in cosponsoring the environmental justice grants amendment. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the draft Commission regulation on Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 of 22 May 2025 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards a list of countries that present a low or high risk of producing relevant commodities for which the relevant products do not comply with Article 3, point (a) – B10-0321/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0321/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the draft Commission regulation on Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 of 22 May 2025 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards a list of countries that present a low or high risk of producing relevant commodities for which the relevant products do not comply with Article 3, point (a)

    (2025/2739(RPS))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 of 22 May 2025 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards a list of countries that present a low or high risk of producing relevant commodities for which the relevant products do not comply with Article 3, point (a)[1],

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2023 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation and repealing Regulation (EU) No 995/2010[2], and in particular Article 29(2) thereof,

    – having regard to Article 11 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers[3],

    – having regard to Rule 115(2) and (3) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety,

    – having regard to the plenary vote of the European Parliament of 14 November 2024 on the Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 as regards provisions relating to the date of application;

    Concerns about data quality and methodological robustness,

    A. whereas the proposed risk categorisation of countries under Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 does not accurately reflect the current realities in the countries concerned, as it is based on outdated data and fails to incorporate all relevant and available risk indicators;

    B. whereas Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 does not accurately reflect realities in the countries concerned as it fails to consider key real-world factors, most notably current land-use dynamics and forest degradation; whereas recognising degradation as a risk factor would result in certain Member States being placed in higher risk categories, thereby challenging the assumption that supply chains within the Union are automatically low-risk[4];

    C. whereas key developments in governance, deforestation trends, and enforcement mechanisms that have occurred since 31 December 2020, which is the cut-off date referred to in Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, are not adequately reflected in the methodology;

    D. whereas the data relied on for the risk categorisation are primarily derived from the Global Forest Resources Assessment carried out by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, with the latest full-cycle country submissions predating 2020, and therefore such data do not adequately or fairly represent the recent national efforts to prevent deforestation, updated land-use policies, real-time satellite monitoring improvements and the latest deforestation trends in several countries[5];

    E. whereas the methodology for the risk categorisation of countries lacks transparency in relation to how various risk factors are weighted and does not account for regional variability within countries; whereas this raises serious concerns about the fairness and credibility of the classification methodology;

    F. whereas the methodology for the risk categorisation of countries is flawed because it focuses primarily on aggregate historical deforestation rates and this approach disregards the multidimensional nature of deforestation risk, failing to consider the full scope of indicators set out in Article 29 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115;

    G. whereas the approach underlying the current methodology established in Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 does not provide sufficient flexibility to accommodate timely updates, thereby creating significant market uncertainty and potential volatility;

    H. whereas, without a clearly defined mechanism for regular and transparent reassessment, the classification of countries in risk categories becoming misaligned with evolving conditions, thereby undermining both the effectiveness of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 and the functioning of global commodity markets;

    I. whereas the absence of clear pathways for countries to have their risk categorisation changed through demonstrable progress undermines the role of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 as a positive incentive mechanism and limits its potential to drive sustainable transformation on the ground;

    Analysis of challenges in the first risk category of countries (the ‘category low risk’)

    J. whereas the criterion of net forest loss between 2015 and 2020, used to determine the category low risk referred to in Article 29(1), point (b), of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, considers total forest area loss rather than deforestation as narrowly defined under that Regulation, thereby including areas of temporary forest cover change or forest management not associated with land-use conversion, which undermines methodological consistency and legal certainty;

    K. whereas the methodology for the for the risk categorisation of countries introduces a relative threshold of 0,2 % annual forest area loss, and an absolute threshold of 70 000 hectares of annual forest loss, without providing a clear rationale for those specific values; whereas it is noteworthy that certain high-deforestation countries, such as the United States, fall just below the absolute threshold, raising questions about the objectivity and robustness of the chosen benchmarks;

    L. whereas the assessment of deforestation risk based on the expansion of cropland areas used for relevant commodities, as defined in Article 2, point (1), of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, and the scale of livestock and wood production lacks precision; whereas the inclusion of overall wood production as a proxy for deforestation risks is methodologically questionable, as it conflates lawful forestry activities with deforestation driven by land-use change;

    Lack of granularity and context sensitivity

    M. whereas the current system of having only three risk categories is insufficient to adequately differentiate between countries with vastly different levels of deforestation risk;

    N. whereas the lack of a nuanced approach could undermine the incentive for more ambitious governments to take further action, as it effectively penalises progress and fails to recognise meaningful efforts to combat deforestation;

    O. whereas the Commission should address the methodological shortcomings of the current tripartite classification system by considering the introduction of a fourth risk category — ‘negligible risk’ — to reflect the reality that in certain countries or regions, the risk of deforestation or forest degradation is effectively negligible due to robust legal frameworks, low land-use change dynamics and sustainable land management practices;

    P. whereas the current system risks oversimplifying deforestation risk by granting the status to countries based on outdated data or national averages, which could create a false sense of security and potentially reduce the due diligence obligation for products originating from areas where illegal deforestation persists;

    Q. whereas, although the current data have shown a localised increase in deforestation in certain regions of the globe, such developments underscore the need for a granular, region-specific monitoring rather than static national risk classifications, which pose a risk of mischaracterising the overall trend and of ignoring regional progress or setbacks;

    R. whereas credible research and long-term studies, such as ‘Deforestation in the Amazon: Past, Present and Future’[6] published by the Amazon Network of Georeferenced Socio-Environmental Information in 2023, demonstrate the complexity and variability of deforestation dynamics driven by political cycles, enforcement levels, and local socio-economic conditions, and therefore support the need for a more adaptive, context-sensitive approach rather than rigid country benchmarks;

    S. whereas the current risk classification model fails to account for the volatility of global commodity markets, where price fluctuations, trade dynamics, and demand shifts can rapidly alter deforestation pressures;

    T. whereas the risk classification should also allow for the creation of a regulated compensation mechanism, applicable exclusively outside of primary or high-biodiversity areas;

    Concerns about fairness, legitimacy and global engagement

    U. whereas the current country benchmarking system may disincentivise cooperation and data sharing by countries producing relevant commodities, particularly if they perceive the risk categorisation of countries as unfair or politically motivated; whereas fostering mutual trust and engagement requires a fair, evidence-based and collaborative approach that encourages transparency and accountability rather than punitive labelling;

    V. whereas environmental and civil society organisations from countries producing relevant commodities have raised concerns about the lack of inclusive consultation in the development of the country benchmarking system, highlighting the importance of participatory processes that involve indigenous communities, local stakeholders, and regional authorities;

    1. Considers that Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 exceeds the implementing powers provided for in Regulation (EU) 2023/1115;

    2. Calls on the Commission to repeal Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093;

    3. Calls on the Commission to revise the country benchmarking system to ensure it is based on up-to-date data, allows for regional differentiation, and includes transparent weighting of risk indicators;

    4. Urges the Commission to establish clear, time-bound, and transparent procedures for reassessing risk categorisation of countries regularly based on measurable progress and updated scientific data;

    5. Stresses the importance of engaging with countries producing relevant commodities and stakeholders through inclusive and participatory processes, and of providing support for forest governance reforms and traceability systems;

    6. Calls for complementary measures, such as forest partnerships, technical assistance, and fair trade incentives, to accompany the benchmarking process and promote sustainable transformation in commodity-producing regions;

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council and the Commission, and to the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Fisheries and Oceans Canada partners with the Manitoba Government to conduct an aquatic invasive species roadside inspection blitz

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 3, 2025 

    Winnipeg, Manitoba – The Government of Canada is conserving nature and biodiversity and protecting our freshwater, including by combatting aquatic invasive species (AIS), such as Zebra and Quagga Mussels. AIS pose a serious threat to Canada’s freshwater ecosystems, infrastructure, and economy. These species reproduce rapidly, disrupt native habitats, damage water intake systems, and lead to costly impacts for industries and local communities.

    To help protect Canada’s waterways from these threats, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), in partnership with the Manitoba Government, conducted a joint roadside inspection blitz on Highway 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) near the Manitoba-Ontario border from June 20 to 22, 2025. The goal was to stop and inspect watercraft for AIS and to ensure the watercraft were cleaned, drained and dried before crossing the provincial border.

    During the three-day inspection blitz, DFO’s AIS Core Program and Fishery Officers, along with Manitoba Conservation Officers, Patrol Officers, and staff from their AIS program, stopped and inspected a total of 383 vehicles transporting 436 watercraft or related equipment. Of these:

    • 326 watercraft were compliant with clean, drain, dry requirements.
    • 110 watercraft were not cleaned, drained, or dried and failed the AIS inspection.
    • 38 watercraft required decontamination and drivers were provided with instructions on how to comply with prevention measures in the future.
    • 2 watercraft had visible Zebra Mussels present.

    Preventing the introduction and spread of AIS is essential to safeguarding Canada’s waterways. Inspecting watercraft and ensuring they are properly cleaned, drained, and dried helps prevent AIS from being introduced to, and established in, new bodies of water.

    A second joint roadside inspection blitz is planned for later this year.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister Blade Nzimande receives Cuban Ambassador to South Africa for a courtesy visit

    Source: APO


    .

    Yesterday, 2 July, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, received Her Excellency, Mrs. Esther Armenteros, Cuban Ambassador to South Africa for a courtesy visit.

    Over the past three decades, South Africa’s collaboration with Cuba evolved significantly in critical areas of human development such as public health, water resource management, and education.

    Last year, South Africa and Cuba celebrated 30 years of Diplomatic relations. In the area of science, South Africa-Cuba co-operation goes back to 2001, when the first science, technology and innovation agreement was signed.

    Flowing from this, between 2005 and 2007, South Africa invested more than 44 million rands in joint biotechnology and nanotechnology projects with Cuba, focusing on critical areas such as the development of cholera vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and pre-clinical drug development, which included interventions against the Human Papilloma Virus.

    These early joint projects brought together South African research facilities such as Mintek, iThemba Labs, and the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation, laying the groundwork for future cooperation in nuclear medicine and diagnostic technology.

    Further to this, in 2015, a technical delegation from South Africa visited Cuba to study Cuba’s world-class biotechnology ecosystem.

    In April this year, Minister Nzimande undertook a comprehensive visit to Cuba, whose key outcome was the signing of a Statement of Intent to renew the existing science, technology, and innovation agreement between Cuba and South Africa and to expand the areas of cooperation.

    A further commitment was made by Minister Nzimande and his counterpart, Cuba’s Minister of Science, Technology and Environment, Mr. Armando Rodríguez Batista to ensure that the revival of the existing STI agreement is concluded by the end of this year.

    Emphasising the importance of SA-Cuba STI cooperation, Minister Nzimande stated that “South Africa and Cuba share a commitment to use scientific knowledge to resolve their development challenges and to respond to the grand challenges of energy security, climate change and the urgent need to diversify our economies.”

    “Cuba has unparalleled expertise in such areas as healthcare, biotechnology, and education with South Africa’s strengths in mining, renewable energy, astronomy and space sciences research and innovation. This provides a firm basis for continued cooperation and the development of sustainable solutions for both countries,” added the Minister.

    Cooperation between South Africa and Cuba is also driven by a shared commitment to such values as peace, justice, multi-lateralism, the equitable development of all nations and a commitment to building a more just and humane world, through science.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, Republic of South Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Rare wooden tools from Stone Age China reveal plant-based lifestyle of ancient lakeside humans

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bo Li, Professor, Environmental Futures Research Centre, School of Science, University of Wollongong

    Excavation at the Gantangqing site. Liu et al.

    Ancient wooden tools found at a site in Gantangqing in southwestern China are approximately 300,000 years old, new dating has shown. Discovered during excavations carried out in 2014–15 and 2018–19, the tools have now been dated by a team of archaeologists, geologists, chronologists (including me) and paleontologists.

    The rare wooden tools were found alongside an assortment of animal and plant fossils and stone artifacts.

    Taken together, the finds suggest the early humans at Gantangqing were surprisingly sophisticated woodworkers who lived in a rich tropical or subtropical environment where they subsisted by harvesting plants from a nearby lake.

    The location of the Gantangqing site and excavation trenches.
    Liu et al. / Science

    Why ancient wooden tools are so rare

    Wood usually decomposes relatively rapidly due to microbial activity, oxidation, and weathering. Unlike stone or bone, it rarely survives more than a few centuries.

    Wood can only survive for thousands of years or longer if it ends up buried in unusual conditions. Wood can last a long time in oxygen-free environments or extremely dry areas. Charred or fire-hardened wood is also more durable.

    At Gantangqing, the wooden objects were excavated from low-oxygen clay-heavy layers of sediment formed on the ancient shoreline of Fuxian Lake.

    Wooden implements are extremely rare from the Early Palaeolithic period (the first part of the “stone age” from around 3.3 million years ago until 300,000 years ago or so, in which our hominin ancestors first began to use tools). Indeed, wooden tools more than even 50,000 years old are virtually absent outside Africa and western Eurasia.

    As a result, we may have a skewed understanding of Palaeolithic cultures. We may overemphasise the role of stone tools, for example, because they are what has survived.

    What wooden tools were found at Gantangqing?

    The new excavations at Gantangqing found 35 wooden specimens identified as artificially modified tools. These tools were primarily manufactured from pine wood, with a minority crafted from hardwoods.

    Some of the tools had rounded ends, while others had chisel-like thin blades or ridged blades. Of the 35 tools, 32 show marks of intentional modification at their tips, working edges, or bases.

    Two large digging implements were identified as heavy-duty digging sticks designed for two-handed use. These are unique forms of digging implements not documented elsewhere, suggesting localised functional adaptations. There were also four distinct hook-shaped tools — likely used for cutting roots — and a series of smaller tools for one-handed use.

    Nineteen of the tools showed microscopic traces of scraping from shaping or use, while 17 exhibit deliberately polished surfaces. We also identified further evidence of intensive use, including soil residues stuck to tool tips, parallel grooves or streaks along working edges, and characteristic fracture wear patterns.

    The tools from Gantangqing are more complete and show a wider range of functions than those found at contemporary sites such as Clacton in the UK and Florisbad in South Africa.

    The wooden tools from Gantangqing took a variety of forms.
    Liu et al. / Science

    How old are the Gantangqing wooden tools?

    The team used several techniques to figure out the age of the wooden tools. There is no way to determine their age directly, but we can date the sediment in which they were found.

    Using a technique called infrared stimulated luminescence, we analysed more than 10,000 individual grains of minerals from different layers. This showed the sediment was deposited roughly between 350,000 and 200,000 years ago.

    Dating the different layers of sediment excavated at the site produced a detailed timeline.
    Liu et al. / Science

    We also used different techniques to date a mammal tooth found in one of the layers to roughly 288,000 years old. This was consistent with the mineral results.

    Next we used mathematical modelling to bring all the dating results together. Our model indicated that the layers containing stone tools and wooden implements date from 360–300,000 years ago to 290–250,000 years ago.

    What was the environment like?

    Our research indicates the ancient humans at Gantangqing inhabited a warm, humid, tropical or subtropical environment. Pollen extracted from the sediments reveals 40 plant families that confirm this climate.

    Plant fossils further verify the presence of subtropical-to-tropical flora dominated by trees, lianas, shrubs and herbs. Wet-environment plants show the local surroundings were a lakeside or wetlands.

    Animal fossils also fit this picture, including rhinoceros and other mammals, turtles and various birds. The ecosystem was likely a mosaic of grassland, thickets and forests. Evidence of diving ducks confirms the lake must have been at least 2–3 metres deep during human occupation.

    Examples of stone and bone tools found at Gantangqing.
    Liu et al. / Science

    What were the Gantangqing wooden tools used for?

    The site contained evidence of plants such as storable pine nuts and hazelnuts, fruit trees such as kiwi, raspberry-like berries, grapes, edible herbs and fern fronds.

    There were also aquatic plants that would have provided edible leaves, seeds, tubers and rhizomes. These were likely dug up from shallow mud near the shore, using wooden tools.

    These findings suggest the Gantangqing hominins may have made expeditions to the lake shore, carrying purpose-made wooden digging sticks to harvest underground food sources. To do this, they would have had to anticipate seasonal plant distributions, know exactly what parts of different plants were edible, and produce specialised tools for different tasks.

    Why the Gantangqing site is important

    The wooden implements from Gantangqing represent the earliest known evidence for the use of digging sticks and for the exploitation of underground plant storage organs such as tubers within the Oriental biogeographic realm. Our discovery shows the use of sophisticated wood technology in a very different environmental context from what has been seen at sites of similar age in Europe and Africa.

    The find significantly expands our understanding of early hominin woodworking capabilities.

    The hominins who lived at Gantangqing appear to have lived a heavily plant-based subsistence lifestyle. This is in contrast to colder, more northern settings where tools of similar age have been found (such as Schöningen in Germany), where hunting large mammals was the key to survival.

    The site also shows how important wood – and perhaps other organic materials – were to “stone age” hominins. These wooden artifacts show far more sophisticated manufacturing skill than the relative rudimentary stone tools found at sites of similar age across East and Southeast Asia.

    The excavation, curation, and research of the Gantangqing site were supported by
    National Cultural Heritage Administration (China), Yunnan Provincial Institute of
    Cultural Relics and Archaeology, Yuxi Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism,
    Chengjiang Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, Australian Research Council
    (ARC) Discovery Projects, Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese
    Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC), National Natural
    Science Foundation of China (NSFC).

    – ref. Rare wooden tools from Stone Age China reveal plant-based lifestyle of ancient lakeside humans – https://theconversation.com/rare-wooden-tools-from-stone-age-china-reveal-plant-based-lifestyle-of-ancient-lakeside-humans-260204

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza , Palestine, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (3 July 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

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

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/Trip Announcement
    Deputy Secretary-General
    Gaza 
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Cyprus
    Ukraine
    Russia
    Senior Personnel Appointment  
    Yemen
    Global Risk Report
    International Days
    Financial Contribution

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/TRIP ANNOUNCEMENT
    The Secretary-General will be arriving in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to attend the 17th Summit of the BRICS countries.
    The Secretary-General has been invited to speak at an outreach session on “Strengthening multilateralism, economic-financial affairs and artificial intelligence”, that will take place on Sunday, 6 July. On Monday, 7 July, he will address a second outreach session, on “Environment, COP30 and global health.”
    During his visit, the Secretary-General will also be having meetings with various leaders who are attending the BRICS Summit and we will share those readouts with you.

    DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL
    Our Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, returned to Seville today for the closing of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4).
    At the closing with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of Spain, she underscored the consensus around the Seville Agreement as a demonstration of multilateralism in action — with actions to close the SDG financing gap, address the debt crisis, and reform the international financial architecture. She recognized the more than 100 initiatives launched on the Sevilla Platform for Action, including solidarity levies on private jets and first-class travel to generate new resources for sustainable development.
    She said that the UN will be operationalizing a Seville Forum on Debt to help countries learn from one another and coordinate their approaches in debt management and restructuring; that forum will be supported by Spain.
    She called for FFD4 to be remembered not only as a conference that responded to crisis, but as the moment the world chose cooperation over fragmentation, unity over division, and action over inertia.
    Tomorrow, she will travel to Praia, Cabo Verde, to take part in celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.

    GAZA 
    The Secretary-General is appalled by the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Multiple attacks in recent days hitting sites hosting displaced people and people trying to access food have killed and injured scores of Palestinians. The Secretary-General strongly condemns the civilian loss of life. 
    In just one day this week, Israeli orders to relocate forced nearly 30,000 people to flee, yet again, with no safe place to go and clearly inadequate supplies of shelter, food, medicine or water.
    International humanitarian law is unambiguous: civilians must be respected and protected, and the needs of the population must be met.
    With no fuel having entered Gaza in more than 17 weeks, the Secretary-General is gravely concerned that the last lifelines for survival are being cut off. Without an urgent influx of fuel, incubators will shut down, ambulances will be unable to reach the injured and sick, and water cannot be purified. The delivery by the United Nations and partners of what little of our lifesaving humanitarian aid is left in Gaza will also grind to a halt. 
    He once again calls for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access so aid can reach people who have been deprived of the basics of life for far too long. The UN has a clear and proven plan, rooted in the humanitarian principles, to get vital assistance to civilians – safely and at scale, wherever they are. 
    The Secretary-General reiterates that all parties must uphold their obligations under international law. He renews his call for an immediate permanent ceasefire and for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. 

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=03%20July%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CJL7IZOkzs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Motion to Prevent Construction Delays for “Alligator Alcatraz” Immigration Detention Center in Florida

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) today filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida to prevent unnecessary construction delays for Florida’s temporary immigration detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” in the Everglades.

    “The Department of Justice has defended President Trump’s immigration agenda in court since day one and we are proud to protect ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ from baseless, politically motivated legal schemes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

    “Delaying the construction of Florida’s temporary detention center, as plaintiffs request, would imperil critical immigration enforcement efforts and endanger detainees in overcrowded detention facilities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. “We are proud to defend against these unfounded claims and to help the administration fulfill its fundamental obligation to prioritize the safety and security of Americans.” 

    On June 27, two political advocacy organizations — Friends of the Everglades Inc. and Center for Biological Diversity — filed a lawsuit to halt the construction and operation of the detention center, alleging failure to analyze the environmental effects of the project as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The plaintiffs asked for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction.  

    In today’s filing, the Justice Department vigorously opposed the request for emergency and injunctive relief. Among other things, the filing highlights that there is no federal final agency action, that the Administrative Procedure Act does not apply to state agency decisions, that any claims related to potential federal funding are unripe, and that the plaintiffs failed to show irreparable harm.  

    Attorneys in ENRD’s Natural Resources Section are handling the case. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Motion to Prevent Construction Delays for “Alligator Alcatraz” Immigration Detention Center in Florida

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) today filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida to prevent unnecessary construction delays for Florida’s temporary immigration detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” in the Everglades.

    “The Department of Justice has defended President Trump’s immigration agenda in court since day one and we are proud to protect ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ from baseless, politically motivated legal schemes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

    “Delaying the construction of Florida’s temporary detention center, as plaintiffs request, would imperil critical immigration enforcement efforts and endanger detainees in overcrowded detention facilities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. “We are proud to defend against these unfounded claims and to help the administration fulfill its fundamental obligation to prioritize the safety and security of Americans.” 

    On June 27, two political advocacy organizations — Friends of the Everglades Inc. and Center for Biological Diversity — filed a lawsuit to halt the construction and operation of the detention center, alleging failure to analyze the environmental effects of the project as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The plaintiffs asked for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction.  

    In today’s filing, the Justice Department vigorously opposed the request for emergency and injunctive relief. Among other things, the filing highlights that there is no federal final agency action, that the Administrative Procedure Act does not apply to state agency decisions, that any claims related to potential federal funding are unripe, and that the plaintiffs failed to show irreparable harm.  

    Attorneys in ENRD’s Natural Resources Section are handling the case. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with a Section of Wenscott Reservoir

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are advising people to avoid contact with a section of Wenscott Reservoir in North Providence (western basin, south of Douglas Avenue) due to harmful algae blooms (HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. This HAB is caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are naturally present in bodies of water. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals. Toxins and/or high cell counts have been detected by the RIDOH State Health Laboratory from water samples collected by DEM at this location.

    This HAB has not been detected at the Governor Notte Park, but use caution in all areas of Wenscott Reservoir, particularly the western basin as HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies. Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water. This advisory recommendation remains in effect until further notice.

    Skin contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

    If you or your pet come into contact with an algal bloom (HAB): — Rinse your skin with clean water right away. — Shower and wash your cloths when you get home. — If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. — Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. — If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

    Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

    To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom. For more information and the Cyanobacteria Tracker Dashboard that lists current advisories and data, visit: www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Files Motion to Prevent Construction Delays for “Alligator Alcatraz” Immigration Detention Center in Florida

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) today filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida to prevent unnecessary construction delays for Florida’s temporary immigration detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” in the Everglades.

    “The Department of Justice has defended President Trump’s immigration agenda in court since day one and we are proud to protect ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ from baseless, politically motivated legal schemes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

    “Delaying the construction of Florida’s temporary detention center, as plaintiffs request, would imperil critical immigration enforcement efforts and endanger detainees in overcrowded detention facilities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. “We are proud to defend against these unfounded claims and to help the administration fulfill its fundamental obligation to prioritize the safety and security of Americans.” 

    On June 27, two political advocacy organizations — Friends of the Everglades Inc. and Center for Biological Diversity — filed a lawsuit to halt the construction and operation of the detention center, alleging failure to analyze the environmental effects of the project as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The plaintiffs asked for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction.  

    In today’s filing, the Justice Department vigorously opposed the request for emergency and injunctive relief. Among other things, the filing highlights that there is no federal final agency action, that the Administrative Procedure Act does not apply to state agency decisions, that any claims related to potential federal funding are unripe, and that the plaintiffs failed to show irreparable harm.  

    Attorneys in ENRD’s Natural Resources Section are handling the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transformed $25M Lincoln Park Pool in Albany Completed

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today celebrated the completion of the $25 million rehabilitation of the historic Lincoln Park Pool in Albany, made possible through $10 million in support from the Governor’s innovative New York Statewide Investment In More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative that expands access to safe swimming, addresses equity gaps by providing recreational opportunities and supports communities across the state with resources to combat extreme heat. This newly transformed facility restores a vital community asset in Albany’s South End that has served families since 1930, bringing modern amenities and full accessibility to the neighborhood. Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative awarded $150 million in 2024 to 37 pool projects across New York State, including more than $28 million to five pools in the Capital Region. NY SWIMS is the largest investment in swimming infrastructure since the New Deal.

    “For nearly a century, Lincoln Park Pool has been a cornerstone of summer in Albany’s South End and today, we are giving it new life for the next generation to enjoy,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our NY SWIMS initiative, we’re investing in accessible and affordable places where families and communities can beat the heat and come together. Our NY SWIMS program ensures that all New Yorkers can get offline, get outside and thrive.”

    The Lincoln Park Pool rehabilitation represents a complete transformation of the nearly century-old facility, featuring a zero-entry pool for accessibility, a half Olympic-style lap pool for competitive swimming, a splash pad for family recreation, and upgraded restrooms with modern amenities. Through NY SWIMS the state is specifically targeting underserved communities that have long needed improved recreational facilities. This $10 million investment in Lincoln Park Pool builds on previous support, including a $262,500 Environmental Protection Fund grant awarded by New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation in 2018 for the planning and design of the project.

    With today’s ribbon cutting, Albany celebrates the restoration of a beloved community gathering place that will serve families throughout the City. The Lincoln Park pool rehabilitation is among the projects specifically targeting underserved communities that lack access to safe swimming facilities. The project exemplifies the “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative’s mission to provide healthy outdoor recreation alternatives for young people and families. As communities nationwide grapple with the mental health impacts of excessive screen time, facilities like this rehabilitated pool offer safe spaces for physical activity and social connection.

    Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages one to four, making facilities like Lincoln Park Pool crucial for water safety education. The pool will provide space for learn-to-swim programming, helping address swimming disparities while offering a safe place for families to cool off during increasingly hot summers due to climate change

    The ribbon cutting comes as NY SWIMS continues to expand, with an additional $90 million allocated in 2025. The increased funding reflects strong legislative support for expanding swimming access across New York State and demonstrates bipartisan recognition of the program’s success and community impact.

    The NY SWIMS Lifeguard Grant Program offers an additional $5 million for reimbursable grants from the Department of State to eligible municipalities to incentivize lifeguard recruitment and retention and is designed to help counties, cities, towns, and villages to increase swimming access through growing their ranks of lifeguards, providing additional opportunities, and expanding their open hours at municipal swimming locations. Albany is using $50,000 in grant funding to invest in training resources and hire three new lifeguard managers at a higher wage, who will oversee daily operations, manage schedules, and serve as direct mentors and additional support for the lifeguard team. These efforts are expected to help the City handle increased demand and extend the swimming season at Lincoln Park Pool.

    Additional State support for projects improving overall Lincoln Park and Albany infrastructure include a $5 million Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) grant provided through the Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program to implement screening and disinfection of combined sewage from the Beaver Creek Sewer District. The project improved water quality by providing treatment for the Albany Pool’s largest combined sewer overflow and will serve to further reduce bacteria and improve water quality in the Hudson River. DEC also provided $1 million in funding through WQIP in 2021 to the Albany Water Board for the Lincoln Park Reflection and Learning Garden to construct green infrastructure elements in the park, diverse ecological and biohabitat, and implement native plantings to mitigate combined sewer surface discharges and odor issues within Lincoln Park.

    Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President & CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative exemplifies the power of state-local collaboration at its best. Albany’s significant local investment, combined with NY SWIMS funding, has transformed a nearly century-old facility into a modern, accessible community hub that honors its historic roots while meeting today’s needs. This partnership approach is how we maximize public resources and build on existing community assets to create even greater opportunities for families. When state and local governments work together with a shared vision, we can preserve what matters most to neighborhoods while ensuring these vital spaces serve New Yorkers for another generation.”

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “The Lincoln Park Pool has long been a cornerstone of summer in Albany, and thanks to Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS grants, we’re thrilled to bring this vital resource back to life. This historic investment provides a modern, inclusive space for the community to cool off, swim safely, and gather with friends and family this summer. We’re excited to build off this pool’s cherished legacy and continue helping New Yorkers enjoy the outdoors and make lasting memories.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The revitalization of the Lincoln Park Pool through the NY SWIMS initiative is a powerful example of how strategic investment can restore cherished public spaces and ensure they serve the next generation. The Department of State is proud to support Governor Hochul’s vision by providing grants to help communities recruit and retain qualified lifeguards for these recreational facilities, an essential part of expanding access to safe swimming. By investing in this critical workforce, we are working to keep our state’s pools and kids safe.”

    Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “As summers continue to get hotter, and the impacts of climate change create ongoing threats to public health, it is important to ensure that critical community resources like the Lincoln Park Pool and surrounding park spaces are fully supported. DEC is proud to continue our partnership with the City of Albany to support Lincoln Park improvements and we thank Governor Hochul and our state agency partners for helping families cool off safely and keep kids offline to enjoy the outdoors this summer.”

    State Senator Pat Fahy said, “Access to pools and swimming opportunities isn’t a luxury reserved for a few, it’s a lifelong skill that opens doors for our young people. That’s why the Lincoln Park Pool was built during the height of the Great Depression; to provide hope, opportunity, and a safe place to swim and recreate outdoors here in the City of Albany for families and New Yorkers. I’m proud to have been able to secure state funding to support the Lincoln Park Pool’s renovation, and I cannot wait to see our community take advantage of it this summer. I want to thank Mayor Sheehan, Governor Hochul, and so many more who made this project and today’s reopening a reality.”

    Assemblymember Gabriella Romero said, “This aquatic center, located in our Lincoln Park community, is an incredible investment and provides state of the art facilities for our youth to enjoy throughout this summer. It is more important than ever for children to spend time outdoors and connect with their local community. Thank you to Governor Hochul, Mayor Sheehan and others who made this project possible.”

    Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh said, “The rehabilitation of Lincoln Park Pool is a perfect example of what happens when we invest in our communities. As a former Mayor, I know all too well the importance of having a safe and modernized space for New Yorkers, especially our youth, to not only cool off, but to learn the importance of water safety. I was proud to support funding for NY SWIMS in the Legislature, and I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to expanding access to safe swimming and outdoor recreation across New York State.”

    Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said, “The Lincoln Park Pool has been part of our city’s fabric for almost 100 years, and today, it’s finally getting the second life it deserves. I’d like to thank Governor Hochul for her significant contribution to its restoration through the NY SWIMS grant program. This is a win for public health and equity and I can’t wait to see New Yorkers get back to enjoying the water.”

    Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “The new Lincoln Park Pool is yet another transformative investment in the South End. Since taking office, my administration has invested more than $65 million in our South End neighborhood. We are preventing raw sewage from percolating in Upper Lincoln Park while also cleaning the Hudson River. We renovated the Lincoln Park Basketball Courts, we revitalized the Lincoln Park Bowl, we built the South End Connector, and we are helping the Albany Housing Authority rebuild Steamboat Square. With the new Lincoln Park Pool, my administration continues to send a message to our South End neighbors that we are working tirelessly to reverse decades of historic disinvestment and we will continue to deliver on the promises we make to this community. I am so proud today has finally arrived, and I am so excited our residents have the opportunity to enjoy this state-of-the-art facility.”

    NY SWIMS builds on Governor Hochul’s broader commitment to youth wellness, including the signing of first-in-the-nation legislation protecting children from addictive social media feeds and shielding their personal data from online platforms. The initiative is a key component of the “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign, which also includes the $56.5 million Summer Youth Employment Program supporting 21,000 young people from low-income families across the state.

    The New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative represents New York’s largest investment in swimming infrastructure since the New Deal. The program provides grants between $50,000 and $10 million to help municipalities design, construct, rehabilitate, or modernize public swimming facilities, with a focus on supporting disadvantaged and underserved communities that lack access to safe swimming and outdoor recreation opportunities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Hosts Sustainability Summit for Northeast Higher Education

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Nearly all higher education institutions in the Northeast have demonstrated a commitment to sustainability, and most have an Office of Sustainability. While each university has its own unique challenges in pursuing environmental progress, many of these offices face similar issues – How do we get students prepared for green careers? What’s the most efficient way to run a move-out donation program?

    UConn Office of Sustainability Director, Patrick McKee, welcomes guests to the NECSC Summit.

    That’s where the Northeast Campus Sustainability Consortium (NECSC) comes in! The NECSC was established in 2004 to support sustainability officers in advancing progress on university campuses in the northeast and Canadian maritime region. The NECSC is an informal group, but commits to hosting an annual meeting to provide members close networking opportunities, professional development and access to the area’s vibrant sustainability practitioner community. Hosts of the annual gathering are leaders of sustainability in the region.

    Following 2024’s annual summit at Southern New Hampshire University, UConn’s Office of Sustainability and Connecticut College agreed to co-host the event for 2025. The NECSC conference is also an opportunity to highlight the hosts’ sustainability progress and leadership regionally. UConn’s Avery Point Campus was the perfect location – not only is it a gorgeous waterfront campus, it also plays an outsize role in environmental progress for Connecticut.

    In 2021, Avery Point upgraded 121 of their outdoor light fixtures with LED lights which saved 25 tons of carbon dioxide over the course of a year. The Student Center secured LEED Silver Certification in recognition of its energy efficiency in 2023. Avery Point is also home to the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) and Connecticut Sea Grant which act as research hubs for climate resilience, coastal ecosystems, and aquaculture within Long Island Sound. Faculty and students are collaborating with Eversource and Orsted on a $1.25m grant to understand the impact of offshore wind projects on marine habitats, including project Starboard Wind. EcoHusky is the student-run organization that organizes yearly sustainability events for faculty and students including the Earth Day Event, supported by the Office of Sustainability in 2025. EcoHusky was also a part of securing an Environmental and Sustainability Small Grant from the Office of Sustainability in 2022 to install a solar panel and wind turbine on the sailing shed to provide independent, renewable-energy sources for campus buildings. In December of 2024, UConn entered a historical memorandum with CT’s five recognized tribes to establish Avery Point as a Native-American Serving, Nontribal Intuition (NASNTI) to reach at least 10% Native American enrollment and supporting tribal education through academics and community engagement.

    Nearly 100 higher education sustainability staff and faculty members attended the NECSC summit, held June 9-11, 2025. Ranging from Maryland to Maine, attendees hailed from Ivies, state universities and private liberal arts schools. The event kicked off with a keynote address by Dr. Annemarie Seifert, Dean of UConn Avery Point, and was followed by engaging sessions on creating circular economies on campus, geothermal buildings, decarbonization communications and more.

    Leaders of higher ed’s preeminent sustainability networks provided global perspectives on shifting political landscapes for sustainability. Megan Fay Zahniser, Executive Director of the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, and Tim Carter, President of Second Nature, urged attendees to work together and with their home communities to push for continued environmental progress.

    Throughout the event, UConn Dining provided excellent food and low-waste catering. Mike White, Executive Director of UConn Dining Services, spoke about their team’s dedication to reducing food waste, using local and organic produce, and UConn’s partnership with Quantum Biopower which converts food scraps into energy. All attendees enjoyed menus featuring cheese from local farms like Cato Corner in Colchester, and greens from Full Moon Farm in Hampton.

    Guests participated in marine research in Long Island Sound with Project Oceanology.

    The NECSC summit concluded with a marine biology excursion on Long Island Sound. Project Oceanology, a nonprofit marine education and research facility, took guests out on a ship to catch, record, and measure sea life from the sound. They also took the crew up the Thames River for a closer look at the offshore wind assembly pier.

    “It is always uplifting to network, share stories, insights, and best practices as we work to collectively make a larger impact on the planet and in the lives of students,” shares Patrick McKee, Director of the UConn Office of Sustainability. “It was a pleasure co-hosting the NECSC Summit at UConn Avery Point, and we look forward to visiting Rutgers in 2026.”

    To learn more about NECSC and join the mailing list, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: PANAMA CITY MEN PLEAD GUILTY TO POSSESSING FIGHTING DOGS AND FIREARMS CHARGE

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

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Fredricus White, 38, and Cornelious Johnson, 41, of Panama City, Florida, pleaded guilty to charges of possessing fighting dogs, while White also pleaded guilty to a charge of possessing firearms and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. The convictions were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    According to court records, White and Johnson entered into a conspiracy to violate the Animal Welfare Act from 2018 through February 2024, by participating in organized dog fighting, to include breeding fighting dogs, participating in gambling involving illegal dog fights, and training dogs to participate in dog fights. White and Johnson were previously arrested in Georgia on state charges of participating in a dog fight in 2022. Federal arrest warrants in February 2024 for the Georgia dog fight led to the discovery of two rural Panama City area properties where White and Johnson had continued to keep, breed, and train fighting dogs. White’s residence was also searched, and three firearms were found. White was prohibited from possessing firearms due to felony convictions in 2009 and 2012.   

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “These defendants engaged in cruel and continued mistreatment of animals, but now they will find themselves locked in a cell for their crimes. I deeply appreciate the dedicated work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to dismantle this heinous enterprise of animal cruelty, which unsurprisingly often increases violence in the community. My office is firmly committed to ensuring the safety of all individuals and ending the cruel infliction of pain on animals purely for sport and financial gain in the Northern District of Florida.”

    The convictions were the result of a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General and assisted by the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by attorneys from the Criminal Division of the Tallahassee office with assistance from the Environmental and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey, Booker, Duckworth Condemn Republican Cuts to Environmental Justice Grants, Slam GOP Weakening of Key Environmental Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (July 2, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), co-chairs of the Environmental Justice Caucus, today issued the following statement after Senate Republicans rammed through Trump’s so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which would rescind funds already appropriated by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act for environmental and climate justice block grants, and undermine the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The co-chairs filed two amendments that would have saved these funds and removed “pay-for-play” permits. Republicans blocked both amendments.
    “Senate Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill is a direct attack on communities that have long been last in line for federal investments and is a part of a broader campaign to shield polluters from accountability,” said the co-chairs. “Cutting funds for projects that would deliver clean air, safe water, healthy land, and basic human dignity for all—along with efforts to defund air pollution monitoring and rubberstamp polluting infrastructure—will further harm communities already suffering devastating health consequences from living next door to our nation’s most polluting industries. As the House considers this Big Ugly Bill, we urge our colleagues to reject GOP efforts to claw back these funds and permit projects that jeopardize the health of millions of Americans. All Americans deserve a government that enacts—not eliminates—policies that protect public health, lower costs, and hold the fossil fuel industry accountable.”
    The co-chairs were joined by Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in cosponsoring the environmental justice grants amendment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey, Booker, Duckworth Condemn Republican Cuts to Environmental Justice Grants, Slam GOP Weakening of Key Environmental Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (July 2, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), co-chairs of the Environmental Justice Caucus, today issued the following statement after Senate Republicans rammed through Trump’s so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which would rescind funds already appropriated by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act for environmental and climate justice block grants, and undermine the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The co-chairs filed two amendments that would have saved these funds and removed “pay-for-play” permits. Republicans blocked both amendments.
    “Senate Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill is a direct attack on communities that have long been last in line for federal investments and is a part of a broader campaign to shield polluters from accountability,” said the co-chairs. “Cutting funds for projects that would deliver clean air, safe water, healthy land, and basic human dignity for all—along with efforts to defund air pollution monitoring and rubberstamp polluting infrastructure—will further harm communities already suffering devastating health consequences from living next door to our nation’s most polluting industries. As the House considers this Big Ugly Bill, we urge our colleagues to reject GOP efforts to claw back these funds and permit projects that jeopardize the health of millions of Americans. All Americans deserve a government that enacts—not eliminates—policies that protect public health, lower costs, and hold the fossil fuel industry accountable.”
    The co-chairs were joined by Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in cosponsoring the environmental justice grants amendment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands of items collected in 24-hour litter pick of Aberdeen

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Hundreds of volunteers collected thousands of items in a 24-hour litter pick across dozens of areas in Aberdeen.

    The annual event – with the aim of making the city more sparklingly clean in the summer months – had 37 separate clean-ups from organisations including primary and secondary schools, community groups, and individuals.

    It involves litter picks starting every hour over 24 hours from midnight to midnight and included Tall Ship volunteers doing a session to ensure the city is ship shape in time for next month’s event.

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “It’s good that so many groups came out to help keep our city looking sparkling clean. 

    “Council staff work hard to keep our city clean and tidy. Unfortunately they cannot be everywhere at the same time so the action taken by these communities, groups, workplaces, and individuals makes a big difference.”

    Aberdeen City Council Net Zero, Environment and Transport Committee convener Councillor Miranda Radley said: “We’d prefer if people didn’t litter in the first place as it is bad for the environment and makes our city look unattractive. We are all responsible for keeping our city beautiful. This effort can be as simple as picking up litter outside our front gates every day, or a bigger effort such as litter picks carried out by dozens of groups throughout the year.

    “These organised litter-pick events really do make a huge difference to local communities and help foster pride in our beautiful city.”

    The 393 participants in the Aberdeen City Council-organised event managed to fill 197 black bin bags across the 37 clean-ups.

    This year’s event was started by ACC’s library services team at midnight on Wednesday followed by ACC’s environmental services staff, countryside rangers, and tree squads doing the early hours and then by the other groups every hour.

    Areas which benefitted included Morningside, Garthdee, Mastrick, Hazlehead, Summerhill, Tillydrone, Kincorth, Bucksburn, West End, Airyhall, city centre, Heathryfold, Garthdee, Cove, Powis, Torry, Seaton, Rosemount, Stockethill, Donmouth, Northfield, Fittie, and the beachfront.

    Other groups taking part this year included Riverbank School, Kirkhill School, Bucksburn Academy, Bright Horizons, Airyhall School, Phoenix Futures, Hazlehead Primary, Keep Middlefield Clean, Tall Ships volunteers, Charleston School, St Machar Academy, Loirston School, Boat Club, Fresh Community Wellness, Friends of Victoria and Westburn Parks, Ashgrove and Stockethill
    Community Council, ACC Green Champions, Northfield Community Centre, Kincorth and Leggart Community Council, Friends of St Fittick’s Park. Members of the public took part in litter picks at Torry Battery, Fittie, and the beachfront.

    The places the groups picked litter up from included school grounds, pitches, car parks, golf course woods, streets, green spaces, parks, along the River Dee, community centre grounds, and near the Tall Ships site.

    The event is part of the year-round Clean Up Aberdeen campaign which encourages people not to litter in the first place, and also provides equipment for groups wanting to organise a litter pick. For more details, or to get help organising an event, go to Clean Up Aberdeen | Aberdeen City Council.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: A step forward on tax reform at UN Sevilla conference, but more action needed towards global economic justice 

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Sevilla, Spain – A growing coalition of countries have pledged to take action on taxing the super-rich and polluting companies at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development conference.[1][2] But governments have failed to support bold measures to address the debt crisis that massively undermines Global South capacities to deal with social and environmental challenges and risks fuelling destructive extractive activities.

    Fred Njehu, Global Political Lead at Greenpeace Africa, said: “Sevilla was a crucial moment for multilateralism, yet rich and powerful governments failed to match the urgency of the debt crisis hitting Global South countries, undermining wellbeing and climate action. A glimmer of hope is the new coalitions of countries that have pledged bold action to tax the super-rich and polluting corporations. These alliances are important for building momentum to unlock vital public finance beyond debt repayments.

    “Now, world leaders must heed public anger over billionaire and fossil fuel greed. They must back transformative tax justice at the UN Tax Convention and COP30 to make super-rich individuals and powerful companies pay their fair share. They must listen to countries on the frontline, experts, and civil society activists throughout this conference calling for climate and tax justice.”

    ENDS

    Notes:

    [1] Greenpeace welcomes new global initiative to advance tax reform on the super-rich

    [2] New taxes on premium flyers and private jets: Greenpeace comment 

    Contacts:

    Tal Harris, Global Media Lead – Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign, Greenpeace International. +41-782530550, [email protected]  

    Lee Kuen, Global Comms Lead – Fair Share campaign, Greenpeace International. +601112527489, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Touts Major Senate Western Caucus Victories In One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Chair of the Senate Western Caucus, today celebrated the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, highlighting numerous provisions that she and other Senate Western Caucus members championed that will benefit Wyoming and western states.

    “The Senate passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill represents a tremendous victory for the west,” said Lummis. “As Chair of the Senate Western Caucus, I’m proud that our members’ relentless efforts secured critical wins that will further unleash American energy, strengthen rural economies, simplify coal leases, foster healthy forests, enhance wildfire prevention, increase on and offshore oil and gas production, and bring practical approaches back to federal land oversight. President Trump understands that a strong America starts with a strong American West – I’m looking forward to seeing him sign this bill into law.” 

    Background: 

    • In January, Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) about the critical importance of addressing western priorities in any potential upcoming budget reconciliation legislation, along with a list of member priorities to include in the bill.
    • The Senate Western Caucus is composed of 29 Senators west of the Mississippi committed to upholding the fundamental western principles of self-reliance, local decision-making, love of the land and the pioneer spirit.  

    Senate Western Caucus Wins:

    Energy and Natural Resources

    • Expands onshore and offshore oil and gas leasing with mandatory minimum lease sales and extends drilling permit validity from 3 to 4 years.
    • Mandates six lease sales over ten years in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska.
    • Increases revenue sharing from offshore drilling for Gulf of America states. 
    • Enhances revenue sharing from Cook Inlet oil and gas leases for Alaska. 

    Land Management and Conservation

    • Strengthens wildfire management and prevention capabilities through expanded timber sales on public lands.
    • Introduces optional expedited environmental review process under NEPA, allowing project sponsors to pay fees for faster timelines (one year for Environmental Impact Statements, six months for Environmental Assessments).

    Agricultural Support

    • Provides reimbursement programs for livestock losses due to predator attacks.
    • Expands producer access to the livestock forage disaster assistance program. 
    • Establishes supplemental agricultural trade promotion initiatives. 

    Tax Relief for Family Operations

    • Extends and enhances estate tax exemptions with higher thresholds and permanent provisions to facilitate intergenerational transfer of family ranches.
    • Allows full expensing of certain business property, enabling ranchers to immediately deduct equipment and infrastructure investments.
    • Provides special depreciation allowances for qualified production property, offering larger and accelerated deductions for ranch growth and resilience investments.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chaddesden resident faces the music after noise complaints

    Source: City of Derby

    Chaddesden residents can enjoy some peace and quiet after Derby City Council successfully prosecuted a resident for breaching a Community Protection Notice.

    The resident of Derwent House, Huntingdon Green found themselves in front of Derby Magistrates after breaching the notice for playing loud music. They have now been handed more than £1500 in fines and costs.

    The Council first received a complaint from Derby Homes in July 2024 about a noisy neighbour playing loud music, and a Community Protection Warning letter was issued by the housing provider. Further recordings were sent to the Council via the Noise App, which showed that loud music was still being played throughout the day and prompted further action.

    The Council then issued the resident a Community Protection Notice (CPN), requiring them to reduce the volume to a level which would not cause a disturbance to the local community, but the noise continued.

    The Council applied to Derby Magistrates Court to obtain a warrant under section 51 of Anti-social Behaviour, Police and Crime Act 2014. The application was successful, and a warrant was granted to enter the property.

    With the support of Derbyshire Police and Derby Homes, the council seized several items of electrical equipment which were believed to be used for playing loud music.

    The Derwent House resident attended Derby Magistrates Court on Friday 13 June 2025, pleaded guilty to breaching the CPN and was ordered to pay £1580.83. The Court also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the items seized from their property.

    Councillor Shiraz Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, Property and Regulatory Services, said:

    Our residents have the right to feel safe and relaxed in their own homes. This prosecution shows that we will take the appropriate action to address issues such as noise, so that our residents can live happy, healthy lives.

    It’s also another great example of the Environmental Protection Team, Derby Homes and Derbyshire Constabulary, working closely in partnership to ensure the best possible outcome for our communities.

    Anyone needing help or support with noise disturbances can contact the Environmental Protection Team through the Derby City Council website or call 01332 642020.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kenya: Amb. Guo Haiyan Paid a Courtesy Call on Hon. Cabinet Secretary (CS) Deborah Mlongo Barasa

    Source: APO

    On July 2, H.E. Amb. Guo Haiyan paid a courtesy call on Hon. Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry. Mr. ZHOU Jun, DPR of China to UNEP, and Amb. Jane Makori, Deputy Director General, MFDA, Kenya attended the meeting.

    Amb. Guo shared China’s latest progress and important achievements in the field of ecological and environmental protection. China stands ready to share its experience with Kenya, promoting cooperation in the field of climate change, green BRI and green industry investment, with an aim of jointly enhancing ecological and environmental governance capacity.

    Hon. Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa positively acknowledged the process in China-Kenya environmental cooperation, and expressed the willingness to enhance collaboration in the field of circular economy, waste management, biodiversity, and South-South cooperation on climate change.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Kenya.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Announcement of new diplomatic appointments

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 3, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:

    Alexandre Bilodeau will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Tunisia. Mr. Bilodeau will replace Lorraine Diguer.

    Anderson Blanc will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Mozambique. Mr. Blanc will replace Sara Nicholls.

    Natalie Britton will become Consul General in Istanbul (Republic of Türkiye). Ms. Britton will replace Tara Scheurwater.

    Sandra Choufani will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire. Ms. Choufani will replace Anderson Blanc.

    Christian DesRoches will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Mr. DesRoches will replace Ping Kitnikone.

    Ambra Dickie will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, in Jakarta. Ms. Dickie will replace Vicky Singmin.

    Stephen Doust will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Mongolia. Mr. Doust will replace Sandra Choufani.

    Gregory Galligan will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Lebanese Republic. Mr. Galligan will replace Stefanie McCollum.

    Alison Grant will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Austria and Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna. Ms. Grant will replace Troy Lulashnyk.

    Marie-Claude Harvey will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Cameroon. Ms. Harvey will replace Lorraine Anderson.

    Patrick Hébert will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Finland. Mr. Hébert will replace Jeanette Stovel.

    Jean-Dominique Ieraci will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Peru. Mr. Ieraci will replace Louis Marcotte.

    Tarik Khan will become High Commissioner in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Mr. Khan will replace Leslie Scanlon.

    Craig Kowalik will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Ecuador. Mr. Kowalik will replace Stephen Potter.

    Philippe Lafortune will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Korea. Mr. Lafortune will replace Tamara Mawhinney.

    Jean-Paul Lemieux will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Swiss Confederation. Mr. Lemieux will replace Patrick Wittmann.

    Isabelle Martin will become High Commissioner in the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Ms. Martin will replace Eric Walsh.

    Karim Morcos will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Qatar. Mr. Morcos will replace Isabelle Martin.

    James Nickel will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Mr. Nickel will replace Shawn Steil.

    Tara Scheurwater will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Kuwait. Ms. Scheurwater will replace Aliya Mawani.

    Nicolas Simard will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Mr. Simard will replace Joshua Tabah.

    Joshua Tabah will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Kenya and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme and to the United Nations Environment Programme. Mr. Tabah will replace Christopher Thornley.

    Kent Vachon will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Mr. Vachon will replace Ping Kitnikone. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –